Donna Louise Connell

Donna Louise Connell, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and nurse, left this world on March 12, 2026, in Nuevo, California, after a life abundantly filled with love, care, and adventure. Born on January 23, 1935, in Knoxville, Iowa to beloved parents Louise and Lloyd Holzworth. Donna's journey was one of compassion, lifelong learning, and the joy of discovery.

Donna's formative years in Knoxville were the foundation of her unwavering spirit. She excelled in her studies at Knoxville High School and carried that dedication into her professional life. Her passion for helping others led her to nursing school in Des Moines, followed by specialized psychiatric training in Chicago. Donna's commitment to her vocation was evident in her impressive 45-year tenure as a Registered Nurse, many of those years devoted to serving at the LA County USC Medical Center.

Her marriage to Jim Connell was a testament to enduring love, spanning 64 years of shared dreams and journeys. Together, they embarked on a quest to visit every state capital building in the United States, their shared curiosity turning every trip into an unforgettable adventure. Donna and Jim's travels also included tours of various manufacturing processes, a unique interest that enriched their knowledge of the country they so dearly loved.

Donna's life was marked by her love for reading, a hobby that not only provided her with endless hours of pleasure but also connected her with a community of fellow book enthusiasts through her active participation in a Book Club. Her intellectual pursuits were matched by her commitment to her local community, where she played an integral role in Friends of Nuevo and the Women's Club in Perris.

Family was the cornerstone of Donna's world, and she took immense joy in the company of her children, Sharalee, James, and Melinda, and her grandchildren, Savanna, Alea, and Andy. Her sister E.J. also held a special place in her heart. While Donna was preceded in death by her beloved Sharalee and two brothers, her memory will continue to be a source of strength and inspiration to her family.

Donna's legacy is one of unwavering care, both in her professional role as a nurse and in the warmth and love she extended to her family and friends. Her life was a beautiful illustration of the impact one person can have through service, kindness, and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge.

As we bid farewell to Donna Louise Connell, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and joy. Her memory will forever be treasured by those who had the privilege of knowing her, and her influence will continue to resonate through the countless lives she touched with her generous heart and caring hands.