Donna M. Burnham

Donna M. Burnham, age 77, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at Albany Medical Center. She was born in 1947, the daughter of the late Raymond and Eva (Maskell) Roberts and was a lifelong resident of the Schodack area before spending many years in Titusville, Florida.

Donna was a graduate of Rensselaer City Schools and, alongside her husband, operated Dee Jay's Restaurant in Rensselaer for several years. The restaurant was known for introducing the "Chicken Wing" to the Capital Region, a lasting legacy in the community. Later in life, Donna retired as a processor for Fuji Film.

In addition to her entrepreneurial spirit, Donna served as an officer in the Titusville Elks Club and was deeply involved in the lives of her family and friends. She loved spending time with loved ones, especially when hosting at home or welcoming visitors to Florida. Donna was known as a "pioneer" woman, tackling tasks with unmatched energy and skill-whether painting an entire house in a day or preparing a meal by dinnertime.

A passionate gardener, Donna took great pride in landscaping and was known for her interior decorating expertise. Her homes were beautiful and served as a testament to her love of beauty and care. She also cherished her regular visits with close friends, Dawn, Marge, and Lori, and was deeply devoted to her family.

Her greatest joy, however, was her family, especially her grandson, Gavin, with whom she spoke daily. Gavin, along with his girlfriend Casey, were constant sources of support and love for Donna. She also had a special bond with her great-granddaughter Ellie, who quickly became the love of her life.

Donna is survived by her children, Renae Burnham, John Burnham III, and Holly Paschal, along with her adored grandchildren, Gavin Carney (Casey Cole), Hayden Carney (Allie Harkin Carney), Qalore Paschal, and Symme Keim. She is also survived by her great-grandchildren, Onyx Keim, Ellie Carney, and Clover Turk. Donna is further survived by her siblings: Wayne Roberts, Deborah Kannes, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, John H. Burnham, Jr., and her siblings Raymond Roberts, Marilyn Keneston, Patricia Jackson, Joan Clark, Thomas Roberts, Darlene Reed, Carol Goldberg, James Roberts, William Roberts, and Ronald Roberts.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to her dear friend Dawn Perez, for her unwavering support and care, Lori McCourt for her regular visits and errands, Dr. Tariq Farooqi for his exceptional care, and the nursing staff on C3 East at Albany Medical Center, especially nurse Dani Kim, for their compassionate support.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Donna's family on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, from 4-6pm at W.J. Lyons, Jr. Funeral Home, 1700 Washington Avenue, Rensselaer. A service will follow at 6pm at the funeral home.

Donations may be made in Donna's memory to the charity of your choice.

Donna's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.