Mary was the daughter of Russell and Carolyn (Olson) Stroud. Born in Princeton, Illinois December 1, 1945, she attended Pleasant Grove School, a one-room school also attended by her mother and grandmother. Graduated Western High School attended Northern Illinois University and was a member of the Alpha Delta Pi social sorority. Employed by Singer Zone Center, Rockford, Illinois until marriage to in 1970. They spent the first years of married life in Southern California. Donna attended Pierce College where she earned her RN Degree and was employed by the Brentwood VA Hospital as an addiction counselor. The family were members of Canoga Park Methodist Church where Donna was active in the church school programs and served as Church School Superintendent. In 1985 the family moved to Rockford, Illinois. Donna was employed by Swedish American Hospital for 5 years and by Rosecrance Center for 20 years as a psychiatric and addictions nurse. At the time of her retirement in 2010, Donna was the Director of Nursing for adolescent services at Rosecrance. Donna was a member of Christ United Methodist Church, which she was a member of Rebekah Circle. Donna had a love of farm life, long hours in the fields and doing farm chores. Her love of music included traditional country, including Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley (Especially Gospel), Prince, Bob Dylan and BB King. After retirement Donna involved herself in violin lessons and volunteering with The Nicolas Conservatory. Shortly before her cancer diagnosis in January 2013, Donna and her husband enjoyed a month long trip to Europe with special friends. After her diagnosis, a family trip to Disneyworld, enjoying special time with grandchildren, New York and New England Cruise with special friends, Cancun with family and special friends and recently a three week Train and Alaska Cruise. Her greatest joys were watching her grandchildren, who knew her as Ohmama, grow.