LaDonna Marie Gaitan

LaDonna Marie Gaitan went home to be with the Lord on September 17, 2025. After courageously battling four cancers and other health conditions, she passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family.

LaDonna was born in Tulare, California in 1964 to parents Estaleen Moody and Charles Hyder. Charles was born with the surname Harris but later took the name Hyder in honor of the family who raised him—a legacy LaDonna carried with pride. After spending a few early years in Tipton, the family settled in Hanford, where LaDonna would live for the rest of her life.

A gifted student, LaDonna excelled in school and was often at the top of her class. Her parents were even asked to stop teaching her at home so she wouldn’t progress too far ahead of her peers.
After marrying her husband, Edward Gaitan of Hanford, LaDonna pursued a career in nursing. Over the years, she held a variety of jobs, first working in the farm fields around Hanford with Edward, then serving in restaurants, and eventually providing in-home care for the elderly. Her clients often came to care about her deeply as she cared for them, and she developed lasting bonds with many. She said her purpose was “to help people who can’t help themselves.” 

But her favorite role, by far, was that of a mother.

LaDonna is survived by her devoted husband of over 45 years, Edward Gaitan, and their children: Xondria Burkett, Bret Gaitan, Ty Gaitan, and Moriah AvilaGomes. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren: Sindal Burkett, Kayla Barajas, Briana Burkett, Cassandra Burkett, CeCe AvilaGomes, Olivia Hendrix Gomes, Kloey AvilaGomes, and Jennifer AvilaGomes, as well as 6 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Estaleen and Charles, and her sister, Lisa Hyder.
LaDonna often said she loved her family more than anything, and that they were her greatest source of pride. Many will remember her for her thoughtful calls to check in, her ability to remember details about people, her sense of humor, and her warm laugh.

Her legacy of love and service lives on in all who knew her. As we reflect on her life, we are reminded of Matthew 25:23 — “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
The family would like to thank Whitehurst McNamara Funeral Service of Hanford for their assistance, and Amazing Grace Christian Fellowship Church in Lemoore. We are also deeply grateful to the many friends and family who have reached out with kind words, condolences, and support.

Services:
Viewing: Friday, October 10, from 2:00–5:00 PM
 Whitehurst McNamara Funeral Service
 100 W. Bush St., Hanford, CA 93230

Reception: Friday, October 10, from 5:00–8:00 PM
Kings County Bowl – Bar Room
 1050 Lacey Blvd., Hanford, CA 93230

Funeral: Saturday, October 11, from 8:00–9:00 AM
 Amazing Grace Christian Fellowship Church
 293 Hamlet St., Lemoore, CA 93245

Burial:  Saturday, October 11, following the funeral (approximately 9:30 AM)
Calvary Cemetery
11680 S. 10th Ave., Hanford, CA 93230

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