Donne Forrest

Born on July 21,1938, in St. Louis, MO to Maxine (nee Wells) and Ernest Milton (Knute) Hansen, Donne spent her childhood in St. Louis. MO. Following her graduation from Ladue High School in 1956, she attended Pembroke College (Brown University) in Providence, RI and Washington University, St. Louis, MO.

Donne was married to Winston Forrest, Jr. until his death in 1988. The couple had two sons, Winston Forrest III of Virginia, and Peter Forrest, Tarrytown, NY.

A lifelong learner and a great lover of books, Donne worked in publishing for more than 40 years. When she retired in 2015, she was Director of Subsidiary Rights for Penguin Random House.

Donne inspired a fierce love and deep affection from all who knew her. Known to so many simply as “Granny,” she opened her home and her heart to all with joyful sincerity.

In her work, Donne’s spontaneous enthusiasm for the books she represented ignited sales and most importantly, lasting friendships around the world. She conducted business with a professionalism and honor that spanned eras. She earned her seat at her favorite table — in a farmhouse villa in the hills outside Bologna — and ruled it with gentle benevolence and eternal good humor. She was much loved across at least four continents.

She leaves behind her sister Judy Kelley (Bill Kelley), her sons Winston and Peter, her grandchildren, Maxwell and Emma, and her great grandchildren Jayden, Nicolas and Mia, along with many dear and lifelong friends around the world. The family welcomes all to celebrate Donne at an open house Sunday, January 13th at the family home, 116 Edgemont Rd., 12-4 pm. At Donne's request, no formal services are immediately planned.

Donations in Donne’s memory may be made to Room to Read, an international organization focusing on literacy and girls’ education.