Donna Zimmerman-Gregory

Donna J. Zimmerman-Gregory, 65, of Pekin, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 8:16 AM on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at Carle Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria, Illinois, surrounded by the love of her family. Her vibrant spirit, boundless generosity, and unwavering dedication to those she cherished will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

Born on January 5, 1960, in Bloomington, Illinois, to Perry and Velma (Courtright) Ragain, Donna grew up with a deep appreciation for family and the simple joys of life. On March 12, 2004, she married her beloved husband, John Gregory, in Pekin, beginning a partnership filled with love, laughter, and shared adventures.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Perry and Velma Ragain, and her brother, Gerald Ragain. She leaves behind a legacy of love and is survived by her devoted husband, John Gregory of Pekin; her two sons, Erik (Cory Musheff) Zimmerman of Green Bay, Wisconsin, and Paul (Emma Schenck) Zimmerman of Pekin; and her five cherished grandchildren, Brailyn, Kylie, Ella, Colson, and Caid, who brought endless joy to her life. She is also survived by her sisters, Janice (Dick) Wurster of Bloomington and Debra (Rick) Dissman of Pekin, as well as her sister-in-law, Barbara Ragain of Pekin.

A passionate entrepreneur, Donna was the proud owner and operator of VBS Bug Spray, a business she ran with dedication and skill. She was immensely grateful for the support of two dear friends, Colleen Gensel and Paula Gensel who were instrumental in the success of her business, standing by her side through every challenge and triumph. Donna’s entrepreneurial spirit was matched only by her love for the outdoors, where she found solace and happiness in bird watching, fishing, camping, and golfing. Whether casting a line or teeing off, she embraced every moment spent in nature.

Above all, Donna’s family was the heart of her world. She delighted in every moment spent with her children and grandchildren, creating memories filled with warmth, laughter, and love. Her nurturing spirit and infectious enthusiasm left an indelible mark on her family and community.

A private memorial service to celebrate Donna’s life will be held on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory in Pekin. There will also be a Celebration of Life on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at the Pekin Moose Lodge #916 starting at 3:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to TAPS, 100 Taps Lane, Pekin, IL 61554, or TRAIN Team Rescuing Animals in Need, 2246 N. Meadowview Lane, Washington, IL 61571, in honor of Donna’s love for animals and her commitment to giving back.

Donna’s light will continue to shine through the lives she touched, and her memory will be cherished forever.