She lived her whole life in Great Neck on Long Island in New York until her husband retired from his law practice and then moved to Central New York in the Town of Skaneateles, where she resided until her death. She received much joy from all the wildlife that inhabited their fields, including deer, rabbits, coyotes, turkeys, herons, ducks, geese, and the occasional eagle. She never allowed her husband to fish in their pond because, as she claimed, she could never eat her “grand children”.
Donna was a talented artist, working in oils and water-color, and was well known for her love of all animals, especially her dogs. She was a licensed real estate broker for over thirty years and made many friends of her clients and the people she worked with.
She was predeceased by her parents, Walter J. (Salty) and Betty O’Hara. Surviving her are her husband, their daughter, Regan Tara Franklin (Brian), her grandson, Sammi, and her brother, Dean O’Hara (Bonny).
She was well known for her sweetness, kindly nature, and sense of humor. Although she was a workaholic, she always had time for her many friends and especially her family.
Like her father, who was a professor at the U.S. Merchant Marines Academy, and had formerly served for many years with the Merchant Marines, she requested that upon her death, she be cremated and have her ashes scattered on the “waters”.
A memorial service will be held at a later date when the people who loved her will be able to attend without the obstacles necessitated by the Covid-19 pandemic.
To send condolences, visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.