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Donna Andrews Obituary
Donna Lee Andrews, 52, President of Lee Andrews Group, Inc. (LA Group), a Los Angeles-based public affairs and environmental consulting firm, died Wednesday, April 24th due to complications of a heart condition.
Born in Titusville, Florida and raised in Oregon, Donna Andrews was a longtime resident of Long Beach, CA. She attended Garfield High School in Los Angeles, where she excelled as an athlete in various sports. Donna received her Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Philosophy from Scripps College and later earned a Master's degree in Public Policy and Politics from Claremont Graduate University.
Donna was a tireless advocate for strengthening community by creating opportunities for women, minorities and the disadvantaged. Keenly aware of the enormous impact that the environment has on the quality of life within communities, she used her expertise to assist with environmental mitigation measures, to guide land-use and development projects through the municipal approval process, and to educate and unify communities around environmental and coastal issues. This important work was the impetus for her establishing LA Group, while studying at the University of Southern California, School of Law.
Donna obtained her Juris Doctorate degree with an emphasis in Environmental Law and through LA Group she continued to devote her time and energy to the work that she loved. As a result, LA Group has been providing community outreach, government relations and environmental services to large scale public-private partnership projects for over 20 years throughout the State of California.
As a public servant, Donna also dedicated a number of years in various positions with local government agencies including the International City Management Association (ICMA) and the cities of Claremont, Pomona and Monterey Park. Her public ventures led to her involvement in political campaign management for many of local, state and federal campaigns. She was the first campaign manager for United States Senator Barbara Boxer.
Donna Andrews was affiliated with a host of community, civic and business endeavors, including serving as Board Vice President for the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO-LA), Board Parliamentarian for the Greater Los Angeles African American Chamber of Commerce (GLAAACC), and former Board President of the City of Los Angeles South Area Planning Commission. She coordinated environmental justice and public participation activities in support of Environmental Impact Statement/Report (EIS/EIR), and served on the City of Los Angeles Mayor's Infrastructure Advisory Committee and the Coalition for Clean Air. Likewise, she had a profound interest in transportation projects throughout Southern California and served as a former Commissioner for the California High Speed Rail Authority for over 10 years.
Donna was an avid reader, devouring almost every book she could get her hands on, from Shakespeare to corporate leadership, with a particular regard of biographies. She also loved to travel. Every adventure, whether in a book or in another country, was an opportunity for Donna to learn more.
Moreover, she was never one to be put off by someone with a difference of opinion; rather she welcomed various perspectives. She was an innovative and dynamic leader with a brilliant capacity for complex issues. Forever humble, Donna delighted in competition yet was meek in victory. Her exuberant personality and her beautiful smile will be missed greatly.
Donna Andrews is survived by family and friends who loved her dearly.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Donna Andrews
Sponsored by O’Neill Family.
Teresa Mack
April 24, 2024
Teresa Mack
April 24, 2024
Teresa Mack
April 24, 2024
Teresa Mack
April 24, 2024
Teresa Mack
April 24, 2024
Teresa Mack
April 24, 2024
Undoubtably 30 years after law school Donna would have been right here with us partying and enjoying her success and contributions. Her beautiful smile and brilliant brain always lit up a room and a conversation - unforgettable! She was a dynamic force to experience and a loving kind smart person. I miss her still.
Toni
April 24, 2023
I opened the memory page, see Donna's fabulous smile and again I reel in disbelief. For years Donna was my supremely dearest friend, shared laughter, tears and grand leaps into maturity. The time we shared and the wonderment of our friendship remains indelible.
Lorna D Hennington
April 25, 2022
Donna, I still can't believe you are gone. I have wonderful memories from our time together in law school, but especially our trip to Japan as one of the Warren Bennis Scholars. Blessings in Heaven, my friend.
Lynne Haraway
April 24, 2021
Donna, you were a pioneer, a friend, and gone way before you should have. Miss you but know you have heaven all straightened out.
