Donetta Ann Bryan

Doni lived a life rooted in love, nature, and the simple joys that meant the most to her. Her connection to the natural world began when she was young, inspired by her own mother and nurtured through her time as a Girl Scout. That love stayed with her throughout her life, and she passed it on to her children through countless camping trips, nights under the stars, and a deep appreciation for places like Yosemite, which always held a special place in her heart.

She had an adventurous spirit and once set out on a backpacking trip through Yosemite’s high country—something that reflected her independence, courage, and quiet determination. Whether she was walking in the woods, tending to her plants, or simply enjoying the fresh air, that’s where she felt most at peace.

Doni was a true warrior. Living with rheumatoid arthritis, she faced years of surgeries, injuries, and daily pain with incredible strength and tenacity. She never let it define her or limit what she could give to the people and the world around her. She carried herself with grace and resilience, rarely speaking of her pain, and instead continued to show up—fully—for her family, her passions, and her community.

She devoted herself wholeheartedly as a stay-at-home mother, creating a home that was warm, steady, and full of love. So many of our memories are rooted in the feeling she created—one of comfort, safety, and belonging.

Her strength and determination extended into her community. As PTA president at her children’s elementary school, she didn’t just lead—she made things happen. She brought people together to build a play structure and garden planter boxes for the school, creating spaces that would serve children for years to come. She also served as president of the California Cookie Cutter Club (CCCC), where her love of collecting cookie cutters was rooted in something deeper—the stories behind them, the cultural traditions they represented, and the connections they carried across generations. She shared that passion with others and even organized a national convention. In everything she did, she had a gift for building community and making people feel welcome, included, and valued.

She had a deep love for gardening and flowers. As a florist, she brought that love and connection to nature  into her work. Her time as a florist was cut short due to the progression of her arthritis, however, she continued to find joy in the gifts of nature all around her, spending hours immersed in her garden. It was her peaceful place—her true happy place—where she felt most at ease.

She also had a special love for dogs, welcoming them as true members of the family. For a time, she showed Newfoundlands, something that reflected both her dedication and her admiration for their gentle, majestic nature.

In the kitchen, she shared her love in another way—through cooking and baking. She was known for her delicious meals, and her lasagna was always a favorite at family gatherings, something everyone looked forward to.

Above all, she was a devoted mother and grandmother. She raised five children and is survived by Thomas Bryan, Kathleen Aguiar, Kerry Blagg, and David Bryan. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Nicole, Michaela, Jory, and Ryan, and a cherished great-grandmother to Connor, who brought her so much joy. She is now reunited with her beloved daughter, Kelly Bryan—a bond that was never broken and is now held in peace.

Her legacy lives on in the traditions she created, the love she gave, and the strength she showed. She taught us not just how to care for others, but how to keep going—with grace, courage, and quiet determination—no matter what life placed in our path. She had a quiet wisdom about her, and people were naturally drawn to her gentle, caring way. She was an incredible listener who made others feel truly heard, understood, and valued.

“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” — John Muir

In honor of her love for nature and togetherness, we invite you to join us for a Celebration of Life at the beautiful Allied Arts Guild in Menlo Park, California.

This will be an open house-style gathering, and guests are welcome to come and go as they are able. Please enjoy the peace and beauty of the Guild while you are here.

Date: April 18, 2026

Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM 

Location: Allied Arts Guild, Menlo Park

Refreshments will be served.

Please consider a donation in Donetta's honor to the World Wildlife Fund.