Obituary of Donna L. Gilbert

Gilbert, Donna L., 68, of East Hartford passed away on November 27, 2015. She was born in Hartford, CT on November 23, 1947. She was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Virginia Gilbert. Donna leaves behind her beloved children, James Patrick Downes and Jessica Downes. Her siblings include her twin sister Diana Noel and Craig Fries, Kathy Simlick, Steven and Melida Gilbert, Kenneth Gilbert, Jonathan Gilbert and Joseph Gilbert. Donna also leaves behind her beloved granddaughter Angelina Garfi. There are many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews that will miss her dearly. Donna worked for 35 years at The Hartford before retiring. Donna had many endearing qualities yet most of all she was very loving, giving, and very unselfish and was always there to help others in any way she could. She loved playing golf in her Portland golf league with her many friends. Donna had a very special way of making her many friends smile and laugh. We have an abundance of great memories like traveling to Bonaire then off to the Outerbanks the next few years. Her favorite pets were Patrick’s dog Bailey and Jessica’s cat Oreo, who will miss her every day. We have so many wonderful and funny memories that each of us has shared with her and shall cherish always. Her impression that she made on us with her resilience, free heart and sincerity was felt by all of those who knew her. Donna will be forever in our hearts and minds. I would like to give a special thanks to the staff at Hartford Hospital Bliss 10 ICU for their caring and loving compassion while taking care of Donna. There will be a mass at St. Paul Church, 2577 Main Street, Glastonbury, on Thursday Dec. 3 at 10:00 AM followed by a Celebration of Life for Donna at The Gallery, 141 New London Tpke., Glastonbury. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Cardiac Unit at Hartford Hospital, checks made payable to Hartford Hospital, c/o Fund Development Office, 80 Seymour St., PO Box 5037, Hartford, CT. 06102 or the Manchester Ambulance Association. For online condolences please visit www.mulryanfh.com.