Jhontie Robinson
November 17, 2020
I am the nephew of Donna and as she would put it her "Favorite." Antie it's been long years since you've been gone and it has not gotten easier I know that you are watching down and I am keeping my promise I made to you I love you and we will meet again in the world to come. I miss you so much and my nights get long sometime but I know that it will get better. -jhontie Robinson
Josephine Gonzalez
September 13, 2020
I still miss her laugh
Frank Cardenas
September 11, 2020
I only found about about Donna's passing today, seven years after she left. I did not know her well, not as well as I wish I did, but I knew she was a power-house. She was wicked-smart and deeply caring. Her smile was the thing of legends. Thank you, Donna for being so kind to me. Hugs and kisses forever. Frank Cardenas
Benny Ambrose AKONTEH
June 13, 2019
Thank you Donna for your generosity and tireless efforts to set a professional example for girls of color in Los Angeles County. Through your works you served Los Angeles in many ways. You remained a dear friend and colleague as we struggled together in what should be your legacy, the Lee Andrews Group. I thank the Almighty God for the time he afforded us, and pray for the peaceful repose of your soul.From a dear friend and colleague: Dr. Benny Ambrose Akonteh.
Teresa Mack
April 24, 2019
I Still think about my brilliant vibrant friend Donna, her energy remains in our world, her good deeds are her legacy, her willingness to help others and her drive to accomplish unlimited results still inspires me. Her loving ways would fill a room as she whirled through it with an uncanny ability to articulate even the most complex issues in an understandable and yes, forceful way. i miss my friend and I am glad I have solid memories to rely on.
Antoine James
December 26, 2018
Donna was my best friend...held a piece of my heart...held my hand as darkness fell. I will always love her. Thank you, Nee Nee.
Deanna Stanley
May 29, 2013
When I think of Donna immediately I think of her wonderful ability to light up a room yet make everyone individually feel important. That's a special talent that few possess. While her passing remains hard to accept her time was well spent. If there were more Donna Andrews in this world it would truly be a better place. We will miss you dearly Donna. My heartfelt condolences to your family and the Lee Andrews Group team.
Patty-Jo Rutland
May 20, 2013
Donna touched my life so wonderfully that she will be missed hugely by me even though i haven't seen her in years - what a wonderful energetic joyful person she was - she will be remembered -
Josephine Gonzalez
May 13, 2013
I worked with Donna from 1999 till about 2002. She was a packet of inspiration this world sorely needs. I hope all of us will remember her energy and open heart and keep the same in her memory.
E. Abernathy
May 9, 2013
Dear Family and Friends of:
Donna Lee Andrews:
Please accept my condolences for your loss.
"Keep Your Eyes on the Prize"
When eyes of blind ones see again, and ears of death ones hear again. When love ones never have to part, Such blessed times you'll realize, if you keep your eyes on the prize.
Can you see with the Minds Eyes, Sorrow has passed,Peace at Last.Life without Tears or Pain.
Paradise we all enjoy, as we see God's Glory.
I hope that these few words will bring you some comfort and hope until all these things are realized, Just Keep Your Eyes on the Prize.
May 6, 2013
My Dearest Friend Donna,
I will miss your earnest words of advice, out-of-the box sense of humor, discussing current events and making our own methodical impression in the city of Los Angeles. You will always be memorialized and respected.
Beloved Friend,
Robin Parker
Christine Raphael Abraham
May 6, 2013
Donna opened the doors of opportunity for so many, and she certainly opened many more eyes to the possibilities of what could be. She believed in the best in people, and her energy could move mountains. She was always doing something incredible, and everyone wanted to be in her glow. What an amazing, powerful and unforgettable lady... Blessings and comfort to the family, and may God embrace her in soul in eternal peace.
Heidi Stamm
May 5, 2013
Donna was my friend and colleague. I will miss her contagious smile and unending enthusiasm for seeking meaningful ways to ensure ALL voices are heard.
Wes Whitman
May 5, 2013
Donna lit up the room any time she entered a meeting and everyone left feeling more energized, uplifted, and optimistic. Her positive attitude has left a meaningful impact on those with whom she worked and interacted. Donna, you will be missed. As the famous hymn says, "God Be With You Till We Meet Again." I look forward to that day. May peace be with your loving family and friends.
