April 24, 1935 – February 22, 2025
With heavy hearts and deep faith, we announce the peaceful passing of Alva Lee Terrell, age 89, on February 22, 2025. Alva Lee was born on April 24, 1935, in Pulaski, GA, to Kenneth and Ruby Donaldson.
Alva Lee’s faith in God was the cornerstone of her life. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, known for her unwavering love and commitment to her family. Alva’s life was a reflection of Christ’s love, and she sought to embody His teachings in all she did. Her joy, compassion, and encouragement touched the lives of all who knew her. She was a longtime member of The Sanctuary Church of Savannah, GA.
She was preceded in death by her husband (Lamar Terrell), mother (Ruby Donaldson), father (Kenneth Donaldson), sisters (Rita Willoughby, Marlene Pinkston, and Christine Donaldson), and brothers (Lamar and Alfred Donaldson). She is now in the presence of her Savior, Jesus Christ, where she is at peace. Alva Lee is survived by her brother, Richard (Almond) Donaldson, children, Linda Oliver, Brenda Sather (Chris), and William Burden (Lawrence), grandchildren Nicholas Oliver (Mary), Lindsey Davis (Kricket), Christopher Sather (Lauren), and Kimberly Martin (Trevor), 8 great-grandchildren, and a host of extended family and friends who will forever hold her memory in their hearts.
The family takes comfort in the words of the Apostle Paul, “For me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21). While we mourn her passing, we know she is rejoicing in the presence of the Lord.
A service to celebrate Alva Lee’s life and her eternal homecoming will be held at The Sanctuary Church of Savannah on Thursday, February 27, 2025. Visitation will be at 4 pm followed by a service at 5 pm.
Alva Lee Terrell’s legacy of faith, love, and service will continue to inspire and bless all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
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Patricia Wingster/ family
My deepest sympathy and condolences to the family of Mrs Alva Lee Terrell May the Lord of hope,comfort and peace be with you all during this time of mourning ❤️ and 🙏🏽
David & Joyce Oxford
Our condolences and prayers to the families. Our prayers for comfort and peace. Our love to each of you.
Cathy Woodcock Henderson
So very sorry!
Love,
Cathy Woodcock Henderson
(Rufus and Pearl Woodcock’s daughter)
Michael and Penny Smiling
Linda, Brenda and Family, We Loved Aunt Alva Lee so very much! So much Fun and a such a Good Godly Woman! Uncle Lamar married Michael and I, 42 years ago! They were right next to our hearts!💕 We will truly miss her presence here on earth but Heaven has gained a Crown Jewel and we know her Sweetheart was waiting to Welcome Her Home with Jesus saying, “Well done, thy good and faithful servant!” “Welcome Home!” Michael and Aunt Alva Lee worked together at K-Mart! Such a mutual love and friendship they had. She will be missed here by so many but we know we will have a Great Reunion One Day Before Long! Brenda and Linda and family, you will miss her every day and I would love to say that things get better but I still miss my Precious Mother every day! Nothing like a Mother’s Love! She constantly exemplified the Proverbs 31 Woman!
We Love You Bunches,
Michael and Penny Smiling
and Family
Charles and Betty Ray
So sorry for your loss.
Susan Kiefer
We are so sorry for your loss. We pray that the Lord will continue to comfort you and give you His peace during this season. I am so moved when saints that have served and love the Lord faithfully transition to be with Him.
Susan