Donna Lynn Howland

We are devastated to announce the death of Donna Lynn Howland who passed away too soon on August 12, 2024. She showed tenacity in every aspect of life, including her sudden diagnosis of stage IV esophageal cancer.

Born in Kansas City, MO, on June 21, 1965, Donna grew up in Kettering and has called Ohio home ever since. She was an unwaveringly supportive single mom to her two children, a loving sister, a doting and eccentric aunt, and a dedicated daughter. She made every family get together a memorable event through elaborate games, mischievous antics, and bad jokes.

Donna Lynn Howland’s personal identity was strongly tied to her career as an Environmental Scientist. Her intense work-ethic, intelligence, obsessive accuracy, and commitment to ensuring that fun, candy, and laughter accompany every task made her an irreplaceable colleague at PPG.

In her downtime, Donna loved to pet puppies, watch Judge Judy and read magazines. She was passionate about fashion and enjoyed collecting clothing in every imaginable style. Donna was unconventional and always herself while endlessly encouraging others to be themselves, no matter how bizarre.

Donna is survived by her children Rachelle Faye Howland and Cameron Tyler McHenry; her parents Lorretta Faye and Robert E. Murray; her sister Rebecca Swart; her sister and brother-in-law Sue and Stan Highley; nieces and nephews Aaron Swart, Adam Swart, Hannah Highley, Travis Highley, Jonni Highley and Hunter Highley.

A funeral service will be held at First Baptist Church of Carroll (51 Park St, Carroll, OH 43112), on August 31st at 1pm.

Rest in peace Mom. We'll continue to be the weird and creative people you raised us to be, and we’ll never stop making each other laugh when things get dark or hard. Love you.