Suja Lowenthal
May 5, 2013
"The world breaks everyone and afterward many are strong in the broken places. But those that will not break it kills. It kills the very good and the very gentle and the very brave impartially." ...Ernest Hemingway
Donna could not be broken. Her voice on the other end of the line was all it took to remind us of our own strength.
Donna was a friend, neighbor, and colleague. Hearing of her loss took me to one vivid memory that speaks to her generosity, wit and good sense. When our son was born 10 years ago, she sent us 2 identical car seats. We already had our baby seats. I asked her why we needed two more. She burst out laughing and said, "you don't know how grandmothers can get. They'll each want their own. Just wait." She was right. Of course, she was right.
I will miss you, dearheart. Love and peace to your family.
...suja
Betsy Lindsay
May 4, 2013
Donna, I was humbled by your presence in so many important meetings and interviews. It was a pleasure to work with you on so many important transportation projeccts in Los Angeles. You were always there for the Project Team, as a advocate for the benefit of the Client and Community. You will be sorely missed in our industry, and in my life. May God Bless.
Dennis O'Connor
May 3, 2013
I could always count on Donna to brighten my day with her kind words and a wonderful smile.
Ed Graveline
May 2, 2013
Donna was a wonderful person to work with and a greater blessing to know! I love her smile!! I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to know her, if only for a little while as we worked together on the CA High Speed Rail Authority.
Tyree Wieder
May 2, 2013
Donna was an amazing woman, a role model for everyone;
her energy, smile and work ethic were an inspiration to all who knew her and worked with her. My condolences to her family.
Lorna Riley
May 2, 2013
What a gret asset to the Los Angeles community and to our Metro Family. Donna will be missed.Our prayers and condolences to the family, her smile will be welcomed in heaven.
Ann K.
May 2, 2013
May God continue to comfort all who loved Donna Lee Andrews. We can all look forward to the time when death will be no more and instead of tears of sorrow there will be tears of happiness. I know she will be missed by many.
Teresa Mack
Teresa Mack
May 2, 2013
Donna was an extraordinary person. We traveled together in law school, delighted in friendly and vigorous debate and relished our friendship over the years. She will be missed by many.
May 1, 2013
In addition to being an extraordinary business woman Lee was also an art lover and an avid collector. She was one of the first people to support me and collect my work. I will always appreciate and love her for believing in me. Lee was a good friend who I will truly miss.
Mira Gandy, Los Angeles, CA
Dilara El-Assaad
May 1, 2013
What a great loss for Los Angeles. In loving memory of a wonderful person. You will be missed.
Portia Moore
May 1, 2013
Donna was adored here at Tower and she will be remembered fondly. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family. Rest in peace, Donna!
Richard Katz
May 1, 2013
Donna was special, one of a kind. Always smiling that great smile, always working harder than anyone else. She will be missed by all. Another example of bad things happening to good people who deserve much better.
Cabrini Schnyder
May 1, 2013
Lee had a wealth of knowledge that she was always willing to share. Every now and again she would break me off a piece of business advice. Please note that Lee has supported all of my many business endeavors over the years. In 2000, Lee explained to me the importance of branding as I was getting my feet wet in opening my first brick and mortar business. She was intriguing to say the least with the amount of knowledge that she had because she was never boastful but very modest with who she really was. Beyond our disagreements in a few areas, she knew how to reignite my fire by making our trivial personal disagreements into business conversations. Lee, I will be eternally grateful that you shared with me in your words...Cabrini, "You're a brand and you need to know what that means for your business." Dearest Lee, I am still working on building my BRAND, and yes, you've been called to rise with the guardians....So if I hear a gentle suggestion or a persistent whisper from the wind of what I should be doing with my business then I know it will be you.
