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Passed away peacefully in San Diego, California, on November 24, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones. She was 78.
Donna was the cherished daughter of Anna (Catalfamo) Altieri and William Altieri. She was predeceased by her parents and her brothers, Dr. Raymond Altieri and William Altieri Jr. She is survived by her daughter Rachelle Steinberg, son Jared Steinberg, daughter-in-law Grace (Thorndal) Steinberg, beloved grandchildren Marco and Noelle, and her brother Stephen Altieri and his wife, Melissa Altieri.
Raised in Cranston, Rhode Island, Donna graduated from Cranston West High School before earning her degree from Curry College in Milton, Massachusetts. She returned to Cranston West as a teacher, later moving to New York to teach French and Spanish at Albert Leonard Middle School in New Rochelle. After retiring from teaching, she co-founded The Brown Bag, a gourmet catering business in Armonk, NY. Following an injury, Donna transitioned to a successful career as a paralegal.
Donna loved spending her childhood summers surfing at Scarborough Beach in Narragansett, a tradition she joyfully continued with her own children. She had a passion for travel, driving her cherry red 1952 MGTD, and hosting gatherings filled with laughter, love, and culinary delights. Her home was always open, a warm and welcoming place for family and friends.
In her later years, Donna moved to San Diego, where she enjoyed the sunny weather and the relaxed retirement lifestyle. She delighted in fine dining, fashion, and the company of her close friends, particularly her “lunch bunch,” with whom she shared discussions about politics, life, and good food. Above all, she cherished her time with her grandchildren, who affectionately called her Nonna, and she found immense joy in spoiling them with love and chocolate candy.
Donna’s vibrant spirit, warmth, and generosity touched all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a mass of Christian Burial on Saturday April 5, 2025 at 10am in Immaculate Conception Church, Cranston, RI. Burial will be in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston. Visiting hours and flowers are respectfully omitted. The Mass will be LIVESTREAMED via the Nardolillo Funeral Home Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/nardolillofh
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