Donnette Maleitha Motley

Donnette passed away on October 16, 2016 in Lakeport, California after a lengthy illness, surrounded by family. She was 65 years old.

Donnette Motley was born in Oakland, California on Feburary 18, 1951. She was third child and first daughter of Louie Lawrence Motley and Neelgia Motley.

Donnette was raised in Oakland, California, with seven brothers and sisters. In her early childhood, she attended St. Mary's Catholic School. Her sister Deardra lovingly remembers that growing up, Donnette loved to sew and had a passion for dancing. Donnette graduated from Castlemont High School in Oakland in 1970, and later spent some time at Merritt College.

In 1989, Donnette and her family moved to Hidden Valley, CA. There, she developed her career at Guenoc Winery as a Line Supervisor and raised her family. Donnette cherished her garden, which she decorated with heart shaped rocks she found, and she always had fresh cut flowers in the house. She was an amazing cook and baked the best pineapple cream pies. She loved animals, especially her cats Chewie and Lucy.

Donnette was preceded in death by her father Louie Lawrence Motley, grandfather Dr. Arthur Motley, great-grandmother Pearl Hall-Wilson, aunt Lizzymae Wison-Thompson, grandmother Maleitha Wilson-Scarver , grandmother Freddie Royster-Hale, cousin Jackie Royster, and uncle Fred Royster.

Donnette is survived by her husband Walter Howard, son Kevin Motley, daughter Maleitha Beck, mother Neelgia Motley, brothers Marlon, Harold, Roderick, Ronald, Keith, Jon, and sister Deardra. She is also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Friends and family are warmly invited to attend a Celebration of Life which will be held Saturday November 12, 2016 beginning at 6pm at South Berkley Senior Center - 2939 Ellis Street Berkeley CA 94703.

The family wishes to thank Evergreen Lakeport Healthcare and nurse Dina for their attentive care during Donnette's illness.

Those who wish to send thoughts or condolences are invited to sign the guestbook at www.jonesandlewis.com

Arrangements under the direction of Jones & Lewis Clear Lake Memorial Chapel FD 800, Lower Lake, CA.