Warm remembrances,
Cabrini & Karen
Lynne Haraway
May 1, 2013
There was no greater supporter of Los Angeles, her friends and her family. I consider myself extremely lucky to have known her and worked with her. Her light will shine brightly in heaven and we'll all know she is looking down on us, laughing and smiling and wondering why things have to be so hard. She made everything look so easy. It hurts to say goodbye to such a wonderful lady. Hugs, my friend,
Sharon Kyle
May 1, 2013
What a shock. My condolences to the family.
Andi Culbertson
May 1, 2013
Farewell, my friend. You were wonderful to work with as a colleague, and even better as a friend. I will miss you! See you on the other side....
Annie Watson
May 1, 2013
To Donna rest in peace, and may peace be with the famiy. God does no wrong.
Betty Ann Downing
May 1, 2013
It was clear from the moment I met her at USC Law, that Donna was a remarkable woman of many accomplishments - past, present and future. We bonded over and shared a love for politics and public service, and the ideal that government should exist to help people. Her boundless energy, creativity and desire to help others are missed already. She will be an inspiration forever for those fortunate to have been touched by her light and life.
Celestine Palmer
May 1, 2013
Donna will truly be missed and always remembered for her creativity, sense of humor and love for life.She gave so much of herself as a member of LAAAWPAC, always offering a new positive way of doing the ordinary. We shall never forget the Awards Luncheon Donna narrated. The program was hilariously clever. We'll truly miss you. My prayers are for the family. Celestine Palmer
Brian Williams
April 30, 2013
I am stunned! I will always remember her contagious energy and bright smile. Donna was the consummate professional and set the standard for many of us. Rest in peace my friend...
Leticia Pareja Alcaide
April 30, 2013
I remember Donna from high school. My condolences to her family, what a talented woman. I'm sure she will be missed.
Joanne Jackman
April 30, 2013
" My presence will go with you,and I will you rest.-Exodus 33:14
My you find peace and comfort in you time of need.
Joanne Jackman
April 30, 2013
"My presence will go with you,and I will give you rest.- Exodus 33:14
God's blessings to you and your family at his time. May you find peace
Geevani Singh
April 30, 2013
My condolences to the family
Marie Deary
April 30, 2013
Marie Deary
Dawn Sutherland
April 30, 2013
Dawn Sutherland
Maria Contreras-Sweet
April 30, 2013
Donna used her voice to amplify opportunities for small business, to provide access to the corridors of transportation and to issue a courageous call for justice for all.
We are grateful and proud of the life you lived. May you rest in peace.
Hannah Flanagan-Flores
April 30, 2013
I'll always remember Donna as an intense, brilliant, strong woman who was fearless yet sensitive. I learned so much from her and about myself when I worked at Lee Andrews Group, and was fortunate to run into her this past year at a Sparks game. As at last she rests, I hope peace and serenity finds the loved ones who mourn the loss of one so dear.
Ayahlushim Getachew
April 30, 2013
My condolences to the family!
April 30, 2013
Your class and kindness will be missed. I will personally miss you warm smile. I'll always remember going up La Cienega and seeing you and Barbara & the Senator throwing me an invite to her event that evening. May you rest in peace. Best to your family
P. Anthony
Michael Banner
April 30, 2013
She was our trailblazer and will be missed.
Daria Joseph
April 30, 2013
My deepest sympathy to the Andrews family. Rest in Peace Donna.
Lisa Elzy Watson
April 30, 2013
Donna- what an amazing life, brilliant, dynamic and what a laugh! She gave so much of her beauty to others. Working at the Lee Andrews Group was always non-stop from the moment I walked in the door. Her passion for service drew out the best in those around her. She demonstrated how to make a life count- in service to others. My prayers surround her family. She will be deeply missed. I love you! Rest well.
April 30, 2013
what an incredible life well lived...I love you lady....Gail N. Jackson, MD
Rebecca Barrantes
April 30, 2013
Donna was a blessing in my life when I needed someone strong. She was there for me and many others. She has earned the peace of eternal rest. This world is a better place for all the good she has done. My deepest sympathy to the family and friends who must bear this incredible loss with strength and commitment to keep Donna's memory and spirit alive and continue her causes for good. Please know you have my prayers for healing and comfort.
