Donna M. Dias, a lifelong Plymouth resident, passed away peacefully on July 21 at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Plymouth after a courageous battle with illness.
Born on September 30, 1952, Donna was the beloved wife of Stephen A. Dias and daughter of the late John and Mary Lee (Madrid) Fernandez.
Donna’s academic journey began in Plymouth, culminating in her graduation from Plymouth-Carver High School. A proud member of the Plymouth-Carver Athletic Hall of Fame, Donna shone as a student athlete, notably excelling in field hockey and basketball, and earning accolades for her exceptional performance.
Aside from her devoted husband, Donna is survived by her loving daughters, Nicole M. Dias of Holbrook and Courtney L. Santiago and her husband Paul of Holbrook. She is also survived by her siblings: Glen Fernandez, Beatrice Hamlin, Anna Fernandez, Mary Jane Pacheco, Carrie Hunt, Joan Fernandez, and Kim Fernandez Ward. She was predeceased by her brother John J. Fernandez Jr. Donna’s legacy also includes her cherished granddaughter, Giselle Santiago.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at the Cartmell-Davis Life Celebration Funeral Home at 373 Court St., Plymouth, on Friday, July 26, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. A funeral Mass in honor of Donna will be held at 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church, 313 Court St. Plymouth, followed by her burial at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Plymouth.
Donna’s memory will be treasured by those who knew her for her warm spirit, athletic passion, and unwavering love for her family. May she rest in peace, leaving behind a lasting legacy of love and strength.