Donna Lee Niffen

Donna L. Niffen, age 83, of Pittsfield, formerly of New Canton, IL passed away on Monday, February 27, 2023 at her home.  She was born on October 29, 1939 in Louisiana, MO to Raymond and Nellie Gadberry Pine.  She married Walter ‘Cork’ Niffen on November 1, 1957 in Bowling Green, MO and he preceded her in death on April 27, 2004.

Donna graduated from Louisiana High School.  She went on to get married and begin a family, staying home to raise their children.  She worked various jobs over the years including Motorola, Stark Brothers, and Brown Shoe Factory among other factories.  She also worked in the cafeteria at West Pike School and at Atlas Café.  When she wasn’t working, Donna and Cork enjoyed spending time at the river cabins with friends and going to auctions, horse shows, and rodeos.  Donna was of the Baptist faith and had been attending Baylis Baptist Church.  She was very family oriented and loved babysitting her grandchildren and making a big family dinner on Sundays.  She also enjoyed attending her grandchildren’s activities and sporting events.  Donna will be remembered for being a good mother and for her strong work ethic, she will be greatly missed.

She is survived by her son, Randy (Hope) Niffen of Pleasant Hill, IL; daughters, Rita (Tom) Merryman of Kinderhook, IL and Regina Brehm of Pittsfield, IL; seven grandchildren, Steven Niffen of Pleasant Hill, Alicia Niffen of Pleasant Hill, Cole (Sarah) Merryman of Barry, Brent (Jessica) Merryman of Barry, Marissa (Corey) Lawson of Barry, Blaine Stephens of Pittsfield and Tim (Mary) Brehm of Pittsfield; seventeen great grandchildren, Austin, Alec, Dawson, Autumn, Gage, Madilyn, and Chase Niffen, Kinsley, Landrie, Blair, and Harper Merryman, Riley, Kayden, Myles, and Camdyn Lawson, Elijah Obert, and Nova Stephens; and several special friends including Lola Meuth, Katherine Smith, and Twila Smith.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Nellie Pine; her husband of 46 years, Walter Niffen; son-in-law, Tim Brehm, Sr.; and great grandson, Emryck Lawson.

Graveside services will be held on Thursday, March 2, 2023 at 10:30 AM at Shearer Cemetery near New Canton.  Memorials are suggested to be made to the Pike County Animal Shelter.  Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com.  Niebur Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

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