Donese Coley Campbell 75, of Clemmons, NC, passed away on July 27, 2023.

The family had a private service at the beach in Oak Island, NC.

She is survived by: her husband of 55 years, Tom Campbell; her children, Nancy Stonehouse of Clemmons, Coley Campbell and wife Jamie of Lexington, S.C.; and grandchildren, Lydia Stonehouse of Clemmons, Kemp Stonehouse of Boone, and Caleb Campbell of Lexington, S.C.

She received a BS in Education from East Carolina University in Greenville. She was a career teacher of 25 years starting in Yadkin County at Courtney Elementary, and finishing at Mt. Holly Middle School in Mt. Holly, NC, where she was beloved by students and staff alike and awarded the coveted “Teacher of the Year” award. She was also an active member and volunteer of Mt. Holly United Methodist Church. She implemented a weekly meal for members, served on several committees, and was awarded the “Methodist Woman of the Year” award for her service to the church and its members.

After relocating to Farmington, NC in 2000, she retired from teaching and continued her service to the community. She volunteered for Meals on Wheels, Domestic Violence of Davie County, and Farmington Community Center. She became a Guardian Ad Litem, advocating for disadvantaged children in the court system. She continued her service to these organizations for 10 years, despite serious health issues. She was an avid gardener and received the designation of Master Gardener. She used her skills to implement landscape design for the Farmington Community Center and Davie County Hospital.

She was a devoted wife and mother. She absolutely adored her grandchildren and was a wonderful role model, teacher, and advocate for them; leading them to be the successful, kind, and generous young adults they are today.

Her love of people and advocacy for the less fortunate not only changed and improved their lives, but also inspired her family to continue the tradition of service to others. She will be missed but never forgotten for the countless acts that changed the lives of so many.