Geneva Donham

Geneva Donham, 86, of Angleton, Texas, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on August 20, 2026.

Geneva was born on February 10, 1940, in La Grange, Texas, to Lydia and Conrad Schnaubelt. On July 20, 1964, she married Don Donham, and together they shared 62 years of marriage, building a life centered around family, love, and many treasured memories. Geneva was the loving mother of Lisa Penney and her husband, Richard Penney; and sons Sam Holt, Pelle Donham, and Scot Donham. Her family continued to grow through the years, blessing her with nine grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

But Geneva's love extended far beyond her immediate family. She had a way of welcoming people into her life and loving them as her own. To many, she was more than a friend or relative—she was like a mother, offering the kind of love, strength, and presence that made people feel they belonged.

Geneva was strong and courageous, but she also had a wonderful sense of humor and knew how to have fun. She loved spending time with her family, horseback riding, fishing, and traveling. And anyone who knew Geneva knew about her love for Elvis Presley and John Wayne, who she watched in Westerns daily. She also had a special talent for giving gifts. Geneva was known as the best gift giver, always seeming to know just what would make someone feel special. But you also had to be careful when opening a present from her, because she loved a good gag gift and enjoyed the laughter that came along with it.

Perhaps one of the sweetest examples of the way Geneva loved her family was that she had her own special nickname for each of her grandchildren. Those names, along with the stories, laughter, traditions, and memories behind them, will remain a treasured part of her family for generations to come.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lydia and Conrad Schnaubelt, and her seven siblings.

A Celebration of Life honoring Geneva will be held Thursday, August 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Palms Funeral Home in Angleton, Texas. The family will welcome visitors beginning at 9:30 a.m.