Funeral Service for Donna Joyce Rakestraw, age 85 of Cullman, will be at 1 p.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Fairview First Baptist Church with Dr. David Chambers officiating; graveside services and burial will be at First Baptist Church of Fairview. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Fairview First Baptist Church.
Cullman Heritage Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Mrs. Rakestraw passed away on Monday, December 29, 2025, at her residence. She was born February 10, 1940, to Calvin and Ruby Dye.
She was preceded in death by her parents and most recently, her husband of 65 years, Morris Keith Rakestraw.
Survivors include sons, Derek (Tracie) Rakestraw and Daren (Vanessa) Rakestraw; daughter, Marisa (Chris Durst) Mitchell; grandchildren, Whitney (Ben) Halbrooks, Landon (Naomi) Rakestraw, Nicki (Zach) Taunton, Lucas Rakestraw, Alden Rakestraw, Alex Rakestraw, Weston Rakestraw, Lila Mitchell and Bennett Mitchell; great grandchildren, Remi, Rylee, Ruthie and Jett Halbrooks and Matthew Taunton; sister, Hilda (John) Thurston; brothers, Ken Dye, Darrell (Donna) Dye; and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.
Donna was a devoted Christian, wife, and mother. She retired from the Cullman Social Security office in 1995. After retirement, she enjoyed traveling with Morris, working in her flower garden, and especially spending time with her children and grandchildren. She was their biggest fan and greatest supporter. Their home was always filled with good food and an abundance of love and hugs. Donna will be greatly missed by her family and everyone who had her in their lives.
Special thanks to her neighbors, friends, church family, and especially to her wonderful caregivers, Andrea, Tammy, and Joy, who were such a blessing to her and the family during such a difficult time.
Donations may be made to Fairview First Baptist Church or The Arthritis Foundation.
