Donna Gum

Dec 21, 2022

Donna "Nana" Jennings Gum, 71, of Anchorage, Alaska, passed away peacefully in her home on Dec. 21, 2022, while holding her daughter's hand.

Donna's legacy lives on through her family: children, Arleta "Dodi" Malloy (Michael), Michael Gum (Jessica) and Kevin Gum (Renae); siblings, Margaret Lavender, Elizabeth Turner (George), Kevin Jennings (Penny), Michelle Jennings (Pat Stadt), Mary Earles, Jane Fritz (Greg) and Phyllis Mertens (Daryl); 20 grandchildren; 18 nieces and nephews; and 23 great-nieces and -nephews. She joins her beloved husband, John; daughter, Elizabeth John-Baptiste; parents, Donald and Anne Jennings; and brother, David Jennings, who predeceased her.

Donna was a strong, driven woman who devoted her life to her beliefs. She was passionate in her faith, especially about sharing it through her ministries in the Catholic church. Donna was dedicated to education, and worked at Susitna Elementary School for 10 years. Outside of her work, she loved to cook and enjoyed various cuisines. She shared her passion for cooking with her children and grandchildren. She delighted in having a garden full of fresh vegetables and herbs to include in those meals. More than anything, she cherished time with her family and friends. Donna "Nana" will be missed by many.

Join us in celebrating Donna's life at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 7, 2023, at Saint Anthony's Catholic Church, 825 Klevin Street in Anchorage, with a reception to follow downstairs. All are welcome. We will livestream the event on Facebook for those unable to attend. She will be laid to rest with her daughter Elizabeth this summer at Anchorage Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating blood/platelets in her name or honoring one of Donna's passions. For example, offer a Mass for her, share a favorite recipe, or garden. Above all else, love each other as fiercely as she loved us.