Chaun & Dana Martin
April 30, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of Lee's family and friends. We are honored to have had an opportunity to have meet her. She will be missed.
Johnnie Thompson
April 30, 2013
My deepest condolences goes out to the Andrews family. Donna (Lee) was a very special person to so many people in Los Angeles. Her warm soft smile and her smooth warm words will greatly be missed. I will miss our conversation about classic cars. My heart and prayers are with the family.
Sheila Kuehl
April 30, 2013
We will all miss your light and laughter and talent and heart
Rita Hayes
April 30, 2013
My prayers and condolesences go out to Lee and her family. She will be greatly missed and I will always remember how she as my friend left a footprint in my life. God Bless You...
Annette Cortez
April 30, 2013
Donna's beautiful smile and "hit the ground running" attitude will definitely be missed! I will always be thankful for the many lessons and amazing friendships that I gained in the 7 years that I was a member of the LA Group.
Love you Donna!
Crystal Douglas
April 30, 2013
Our deepest condolences to the loved ones Donna. May your warm memories of time shared help you through the difficult times. Know that the Lord has welcomed Donna with open arms.
Bishop Carolyn Tyler Guidry
April 30, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Donna Andrews, She will be sorely missed.
David Cunningham Jr
April 30, 2013
Andrews Family, I knew Donna as a friend and colleague in the public service arena. She was always true to her principles of integrity and transparency in her approach to public policy. Her passing will leave a void difficult to reprecate. She will be missed by all who's life she touched.
Jacqui Ervin
April 30, 2013
God Bless...So sorry
Thomasina Reed
April 30, 2013
How tragic such a wonderful community advocate has gone. We will miss you and your bright smile and boundless energy. You are with God now.
Kathy Fowler
April 30, 2013
This Planet will not be the same without Lee. She was too young to leave us but God must have a different plan. Gone but never forgotten.
Pam LaFleur
April 30, 2013
May this light shine in the hearts of those left behind to mourn the loss of this wonderful woman. I had the chance of meeting her last year and all I can say is I wanna be like her when I grow up...she's awesome.
Sabrina Sanders
April 30, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Lee, her friends and family. God blessed us with her for such a short season but we are thankfull we had those moments. It's not often, that you meet such a thoughtful and insightful, loving person and for that we're gratefull. May she rest in peace and a light forever shine upon her.
Jihan Coleman
April 30, 2013
I will miss you dearly Lee. You were truly a light in this world. Although our relationship was brief, I will miss the many interesting and robust conversations that we shared. Safe journey my friend, I'll see you on the other side.
Lara Larramendi
April 30, 2013
Andrews Family, I am so sad and shocked to read about Donna's passing this morning.
Donna was a dear friend and collaborator. Donna always liked saying that I was the first employee of the LA Group way back when she started. And she was right! Donna was always there for me and for many.
There will be a dimmer star tonight in the skies over California. But the heavens have a bright star now.
Love you very much, Donna. I am already missing you! Lara
E.NICOLE SMITH
April 30, 2013
You are a awesome woman and I know that your smiling down on all of us. My family will continue to keep your family in our prayers.
Gina Salone
April 30, 2013
Lee you will remain in my heart forever.
Monique Watson
April 30, 2013
Your light will forever shine, thru the hearts that you have touched.
Adrienne Harris
April 30, 2013
May God comfort you and your family at this time, you guys have truly have an angel watching over you!
Monique Watson
April 30, 2013
Words can't begin to express the love and respect I have for Donna. She will never be forgotten and will forever reside in my heart!!
Shelly Sloan
April 30, 2013
I had the great privilege to work with and be a friend of Donna's.
She was all that has been written, and more. She was caring, witty, innovative and always thinking outside the box.
Like many others, I was stunned to hear of her passing. We knew she had a tendency to work herself into exhaustion, but somehow, she always came back. I guess we always assumed that this time she would as well.
There are few who leave us that leave so great a void that it cannot be filled; Donna was a rare person who fits that description.
She will be missed by many. I doubt that I shall ever see another Donna in my lifetime. Put me down as one who loved her.
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