Donna Kay Leahy, age 70, of Fort Walton Beach, Fla., passed away peacefully on Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on March 22, 1955, in Lexington, Donna was the daughter of Charles Albert Staton Jr. and Gladys Higgins Staton. She later married the love of her life, John Robert Leahy III.

Donna was known for her deep love of the beach, her green thumb in the garden, her talent for sewing, and, most of all, the time she cherished with her grandchildren. Her warmth, creativity, and kindness touched everyone who knew her.

She is survived by her devoted husband, John Leahy III of Fort Walton Beach; her beloved children, Jennifer (Jody) Vogel, Joshua Sean Squires, John Leahy IV, Courtney (Zach) Jacobs, Chris Leahy, and Megan (Josh) Crowell; and her cherished grandchildren, Meagan Vogel, Cam Vogel, Nevaeh Squires, Dallas Squires, Brandon Crowell, Maddox Crowell, Savannah Jacobs, Zackary Jacobs, and Alex Jacobs.

Donna is also survived by her loving siblings, sisters Diane Shields and Peggy (Wayne) McCormick, and brothers Alan (Darlene) Staton and Clinton (Mazie) Staton; along with many dear nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, Sept. 19, from 10 a.m. to noon at Davis-Watkins Funeral Home at 113 Racetrack Road Northeast in Fort Walton Beach, Fla.

Following the service, the family invites all guests to join them for a time of fellowship at the Pier 1 Community Room at 210 Pelham Road in Fort Walton Beach.

Donna will be remembered for the joy she brought into the lives of those around her and the love she so freely gave. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends

Arrangements are under the direction of Davis-Watkins Funeral Homes and Crematory.  To post remembrances, condolences and photos to the tribute wall, please visit www.daviswatkins.com.