My heart goes out to all of Donna's family. Her many kindnesses to this near stranger will not go unacknowledged or "unpaid forward". May her memory be a blessing.

I miss you, my friend. Thank you for ‘getting me,’ laughing at my jokes, and thank you for all your good advice over the years. You’ve left a hole that I want to fill with a hole to make you laugh but I’m not quite there, yet. I’m still sad you’re not here making me laugh. But when the joke comes~ I know you’ll see it because I know these things. I know you’re still bringing smiles, too. Peace and love, my friend. Peace and love.

My deepest condolences and sympathy to your family. May you find comfort in the memories and special times shared, and peace knowing her kindness and care had a lasting impact on the many lives she touched.

To the Young family, Without Donna there would be no Michael. I am so lucky to have met Michael in college and she is one of the kindest caring souls I know. Thank you to Boom and Ya for bringing her to me. Your legacy lives on through your children and grandchildren. Sending love and light to the whole family during this difficult time. Big hugs from your Jersey fam❤️

In 1984 I met a super cool girl named Shannon Young in English class. Despite my blue eyeliner and Esprit outfit we became best friends almost immediately. Over the next few years, not only did I have a forever best friend, but I also had a 2nd Family. Mom2 (Donna), Dad2 (John), Johnny and many beloved boxers. While my parents were still traveling with the Army I was lovingly included as part of the Young family at 11981 Homeguard Drive. I have too many wonderful memories to recount all of them here but there are a few that jump out in my heart when I think about Mom2: Drinking Iced Tea and talking around the kitchen table Her laugh (it was the kind of laugh that made you feel good in your bones) Her talking about JFK with Michael Shannon and me Her introducing me to the book “The Autobiography of Henry VIII.” My infamous Prince Tape Her and Dad2 bringing me Subway when I was life guarding. All the groceries she bought us, the (many, many) meals she treated us to (Golden Corral) when Michael Shannon and I were at Radford My spoon key chain (that I still have 30 years later) The best yard sale of all time When she, Michael Shannon and little baby Oliver came to visit me in Wrightsville Beach and we asked the concierge at the hotel to get us tickets to Cats. She thought that was hilarious. For the past 20 years, every single time Michael Shannon and her best friends have gotten together for a much needed “girl’s weekend” she has paid for us to have a nice dinner. Despite the fact that we were full-fledged adults with jobs. Her words of encouragement when those she loved needed it. Her words of comfort when those she loved needed it. Most importantly I will remember her for her voice for the voiceless, moxie, patience, impatience for injustice all over the world, compassion, love for dogs – especially her boxers, masterful Iced Tea making, not being intimidated to speak the truth and last but not least her fierce love for Johnny, Michael and her better half, John/Dad2. I have (we all have) been fortunate and will continue to be just for having known her. Love, Mary Star

Such loss. This was a caring, generous, funny, smart and strong woman. She positively impacted the lives of all who knew her, and her wittiness could always make you laugh. She will be missed.

Donna , you meant so much to our family. I should have thanked you more. I knew you and John from the friendship Mary and Shannon, nay Michael formed 1984 ish in Woodbridge. Our "hometown" for many years. Those girls are best friends to this day. Mary's senior year in High School you became her other Mother. Tom was PCSed to Ft. Bragg, nay Liberty! ( I hear your comment). I joined Tom and left my baby girl. You stepped right in and she had a second Mother! John stepped up , those Birthday cakes! Johnny shared his home and had two sisters. You and your family gained another child and she loved it. Thank you. Of all our friends , you were the most fun one ! You were a free bird. Tom called it honesty. I thought of it more as calling it like you saw it. You didn't hold back ! I loved that about you. I wanted to be more like you when I grew up. At 76 I still might have a chance. You not only helped raise our daughter, you helped sell our beach house. Well, You and the statue of Saint Joseph you sent me! It worked! Thank you. Donna You were a wonder. You wore a hard hat to work. You collected interesting art. You gave valuable advice when asked or not! Your opinions were powerful. I don't know how we are going to get by without you . Give us a push or a nudge once in awhile. Keep us straight. You will be missed. Thank you for being you . Love, Marilyn and Tom

My condolences to the family for your loss.

I want to send my love to the family. Donna (Mrs. Young) was always one of my favorite people! I loved her sense of humor, her passion and her obvious love for her family! I love that even though we didn’t see each other the past several years we still kept in touch through Facebook. I look forward to her humorous posts! XOXO

I’m so sorry for your loss Shannon! I loved your mom so much at our sleepovers! Such a sweet, funny lady!

Donna your light will always shine and the love you gave will always be remembered- Godspeed friend

Prayers

My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. She will be missed.

Sweet Donna, girl

Family picture while dad was in Korea

My sincere condolences for the loss of Mrs Young. May her loving memory and contributions she so selflessly gave to the community continue to live on. And may peace fill your hearts as you grieve her loss. Maimoona Bah-Duckenfield, Arlington County Aging & Disability Services

I'm so sorry to hear about the passing of Donna. She was such a great lady - fun and kind to everyone. Much love to all of her family - v/s Scare Moore.

Praying for your family

You left us way too soon. We love you and miss you terribly.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.