Donell Perez, 65, of Amarillo died Thursday, October 14, 2021.
A small, private gathering will be held in her honor. Donell was born June 4, 1956, to Dodie Fesenmyer and Donald Shumaker. She graduated from Hampton High School in Norfolk, VA. After stints as a hairdresser and a dental hygienist, she found her true calling, being a mother.
Donell had 3 sons, Jason, Scott, and Jonathan. There was nothing that brought her more joy than talking to them, guiding them through issues, and of course celebrating their accomplishments.
In May of 2001, she married Robert Perez and gained another child Celeste, 4 grandchildren Pearl, Xavier, Brayden, and Nyah Sharpe, and more recently a great-grandchild Kai’la. Through the years she was always overjoyed when she got to visit with and spoil any of them.
She had a truly kind heart who claimed any “child” who came into her home as one of her own. She was fiercely defensive of any of her kids and would go out of her way to make them feel safe, comfortable, and loved. The door was always open to anyone who needed a place to relax, unwind, or just vent frustrations.
Throughout her life, Mom (as she was known to most everyone), truly lived the most famous quote from her favorite book LOVE YOU FOREVER by Robert Munsch,
“I’ll love you forever,
I’ll like you for always,
As long as I’m living,
My baby you’ll be.”
Donell was preceded in death by her mother, Dodie Fesenmyer, and Uncle, David Shumaker.
She is survived by her husband, Robert Perez, brother, Dennis J Fesenmyer, his wife Cindy and son Felix, father, Dennis Fesenmyer and wife Margaret, sons, Jason and his wife Samantha, Scott and his wife Leah, and Jonathan Meyer, daughter, Celeste Sharpe and her children, as well as countless kids throughout Amarillo that she had some hand in raising.
I knew Donell many years ago – almost 50 years – when we were in high school together at Hampton High School. Though I had not seen her in those many years, I am greatly saddened by her passing. She was a good friend We both lived in the same apartment complex in Hampton. She was always so full of life, and was a terrific cheerleader. I am happy to hear that she fulfilled a wonderful calling as a mother and grandmother. My sincere sympathy to all her family 😢🙏🏻!
Uncle Gene and I were so saddened to learn of Donells passing but very happy she is at peace. She was such a vibrant and loving young girl and woman. I know she truly loved her family.
Jason, Scott &Jonathan, Im so sorry to hear about your Mom’s passing. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Know that I will keep Donell in my prayers, we had many happy time togrther. Love to all.
I loved this lady. She kept me laughing when she worked at Walmart with me. She and Robert are very special people. I know she will keep angels in heaven on their toes with her pranks and love. You are special..fly high
Donell was a sweet lady. I enjoyed working with her at Walmart. My thoughts and Prayers of peace to her family.
Donell was one of the best friends I ever had. Our years together in Burke, VA will always be a treasured memory. My prayers & love go out to her family💜
Joyce just knows your husband thru work and he always talked about you and how you were doing. He loved you very much Donell.