Dona Lea (Brown) Duckworth

Dona Lea Duckworth, 67, of Leetonia, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, during her yearly medical checkup.

Dona was born on July 14, 1958, in Steubenville, Ohio, the daughter of Robert Lee Brown and Janice Lucille (Gooch) Brown.

Dona was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, and faithful servant of God. She shared 46 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Stephen “Ducky” Duckworth, whom she met while attending Jeff Tech in Steubenville, Ohio. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and helping others.

In addition to her husband, Dona is survived by her daughters, Sara (Tony) Burt of Bowling Green, Ohio, and Katie (Adam) Derico of Columbiana, Ohio; her cherished grandchildren, Deanna Burt, Joey Burt, Vinny Burt, and Mason Derico, who were the absolute joys of her life. She is also survived by her father- and mother-in-law, Philip and Dorothy Duckworth of Ontario, Ohio; her sister, Toni (Dave) Calabrese of Toronto, Ohio; brothers- and sisters-in-law, Kevin (Jan) Duckworth of Columbus, Ohio, Phil (Sue) Duckworth of Newark, Ohio, and Rhea Bensie of Rayland, Ohio; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Dona was preceded in death by her nephew, Charles Calabrese, and brother-in-law, Bud Bensie.

For the past eight years, Dona served as Office Manager for TLC Tours, a position she truly loved. She found great joy in helping people plan memorable trips and adventures, and her warm personality, caring heart, and willingness to help others made her a favorite among coworkers and travelers alike.

Dona had a gift for preserving memories. She loved scrapbooking, attending craft shows, and creating graduation videos for family and friends. Rarely was she seen without a camera in her hand, always eager to capture life's special moments so they would never be forgotten.

For many years, Dona also worked as a babysitter, caring for countless children whom she loved as if they were her own. Her nurturing spirit, patience, and kindness left a lasting impact on many families throughout the community.

Family was the center of Dona's world. She never missed an opportunity to attend her grandchildren's sporting events, school programs, performances, and special occasions. Whether cheering from the stands, sitting proudly in an audience, or celebrating milestones, she was always there. Her grandchildren knew they were deeply loved, and she treasured every moment spent with them.

Dona loved Mickey Mouse, anything cotton candy flavored and looked forward each year to making memories with family and friends. She especially cherished her annual trips to Myrtle Beach and the many vacations she enjoyed in Florida over the years.

A woman of strong faith, Dona attended Columbiana Nazarene Church and was previously involved in youth group activities and Bible quizzing. She lived her faith through service, kindness, and compassion, always putting others before herself. If someone needed help, Dona never hesitated. She would drop everything at a moment's notice to lend a hand, offer support, or simply be there for someone in need.

To know Dona was to love her. She was selfless, caring, and dependable—a woman who gave generously of her time, love, and energy to everyone around her. Her kindness touched countless lives, and her legacy will live on through the many people she loved and served throughout her life.

Dona will be deeply missed and forever remembered by her family, friends, church family, coworkers, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A Memorial Service will be held at the Columbiana Nazarene Church, 330 N. Elm Street in Columbiana, Ohio on Thursday, July 9th. Sandwiches and dessert will be served at 5:00 p.m. followed by a Memorial Service at 6:00 p.m.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23

Arrangements by Cremation & Funeral Service by Gary S Silvat Inc. Share memoires and send condolences by visiting cremateohio.com.

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