SEWELL, Donna Nadene Sewell

We are deeply saddened by the loss of our beloved mother, Donna Nadene Sewell (née Hogarth), in her 78th year. She passed peacefully at Huntsville Hospice with her son Teddy and daughter Shannon (Mouse) at her side after years of declining health.

In 1968, Donna and her husband David moved from the Toronto area to Huntsville to build a new life and start their family. She was a devoted mother to Ted (Windy) of Huntsville and Shannon (Chris) of Fernie, BC, and an incredibly proud grandmother to Cohen, Layla, and Maximus. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she also leaves behind her beloved grand-dogs, Echo and Zion.

She was predeceased by her parents, Bill, and Mary, and by her former husband, David. She is survived by her brother Bill (Ann) of Bramalea, along with many cherished nieces and nephews.

Donna gave wholeheartedly to her community. She volunteered with the hospital auxiliary, played in the local softball league — forever remembered by her children as the best back catcher they had ever seen — and offered her time wherever it was needed. After raising her children, she worked for a decade at TD Bank and later in the wool department at Flotrons, where she shared her love of knitting and conversation with customers and friends alike.

She always looked forward to the summers at the family cottage on McCrae Beach at Lake Simcoe, which was such a hub of family fun. Those days were spent with her big brother Bill, all her crazy cousins — especially Carol, who remained close to Donna all her life. Creating lifelong memories and sharing time with family and friends, these were moments she carried with her for the rest of her life.

Losing both of her parents at a young age, and within a short time of one another, profoundly shaped her life and deeply affected her well-being and mental health. Despite these hardships, she faced life with quiet resilience and persevered for her family, her friends, her community, and especially for the deep love she had for her grandchildren.

Our family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Huntsville Hospital and Huntsville Hospice for their kindness, dignity, and care shown to Mom and to our family over the years and in her final days. Your support meant more than words can express.

In honour of Donna’s journey, we gently encourage open conversations about grief and mental health. If you or someone you love is struggling, please reach out — to family, to friends, or to a health professional. No one should have to carry those burdens alone. Hold your loved ones close and cherish the time you have together. Take the time to communicate openly — with friends, with family, and even with strangers — as simple conversations can offer connection, comfort, and understanding when they are needed most.

At Donna’s request, cremation has taken place and no formal funeral service will be held. A Celebration of Life will follow in the Spring or Summer of 2026.

For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to Huntsville Hospice or to Canadian Mental Health Association – Muskoka-Parry Sound in Donna’s memory.