Donna Nell Heilman, born February 5, 1935, passed peacefully into the presence of the Lord Jesus on March 10th, reunited with beloved family members who went before her.
Donna was the second daughter of the late Edna and Murray Nell of Harrisburg. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Donald Heilman; her son Michael Brawley; and her dear sister, Shirley Zimmerman (Fran), and many aunts, uncles and cousins. She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Kathy Heilman; and her wonderful niece who she cherished, Gail Wills and her husband Gene. She will also be missed by her son Steven Brawley, her sister-in-law Helen Heilman (Les), and Helen’s daughters Lisa Diffenbaugh (Jonas), Caron Cramer (Stan) and daughter Leah, along with other nieces, nephews, and many cousins from the Nell and Gibbel side of her family.
Donna lived a full and vibrant life marked by faith, family, friendship, and adventure. Her Christian faith was deeply important to her throughout her life. For many years she and her husband Don, were faithful members of the Mechanicsburg Church of the Brethren where they shared fellowship and community.
Because of her husband Don’s career, Donna and he lived in several places throughout their married life, including areas of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Chicago, and Donna’s favorite city, San Antonio, Texas. After Don’s retirement, they returned to Pennsylvania. Along the way she enjoyed traveling to many different countries, creating a lifetime of wonderful experiences and treasured memories.
Donna was known for her elegance and sense of style. She was always beautifully dressed and took pride in presenting herself gracefully. Her home was the same way.
An avid bridge player, Donna reached the master level and greatly enjoyed the strategy, companionship, and challenge the game brought to her life. She also enjoyed the challenge of other card games, Scrabble and Dominos, and her competitive spirit came through! Another favorite hobby was painting, and she produced many beautiful pieces including furniture and decor.
Donna also had a well-known sweet tooth which she would indulge from time to time for a special treat. Loving dogs, she especially cherished the time spent with her beloved dog, Christie, who brought her and her husband much happiness and companionship.
During her younger years, Donna worked at her parent’s grocery store, Paxtang Daily Market in Harrisburg, which was owned and operated by her parents for many years. She worked there alongside her sister Shirley, creating memories of family, hard work, and community. During those years she attended John Harris High School and then went on to Elizabethtown College.
Donna was living at Messiah Lifeways when she passed. She appreciated some of the workers there who took a special interest in her and brought joy to her days with their visits and care.
Donna’s life was filled with love, faith, and treasured relationships. Those who knew her will remember her kindness and love for life. Her family finds comfort in knowing that she is now in heaven, reunited with her beloved husband and family members who preceded her.
She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
Should you wish to send a remembrance in memory of Donna’s life, feel free to send a donation to her church, Mechanicsburg Church of the Brethren, 301 Gale St, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055.
The Sullivan Funeral Home is honored to serve the Heilman family.
www.sullivanfuneralservices.com