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Donna Jean Keegan, 80, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026, surrounded by her loving family, following complications from Parkinson's disease.
A longtime resident of Sonoma, Donna was born on July 28, 1945, in San Francisco, California. In 1975, she moved to Sonoma with her first husband, John Tyson and their two young daughters, where she built a life centered on family, friendship, service, and adventure. In 1987, she married her second husband and love of her life, Wayne Keegan where they enjoyed their life together until his passing in 2003.
Donna is survived by her daughters, Julie (David) Tait and Marlaina Welsome; her stepsons, Christopher (Darby) Keegan and Jeff Keegan; and her cherished grandchildren, Stephanie Keegan (Nancy Hill), Madeline Welsome, Jack Tait, Michael Tait, and Ryan Tait.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Wayne Keegan; her mother, Erane Garrett, father Don Garrett; and her sister, Lynne Madigan.
Throughout her professional life, Donna worked for many years as an Executive Secretary at SDC. She later owned and operated a travel agency, combining her entrepreneurial spirit with her love of travel. Her travels took her around the world, bringing everyone she could, with her.
Donna was deeply committed to her community and generously volunteered her time with Soroptimist, Sonoma Valley Mentoring, Friends of Hospice, and many other worthy organizations. Her kindness, compassion, and willingness to help others left a lasting impact on countless lives.
While she treasured her family above all else, one of Donna's greatest passions was practicing and performing hula with Hula Mai in Sonoma. The music, culture, and spirit of the islands brought her pure joy, and allowed her to share that joy with others.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 27, at noon at St. Leo's Catholic Church, with a reception to follow.
In honor of Donna's vibrant spirit and love of Hawaii, family and friends are invited to wear their brightest colors and/or Hawaiian prints.
Donna will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, adventurous heart, unwavering devotion to family, and the love and joy she brought to everyone fortunate enough to know her.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donna Jean Keegan, please visit our floral store.