Donnalie M. (Markwood) Hope

Donnalie Markwood Hope, Beloved mother, friend, and the town’s very own “Hat Lady” passed away on September 30, 2024 at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable style. Known for her colorful hats that could brighten even the cloudiest of days, she was a beacon of joy in our small town.

Donnalie was born in “The Bryan Field” in Petersburg, WV on April 20, 1942, just a stones throw away from her beloved Fort Mulligan, where she played as a child. She was a daughter of the late James Orlando Markwood and Margaret Rosalie (Simmons) Markwood. In addition to her parents, Donnalie was preceded in death by her husband, Daniel Wood Hope, II, with whom she spent 15 wonderful years. Together they traveled and worked side by side, creating lasting memories. Also preceded by her step-father, Charles H. Alt and two brothers, Dawn Wayne Markwood and Charles Royce Alt.

Donnalie is survived by a daughter, Tina (Alt) Liong and a grandson, Ryan William Liong; step-daughter, Dawn Hope Mullins (Greg), with whom she shared a special relationship; grandson, Scott Trichel (Becky) and great-grandson, Lucas Trichel; a nephew, Chad Rinaldi-Alt and his sons, Ben and Charlie and her Markwood cousins, Rodney, Gary, Gene, Regina of Maryland and Karen of Moorefield, WV.

A faithful supporter of veterans and the armed forces, Donnalie dedicated countless hours to honoring those who served.  In order by what she loved most, God, Trump and family. Her compassion and commitment to others will be remembered by all who knew her.

 Donnalie was a certified Master Gardener who loved sharing her passion for herbs with both children and adults, frequently giving talks to eager groups. She also brought the history to life as a Belle Boyd reenactor, delighting audiences with her enthusiasm and knowledge of the past.

Donnalie was a 1960 graduate of Petersburg High School.  She then embarked on a career that would touch many lives. She initially served her community at the Veach-Townsend Clinic and was there when Dr. Dewey Bensenhaver and Jane joined the practice. Later she worked for Dr. Chester D. Harman. Her nurturing spirit and dedication to others’ well- being shone brightly in this role. Donnalie continued to contribute to her community as a retired real estate appraiser, where her keen eye for detail and her genuine care for her clients’ needs were greatly valued. 

Donnalie’s zest for life was infectious. Her interests were as vibrant and varied as the collection of over 800 different hats she had curated over the years. Each hat was not just a fashion statement but a testament to love for celebration and her unique ability to make every occasion special. She was particularly fond of her UTV, which she affectionately named ‘Gator, and it was a common sight to see her exploring with joyous abandon.  Holidays were never a mere date on the calendar for Donnalie; they were opportunities to express her creative spirit.  With every festive season, she would don a themed costume and a matching hat, much to the delight of her family and friends.  Her playful nature and love for life were most evident during these times, and those memories are cherished by all who were fortunate enough to be a part of them. 

Donnalie was the heart of her family, a loving mother to her daughter Tina and an adoring grandmother to her grandson Ryan. Her guidance and love were the cornerstones upon which they built their lives, and her legacy of kindness and generosity will continue to live on through them.  Those who knew Donnalie will remember her for the warmth of her smile, the joy she brought to every room, and one selfless way she lived her life. She had an innate ability to make each person feel seen, heard, and valued.  Her laughter was a melody that echoed in the hearts of those she encountered.

 As we bid farewell to Donnalie Hope, we reflect on a life lived to its fullest, a path marked by the love she gave and the lives she touched. Her journey may have come to an end in this life, but the impressions she left on this world are as great and numerous as the glitter she left behind on everything, in everything, and on everyone. Though we mourn her passing, we celebrate the incredible woman that was Donnalie. We honor her life by remembering the joy she found in the simplest pleasures, the care she devoted to her loved ones, and the passion with which she embraced every moment.  Her story is one of love, laughter and hats - -   reminder to us to live life with a touch of whimsy and an open heart.

The following is from all Donnalie's friends at Family Traditions ........Jorden wrote ......     "You could find Donnalie on a daily basis, often multiple times a day, at Family Traditions Restaurant. Her radiant beams of pure joy, humor, and selflessness lit up the restaurant almost as bright as the glitter on her face did. Customers and employees faces would light up at the sight of her John Deere side by side zooming up on the curb out the front window. Everyday, she'd have on a different HAT and outfit and of course, a new story to tell. In just a few years, she became family to every employee in Family Traditions. Customers quickly began to love her, and talk with her until a friendship blossomed. Groups of customers would welcome her everyday, there wasn't ever a seat at any table where she wasn't welcomed. The walls of the restaurant will never recover from her loss. The sadness that hovers over the building will soon turn into stories of her memory. Her humor was like no other, the kind that brightened every single room. The word 'stranger' was never in her vocabulary, a blessing to so many. This woman spent all of her time putting on a show for everyone else, yet somehow still found time to stay true to herself in the midst of it all. To call her an inspiration would be an understatement. As for every employee at Family Traditions, she will always be referred to as an icon, a legend of Petersburg. Her legacy will forever live on in the walls of Family Traditions. The only way to describe her is to say she was a literal ray of everything good in this world. A walking beam of pure love, laughter, and happiness. This woman spent many of her years making sure everyone in Petersburg had someone to represent holidays, and just days in general. Every day to her was a blessing, a reason to celebrate. An ordinary day for most people, Donnalie would view as a reason to celebrate. A beautiful mindset that will forever be the sweetest part of her memory."

In Honoring Donnalie’s wishes, her body has been cremated and a memorial service will be conducted on Sunday, April 13, 2025 at 2:00 PM at the Landes Arts Center in Petersburg, WV..

In Lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to American Legion Riders Post 78, P.O. Box 537, Petersburg, WV 26847 or Charity of the Donors Choice. 

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.