Donna L. Battershell, 81, passed on July 31, 2023

She is survived by cousins Charles (June) Bernaix Jr., Kathleen Farris, Michael (Sherry) Marzuco, Gina (Jeff) Quinn, and Charles/Chip (Kathy) Marzuco, and many other extended family members and friends.

Preceded in death by mother Irene (Goldie) Battershell, cousins Patricia (Charles) Marzuco, and Andrew {Sandi) Farris.

Donna retired from Washington University on September 30, 2008 from her full-time position as Senior Associate Director, Annual Giving Programs, in Alumni & Development. You could always find Donna in the office on Sunday's after mass.

Donna was a loyal and invaluable member of the A&D team for more than 40 years. She dedicated herself to ensuring the highest level of stewardship for Eliot Society members. In fact, she personally knew many of the members and greeted them as long-time friends. She truly loved her work and the University.

Donna served Washington University in various roles in Alumni & Development Programs. During her tenure she also attended University College. Donna has overseen every detail of the Eliot Society since 1967 when she planned the first Eliot Society Annual Dinner. At every Eliot Society event, Donna would stand at the entrance to personally greet every single member she had come to love over the years. She showed the same concern and commitment to serving every alum and donor to Washington University, and kept in touch with many of them – from former student workers to employees to alums whom she traveled with on one of the Alumni Travel Program tours.

Donna loved her cats, and spent years focused on their care. She was the loving caretaker for her cousin, Kathleen. Donna loved the St. Louis Cardinals, and especially Yadier Molina; all things Elvis; and spending time with her friends and family. She was a devoted member of the Catholic church and her parish.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Down Syndrome Association of Greater St. Louis, or the charity of your choice.

Visitation will be at Colliers Funeral Home, 3400 N. Lindbergh, St. Ann, Mo Thursday August 3rd, 5:00 – 8:00 PM. Funeral Mass will be at St. Ann Catholic Church, 7530 Natural Bridge, St. Louis, Mo. Friday August 4th at 10:00 AM. Burial will follow at Calvery Cemetery, 2910 State 157, Edwardsville, Il. 62025