Donna Jean (McMichael) Frye

Donna Jean Frye, age 86, passed away in the evening of April 20, 2026. She was born on September 2, 1939, in Pontiac, Michigan, to Charles and Myrtle McMichael (née Lee). Donna met the love of her life, Carl Frye, while waitressing at Jack’s Bar in Pontiac near the Fisher Body GM plant where Carl worked—and the rest is history. Once they were married they went on to build a life centered on love, family, and unwavering devotion. Donna was a lifelong caretaker who never complained. She lovingly cared for her mother, grandmother, father, and husband throughout their lives, always putting others before herself. Despite her small stature, Donna had a fiery and determined spirit. She remained fiercely independent even in her later years—so much so that her son Ernie and daughter-in-law Tammy once had to hide her snow shovel because she insisted on doing everything herself. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Donna loved listening to country music, playing bingo, and collecting coins. She especially cherished time spent fishing with Carl at their cabin in Sault Ste. Marie. After Carl’s retirement, they split their time between their Tennessee home, where the Frye family has deep roots, and their beloved cabin in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. She also adored her grandbabies and great great grandbabies always there to lend a hand if needed. Donna was strong-willed and never afraid to stand her ground with anyone—except her beloved Carl. Together, they were truly a perfect match. She is survived by her son, Ernest (Tammy) Frye; her grandchildren, Dawn Fisher, Ernest Frye, and Eric (fiancée Brandy Hipp) Frye; and her great-grandchildren, Robert Swayne, Dylan (Kaitlyn) Fisher, Jeremy (fiancée Emma Dixon) Frye, Stephanie Frye, and Mallory Frye; great great grandchildren: Paislee Kula, Leeln Gallagher, and Claire Fisher.  She is also survived by her brother, Butch (Judy) McMichael. Donna was preceded in death by her husband, Carl Frye; her parents, Charles and Myrtle McMichael; and her sister, Nancy Hardin. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Coats Funeral Home – Waterford. Family will receive friends from 11:00 AM until the time of service. Interment will follow at Perry Mount Park Cemetery.

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