Donna Merchant Barnhart, 68, of Front Royal, Virginia, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Monday, December 1, 2025.
A funeral service will be held on Sunday, December 14 at 2:00 p.m. at Maddox Funeral Home with Sammy Campbell officiating. Burial will be private.
Donna was born November 14, 1957 in Front Royal, Virginia, daughter of the late Donald Ellsworth and Dolly Sylvia Nicholson Merchant.
Donna was a graduate of Warren County High School and graduated from Lord Fairfax with her degree in nursing.
She will be greatly missed by her family and many friends.
Surviving is her loving and devoted companion of 25 years, Christopher Tomlinson; two daughters, Courtney Barnhart and Lindsay Barnhart, both of Front Royal; one brother, Darryl Merchant of Front Royal; two sisters, Darlene Hunter (Ken) of Denver, Co and Dalina Merchant of Baton Rouge, LA; one step-daughter, Ashley Pion Tomlinson; and one step-grandchild, Zachary.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and a sister, Dorinda Merchant.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, December 14 from 1-2 p.m. at the funeral home.
I extend my deepest sympathy to the family. We grew up as neighbors and lost touch. Times gone so fast & keeping up with our own lives took up the time we should have spent catching up! I am truly sorry for our loss, she was a very sweet lady!
Hi Ronnie,
Thank you so much for the kind words.
Where are you now?
I’d love a chance to visit.
Darlene Merchant Hunter
225-485-5543
Donna was the glue that held her family together. I also viewed her as a strong woman, someone of whom I could look up to. Donna will be missed immensley.
Donna was my cousin and a strong, capable lady with beautiful daughters and family. A great loss for all. God bless her family and give them comfort.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
My heart bleeds for Your friends, Nancy b collins
Unfortunately another family member ( my cousin)gone from this world but she has now entered a much better place full of love and kindness. A beautiful place where there is no pain or sickness. Donna will definitely be missed. She was so good to everyone and always put everyone first ahead of her own needs. Truly a wonderful woman.