My name is Jamie Barnhart, and though I didn’t know Donnie personally, it made a profound impact on my life.
My most cherished memory of Donnie:
Donnie came to hilltop and blew me away with his heart for children and for being the father that many never had. One of my most cherished memories of him is his message on receiving the promise and the many steps that it takes to get there whether it’s through receiving the initial statement of promise from God or going through stages of doubt and spiritual battle, believing that you’re on the right path and trusting God with it all the way is the only way to get into what God has promised you. During this message he introduced our congregation to the Glass Slipper foundation. The organization that helps the kids known as “the trash bag kids.“ as someone who has battled recovering from physical, verbal, and sexual abuse, lack of appropriate father figure and has recovered from many other things including drug addiction and a severe eating disorder that nearly took my life along with the fact that I have a sibling who was forced into human Trafficking… his heart for this organization and for the fatherless really struck a chord in my heart and spirit! As a result, I was inspired to continue to press into God and believe what he has for me. In doing so, I began a clothing and jewelry line called Messenger gear that raises funds for the Glasslipper foundation (currently under construction) and I also began to run again which is something I never thought I’d be able to do (I nearly lost my ability to walk) and enter to run my first marathon after almost 4 years of being taken out of my sport. This man truly inspired me to grab a hold of the promises of God, never let go, and trust Him every step of the way!
To the family,
Though I didn’t know Donnie on a personal level, he left a legacy in my life and in the lives of COUNTLESS individuals. Every time he was there at my church, he took the time to pray for everyone that asked for it. The last time he came, I had to leave early, and this is the decision I’ll regret. Heaven really has a saint, and you all have lost a very wonderful man! I pray the Lord comforts you all and holds you closely during this time! My heart and prayers are with each and everyone of you!