01/13/2026
Sunday , our Athens family lost a piece of our heart.
Donna was with us from day one, and she was so much more than a cook. She was family in every sense of the word a sister a daughter an aunt a friend. She was a constant comfort and a huge piece of the puzzle that made Athens Restaurant what it was for 50 years.
As we recently closed our doors after half a century it feels especially heartbreaking to say goodbye to someone who helped build this place from the very beginning. Donna’s dedication love and presence were felt by everyone who walked through our doors and everyone who had the privilege of working beside her.
There are no words that can fully express how much she meant to us or how deeply she will be missed. Our hearts are broken but we are forever grateful for the years the memories the laughter and the love she gave us.
Athens Restaurant may be closed, but Donna spirit will always be a part of it and a part of us.
Rest easy Donna Penix you will always be family.
With love , Dee , Mama , and Tashia