Donna R. Finney

Born April 20, 1964, in Cleveland to Earl Schwartz and Linda (Flate) Schwartz (now deceased), the lifelong Clevelander resident attended University Heights-Cleveland Heights Schools until later when she moved and graduated from Brush High School class of 1982.

Donna volunteered in the Mayfield City Schools and received many awards along with being Mayfield City Schools Citizen Of The Year. She served on The Mayfield Heights City School Board, and was devoted to Mayfield Heights City Council for 18 years also was elected as Council president. Also Serviced on many other boards and committees. She called Mayfield Heights home all of her adult life. She felt very strongly about her community. Recently, she spent her winter months in Sunny Isles, Fla., and adored her friends she made there over the last few years.

When she wasn’t working, she loved being a Nonna. Her family and friends meant everything to her. She spoke to her daughters and sisters about 20 times a day. She could light up a room with her smile, but didn’t hold back telling you like it is. She loved to dance, sing and always loved going to many concerts. She had a passion for literature, and read many books a year.

Donna was always a phone call away to anyone who ever needed a hand. Everyone always felt her warm hospitality and enjoyed her fabulous cooking. Donna was a second mother and best friend to many. Her beauty and warmth will never be forgotten.

Donna is survived by her partner of many years, Howard Sonenstein; daughters, Jessica (Joel) Brown and Jennifer Finney; sisters, Dena (Jonathan) Fields and Dawn Schwartz; grandchildren, Elianna Klein, Joseph Kowalczyk and Miles Brown; and many nieces, nephews and friend who cherished her. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her son, Morris Finney.

Funeral services hosted by DiCicco & Sons Funeral Home will be held at 11 a.m. Sept. 14 at 5975 Mayfield Road in Mayfield Heights. Immediately following interment at Knollwood Cemetery, the family will receive friends until 9 p.m. at Jessica Brown’s home, 1952 Marshfield Road in Mayfield Heights.

Donations in Donna’s memory can be sent to the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation or a charity of choice.