Donna Sherwood (née Young, Murrell) passed away peacefully on August 11th, after a period of health challenges. She was surrounded by love, care and the comfort of her home.
Donna was a devoted daughter, sister, mother, nana, cousin and friend. Though life brought its share of trials in recent years, she faced them with resilience and love for those closest to her. She shared her life and home with her beloved sister, Janice, whose presence was a constant source of strength, love and friendship.
She was the proud mother of two children: a daughter, Jennifer (Dwight) with whom she shared a close bond, and a son, Mark (Jane). Her grandchildren Taylor (Cam), Meagan (Luke), Christopher and Samantha brought her profound joy. She was a steady, nurturing, fun presence in her granddaughters’ lives. Nothing made her happier than driving her granddaughters to school, social events or “dancing” class.
Though she worked only occasionally outside the home, Donna’s full-time commitment was always to her family, both immediate and extended, as well as to her volunteer work. She devoted a great deal of time and energy volunteering at schools, service clubs and The Salvation Army. She spent many years as a care-giver for some of her closest family members, a gift that was reciprocated to her in recent months.
Donna remained close friends with Dave, the father of her children, and his wife Barb. Their enduring friendship was a testament to the shared love they had for their family.
She cherished close relationships with her cousins, their children and grandchildren. Carla, Dana and Joanne were like three additional sisters. Her 70-year friendship with Marlene completed the sisterhood and their bond clearly stood the test of time.
To her, family was not defined by blood, but by love. She was proud to be called “mom” or “Nana” by many close friends of her kids and granddaughters.
She will be remembered for her sense of humor, selfless sacrifices for family, her love of family gatherings, her offering of “party sandwiches” for any occasion, and her predictability of being late for events. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
A “Celebration of Donna’s Life” will be held on Sunday, August 24th from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm at: General John Hayter Southshore Community Centre, 205 Lakeshore Drive, Barrie, ON
Family and friends are invited to join us in celebrating a life well lived! Light refreshments will be served.
If desired, donations in Donna's memory may be made to the Salvation Army and are greatly appreciated by the family. Online condolences and memories may be shared via www.steckleygooderham.com.