Donna Lea Mathew

On February 18, 2025, a bright light with a beautiful smile left us. This kind, strong, beautiful, compassionate woman died with the dignity and grace she exhibited throughout her lifetime.

Born June 04,1947 to Mildred and Hubert Mathew and the first of five children, Donna was devoted to learning, teaching, and enjoying music. She graduated from Shannon High in 1965 and went on to graduate from Northern Illinois University with a degree in Special Education. Donna obtained advanced degrees from the University of Illinois and Governor’s State University. She taught in the Chicago area and learned sign language, using her skills to interpret for speakers at churches and schools. After retiring, Donna moved to Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia with her partner of 34 years, Virginia Budny. Donna and Virginia made Florida their permanent home in 2011.

Donna was devoted to her life-long love of music and children. She was dedicated to her job and excelled as an educator, working with children across a wide range of developmental challenges. She enjoyed playing in the band singing in the chorus at her Florida resort home. Throughout her life, Donna was an avid nature lover who enjoyed walking and spelunking across the country. An adventurous soul, she loved to travel abroad and visited such places as Egypt and the Galapagos Islands. Hiking Machu Picchu was a highlight for Donna.

Donna is survived her partner, Virginia Budny of North Fort Myers, Florida; siblings, Beth (Norris) Bremmer of Shannon, Illinois; Mary Mathew (Larry) Wilson of Coralville, Iowa; Jeff (Vicki) Mathew of Shannon, Illinois; Jan (Scott) Henze of Pearl City, Illinois; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Donna will be missed by her partner, Virginia Budny, as well as her close and extended family and numerous dear friends. She loved her nieces and nephews and Donna touched the lives of many. Donna was loved and will be missed.

We would like to thank the staff at Volante Senior Living of Fort Myers and Vitas Hospice for their kind, gentle, loving care and making Donna’s transition as comfortable as possible and on her own terms.

Memorial Donations may be made in Donna’s name to Alzheimer's Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601.

Mullins Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Cape Coral, is entrusted with final care.