Donna obtained her degree in Funeral service from Gupton-Jones College. She apprenticed and and was employed as a lead funeral director and office manager at one of Atlanta's top funeral firms, Alfonso Dawson Mortuary. Walt was employed by Sellers Brother's Morticians.

They returned to Des Moines in 2002 and opened Henderson-Highland Park Funeral Service. Together they have the benefit of over 50 years experience in quality funeral service passed on by mentors in Atlanta.