Donna Maxwell

November 26, 1949 - November 11, 2024

Donna Maxwell of Springfield, VA (by way of Cinnaminson, NJ), passed away
peacefully on Monday, November 11, 2024. She was 74 years old.

Born November 26, 1949 in Darby, PA, Donna was preceded by her loving
parents, Lawrence and Rosemary Thomas.

Donna was a devoted mother and grandparent, who enjoyed Sunday family
dinners, summer trips to the beach, and holiday sharing with extended family and
friends. Her favorite pastimes included reading historical fiction; planting assortments of
flowers (especially roses) in her gardens every spring and fall; sewing Halloween
costumes, summer and homecoming dresses for her daughter; crocheting winter hats
and scarves for family and friends; and exploring good cuisine with her sweetheart on
weekly dinner dates. Donna loved her family and cherished the moments spent with
each of them. Her daughter and grandson gave her the strength during the rough times
and laughter and joy all of the time. Her laugh was contagious, and she had an infectious
personality with a gift for making lifelong connections.

At the age of 21, Donna began her professional career serving for 10 years
beginning in Brussels, Belgium and ending at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia.
Northern Virginia is where she chose to build a life and family centered on her daughter,
Christina. An exemplary mother, Donna embodied the qualities of unconditional love,
strength of spirit, and an unending generosity of caring for her family and friends. All
while managing the demands of a full-time career with Special Olympics International
that lasted 34 years.

She is survived by her daughter, Christina; grandson, Nicolaus; sweetheart, Ralph;
siblings, Maureen, Lawrence, Cynthia; several nephews and a niece.

A funeral liturgy will be held at 11:00 am on November 26, 2024, at St. Raymond
of Penafort Catholic Church in Springfield, VA. The family would like to thank the
caregivers at Brookdale of Lakeridge and Avalon House in McLean, VA.

In lieu of flowers, consider donations to https://support.specialolympics.org/ .

Proverbs 31:31: “Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works
bring her praise at the city gate.”

Donna Maxwell of Springfield, VA (by way of Cinnaminson, NJ), passed away peacefully on Monday, November 11, 2024. She was 74 years old. Born November 26, 1949 in Darby, PA, Donna was preceded by her loving parents, Lawrence and Rosemary Thomas. Donna was a devoted mother and grandparent, who enjoyed Sunday family dinners, summer tripsContinue Reading

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Rest with the angels, Donna.

My prayers are with her dearest loved ones. May the cherished memories of yesterday bring you joy to last for a lifetime.

A memorial tree was planted in memory of Donna Maxwell . Plant a Tree

Rest in peace Donna.

A memorial tree was planted in memory of Donna Maxwell . Plant a Tree

I first met Donna when I was a student at the Yale School of Management and I invited Tim to come speak. That experience was my firsthand introduction to Donna as "gatekeeper." Several years later when I worked at SOI, I got to know the other side of Donna. Yes, you needed to have your act together, but Donna was kind and warm and funny. And, everyone knew how much she loved her family! Donna, you will be missed!

Christina I pray Gods love over you and strength for You during this difficult time of your life.Always know That you can call me anytime. Much love to you and Nicholas.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

I will miss you Donna. I am an Executive Assistant now and there isn't a day that goes by that I don't think "what would Donna do?" I love you.

A memorial tree was planted in memory of Donna Maxwell . Plant a Tree

I love you with all my heart. I will forever cherish our fun times and memories. I miss you everyday. Please continue to look down on me and momma.

A memorial tree was planted in memory of Donna Maxwell . Plant a Tree

My condolence to the family and my niece Christina. I met Donna and she welcome me to her home an we had a good visit and she cooked some delicious spaghetti. Christina call me when you need a ear to listen. Love you 😘♥️🙏

Tina and Nicolaus, A mother's love is forever. She's always with you - - caring for you differently. Your mother clearly loved you dearly and her transition will be felt. Cherish her memories and bask in the love, joy, opportunities, and blessings she bestowed on both of you. Peace and Comfort and Love, Rose and Steve Foster

Keeping you in my warmest thoughts as you navigate this difficult time — and wishing you hope and healing when you’re ready. Sending love, blessings and prayers. I’m here if and when you need a shoulder. Much love ❤️ Aunt Donna Worthy

Christina, I have not seen you since you were a child, but your mom spoke of you and your son with a proud heart! Our prayers are with you. I et your mom in 79 when there were only a few persons working for The Kennedy Foundation and SOI. Back then she kept the General in line and the office ship shape! And it was that way from then on as Tim has already proclaimed! She was a blast to work with and a terror at times but we all loved and respected her. She will always be remembered. She played a big part in helping Special Olympics move forward! Kudos for a life well lived!

I had the privilege, the challenge, the laughter and the joy to work with Donna at Special Olympics International. Peace dear Donna.

Tina I just wanted to let you know how sorry Jason and I were to hear of your mother. Losing a parent is definitely a rough thing to have happen. Please let us know if there is anything we could do for you. Love ya.

What a beautiful obituary, Tina. Deepest condolences for the loss of your dear mother. Having you and Nicolaus definitely added to the joy in her life. Love you both.

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