Obituaries

Donna Elaine Rose, born December 18, 1954, in Oswego, New York, passed into the presence of her Lord and Savior on May 7, 2025, after a life marked by service, music, and steadfast love. She was 70 years old.

Donna was the beloved wife of Martin “Skip” Rose and devoted mother to Lara Rose of Oswego, NY, and Brian Rose and daughter-in-law Shirley Rose of Vermont. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Sierra Reveron, Asia Rose and Madelyn Rose and a delighted great-grandmother to Aria Rose and Madelyn Rose. Her legacy continues in each of them—through their laughter, their kindness, and their strength.

From an early age, Donna had a heart for the elderly, leading her to pursue a lifelong career in senior adult care. Starting as an Activities Director right out of high school, she dedicated herself to enhancing the lives of those in long-term care facilities. Through years of hard work and professional development—including certifications as a CNA and in elder care program management—Donna rose to leadership as Director of Activities, taking on significant responsibilities in resident care and quality of life. Her passion was more than a career; it was a calling.

Donna was also a faithful member of New Covenant Community Church, where she worshiped until her health no longer allowed her to attend. She loved to sing and play the piano, often lifting others’ spirits through music. Music was her lifelong passion, and it was one of the many ways she gave joy to those around her.

Her impact in Oswego extended far beyond her workplace. Donna forged lasting friendships through community involvement, ministry, and the deep compassion with which she treated everyone she met. Her warm presence, easy laughter, and servant heart will be deeply missed.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur E. Leavens and Arlene J. Leavens. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, as well as her siblings: Joanne Holz (Atlanta, GA), Cindy Winston (Gordo, AL), Douglas Leavens (Gansevoort, NY), Alan Leavens (Jacksonville, FL), Karen Lyle (Birmingham, AL), and Cheryl Gilliam (Memphis, TN); along with a large extended family of nieces and nephews who cherished her dearly.

Though her absence leaves a profound void, her family finds comfort in the promise of Christ. Donna lived with a quiet faith and joyful assurance that death is not the end, but a doorway. In her memory, we hold fast to the hope of reunion in the Kingdom of God—because of our shared love for Jesus, in whom we place our trust and peace.

A celebration of Donna’s life will be held on May 20, 2025, at the New Covenant Community Church in Oswego, NY. Preceding the service, family and friends are welcomed to gather at the church to remember with family the life of this cherished woman. Hours will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.  The service will begin at 11:00 a.m.  In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Donna’s memory by serving others, playing a song for someone in need, or simply offering kindness to a neighbor—just as Donna would have done.

Arrangements are by the Dain-Cullinan Funeral Home.