Saundra Marie (Sargent) "Sargent" Donahue

Saundra Marie (Sargent) Donahue,

Saginaw, Michigan.

A cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend passed away peacefully on July 17, 2025, at the age of 87. Daughter of the late Dr. Donald Virgil Sargent and Helen Marie (VanColen) Sargent, Saundra was born April 16, 1938, and grew up in a loving family alongside her siblings: Donald, Michael, and Pamela. A life-long resident of Saginaw, Michigan, Saundra graduated from St. Andrew's High School and went on to earn her degree in Education from Michigan State University, laying the foundation for a life of curiosity, learning, and leadership. On September 5, 1959, Saundra married her husband of 53 years, Donald John Donahue. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, faith, and service until Don's passing in 2012. In recent years, Saundra found comfort and companionship with her dear friend Terry McInerney.

Saundra's life was a shining example of dedication, compassion, and leadership. She was deeply involved in her community, teaching, lectoring, and volunteering at St. Helen's Parish and serving as President of both the Junior League and the Saginaw Community Foundation. She also contributed her talents and leadership to the St. Mary's Hospital Free Ward Board and the Diocese of Saginaw. Her impact on these organizations and the people they serve will be felt for years to come. Beyond her civic contributions, Saundra lived a rich and fulfilling personal life. She treasured summers at her family's cottage on Mullett Lake, where she found joy and peace in the natural beauty of northern Michigan. A passionate and avid reader, Saundra also devoted herself to the study of theology, nurturing her intellectual and spiritual life throughout her years. She also enjoyed cheering for the MSU Spartans, especially the basketball team.

She leaves behind her beloved daughters, Kelly Donahue Kelley and Erin Donahue Burns (Jeb Burns). She was a proud and loving grandmother to John Kelley, Katie Kelley, Thomas Burns, and Conor (Molly) Burns. She also leaves her brother Mike Sargent (Stephanie) and sister Pam Blank, and several cherished nieces and nephews, as well as a wide circle of friends whom she faithfully supported and who cherished her kindness, wisdom, and loyal friendship.

Saundra loved traveling, whether with family or friends, and especially enjoyed the many winters she spent in Siesta Key with her husband Don. Among her most cherished journeys were her visits to the Holy Land, Morocco, and Brazil - experiences that deepened both her faith and her love of exploring the world. She will be remembered for her gracious spirit, her sharp mind, her unwavering dedication to her family and community, and her deep faith. Her legacy of love, service, and friendship will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. The family is forever grateful for the love, kindness and compassion Sandy received from the entire staff at Traditions of Saginaw and Americans Hospice Care. Their devotion to her care and dignity will never be forgotten.

Funeral Liturgy will take place 11:00 a.m. Monday, August 4, 2025, at Christ the Good Shepherd Church, 2445 N. Charles, Saginaw, Michigan. Rev. Fr. Robert Gohm will officiate with burial in St. Andrew Cemetery. Friends may visit at the church, where the family will be present on Monday August 4, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. until time of Mass. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the Saginaw Community Foundation. Please share condolences and memories with the family at snowfuneralhome.net

May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love she gave so generously in life.