Obituaries

Doronna Gail Lanham, 65, of Villa Hills, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2025, surrounded by her loving family after a courageous journey with Alzheimer’s disease. A devoted mother, sister, and friend, Doronna’s life was defined by her deep love for family, her faith, and her generous spirit.

Born on March 8, 1960, in Richmond, Kentucky, Doronna was the daughter of the late Wendell and Judy Fowler. From a young age, Doronna displayed a determination and drive that would guide her throughout her life. She graduated from St. Bernard-Elmwood Place High School a year early so she could begin her studies at the University of Cincinnati, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with concentrations in Finance and Marketing. As the first person in her family to attend college, Doronna inspired future generations with her example of perseverance and ambition.

Doronna’s professional life began at Provident Bank, where she worked from 1985 to 2001 as a Finance Officer and Retail Deposit Manager. Her sharp mind and strong work ethic earned her great respect among her peers. Yet, as proud as she was of her professional accomplishments, Doronna’s greatest fulfillment came from her family. When her daughters were young, she made the heartfelt decision to step away from her career to devote herself fully to raising them and caring for her aging parents.

Doronna was a longtime member of Elmwood-Carthage Presbyterian Church and later attended Lakeside Presbyterian Church, where her faith continued to be an anchor in her life. She was also an active volunteer at the Ronald McDonald House, where she shared warmth and support with families in need. Her sense of community, kindness, and desire to help others reflected the very core of who she was.

Doronna is survived by her daughters, Christina Niemer (Greaham), Elizabeth Polley (Tyler), and Emily Wright (Alex); her sisters, Dianne Fowler Brown (Gary) and Dawn Fowler Packer (Dennis); and many adored grandchildren (Lilly, Clinton, Jacob, Kennedy, and Thomas), nieces, and nephews. The grandkids loved visiting their Truly and she always had cookies waiting for them. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Wendell and Judy Fowler, and her brother, Darrell Fowler.

Alzheimer’s stole some of the sweetest years from Doronna—years she longed to share with her daughters and grandchildren. Yet even in her final moments, her love endured. Her face would light up at the sight of family, and she found joy in simple visits and cherished time together. Her legacy of love, strength, and kindness will live on in those who knew her, and her family takes comfort in knowing she is now at peace in the company of Jesus our Lord.

Visitation will be held Lakeside Presbyterian Church (2690 Dixie Hwy, Lakeside Park, KY 41017) on Monday, November 10th, 2025 from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM, funeral service will follow at 11:30 AM. Burial will immediately follow at Spring Grove Cemetery (4521 Spring Grove Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45232).