Donna K. Tidwell, 89, farm girl had love for animals
September 26, 2024
Donna Klinger Tidwell of Pawleys Island died Sept. 16 at Waccamaw Community Hospital. She was 89.
She was born March 23, 1935, in Chicago, the daughter of John and Edith Klinger. She grew up dairy farming in Wisconsin and South Carolina and spent most of her adult life in Shelby, N.C., before moving to Pawleys Island.
From raising and showing Holsteins to her pet duck named Penny as a child, she had a love of animals that continued into her adult life.
Mrs. Tidwell graduated from Furman University with a bachelor’s degree in business.
She worked for Shelby City Schools in the special education department and as secretary at Calvary Baptist and Northside Baptist churches.
She was married to the late John Thomas Tidwell.
Her many joys in life included travel, eating a good meal and adventures with family and friends. She also enjoyed nature and nature shows.
She is survived by her sons, William Tidwell (Barbara) of Georgetown and Charles Tidwell (Sandy) of Gastonia, N.C.; her brother, Arthur Klinger (Cynthia); her grandchildren Lindy, John and Jacob Tidwell and Chris and Michael Carle; her great-grandchildren, Connor, Autumn and August Tidwell and Catie, Jaden, Easton and Deliliah Carle; and her sister-in-law, Marion Donley.
A grandson, Josh Carle, died before her.
A graveside service was held Sept. 20 at Sunset Cemetery in Shelby.
Memorials may be made to the ASPCA, St. Jude’s or Tideland’s Community Hospice.
