Donna Marie VanNostrand

Donna Marie VanNostrand obituary, Chesapeake, VA

Donna Marie VanNostrand

Donna VanNostrand Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Graham Funeral Home & Cremation Services on Nov. 3, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

Donna Marie VanNostrand, 81, passed away November 1, 2025 with her family by her side. Donna was born in Louisville, Kentucky to the late Eugene Richardson and Mary J. Costigan. Donna was part of a blended family and the oldest of 10. She resided in the southern part of Virginia Beach most her life in Pungo. Donna loved shopping and putting up seasonal holiday decorations; she loved animals, especially the baby ones; her greatest joy was spending time with her granddaughters, never missing a softball tournament or dance competition over the years. Donna was also a member of the Eastern Star for many years.
Donna leaves behind her loving husband of 60 years, Ralph who affectionately called her Mrs. V. Besides her husband, left to cherish her memory is her daughter, Brandy Dowdy (Jason); son, Ralph VanNostrand II; grandchildren, McKenzie Smith (Benjamin), and Morgan Dowdy. Donna also leaves behind her faithful dog Shyloh who brought her great joy and companionship.
A graveside service will be held Friday, November 7, 2025 at 11a.m. at Charity United Methodist Church Cemetery, Virginia Beach with Pastor Tracy Gregory officiating. Please visit www.grahamfuneralhome.com leave a condolence to the family.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support Donna's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Donna VanNostrand's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Donna VanNostrand's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?