Donna Jean Daugherty

Donna Jean Daugherty passed away peacefully on June 1, 2026, in Fairfax, Virginia, surrounded by the love of her family. In her final weeks, she was comforted by the constant presence of her devoted husband, Patrick, and her daughters, Jill, Kristen, Erin, and Lindsey.

Born in Lynn, Massachusetts, on November 13, 1948, Donna lived a life defined by family, faith, and joy. She was warm, funny, and always ready to share a laugh, even if it meant being the willing victim of her daughters’ many pranks. Donna delighted in silliness with her grandchildren and embraced the joyful chaos of a growing family. She loved a good bargain, the Boston Red Sox, and a crowded dinner table.

Donna shared a special partnership with her husband, Pat. They were married in 1972 and over the next 53 years built a life that took them from coast to coast, eventually spending several wonderful years in Peabody, Massachusetts before settling in Burke, Virginia following Pat's 20 years of service in the Air Force. They sometimes moved to different rhythms, Pat up before dawn and Donna a night owl, but they were always in step where it mattered most. Through every milestone, they remained devoted to one another and created a home where family always came first.

Throughout her illness, Pat was by her side, steadfast in his love and care. Even now, he continues to be a steady hand as the family navigates this immense loss together.

The bond Donna’s four daughters share with one another and with their own families reflects the example she set and the values she passed down. Raising four girls meant there was never a dull moment, and she embraced every chapter of motherhood with enthusiasm and unconditional love. She traveled near and far for visits, cheered from the sidelines at countless soccer games, and encouraged their many adventures. No distance was too far when it meant time together. Into adulthood, she remained deeply woven into their daily lives, celebrating accomplishments, helping through difficult moments, and making sure each daughter always knew how much she was loved.

In time, Donna welcomed her sons-in-law — Dave, Danny, Chris, and Jordan — wholeheartedly, embracing each as her own.

Nothing mattered more to Donna than her family, and few roles brought her more joy than being a grandmother to Tyler, Brynn, Gavin, Sawyer, Leon, Arlo, Harvey, Cyrus, Josie, and Nellie. She made each of her grandchildren feel uniquely loved and important. From infants to young adults, she found ways to connect and never passed up an opportunity to sneak them a treat.

Annual family trips were among her happiest times because they brought everyone together. From noisy meals and misadventures on the lake to late-night card games and conversation, Donna was happiest with her family under one roof and making memories with the people she cherished most.

Donna found joy in friendships and community as well. Whether bowling or playing bridge, she brought the same warmth and humor to those friendships that she brought to every part of her life.

Grounded in faith and committed to serving others, Donna found profound comfort and purpose in her St. Andrews Episcopal Church community. For many years, she helped lead the church’s annual hypothermia prevention response program and Fairfax Area Christian Emergency Transitional Services (FACETS) work, continuing to volunteer late into the night even in the weeks before she became ill. She lived her faith through service, generosity, and care for others.

As her favorite song reminds us, Donna gave us sunshine on cloudy days. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and long remembered by those fortunate enough to have known her.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph Gosse and E. Frances Gosse. She is survived by her brother, Robert Gosse.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in support of its FACETS ministry, a cause dear to Donna’s heart that assists families in crisis. Those making a donation may note “In Memory of Donna Daugherty” in the memo or designation field.