Donna Belle Talty, a cherished matriarch, loving wife, dedicated mother, and tireless volunteer, passed away peacefully at the age of 95, at West Hills Village, surrounded by family.

She was born in a tent on the Pine Ridge Reservation on September 20, 1929, to Bob and Kate Habinck. Donna Belle lived a life marked by resilience, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to her family, community, and faith.

Donna Belle grew up on a farm and ranch— milking cows, driving tractors, branding calves, and fixing fences — and she took pride in every task, never shying away from the challenges that came with living off the land. Rain or shine, Donna Belle was always ready to roll up her sleeves and get the job done.

After graduating from St. Martin's Academy in Sturgis, SD, Donna Belle spent a brief time teaching school, where she inspired her students with her kindness, intelligence, and work ethic. But it was her love for her family that would define the next chapter of her life. She married Dean Talty on June 21, 1948, and together they built a home on Dean's family homestead southwest of Wall, SD. It was in that home, filled with love and laughter, that she raised their four daughters and created countless memories.

In 1989 they sold the ranch and moved to Rapid City for retirement.

She was the ultimate volunteer, always ready to lend a hand wherever it was needed. Whether it was raising funds for Mayfest to support Catholic schools, baking cakes and visiting sick friends and neighbors, or cleaning house for an elderly neighbor, Donna Belle was a constant source of support and kindness. Volunteering as an Ambassador for the Rapid City Chamber of Commerce kept her informed of her community and was an opportunity to make new friends. Her selflessness knew no bounds, and she found deep joy in helping others.

She was an avid fisherwoman, enjoyed riding horseback, playing bean bag, traveling, playing cards and dominoes and bingo. In her earlier years she was a trumpet player. She enjoyed dressing up for Halloween, and she loved to dance.

Donna Belle was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dean Talty, and is survived by her four daughters, Deana Culp of Ecuador, South America; Debra (Randy) Peonio of Windsor CO; Darla (Douglas) Crown of Rapid City, SD; and Diana (Craig) Telford of Meridian, Idaho, six grandchildren, and fourteen great-grandchildren, all of whom were blessed to know her strength, grace, and love. Later in life she enjoyed traveling, hiking, attending baseball games, and helping on the ranch with a special friend.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, April 22, from 1:00-2:00 pm, with a Vigil at 2:00 p.m., at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home.

Funeral Mass will be offered on Wednesday, April 23, at 11:00 a.m. at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Rapid City, with interment to follow at Pine Lawn Memorial Park.

Memorial donations can be made to the Children's Home Society of South Dakota, 5301 Mt. Rushmore Road, Rapid City, SD  57701.

Donna Belle's life was a testament to the power of kindness, the strength of family, and the importance of community. She will be missed, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Rest in peace, Donna Belle Talty. Your work here is done, and your legacy lives on.