Often times there are stories which accompany our Mother’s Day photo submissions (see Tuesday’s T-G) that just cry out for a complete story. The family of Doris Donovan sent some inspiring words to the T-G about their mom.  

“She loves without limits. She is always there to listen and say, ‘It’s all gonna be okay.’ She loves Jesus with all of her being and is quick to tell you that every good thing is from above,” submitted daughter Kristy Altman.  

She is known by most, especially her 12 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren and 1 greatgreat grandchild, as ‘Nanny’ because she spent many years as a nanny for the late Dr. Joanetta Spears of Murfreesboro.  

“Our mama has a great sense of humor,” one child wrote. “If you are around her for over 2 minutes, she is sure to say something to make you laugh.”  

“Nanny” is said to love sweet tea, Cracker Barrel, yard sales, getting away to Gatlinburg, going to the Grand Ole Opry and country music. The family notes that her phone ring tone is “Hello Darlin’” by the late Conway Twitty.  

The 85-year-old now lives with her daughter, Tracey, and husband, Tommy. They have 3 German Shepherd dogs that she loves like her own children, Kristy says. “These dogs love her too and are very protective. The oldest one, Sarge, was instrumental in saving Mama’s life.”  

She explains how one night, Sarge knew something was wrong with their mama. “He pawed Tommy awake and wouldn’t leave him alone until he checked on Mama. She was sick, had to be taken to the ER and her heart had gone into AFib. This was when we first found out that she was having heart problems. The problem was diagnosed, she is now on medication and doing great.”  

“Nanny” Donovan is described as a person who loves without limits and, well, loves everyone. She maintains this character, even though she’s also grieved the death of a child, Randy Ferrell.  

Kristy says with emotion, “If there is one thing that she has taught us children, that is to forgive and don’t hold a grudge. She says it and lives it! We hope that she has a wonderful Mother’s Day and knows how very much she is loved and appreciated.”