Donna Sue Mineer Zornes

Donna Sue Mineer-Zornes, a warm and loving presence in the lives of all who knew her, passed away on February 27, 2026, at home in Crittenden, KY, at the age of 75. Born on January 22, 1951 in Grant County, Kentucky, Sue’s life was a testament to resilience, and unwavering dedication to her family.

Early in her life, Sue grew up on a farm with five siblings where they did everything from helping tobacco to tending the garden to bringing hay in from the field. It was physically a hard life but greatly contributed to her ability to persevere through hard times throughout her lifetime.

Sue spent 25 years as a locksmith at Brother’s Lock and Key in Cincinnati, Ohio where she once again spent her time helping others…unlocking hearts along with doors. Sue also had the opportunity to live in Mexico for a year where she taught English to residents of a small town along the east coast of Mexico. She often talked about how much she loved that experience.

Sue was always the one who kept in touch with extended family and recognized everyone and their family members even if she had not seen them for years. It seemed like she knew everyone in the county and loved hugging people when she saw them. She had a great memory for names, faces and details of relationships.

Sue dedicated a good part of her life to taking care of family members. She nursed her mother through years of illness, she cared for her sisters when they needed help, she cared for her nephew when he was injured, and she stepped up for her children and their families in later years when they needed her. No one could have done more than she did for her family.

Sue married Daniel Zornes in 2001-he left this world in 2006.

Sue is survived by three sons, Keith (Lisa)Miller, Ron (Shelley) Miller and Tony (Sarah)Connelly. She leaves behind three sisters Shelby (David) Kreuger-Duncan, Recie Hickman, and Nancy Covey, seven cherished grandchildren-DJ Miller, Haley Miller, Kelsey Connelly, Kadence Connelly, Keaton Connelly, Korbyn Connelly, Tabatha Chapman along with eight great-grandchildren-Imani Smith, Amarius Miller, Waylon Chapman, Grayson Chapman, Kierra Miller, Tori Lee Miller, Skyla Miller, and Willow Hardy along with numerous nieces, nephews and other extended family. Many hearts are broken with her passing.

Sue was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Bruce Lincoln Mineer and Mattie Maxine Kiel, her husband Daniel Zornes, her brother Johnny Mineer, her sister Terry Mineer-Williams, her brothers-in-law John Hickman and Larry Covey, and her adored dog Jack.

A Celebration of Sue’s life is scheduled for Saturday March 7, 2026 from 2:00 to 5:00 PM at the Old Kentucky Barn, 314 South Main Street, Williamstown, Kentucky. Per her request, her remains will be cremated.

Though she has departed from this earthly realm, her spirit and the love she shared will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends.