Donna Marie Winner

WINNER, Donna Marie, beloved wife, devoted mother, precious sister, and proud grandmother, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2025 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. 

She was raised on a farm in Patton, Pennsylvania, and enjoyed singing with her sisters as part of the La-Don-Dor Trio, who performed at sock hops and other events in Western Pennsylvania. A few days after her high school graduation, she moved to Washington D.C. and worked at the Pentagon. She had secured a competitive position as a secretary in the Navy Judge Advocate General’s Office. She met her future husband Edward at the Pentagon. Eager to get her attention when they were both taking a Pentagon train, her future husband started to sing, “There She is Miss America” much to her embarrassment. He was a determined suitor and they were engaged by January of the following year and married within a few months.

His service to our country led them on a remarkable journey to Colorado, where their son was born, and to the Philippines, where their daughters were born. Donna loved her role as homemaker, and was active in military social activities. She always valued education and the importance of reading. She served as a library volunteer at her children’s elementary school. 

Renowned for her beauty, Donna was honored as a print model for the Honest John Rocket in the 1960s. Though selected for this prestigious role, her loving husband ensured she maintained her modesty by prohibiting swimsuit modeling—a testament to their devoted partnership.

As her children grew, she decided to work outside the home at Elder-Beerman, where she was known for her warm presence and dedication. She was a loyal employee of over 40 years. She valued work and admired hard workers. Work provided solace when her beloved husband Edward died at the age of 43. She took on this tragedy with stoicism and dignity, despite being a single mom to teenagers. A devout Catholic, Donna’s faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her with grace, kindness, and unwavering strength. She was passionate about her Italian heritage.

Donna was predeceased by her beloved husband, Edward Winner; her second husband, Densmore Brewer; and her precious son, George Joseph Winner, and her beloved sisters Doris and Lottie. She leaves behind her cherished daughters, Sonia Winner (husband Kevin) and Pamela; her adored grandchildren, Nicholas, Samuel, Dylan, Katherine, and Maximilien. 

Her memory will be treasured forever by all who had the privilege of knowing her. A private funeral and mass will be held. Internment at David’s Cemetery, where she will be reunited with her treasured husband Edward. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Dayton Foodbank, or the Cleveland Museum of Natural History.

May she rest in eternal peace.