Donna Lee Jones

Born on February 1, 1934, in West Virginia, Donna Lee grew up in the close-knit community of Hampden in Baltimore, Maryland. Her deep connection to Hampden remained a cherished part of her identity throughout her life. There, she cultivated her outgoing nature, developed a passion for sports, forged lifelong friendships, worked her first job at the iconic Five and Dime store, and began dating her future husband when she was just 16.

Donna Lee attended Clara Barton High School, a vocational high school for girls specializing in business systems. After completing her education, she worked for the Norfolk, Baltimore, and Carolina Line (NBC)--a shipping company in the Baltimore Harbor, followed by several prominent doctors' offices in downtown Baltimore. As her family grew, Donna Lee shifted her focus to raising her children. She became a dedicated volunteer, serving as chair of the Boys Little League, coaching softball, leading cheerleading squads, and supporting the Girl Scouts. She was deeply involved in her children's education, working in their school offices, chairing committees, organizing fundraisers, and cheering on their sports teams. She became a second mother to many and left an enduring impact on those around her.

Donna Lee had an extraordinary gift for making friends throughout her life and they meant the world to her. Her friendships were heartfelt and long-lasting. They filled her life with laughter, tears, stories, mischief, memories, and, most importantly--connection. She was above all, though, grateful for her husband, Randall, without whom she would have not made it to the remarkable age of 90. His unwavering support, strength, and commitment to her throughout their lifetime made it difficult for her to leave this world before him; she wanted nothing more before passing than to know that he would be well cared for and okay after she was gone.

Donna Lee will be remembered for her infectious sense of humor, generous heart, strength and resilience, and unwavering love for family and friends. Her light shone brightly throughout her life and left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

She is survived by her husband of 70 years, Charles Randall Jones Sr., and their four children: Brenda Lee Steele (Mark) of Ocala, Florida; Charles Randall "Randy" Jones Jr. (Maria) of Truckee, California; Terrell Ann "Terre" Short (Jamie) of Monterey, California; and Wendy Renee Jones (Liz) of Oakland, California. Donna Lee is also survived by six grandchildren-Brooke Lee, Beth, Chelsea, Dylan, Erik, and Taylor-and four great-grandchildren: Margo, Payton, Gavin, and Connor. She also leaves behind a number of cousins, nieces, and nephews whom she adored.

In memory of Donna Lee's life and legacy, donations may be made to the causes closest to her heart: St Joseph's Indian School and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.