Donna Learned

Donna Learned, age 80, of Bradley, Illinois, passed away peacefully on October 6, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was born on August 26, 1945, in Aroma Park to Donald and Minnie Huffman, and grew up in a big, loving family where she learned the importance of hard work, loyalty, and caring for others—values she carried with her throughout her life. On February 13, 1965, Donna married Lavern Learned, beginning what would become a 60-year journey filled with love, resilience, and deep companionship. As the wife of a fireman, Donna supported Lavern through decades of service to their community, while keeping their home strong, steady, and full of life. Together, they raised three sons—Donald Learned, Terrance Learned, and Christopher Learned—who were her pride and joy. Donna was also a devoted grandmother to five grandchildren: Anna Learned, Christopher Michael Learned Jr., Jordan Learned, Justin Learned, and Lauren Learned. She adored being a great-grandmother to Karter Wilson and was joyfully anticipating the arrival of her second great-grandchild, Presley Kuckkahn. Donna worked for more than 25 years in the dietary department at Riverside Medical Center, where she was known for her strong work ethic, reliability, and kindness toward both patients and colleagues. Whether at work or at home, she was someone others could count on. She had a gift for bringing people together. Her home was the heart of many family gatherings, always filled with the aroma of her home-cooked meals and the sound of laughter. She also enjoyed traveling with her family, making memories that will be cherished for generations. In quieter moments, Donna loved to sit and sketch—she had a creative eye and found peace in putting pencil to paper. She also enjoyed doing word puzzles, always challenging herself and keeping her mind sharp. Donna is survived by her husband of 60 years, Lavern Learned; her sons Donald (Karla) Learned, Terrance Learned, and Christopher Learned; her grandchildren Anna Learned, Christopher Michael Learned Jr., Jordan Learned, Justin Learned, and Lauren Learned; and her great-granddaughter Karter Wilson, with great-granddaughter Presley Kuckkahn expected soon. She is also survived by her siblings Betty Kavaney, Maryann Barnard, and Herbert Huffman; and her brothers-in-law Mark Learned and George Learned. She was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Minnie Huffman; and her siblings Ina Mae Lamb, Donald Huffman, George Smith, Jim Smith, and Raymond Smith. Donna will be remembered for her warmth, her quiet strength, and the deep love she had for her family. Her creativity, patience, and calming presence left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those she touched, and her memory will be cherished always. Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 9, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Clancy-Gernon Funeral Homes in Kankakee, Illinois. An additional visitation will take place on Friday, October 10, from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m., with a service to follow at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Kankakee Memorial Gardens in Aroma Township. Friends and family are invited to attend, share memories, and honor a life filled with love. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family's wishes.

Donna Learned

August 26, 1945 - October 6, 2025