Donita M. Chambliss

Donita Mae Chambliss, born September 9, 1957, in South Bend, Indiana, was the 4th of 5 children born to Charles and Annie Pearl Chambliss. Born 3 months premature, Donita was always known to be small but mighty and always stood for what she believed to be right! She was educated in the South Bend Community School Corporation, attending Studebaker Grade and Jr. High school, Riley and LaSalle High schools, and received an Associate degree from IUSB. 

Donita gave birth to her son, Marcus, in 1975. She then joined the United States Air Force in 1979, serving for 5 years as an Air Traffic Controller. During this time, Donita gave birth to her daughter, Tanisha, in 1981. She made many lifelong friends during her time in the military until being Honorably Discharged in 1985. Donita would eventually set down roots in Indianapolis and began her career at the Defense Finance and Accounting Services (DFAS). While employed at DFAS, she received the Federal Employee of the Year award in 2004, along with other acknowledgments. She retired in 2012.

While being a mother changed her life, Donita found her greatest joy in being a Nana to her grandchildren, which she referred to as her "Fab 4." She formed a special bond with each one from birth. There is no denying the pride she felt anytime she spoke of them and you will see her in each one!

Outside of work and family, Donita loved the Lord and was a member of New Beginnings Christian Church in Indianapolis, where she worked on the Usher board with pride until her health prevented her from continuing. She also had a love for ceramics, making many beautiful works of art, and like her mother, was an avid reader! Donita had a giggle that made you laugh, even if you didn’t feel like it. She inspired many and will be truly missed.

Donita was preceded in death by her father, Charles M. Chambliss; mother, Annie Pearl (Mitchell) Chambliss; and brother, Danny C. Chambliss.

She is survived by her children: son, Marcus D. (Rodica) Chambliss, and daughter, Tanisha L. Chambliss both of Indianapolis; grandchildren: Alexander D. Steele, Xavier D. Steele, Mia S. Steele, and Sophia B. Chambliss; siblings: brothers, Derrick (Gloria) Chambliss, Darvin (Elizabeth) Chambliss and sister, Diane (John) Buchanan and Godsister, Elisa Waller; lifelong friends: Kathy Jo Waters, Giovanna Edwards; as well as a whole host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will tell her story and keep her memory alive!

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