Donna Matsumura passed away on April 16, 2025 in Fresno, CA. She will be interned in her family plot at Lakeview Cemetery, atop Murray Hill in Cleveland, OH. In support of this effort, a GoFundMe has been created to honor her wishes to be cremated and her ashes laid to rest in Ohio.

Donna was a Lakewood High School graduate, class of 1969. After graduating from The Ohio State University, Donna taught high school English in Columbus, OH before moving to Dallas, TX where she taught at David W. Carter High School. She also taught at W.H. Adamson High School before retiring. We know that she touched the lives of many students throughout her dedicated career as an educator. She eventually relocated to the Central Valley, in California, where she lived the last few years of her life near dear friends and family.

If you ever crossed paths with Donna, you know that she was extremely passionate. She loved cheering for the Dallas Mavericks, so much that she worked part-time as an usher at the American Airlines Center so she could attend all of the home games. She was also an avid Ohio State fan, and closely followed the Buckeye football, hockey, and basketball teams. Her lifelong love of the sporting communities is the reason why she was so involved in youth activities throughout her career, including coaching football, officiating track & field, and advising the school Drill Team among other activities in support of her students. Mentoring maturing young adults gave her much satisfaction. It was by far the most fulfilling aspect of her teaching career, and she was extremely proud to observe all of her students' accomplishments beyond graduation. In retirement she enjoyed spoiling her cats and dogs and indulging in her passion for decorating at Christmas.

While Donna had learned to manage being diabetic most of her adult life, the medical emergency that resulted in her passing was unanticipated. Her family is extremely appreciative for any amount that you are able to contribute for her services. She will be missed and forever remembered in our hearts - an amazing teacher, adored friend, and loved sister/aunt. RIP Donna Matsumura.