Obituary of Donda Thompson Plyler

Donda Thompson Plyler, 58, of Kingsport went home to be with the Lord on November 9, 2023 at her home with her family. She was born in Houston, Texas to Howard and Marilyn Thompson. Donda and her family later relocated to Burlington, North Carolina where she grew up and graduated High School. She was a graduate of Appalachian State University and later received her master's in education from Liberty University. Donda was a dedicated and devoted elementary school teacher for 20 years. She had just retired and was awaiting the birth of her first grandchild, who she did get to meet. Donda accepted Christ as her savior at a young age and her steadfast and vibrant faith permeated everything that she said and did. Her light shined in places such as Kenya, Mexico, Belize,  and Sweden as she shared God’s love with others around the world and in her own community. Donda had a beautiful singing voice and shared her gift through the praise team most recently at LifeBridge Christian Church where she faithfully served alongside her husband. She was an avid reader, talented interior decorator, and enjoyed being outdoors with her family and friends. Donda was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend who will be greatly missed by all who knew her and were touched by her life.  

Survivors include her loving husband of 31 years, Scott Plyler; daughter, Matney Plyler; son, Nate Plyler and wife Chloe; granddaughter, Jensen Plyler; parents, Howard and Marilyn Thompson; sisters, Marla Thompson, Julie Dinesmore and husband Bryan; brother, Todd Thompson and wife Mimi; mother-in-law, Phyllis Plyler; brother-in-law, Danny Plyler and wife Suzy; along with several nieces and nephews.  

A private graveside service will be conducted at her family cemetery in Reidsville, North Carolina. 

The family will receive friends from 3pm to 5pm on Sunday, November 12, 2023 at the First Christian Church in Kingsport, TN. A celebration of life service will follow with Pastor Phip Sams and Pastor Sam Icenhour officiating.  

In lieu of flowers and due to Donda’s great love for children the family request sponsoring a child or making a donation at www.worldvision.org. 

Carter-Trent Funeral Home in Kingsport is serving the Plyler family.