Donna Jo McCarty

Donna Jo McCarty, a resident of Notasulga, Alabama, passed away Saturday, November 7, 2026, at the age of 58. To know Donna was to know someone truly one of a kind. She had a generous heart, a wonderful sense of humor, and a way of bringing laughter and joy to those around her. She was always on the move, always finding something that needed doing, and always looking for a way to help someone else.

Of all the things Donna loved in life, nothing compared to the love she had for her family, especially her precious grandbabies, Ridley and Selena. They were the center of her world, and being their Grammy was one of her greatest joys. She loved them beyond measure, and the happiness they brought her was evident to anyone who knew her.

Donna had a special gift for making people laugh. She was funny, full of personality, and never short on humor. She loved Alabama football, enjoyed working in her yard, and spreading the love of Jesus. Whether she was busy with an Emmaus project, helping someone in need, or spending time with those she loved, Donna put her whole heart into everything she did.

Music was another big part of Donna's life. For more than thirty years, she was affectionately known as "Miss Karaoke," both hosting and singing. She loved sharing music, laughter, and good times with others, creating countless memories along the way.

Donna was involved with Central Alabama Chrysalis/Emmaus and was an active member of an online lupus support group. Having experienced the challenges of lupus herself, she understood the importance of encouragement and compassion. She offered kindness, support, and understanding to others, even those she had never met in person. Helping people wasn't simply something Donna did; it was part of who she was.

Donna shared forty years of marriage with her husband, Kevin McCarty. She is also survived by her son, Joshua McCarty; daughter, Tiffany Starns (Maurice); and her beloved grandbabies, Ridley Starns and Selena Starns. She is also survived by her sisters, Becky Bedford and Sonya Bedford; brother-in-law, Tony McCarty (Lisa); sister-in-law, Pam Bean (Eugene); and several nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Lovie Snell Bedford, and her brother, Bobby Bedford.

The family will receive friends Friday, November 13, 2026, from 10:00 AM until the funeral service at 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church of Reeltown, 16963 Alabama Highway 49, Notasulga, Alabama. Rev. Nick Stockdale and Rev. Josh Cook will officiate. Burial will follow at Reeltown Cemetery, with Jeffcoat Funeral Home directing.

Donna's life was filled with love, laughter, music, and a determination to make a difference wherever she could. She was a devoted wife, mother, Grammy, sister, and friend whose presence could never be replaced. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories, countless reasons to smile, and a family who will forever carry her love with them.

There was only one Donna Jo Bedford McCarty, and anyone who knew her knows just how true that is.