Donna LaDuke Dunaway | February 24, 1943 — August 8, 2026

Donna LaDuke Dunaway passed away peacefully at her home in Trenton, Michigan on August 8, 2026, with her loving family by her side. Born on February 24, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan, Donna’s life was a vibrant tapestry woven with grace, intellect, and boundless kindness.

Donna’s legacy is one marked by her devotion to education and her profound impact on those she taught and mentored. As a lifelong educator and principal in Southgate Public Schools, she dedicated her life to nurturing young minds, gently guiding generations of students not only toward academic success, but also toward self-discovery and compassion. Her leadership of the Eagle program for gifted and talented students was a testament to her commitment to fostering excellence, offering opportunities for creativity and intellectual growth. Donna’s educational journey included earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Education, a Master’s Degree in Child Psychology, and a Specialist Plus Degree in Education Administration —an accomplishment that reflected her thirst for knowledge and her unwavering dedication to bettering herself so that she might better serve others.

Beyond the classroom, Donna’s vivacious spirit shone in every aspect of her life. She was outgoing and sweet, always ready with a witty remark, a listening ear, or a warm embrace. Her intelligence radiated through her thoughtful guidance, her kind words, and her poised, stoic approach to life’s challenges. Those who knew her admired her resilience, her inherent grace, and the sense of serenity she brought to every room.

Donna had a true zest for living fully. A talented watercolor painter, she captured beauty in art as she did in life. The hours she spent tending to her garden were a source of peace and pride, her careful hands coaxing forth blossoms that brightened not just her yard, but the hearts of those who visited. Wanderlust led Donna and her beloved husband Jerry across Europe and to camping sites scattered throughout the United States, creating a lifetime of cherished memories and adventures. Ever the spirited friend, Donna was a proud member of the “Griswold Girls,” her all-women travel group whose tales of camaraderie and exploration are fondly recounted by those who knew them. She enjoyed the playful challenge of pinochle and euchre, finding joy in the shared laughter and companionship they brought.

Family was, above all, Donna’s proudest accomplishment and deepest joy. She leaves behind her devoted husband of 60 and a half years, Jerry, whose partnership of love and adventure has been a cornerstone throughout her life. Cherished memories live on through her sons, Matthew (Diane) and Jason (Janelle), who carry forward her legacy of warmth and wisdom. Donna’s boundless love enveloped her grandchildren—Rico, Hannah Scout, and Moira Kate—as well as her great-grandchildren, Kaiden and Lilly. Each carries a piece of her spirit, her lessons, and her quiet strength.

Donna is preceded in death by her father Eugene, her mother Elveretta, her sister Mariann, and her nephew Casey. Their memory was a continual source of reflection and remembrance for Donna, and it is comforting to imagine their joyful reunion.

Her loss is felt profoundly by all who loved her and by the many whose lives she touched across classrooms, gardens, campsites, and kitchen tables. Donna’s legacy is one of compassion, wisdom, humor, and unwavering love—a legacy that will continue to inspire and guide all those privileged to have known her.

A visitation in Donna’s honor will be held on Thursday, August 13, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at The Trenton Chapel – Martenson Family Of Funeral Homes, 3200 West Rd, Trenton, MI 48183, with a rosary beginning at 6:00 p.m. the same day. On Friday, August 14, 2026, family and friends are invited to gather in state at 9:30 a.m. at St. Vincent Pallotti Parish at St. Joseph Church, 344 Elm Street, Wyandotte, MI 48192, followed by a Mass at 10:00 a.m.

Donna LaDuke Dunaway’s light continues to shine brightly in the hearts of her family, friends, and all those whose lives she so deeply enriched. Her memory is a blessing—a gentle reminder of the power kindness and love hold in our world.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon her.
May the souls of all the faithful departed,
through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Amen