Donna Rose (Terstriep) Swords

Donna Rose Swords, 77, of Overland Park Kansas, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2024 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s.

Donna was born November 14, 1946, to Robert and Florence (Beck) Terstriep in Quincy, Illinois. Donna grew up on a farm with 8 siblings and learned at the early age the importance of hard work and family.

Donna met Gary Swords, married, and had two children, Jason and Derek. Donna and family moved many times during their early family and lived in many different locations including Chicago, Dallas, and Hopkinsville (KY). The family eventually settled in the Kansas City area where they opened a Craft store in Olathe Kansas. Gary passed away in 1991.

Donna had a variety of careers over her life including working at a Bank, owning her own business, and eventually Real Estate. She loved working with people and thrived on a busy schedule.

Donna loved to cook, dance, and spend quality time with family. Her favorite days were those that she spent with her grandchildren.

Donna is survived by her children and their families including Jason and Stephanie Swords, their children Maren and Connor, Derek and Jill Swords and their children Dylan and Elliott. Additionally, Donna is survived by her brothers and sisters: Mark Terstriep, John Terstriep, Matt Terstriep, Robert Terstiep II, Luke Terstriep, Mary Bockenfeld, Sally Mock, Janine Terstriep.

A visitation will be held at Porter Funeral Home on Sunday September 15th from 3-5 PM, followed by a Funeral Mass at Holy Spirit Catholic Church at 10 AM on Monday September 16th. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa, Kansas.

Donna’s family will host a Celebration of Life, directly after the interment, at Falcon Valley Golf Course Clubhouse.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested.