Donna Dowd of East Haven, obituary: Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home, East Haven

Donna Dowd, 77 of East Haven passed away September 13, 2025 at Yale New Haven Hospital. She was born May 15, 1948 in New Haven to the late Joseph and Rita (McDermott) Dowd. Donna is survived by her devoted son, David Lalama (Sandy) of East Haven, one grandson A.J. Barriger and six siblings; Kathy Lovanio (Joseph) of Orange, Joseph Dowd Jr. (Veronica) of S.C., James Dowd of East Haven, Michael Dowd (Tara) of East Haven, Patricia Altermatt (Al) of Branford and Peggy Dowd of East Haven along with numerous nieces/nephews, great nieces and nephews and her cat “Boo Boo.”

Donna’s defining characteristic was a profound and instinctive generosity. For her, helping others was not a choice; it was a calling. She was the person who would give her last dollar to someone in need, who would stop everything to help a neighbor, and who saw the humanity in every person she met. Her selflessness was a beacon of inspiration, as she never sought praise or reward; her only motivation was to ease the burden of another, and she never asked for anything in return.

She was apologetically herself, and we loved her for it. Her memory will serve as a reminder to live authentically, love unconditionally, and give generously.

Family and friends are invited to meet and attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Monday September 22, 2025 at 12 PM (NOON) in St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish at the Church of St. Vincent de Paul, 80 Taylor Ave., East Haven. Please go directly to the church on Monday. Burial will private at East Lawn Cemetery, East Haven. All services are under the care of the Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home, 43 Kirkham Ave., East Haven.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Humane Society in memory of Donna Dowd.