Obituary of Donna Lee Youmans
On October 17, 2017, the loving soul of Donna L. Youmans departed this earth to be with those she cherished and went before her.
Donna is survived by her beloved partner Johnine Simpson, who filled the last eight years of her life with love, warmth, adventures, and laughter. She is also survived by cousins Patricia Allen and Chuck Smith; the Benny family including Ann, Armand, and Mary Jo; and Linda Weiss. Donna was predeceased by her parents, John and Alda Youmans, and Olive Scott Fazzone who cared for Donna like a second mother.
Born in Schenectady in 1942, Donna was raised in the Schenectady/Scotia area. After serving in the U.S. Air Force, Donna earned a Master’s Degree from R.I.T. Donna became the medical illustrator for the Albany VA Medical Center, serving her fellow veterans and the medical community for 34 years. In retirement, Donna expressed her artistry through her wonderful drawings ad paintings. These celebrated her interest in Native American life and spirituality, her compassion for animals, and her love of the Southwest. Donna supported a number of causes including Peppertree Rescue, Native American Community Colleges, and Literacy Volunteers.
Donna’s family wishes to express gratitude for the caring support of the VA Medical Center, the VA Home Based Primary Care Team, Home of the Good Shepherd at Highpointe, and Saratoga Community Hospice. A celebration of Donna’s life will be held
at a later date. Contributions in Donna’s name may be made to the Grafton Peace Pagoda, 87 Crandall Rd., Petersburg, N.Y. 12138.
