The Right to Life of Louisville board of Directors, is deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved Donna Durning. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this time of loss. We are profoundly grateful that her family shared her with us for so many years.
Donna was a tireless advocate for the unborn. From 1994 to 2022, she faithfully stood outside the EMW abortion center five days a week—from 6:30 a.m. until 9:15 a.m. or later—52 weeks a year. She was driven by her unwavering belief in the dignity and sanctity of every human life, as well as her conviction that women deserve better than abortion.
With compassion and courage, Donna counseled countless women on the sidewalk, offering hope, support, and a brochure with resources. She would gently guide them to the Pregnancy Center next door, where they could find the help, they needed. Donna’s loving outreach helped many women choose life for their unborn children.
Her commitment didn’t end there. Donna often provided financial support and ongoing care. One grateful mother even returned to the sidewalk to give Donna a picture of her saved baby—named after Donna—which she kept in her wallet. The mother credited Donna’s brave and kind words with giving her the hope she needed to make a life-affirming decision. Donna remained in touch with many of these mothers and children, ensuring they had joyful Christmases and Easters.
Donna’s generosity also extended to the homeless. She befriended and cared for dozens of people living on the streets, offering not just money, but meals, haircuts, transportation to appointments, and much more. She kept clothes and blankets in her car, and assisted with housing, food, and other basic needs. She was truly a disciple of Christ, living out her faith through selfless service.
Despite being cited several times for entering the buffer zone, Donna remained steadfast and fearless in her advocacy. She understood the risks of her work, which sadly led to a severe injury, but she never wavered in her mission.
Donna received the Caritas Award from Spalding University in 2000 and the Dr. Albert J. Schweitzer Award from Right to Life of Louisville in 2002. In 2024, we were honored to establish the Donna Durning Community Award in her name, recognizing her as the inaugural recipient.
Donna Durning leaves behind a legacy of love, courage, and unwavering faith. She changed lives—and saved many. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
