LaDonna Howard
LaDonna Howard passed away peacefully on July 11, 2026, at the age of 74, after a short battle with lung cancer.
Born on June 7, 1952, to Orville and Ava Barton, LaDonna grew up with a deep appreciation for faith, hard work and the beauty of the Ozarks. She graduated from Branson High School in 1970 and spent much of her working life in the Branson hospitality industry, where she worked at several local restaurants and hotels. Through her out-going personality and welcoming spirit, she made countless friends from across the nation and around the world.
LaDonna found great happiness at her home in the woods, where she delighted in feeding the birds and deer that visited each day. She treasured the peaceful surroundings she called home and loved spending time with the people who meant the most to her. Whether sharing stories, enjoying family gatherings, or simply eating out with friends, LaDonna's fun-loving nature left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.
She is survived by her loving sons, Mark Taylor and his wife, Courtney, and Matthew Gage and his wife, Christina. She was a devoted grandmother to seven beloved grandchildren: Olivia, Katelee, Tennyson, Piper, Kaden, Kassidy, and Kinsley, who brought immense joy to her life.
LaDonna is also survived by her younger sister, Vicki (Barton) Worthington, along with many extended family members and countless friends.
LaDonna will be remembered for her zeal for life, her love of nature, and her welcoming smile. Her legacy lives on in the memories she created, the kindness she shared, and the love she leaves behind with family and friends. From one of her last messages, “I love you! Live your life while you live....so thankful I did.”
The family invites all who knew and loved LaDonna to remember her by spending time with those they cherish, enjoying the beauty of nature, and living life the to the fullest—just as she did throughout her life. In lieu of flowers, you are invited to send donations to the Tri-Lakes Humane Society (www.tri-lakeshumanesoc.org), a no-kill animal shelter.
Visitation will be from 2:00-3:00 pm on Friday, July 17, 2026 in Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home & Crematory, Branson followed by a celebration of life service for LaDonna at 3:00 pm in the funeral home.
