Donna Lee Peterson

Donna Lee Peterson, 66, a resident of North Brookfield, formerly a longtime resident of Chelmsford and Westford, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at Christopher House in Worcester.
She was born in Philadelphia, PA on March 24, 1959, and was the daughter of Thomas Peterson, Jr. and Patricia (Wright) Peterson.
Donna was raised in Chelmsford and graduated from Chelmsford High School. She went on to earn her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and Teaching, with a double major in Special Education, from Fitchburg State University in 1981. She then completed her Master of Education in Reading and Language at Harvard University.
Donna began her career as an educational specialist and diagnostician with the Institute for Learning and Development. She later worked as a special education teacher at South Row Elementary School and McCarthy Middle School in Chelmsford. After her years in the public schools, Donna continued her work as a self-employed tutor, supporting students with a range of learning needs.
Donna was also active in several local churches throughout her life, volunteering as a religious educator and assisting with programs for children, adolescents, and adults from all walks of life. Her faith was important to her, and she found belonging in these communities. She formed many friendships and was grateful for the support they provided.
In addition to her loving parents Thomas and Patricia Peterson, Donna leaves her son Thomas Haynes and his wife Kellie, of Westford, and their children Jackson and Penelope; her daughter Ellen Johnson and her husband Michael, of Granby, and their daughter, Catherine; and her brothers Thomas Peterson and Mark Peterson; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Visiting hours will be held on Monday, June 9, 2025, from 4 pm - 7 pm at the Blake Chelmsford Funeral Home, 24 Worthen St., Chelmsford. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, June 10 at 11 am at St. Mary Parish, 25 North Rd., CHELMSFORD. KINDLY GATHER AT THE CHURCH. Interment to follow in Pine Ridge Cemetery, Chelmsford.