Donna Lee Peeling, adoring wife of John H. Peeling for almost 56 years – both formerly of New Canaan – passed away peacefully in Juno Beach, Fla. at the age of 75. Surrounded by a loving family, Donna ended her courageous battle with complications from pneumonia on Thursday, December 22.
A graduate of Scotia-Glenville High School, she became a professional dancer and instructor at the age of 15. Donna shared her gift of dance with both students and local television audiences on the popular variety show Teenage Barn in the 1950s.
She is survived by her loving husband John and built a loving home for their two children – John K. Peeling of Sandy Hook, CT, and Jennifer Peeling Librett of Chestertown, NY. Donna was also an inspiration for her five wonderful grandchildren – Claudia, Owen, Olivia, Kirsten, and Declan. Donna’s love of family was further enriched by a devotion to her pet dogs.
Born in Schenectady, NY on July 22, 1941 to Jack and Addie Conners, Donna and John moved several times while supporting his corporate career before settling in New Canaan for the past 37 years. She also enjoyed living at their special camp – Pet’s End – in the Adirondacks, spending every summer in Friends Lake, NY with family and friends. She cherished this home by the lake while creating special memories for her children and grandchildren.
Donna was a member of the Country Club of Darien and the United Methodist Church of both New Canaan, and Juno Beach, Fla.
Donna will forever be in our hearts and memories. Her smile, laugh, and sense of humor will be dearly missed. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 30 at Betz, Rossi, Bellinger, and Stewart Funeral Home — 171 Guy Park Avenue in Amsterdam, NY (518-620-6681 or brbsfuneral.com) at 1 pm.
—The Family
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