Donna Simms D'Almeida

Donna Simms d'Almeida, a beloved humanitarian, fierce protector of her family, and a trailblazer in every sense passed away peacefully on January 6, 2025, after a courageous journey with health challenges, including a kidney transplant in 2010. Her remarkable legacy of strength, compassion, and dedication will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She made everyone she met feel special, seen, and heard!
Born on May 31, 1940, in Washington, D.C., Donna was the middle child of Wilbert and Aleph Simms. She graduated from Eastern High School., and True to Donna's spirit, inspiration from her parents, and superior intelligence, she excelled during her high school years. Donna went on to excel at Howard University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a master's degree in urban studies in 1971. Donna became a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Valley Federal City Chapter-a bond she held dear throughout her life.
Donna's foundation in faith was rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. She grew up attending Mt. Moriah Baptist Church in D.C., where she taught Sunday school, inspired by her grandfather, a Baptist minister. This strong spiritual base shaped her moral compass and her lifelong commitment to helping others, particularly the vulnerable.
Donna's love story with Innocent d'Almeida began in 1963 when they met at the Dahomey Embassy in Washington, D.C. Their union and love story are straight out of a novel. Donna was amongst a group of Howard University students visiting the Dahomey Embassy where Innocent was Of Council. She was the only person in the group who could speak French and Innocent was dazzled by her. He told his colleague that day that "she was the one for him". He gave Donna his telephone number and kept his fingers crossed hoping that she would call. She called, they met, they went out on a few dates, he met her mother, and within one year they were married at Nativity Catholic Church. She converted to Catholicism in 1963 to wed her beloved. To further show her commitment to the church, she became a Lecture. Together, they celebrated 60 years of marriage filled with love, adventure, and unwavering support for one another and family.
A dedicated professional, Donna's career spanned over 50 years, marked by a commitment to service and advocacy. She worked as a Public Health Advisor for the Division of State and Community Systems Development at the Center for Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, where she earned a reputation as a leader and a champion for fairness and equality. Before retirement in 2010, she traveled to over 49 states and across the globe to Africa. Donna is remembered as an exemplary leader, leaving behind a legacy of positive impact on both her colleagues and the communities she served.
Donna's passion for community involvement was evident in her leadership within Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc, and the National Council of Negro Women. She was a past president of the Potomac Valley Alumni Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. a lifetime member and embodying the Sorority's mission both at home and in her community. A devoted volunteer and connector, Donna made it her mission to engage and inform those around her, ensuring that the community had access to opportunities and resources. Potomac Valley Alumni Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. offers an annual named scholarship on behalf of Donna Simms d'Almeida and her family.
Her legacy lives on through her husband, Innocent d'Almeida; their children, Paulin, Monique, and Sabrina; grandchildren Victor, Grace, Brooklyn, Ryder, and Remy; her sister Patricia Dowtin, her brother Wilbert Simms Jr., sister-in-law Queen Simms, and as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, Sorors, and friends. Her parents predeceased her.
Donna often reminded those around her, "Getting old is not for sissies, and my mother did not raise any sissies." This mantra exemplified her resilience and fighting spirit, both in life and in the face of adversity. She was a woman who loved deeply, shared generously, and touched the lives of many.
Donna Simms d'Almeida will be remembered for her unwavering faith, kindness, determination, and immense love for her family, friends, and community.
May God bless her and her memory forever.
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