After dealing with multiple heath challenges, Donna passed away peacefully at her home in Millis, MA, on May 20, 2023. She was 78 years old.

Donna was born on July 17, 1944, to Daniel C. and Avis (Higgiston) Collins, Jr.  She attended Millis Public Elementary school then Ursuline Academy, where she graduated in 1964.  She continued her education at Georgetown Visitation Jr. College (now Georgetown Prep) of Washington D.C., and Cardinal Cushing College in Boston, MA.  In 1992, Donna received her Master’s Degree in Education from Cambridge College in Boston, MA.

Donna was a devoted elementary school teacher in the Millis Public Schools for 35 years, retiring in 2001.  She was a lifelong communicant at St. Thomas the Apostle Church in Millis and a tireless advocate for animals’ wellbeing.  She was very involved in local greyhound rescue organizations, which placed retired racing dogs in loving homes. Donna was a supportive and loving daughter to her parents and a devoted godmother. 

She is survived by her goddaughter, Maura A. Young, of Fremont, California.

Services will remain private, but those who wish to honor Donna may do so by making a memorial donation to an organization of one’s choosing.