Donna Carol Spring

Spring, Donna Carol
CHARLTON - Donna Carol Spring, an inspirational, selfless and beautiful soul passed away peacefully on September 27, 2024. Born on November 29, 1938, in Oneida, New York, to her late parents, John and Helena (Barkley) Jones.
Growing up in the village of Eaton, New York, Donna's early life with her sister Barbara was filled with joy and the simple pleasures of country living, including childhood ponies that sparked a lifelong affinity for nature. Her vibrant personality and classic beauty shone bright at Morrisville Eaton High School, where she graduated in 1956 with a flair for music and leadership as a trombone player, choir singer, and head cheerleader. Donna's compassionate nature guided her to pursue a career in nursing, leading her to Utica College where she graduated with honors. During college, is where she met the love of her life, Dr. John "Jack" Spring, who was studying towards his medical degree. They were married in 1960, their life journey together was marked by hard work, dedication and a true partnership.
Donna's career as a registered nurse was marked by her brilliance and compassion. She worked at Faxton Hospital School of Nursing in Utica, New York, and upon moving to Georgetown in Washington D.C., she continued to support her family by working at Georgetown Hospital while John completed his medical studies. Together, they welcomed their three children, and Donna's role as a mother blossomed. The family moved to Albany, New York for John's internship program, where Donna balanced the busy life of raising three young children while working at Memorial Hospital. The family returned to Georgetown for John's residency, where they lived in Alexandria, Virginia, here they made countless lifetime friends who became their family away from home. Donna's unwavering support and nurturing spirit remained the family's cornerstone.
Throughout her life, Donna was the epitome of a loving mother, ensuring that each family event, holiday, and birthday was filled with warmth and joy. Her "mother's touch" was evident in everything she did, from her cherished apple pie to her comforting "back to school soup," and the festive holiday gatherings she hosted. She was committed to educating and raising her children to be strong and to always do what is right, instilling in them the values of generosity and acceptance of all.
During the tumultuous times of the Vietnam War, the Spring family moved to Alabama as John served in the United States Army Medical Division. It was the height of the Civil Rights movement in the deep South; Donna was unable to reconcile with the societal injustices around her, she became a strong advocate for civil rights, standing in solidarity with her friends of color and community members whose conditions had deeply affected her. In Alabama is where Donna's light beamed even brighter. Donna's advocacy took a practical turn when she began volunteering with Headstart, focusing her efforts on supporting the underprivileged.
Her dedication to service continued to grow as her family settled in the Woodhaven neighborhood of Glenville, NY. Here, she became a pillar of the community, involving herself wholeheartedly in her children's activities, particularly as a Girl Scout Club leader. Donna's love for the outdoors was infectious, and she shared her passion for hiking, and exploring nature with her daughters and their fellow scouts.
The Spring family's forever home, built in Burnt Hills, became a hub of warmth and friendship, reflecting Donna's thoughtful and inclusive nature. As her children progressed through the Burnt Hills Ballston Lake School District, Donna's home was always open, welcoming their friends with open arms, being dubbed the "friend house".
Donna's interests extended beyond her immediate community; she volunteered her time and skills at Washington Irving Learning Center in Schenectady, where she educated and supported families in need of basic living skills. Her patience and devotion to helping those who had no one else to turn to were remarkable traits that defined her character.
In the 1970s, she embarked on a journey of altruism as a visiting nurse with Lend A Hand. Her work took her to the rural landscapes of Kentucky in the Appalachian Mountains, where she tirelessly worked to enhance the lives of impoverished communities. Her gentle touch and warm presence brought comfort and hope to countless individuals during her time there.
As her children matured and embarked on their own life adventures, Donna's passion for the natural world led her back to the classroom. At the age of 50, she proudly obtained her degree in Horticultural Studies from the Denver Botanical Gardens, a milestone that marked the blossoming of a new chapter in her life. With her newfound knowledge, Donna joined the Cornell Cooperative Extension, where she cultivated the Unlimited Garden at 4H in Ballston Spa. Her pioneering program became a sanctuary for people with disabilities, intertwining art, gardening, education, and therapy into a holistic experience that celebrated the unique abilities of every participant.
Donna's expertise in horticulture earned her the title of master gardener, a role she embraced with great passion. She devoted countless hours to creating enchanting gardens at local nursing homes, bringing the tranquility of nature to those in the twilight of their lives. Her selfless spirit extended into her volunteer work as a Hospice nurse, where she provided comfort and solace to many during their final moments.
Beyond her professional and volunteer endeavors, Donna was the heart of her family, affectionately known as "Nonny" to her adored grandchildren. She was a constant presence at their performances and milestones, deeply involved in their lives to the extent of knowing each of their friends by name, and any current "drama". The Spring family's bonds were strengthened through shared adventures, from the laughter-filled camping trips to Old Forge, to the serene beach getaways to Nantucket, and the countless "mandatory fun days" that became cherished memories.
Donna's nurturing influence extended beyond her immediate family, touching the lives of her extended family and close family friends. Many considered her a role model, a guiding light whose love and thoughtfulness were a source of comfort and inspiration. In retirement, Donna and her beloved husband, John, found solace in their winter home in Tucson, Arizona, a cherished retreat that held a special place in their hearts.
In her moments of solitude, Donna immersed herself in literature, with a particular interest in Native American Tribes. Her curiosity about the world and its diverse cultures was yet another facet of her multifaceted personality.
In her lifetime, Donna Carol Spring touched countless hearts and lives. Today, we celebrate her life and honor the lasting contributions she made to her community and the world. Her spirit, forever intertwined with the beauty of nature she so loved, will be fondly remembered and deeply missed.
Predeceased by her parents, John and Helena (Barkley) Jones; and her sister, Phyllis Jones. She is survived by her loving husband of 64 years, Doctor John Spring; her adored children, Lisa Spring, Jill (Michael) Spring-DeLucia, Heather (Thomas Clark) Spring; cherished grandchildren, Hanna DeLucia (Dan Rockwell), John DeLucia, Lilah and Jackson Clark; as well as her best friend and sister, Barbara Gialto.
Calling hours will be held at the Glenville Funeral Home, 9 Glenridge Rd., on Friday, October 11, from 5 to 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary's Church in Ballston Spa, on Saturday, October 12, at 10 a.m.
Entombment will be held privately at Eaton Village Cemetery.
In honor of Donna, memorial contributions may be made to the American Indian College Fund, PO BOX 172449, Denver, Colo. 80217, Community Hospice, or plant a tree to remember her appreciation for nature. Online condolences may be made at glenvillefuneralhome.com