Donatha D. Darling

Donatha "Doni" Darling, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend to many, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 10, 2026, at Masternick Memorial Health Care Center in New Middletown, surrounded by her loving family after an extended illness.

Doni was born on August 28, 1941, in Coitsville, Ohio, the youngest daughter of the late Stephen J. Kollar and MaryJane Roch Kollar. She later made her home in Poland, Ohio, where she spent most of her life.

She grew up on a horse and pony farm, and among her fondest childhood memories were riding her horse, Chiquita, alongside her father as he rode his beloved horse, Chico.

Doni graduated from Poland Seminary High School in 1959. She devoted many years to raising her family as a stay-at-home mother before later working at LaFrance Dry Cleaners in Poland.

Nothing brought Doni greater joy than caring for her family. She never missed an opportunity to make birthdays, holidays, and family gatherings feel special. Her home was always open, and everyone who crossed her threshold was welcomed with warmth, kindness, laughter, and love.

She enjoyed making crafts, was a longtime vendor at the Ursuline Motherhouse, and participated in numerous craft shows throughout the Mahoning Valley.

Country music was one of Doni’s greatest joys. She especially loved Willie Nelson and treasured meeting him in person, along with the famous photograph of Willie giving her his "infamous" kiss—a story she loved sharing with family and friends.

Whether she was hosting holidays, listening to country music, working on crafts, or simply spending time with family and friends, Doni had a gift for making people feel at home. Her laughter was contagious, her sense of humor unforgettable, and her generous spirit touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.

She is survived by her son, Stephen "Steve" Morgan; her daughter, Katrinka "Kay" (John) Csizmadia; her son, James "Jim" (Michelle) Darling; her daughter, Rochelle Wallace; her grandchildren, Jesse (McKaley) Wallace, Hunter Darling, and Bailey Darling; and by Miss Paige Christman and Linda Haefke, all of whom brought tremendous joy to her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, MaryJane "Bonnie" Kollar Reid; her daughter, Bonita Marie Morgan; and her former husband, Dennis Darling.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Masternick Memorial Health Care Center and to the Akeso Home Hospice team, especially her nurse, Cami, whose kindness, communication, and exceptional care meant so much throughout Doni’s journey.

The family also wishes to thank everyone who offered prayers, support, and compassion during this difficult time. Your kindness will always be remembered.

Perhaps nothing captured Doni’s outlook on life better than the words she so often shared: "What’s not to love?"

Private family services have been held in celebration of a life filled with love, laughter, country music, and unwavering devotion to family.

Arrangements were in the care of  Kirila Funeral Home, Struthers, Ohio. To share condolences with the family, please visit www.kirilafh.com.

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