Donna Alston Berry was a caring wife, mom, sister, friend, and child of God. After courageously fighting several medical challenges, Donna peacefully departed this life at the age of 67 on Friday, July 30, 2021 to go to her eternal home with Jesus Christ.
Donna was fueled by her love for life and people. She married her best friend and soul mate, Eugene (Gene) Grant Berry, on August 9, 1980 at Bidwell Presbyterian Church. Together, they had two children: Grant and Brett. Donna treasured spending time with her family and friends, sharing her delicious meals and interesting stories. She enjoyed nature through gardening and exploring local parks with Gene. She worshipped God in her heart and at her home church, Hebron United Presbyterian Church. Donna will always be remembered by the strong bonds of love formed in her relationships with others and God.
Donna was passionate about education, demonstrated by being one of the first African American women to obtain multiple advanced degrees from the University of Pittsburgh. She also had a love for exploring life through books and channeled this into establishing D. Berry’s Books, Gifts and Café.
Donna was born on February 16, 1954 to the late Sidney Alston, Sr. and Hortense Price Alston in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (North Side). She was preceded in death by her parents and several siblings. Donna is survived by: her husband Eugene of 40 years; her son Grant Alston Berry and his wife Vaishali; her daughter Brett Alaina Berry and her husband John Kilcoyne. She is also survived by her siblings Edythe La Vera Alston, Charmene La Verne Alston, Arthur Henry Alston, Hortense La Rita Alston, and a host of relatives and friends.
Donna’s final wish was for her loved ones to spread love in ways most meaningful to them. In lieu of flowers, Donna’s life may be honored by donations being made to the Hillman Cancer Center or another special organization of choice on her behalf or by any other act of love. Donna will be forever missed and forever remembered. She requested to be cremated and to not have a funeral or memorial service. A life celebration may be held at a future date.
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