LELAND — Donna Jean Leake Smith, 64, of Leland, North Carolina, passed away on February 6, 2026, at Lower Cape Fear LifeCare in Wilmington, North Carolina.
Donna was born on April 16, 1961, in Geneva, Illinois, to the late Robert William Leake and Barbara Jean Leake.
She is survived by her son, Richard (Rick) William Smith, and his wife, Anna Skinner; and her two beloved grandchildren, Olivia and Grayson. She is also survived by the father of her children, Ricky Smith; her sister, Debby Brokaw (Guy); her brothers, David Leake (Teresa) and Dennis Leake (Lisa); her sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Peggy and Mike Wilson, with whom she resided in Leland; as well as her nieces and nephews.
Donna was preceded in death by her parents and her two sons, Robert (Rob) Joseph Smith and Ryan Connor Smith.
Donna was a devoted lover of all animals, with a special and enduring affection for cats. She spent many years caring for and feeding feral cat colonies on Carolina Beach through the Friends of Felines organization, a cause close to her heart, before later moving to Leland. Her compassion for animals was a defining part of who she was and left a quiet but meaningful impact on her community.
In her final days, Donna found comfort in the presence and support of those around her.
Donna will be remembered for her kindness, her love for her family, and her unwavering care for animals. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends.
A memorial service will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Friends of Felines, Lower Cape Fear LifeCare, or to the charity of one’s choice.
