Donna Lou Deilgat

Donna lived a life filled with adventure, laughter, faith, and an unwavering desire to bring joy to others. Funny, stubborn, spirited, and often the life of the party, she had an infectious laugh, a wholesome sense of humor, and a habit of throwing her hands in the air and breaking into silly dance moves just because she could.

She never met a stranger. Whether traveling across the country, exploring the world, or simply taking a neighborhood walk, Donna could strike up a conversation with anyone. A quick hello could easily become a twenty-minute conversation. She collected friendships and memories everywhere she went.

Donna's faith in God was an important part of her life, as was her deep love for her country. She believed in being a light to others and wanted people to remember her for the happiness, laughter, and warmth she brought into their lives.

Perhaps nowhere did that light shine brighter than around children. As a teacher and professional developer for San Diego Unified School District, Donna dedicated her career to education. She had a remarkable ability to connect with children, meeting them at their level, listening with genuine interest, and making them feel special.

She is survived by her daughter, Jenelle Angelina Deilgat; her granddaughter, Andreanna Deilgat; her cousins, Teri Cowling and Connie Sloan; and Teri's children, Joshua and Rebekah. She is also survived by her beloved dog, Sofia, who brought her immense joy and held a special place in her heart.

Donna will be remembered for her adventurous spirit, her laughter, her faith, her love of children, and her determination to share a smile with the world.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, November 11, 2026 from 3:00 p.m. until sunset at Sunset Cliffs Coastal Trail (Linear Park), near the corner of Adair Street and Sunset Cliffs Boulevard in San Diego.

In honor of Donna's love for her country, guests are encouraged to wear red, white, and blue. Please bring a beach chair, a potluck appetizer or dessert to share, and sunflowers to brighten the gathering. Family and friends are also invited to bring photographs and written memories for a special keepsake book.

RSVP: Andreanna (Andy) Deilgat at [email protected]

May the light Donna wished to share with the world continue to shine through the lives she touched.