PEABODY, MA - Donna Bates (née Pesce) passed away peacefully with her husband, Lindsay, by her side holding her hand. Their marriage was a beautiful love story for over 59 wonderful years. They lived the majority of their lives happily in the same house on Flintlock Ridge Road in Katonah, NY for over 46 years before relocating to Peabody, MA.
Donna’s great joy was her family and she loved them unconditionally. In addition to Lindsay, she is survived by her son, Christopher (Melissa), daughter Alison (Jim), and grandkids Nicholas, Matthew, Lindsay, Eliza and Charlie. “Nana” never missed an opportunity, rain or shine, to attend games, meets, plays or recitals. She was a passionate fan, cheerleader and proud supporter of the accomplishments of all of her family. Most importantly, Donna was deeply loved and appreciated by her family.
Donna is also lovingly survived by her three brothers, Thomas (Ileana), James (Betsy) and Len (Laurie), as well as her many nieces and nephews. Their New York roots and love remained strong her entire life. Donna was predeceased by her brother, Robert.
Donna started her professional life teaching Spanish in the Yorktown school district and then spent 25 years teaching at John Jay Middle School in Katonah. “Señora” loved the challenge of this age group. She was an amazing teacher holding her students to the highest standards of learning, always with a playful presentation and a fun, engaging classroom. Donna was a foreign language department leader for many years.
In addition to her first passion, spending time with her family, gardening was a favorite activity. Donna’s tomato and zucchini “crop” were at times legendary. She also enjoyed taking care of her many flowers - of which she could never have enough, and spending time at their summer home in Charlestown, RI. Lindsay and Donna were fortunate to be able to travel extensively with friends after retirement. They had the opportunity to see much of the United States and Europe and have the photo albums to prove it!
Throughout Donna’s more recent years, there wasn’t a day that went by that she didn’t smile or laugh to make someone feel special. Her favorite color was yellow, and it was a perfect reflection of her disposition.
ARRANGEMENTS: A Celebration of Donna’s life will take place on August 2, 2025 at 1:00P.M. at Waccabuc Country Club Carriage House, 90 Mead Street, Waccabuc, New York 10597. Assisting the family with arrangements is O’Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 167 Maple Street, Danvers, MA. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or the Alzheimer's Foundation of America, 322 8th Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10001 in Donna’s name.
