Donna Christine Powell, 55, of Red Hook

RED HOOK » Donna Christine Powell, 55, of Red Hook, died peacefully at home on Saturday, June 9, 2018.

Born on June 13, 1962, in Batavia, N.Y., she was the daughter of Helen Jeanette Powell of Syracuse and the late Fred T. Powell of Batavia.

Donna devoted her life to working as a rehab counselor with the disabled. She was employed by Astor Home for Children, Rehabilitation Programs and various home health agencies during her working career. In recent years, she worked countless hours as a volunteer for Community Action and Red Hook Recycling.

Her devotion to clients was not considered work, but an act of love. Donna was a proud member of Alcoholics Anonymous and was grateful daily for their unflagging and loyal support. She was a kind and caring person with a ready laugh and enthusiastic warmth. Those she cared for were blessed by her love and generous spirit.

In addition to her mother, Donna is survived by her loving companion and life partner, Richard Heiser; siblings, Leslie Powell Shaw and husband David, Fred T. Powell, and Katie Powell Elia; and beloved nieces and nephews, Alice, Emma, Mary, and Francis Shaw, Lucas Pizzillo, Fred Powell and wife Brittany, and their daughter Inara, and Leanna and Jeanette Elia. She is also survived by her aunt, Judith Theresa and family.

Relatives and friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m., Thursday, June 14, 2018, at Sweet’s Funeral Home, Inc., Route 9, Hyde Park. A family Celebration of Donna’s Life will begin at 5 p.m. during the visitation.

In keeping with her wishes, cremation will follow.

Because of her love of animals, the family suggests memorial donations to Dutchess County SPCA, 636 Violet Ave, Hyde Park, N.Y., 12538 (www.dcspca.org).

To send an online condolence, or for directions, please visit www.sweetsfuneralhome.com.