

Donna was a loving and devoted mother and grandmother whose greatest joy in life was her family. Strong-willed, passionate, and unfailingly honest, she lived life on her own terms and loved with her whole heart. Her children and grandchildren were the center of her world, and she took immense pride in each of them.
A woman of many interests, Donna had a creative spirit and a special talent for crafting. She found joy making matchstick crosses, dolls, and holiday decorations, always adding her personal touch to every occasion. She enjoyed shopping—especially finding a great sale—and loved gathering around the table for card games, including Phase 10, Telefunken “Telefonte,” Kismet, and Rummikub. She also found relaxation and fun in video poker and Solitaire.
Donna had a well-known sweet tooth and rarely turned down coffee, ice cream, or any dessert. She enjoyed spending evenings watching movies and her favorite television programs, often tuning into QVC. She was an avid collector of Betty Boop memorabilia and a devoted, lifelong fan of Barry Manilow, whose music brought her great joy.
She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Frank and Julia Merante, and her siblings, Kathleen Green and Christopher Merante.
Donna is survived by her cherished daughters, Jeanine (Claudio) Mauro and Kathleen (Alphonso) Monterio. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Vincenzo Mauro, Isabella Mauro, Julia Mauro, Francesca Mauro, Alina Monterio, Jayda Monterio, Kayla Monterio, King Monterio, Kaylani Monterio, and Kathleen “Kaliyah” Monterio. She is also survived by her brother, Anthony (Lynda) Merante.
A funeral service will be held on March 19, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John Neumann Roman Catholic Church.
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