Donna D. Schaeffer, 96, formerly of Byron, GA, and originally of Sycamore, IL, passed away on March 19, 2026, at Oak Crest in DeKalb, IL.

Born March 15, 1930, in Elgin, IL, she was the daughter of Glenn and Gladys (Brunschon) Tyson.

She shared 68 years of her life with her husband, Leon J. Schaeffer.

She is survived by her sister, JoAnn Marshall; her four children, Bonnie (Bob) Gehrig, Nancy Schaeffer, James (Katie) Schaeffer, and John (Denise) Schaeffer; along with 10 grandchildren: Amber (Zak) Atwell, Aubrey (Chad) Bemis, Matthew (Kristin) Gehrig, Amy Jones, Christopher (Amanda) Jones, Stephanie (Jonathan) Lesher, Samantha & Kimberly Schaeffer, Elizabeth & Adam Schaeffer; and 11 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Leon J. Schaeffer; her sister, Beverly Elliott; her brothers, Glenn Tyson and Lyle Tyson; and her parents, Glenn and Gladys (Brunschon) Tyson.

Donna was a homemaker and a good cook who took pride in caring for her household. She enjoyed sewing, crocheting, and being social.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

Cremation rites were entrusted to Finch Crematory and arrangements were entrusted to Finch Funeral Home 310 Oak St. DeKalb, IL 60115 815-758-3841.