Donna Mae Wright

Donna Mae Fitzgerald Wright, age 74 of Salem, VA, passed away peacefully into the arms of her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, March 25, 2026. Born on Thursday, April 19, 1951, to Boyd and Willie Fitzgerald in New York, Donna lived a life full of energy, purpose, and love for the people around her. She was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and friend to many, known for her kindness, generosity, and servant’s heart.She was a 1969 graduate of Northside High School and a 1974 graduate of Radford College, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in education. A dedicated educator, Donna’s life was defined by her unwavering commitment to children of all levels and backgrounds. Her classroom was a place of belonging where every student felt valued. After retiring from Salem City schools after 30+ years, her influence was validated as she would often be stopped around town by former students who shared how much she meant to them.Beyond the classroom, Donna was a faithful and active member of Saint Philip's Lutheran Church, where she served in many capacities, particularly using her green thumb by assembling the flowers for various occasions. Donna grew up in an airline family, which sparked a love for travel early in her childhood. She gained a “worldly” perspective as a young girl that carried with her into adulthood, where she continued her global adventures with many close friends. Perhaps nothing was as important to Donna as being a grandmother, or as she was lovingly known as “Nana”. Nana lived to “spoil” her grandchildren, rarely missing a chance to see their sports and activities.She is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, Robert Wright; her sons, Jeb Wright (Amanda) of Salem, VA, and Zachary Wright (Bryan) of Cape Elizabeth, ME; and her four cherished grandchildren; Malki, Levi, Delaney, and Sadie. She is also survived by her brother Jeffrey Fitzgerald (Betty), of Florissant, MO, and numerous loving friends who were like family to Donna. She was preceded in death by her father, stepmother, and mother; Boyd Fitzgerald (Barbara) and Willie Fitzgerald.Impacting so many through her caring spirit and loving heart, Donna will be greatly missed by her family, friends, and community.A memorial service to celebrate Donna’s life and legacy will be held on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 2:30 pm at St. Philip Lutheran Church in Roanoke, VA. Please join us for food and fellowship. In loving memory of Donna, please consider donating time or funds to organizations or people in need. Donna faithfully served Meals on Wheels, Melrose Towers, and Rescue Mission. The family would like to thank the amazing staff of Good Samaritan Hospice House for their loving and compassionate care of Donna in her final days.Online condolences may be expressed by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.Donation Links:Meals on Wheels - https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/The Rescue Mission - https://rescuemission.net/