Donna Lynn Morgan

Donna Lynn Morgan, beloved mother, sister, aunt, and lifelong advocate for justice, passed away on Monday, August 11, 2025. 

Donna was born in Dalton, Georgia, to the late Shirley Rochelle Baker (Childers) and the late William Edward Morgan. She is survived by her devoted daughters, Rochelle Morgan-Verdin and Jecee Morgan-Verdin; her siblings, Cheryl Ownbey (Freddie), Kenneth Morgan (Shelly), Donald Wayne Baker Jr., and Derrick Baker; as well as several nieces and nephews. 

Donna was a proud graduate of Berea College, where she double majored in Political Science and Spanish. While there, she became the first-ever woman to win the C. Louis Smith Award, presented by the faculty to the most outstanding student in the Political Science program. She later earned her Juris Doctor from Emory University School of Law. Donna began her legal career as a clerk for a federal judge and went on to serve in the Federal Defender Program, where she passionately advocated for the rights of the underserved. 

While Donna’s academic and professional accomplishments were significant, her proudest achievement was raising her two daughters. Donna encouraged them to pursue their dreams with courage and conviction, explore the world with curiosity and an open mind, and to boldly challenge injustice by standing against oppressive systems and advocating for a more compassionate and just world. 

Donna was a fierce advocate for human rights, tirelessly supporting movements for the marginalized and oppressed. Her commitment extended across the globe—from defending the rights of women and those experiencing poverty, to raising awareness about environmental injustice in Appalachia, to boldly speaking out against the genocide in Gaza. She believed deeply in the inherent dignity of every person and lived her values with absolute moral clarity and fearless integrity. 

She will be remembered for her sharp intellect, boundless compassion, unshakeable strength, and the way she poured love into her family, especially in her treasured role as a great-aunt. 

Per Donna’s wishes, there will be no formal services. In lieu of flowers, Donna requested that donations be made to The Carter Center in support of the international peace and justice efforts she so passionately championed (click link below to donate).

The Carter Center - Waging Peace, Fighting Disease, Building Hope