Rene Donaldson

Rene Sue Donaldson, 67, of Tucson, Arizona, passed away on July 24, 2025. Born on July 1, 1958, in Decatur, Illinois, Rene brought warmth and love to all who knew her throughout her life.

Rene spent most of her childhood growing up in Tucson, AZ and Mt. Pulaski, IL, and eventually Colorado Springs, CO. She was a proud member of the graduating class of 1976 at Benet Hill Academy in Colorado Springs. She loved the hot temperatures of the desert at night, so moving back to Tucson in 1981 was the perfect place for her to call home. Her deep faith guided her path in life, and she found great joy and fellowship attending LifePoint Community Church in Tucson. Surrounded by a loving congregation, Rene cherished worship and community as central parts of her life.

She was a devoted wife to Rusty Donaldson for over 46 years, and a loving mother to her daughters Tiffany Herlihy and Taylor Parcell. Rene's family was the heart of her world, especially during the years of raising her daughters as a stay-at-home mom. She loved and was grateful for her wonderful sons-in-law Brendon Herlihy and Chris Parcell and delighted in being "Grandma" and "Meme" to her six grandchildren: Lily, Noah, and Owen Herlihy; Weston, Knox, and Claire Parcell. Time spent with them brought her immense happiness and joy.

Rene also held dear the relationships she had with her sisters Julie "Frud" Franklin and Robin Brinkmeier. She was a beloved aunt to Julian Thompson, Natasha Thompson, Zack Brinkmeier, Dane Brinkmeier, Laurie Ledwith and Mara Balfe. Her extended family remembers her for the love she gave so freely and the laughter that filled every room she entered.

She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Jewell Rowland and Robert Rowland, as well as her dear sister Denise Schafte.

Rene had many passions that reflected her vibrant spirit. She loved gardening and bird watching, finding peace in nature's quiet beauty. Shopping brought her joy not just for the items found but for the moments shared with loved ones along the way, as well as the excitement of finding a great deal and an amazing yard sale. Playing board games with her family and relishing in the inevitable belly-laughs that ensued. Above all else, Rene loved Jesus deeply. Her faith was unwavering.

An animal lover with an infectious laugh and a generous heart, Rene touched countless lives through simple acts of kindness and genuine affection. Her presence will be profoundly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Though our hearts are heavy with grief at her passing, we rejoice knowing that Rene is now home with Jesus-standing tall in her new heavenly body.

May Rene's memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her. A Celebration of Life will be held on September 13, 2025, from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM at LifePoint Community Church, 3137 E. Everett St., Tucson, AZ, 85739. Please wear Rene's favorite color, pink, if you would like to honor her.

Lunch to follow service from 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM