I just found this obituary today while searching for Colleen. I'm so sorry for her parents, her sister, her brother, and all who loved her. I was close to Colleen around 15-20 years ago while we worked together at a counseling clinic. We quickly became close friends and I treasured our time together. Sadly, I moved away in 2010 and we lost contact over the years. However long it has been since we spoke, I am still so sad to know that such a beautiful person is gone. She will always have a place in my heart.

Colleen was a beautiful beautiful person, words cannot describe. I had the privilege of knowing her as my therapist, and although that was several years ago, the impact she made on my life is something I still reflect on often. To this day, I often pool from insights I gained from her into daily conversations. I say this to iterate just how profound knowing her was. She was such a joy, a truly special person, so insightful, so kind, so lovely.

Colleen was my therapist for 6 years. I don’t know if I was her last patient before she stopped her practice, but I remember watching her change. She helped me get out of a really dark period in my life and I was always so grateful for her and her guidance. I loved the type of therapy she practiced that trying to find a new therapist is impossible because she was special. She was fun, compassionate, and really wanted the best for you. It was the year of Covid I noticed her change. She started doing appointments at her house in the backyard and that was fun to see her garden and watch all the butterflies. I noticed she wasn’t herself and I got a little worried. The last session we had she told me she wanted to go to Colorado to open a new practice. I told her how much I would miss her and that maybe I’d come visit in a couple years. I am completely heartbroken as I still on a daily bases go through life with what she has taught me. Colleen you were a wonderful counselor and friend. I enjoyed hearing your stories and how you liked to go to ween concerts a lot. I will continue to live out my life with the lessons you taught me. Always in my prayers, KB.

Oh no what happened? I am so sad to see this! Colleen helped both myself and my son through some difficult times. She was such a warm person and comforting presence.

I just happened to be going down memory lane in my head for some reason I stumble across this….

I met Colleen almost 34 years ago as her brother (Sean) and I where really close for many years growing up….Colleen was always a presence growing up and I always adored her. She broadened my mind when it came to music and she always seemed to enjoy just being a kid.

She was extremely talented and passionate about everything she did back then. Always just looking to be free and to enjoy life.

The last time I saw/spoke to Colleen might have been 10 years ago. I was driving through the neighborhood that we grew up in and saw her walking her dog, stopped and said hello. It was almost like we just saw each other.

Colleen, I know you are missed. You overcame so much in your life and I know your parents Brother and Sister were proud of you and everything you accomplished. 

I guess this serves a lesson to always keep in touch, no matter where you are in your life.

God Bless…

Colleen was my therapist, and beloved advisor for nearly 6 years.  She fought for my family, my marriage, my health.  I was waiting for the day we could be post therapy friends.  She was a kindred soul, and I love her so much.  I can't believe I will not hear her magical laugh again.

One month today. I miss you friend ❤️.

My heart is broken. I was only fortunate to have a few conversations with Colleen, but we joked that we were kindred spirits. 

My prayers are with all who loved and adored Colleen, it was easy to do! Her spark will live on through all of these memories. 

Colleen, thank you for our short friendship. For diving headfirst into deep conversation, and not wasting time on small talk. You will be missed Beautiful.

I miss you so much. I didn't know that would be the last hug on 8/27/23. The last text messages at 6pm on 9/1/23 had us both laughing. You are loved. You are missed. Your family loved you so much. We will always grieve the loss of your amazing soul.

Colleen was a powerful magnetic force that drew you into her world. She was a talented gymnast. At James Madison High School she was a cheerleader during her 9th, 10th, and 11th grade years. She was a gifted soul. There are no words to express the grief Anna and I feel. We know that she is doing backhandsprings in heaven. We will miss you. May the Lord bless you and keep you. The word of God is my only comfort. The news of losing you has been shocking. I'm so sad. God bless you Colleen Ann McDonald. I know there's a unicorn for you in heaven. 

Colleen was a brilliant, thoughtful, deep, compassionate and curious person. She healed children, nourished and restored this earth, challenged minds, and filled hearts. I had the honor of meeting her in our graduate school program, and she was truly one of the most intelligent and inquisitive and compassionate people that I have ever known.

I am deeply saddened by Colleen’s departure, and it is my sincerest hope that she has found the peace she deserves. Colleen was not just one of my closest friends; she was  my family. Her sudden departure has left me utterly devastated. I find solace in the knowledge that her memory will forever be intertwined with the simple joys and profound moments of my life.

Every swim, every yoga session, every meditation will bear traces of Colleen’s spirit, as these were activities we shared and cherished together. Her presence in nature and her nurturing touch with plants and gardening will forever remind me of the beauty she found in the world.

Colleen radiated a light that touched countless lives through her therapy practice. As my friend she helped  me see the value of therapy when I had doubts for years. Through her, I learned to confront and navigate life’s myriad challenges, from trauma to navigating the complexities of romantic relationships. Her sage advice even encompassed guiding me in raising my son.

Our hours spent in conversation were priceless, filled with laughter, tears, and the comfort of knowing she was there. We shared countless happy memories, whether it was enjoying meals, rock climbing, crafting candles and jewelry, reading together, studying the bible together, or dedicating our time to volunteering. Each of these moments is now a cherished piece of her legacy in my life.

Colleen’s irreplaceable presence saved me in ways words can’t express. Life without her feels unimaginable, and the void left by her absence is profound. Her impact on my life will endure as a testament to the remarkable person she was. I also hope that I, in my own way, left a positive mark on her life, bringing her joy,  wisdom, and cherished friendship. Until we meet again in eternity, my dear departed friend.

We are praying God holds her family and friends in His loving hands.

As an Educator, I had the privilege of working with Colleen many years ago and she always did what was best for the kids.  She was a model of honesty and integrity and continues to be the role model we all should aspire to be.

Such a bright light!  She was a fellow therapist and a gifted professional.  Warm and creative.  I’m so glad we got to talk this summer!  Colleen, I will always remember and miss you!

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

Colleen Ann McDonald

31 août 1977 – 1 septembre 2023

Porter Loring Mortuary - McCullough

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