Donna Jean DeNiro

Donna Jean DeNiro, 87, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away October 7, 2024, at the Cleveland Clinic, surrounded by her six children.

Donna was born on March 21, 1937, in Youngstown, Ohio, the daughter of the late George and Mary (Marino) Easton. 

She dedicated herself tirelessly to raising her six children. Donna's commitment to her family was evident in all aspects of her life. Her home was open to all for dinners, holidays, birthdays, swim parties, and more.

Donna graduated from East High School, attended The Ohio State University, where she was a member of Tri Delta and received her degree from Youngstown State University. She was an educator who touched the lives of many children, beginning as a teacher at St. Christine School. She later served in the Social Security Administration. Moreover, she embraced her passion for education as a CCD Teacher at Holy Family Church and shared her love for art as a docent at The Butler Institute of American Art. Beyond her professional and familial commitments, Donna enjoyed her time with the“500 Card Club”, composed of eight women from her grade school class who met monthly since 1958. Her passions extended to being an avid reader, a bridge player, and a proud Southside Duplicate Bridge Club member. She was a member of the RedHat Society. She was also known for her love of theater, music, and travel.

She is survived by her cherished children, Mary Margaret (Robert Berns) DeNiro of Columbus, Cynthia (Denny) Kunce of Poland, Helena (Brad) Anderson of Columbus, Stacie Shepard of Poland, William DeNiro Jr. of Poland, and George (Kelli) DeNiro of Columbus. 

Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Kelsey (Michael) Popio, Abbey and Natalie Kunce, Robert (Kate) Anderson, Taylor (Maxwell) Rankin, Julia Anderson, Lucie and Jordan Shepard, William DeNiro, Jonathan DeNiro, and Paige DeNiro, along with her great-grandchildren, Nico, Charlie, Savanna, Harper, Marcella, and Gio. Donna cherished the time spent with her family and took great pride in their accomplishments and happiness.

She was also preceded by her former husband, William DeNiro Sr. A visitation in her honor will be held on October 14, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Poland Chapel, 2726 Center Road. Following the visitation, a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Family Church at 11:00AM.

As a history major, she understood the importance of each election. Please cast your vote on Tuesday, November 5.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Poland Library, 311 S. Main Street, Poland, Ohio 44514.