Donna Williams Costello

KENNEBUNK – Donna Williams Costello, 81, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

Donna was born on Feb. 8, 1943, to Alta Blair and Leander Williams in Willimantic, Conn. She graduated from Windham High School in 1961 and pursued an associate’s degree at Morse Business School. Donna enjoyed a successful career as an executive secretary, contributing her talents to several companies, including Connecticut Bank and Trust and Raytheon.

In 1960, Donna met the love of her life, Michael Costello. They married in 1962 and were blessed with two daughters, Carol and Cathy. Donna and Michael shared a passion for travel, exploring the world together and living abroad in places like South Korea, the Philippines, and Canada. Some of Donna’s favorite destinations included Paris and Key West. Her travels allowed her to immerse herself in diverse cultures, enriching her love for art, food, and life.

Donna had an active life and many hobbies; she greatly enjoyed golf, tennis, scuba diving as a certified PADI diver, and sailing, earning a cruising certificate for 40-foot sailboats. Donna and Michael were members of the Manila Aeroclub and greatly enjoyed exploring the many islands of the Philippines flying a four-seat Beechcraft Sundowner with their daughters.

In 1992, Donna and Michael settled in Kennebunk where they lived for 32 years and where Donna devoted her time to volunteer work. She was active in St. David’s and St Ann’s, the Kennebunk Dog Advisory Committee, Seeds of Hope (where she served on the Board), and the Animal Welfare Society of Kennebunk. She was also a valued member of Partners in Profit, serving as both president and treasurer for many years.

Donna is survived by her beloved husband of 62 years, Michael Costello; their daughter, Carol Costello Worthington, her husband Paul, and their son Cash; and their daughter, Cathy Marvin, her husband Brian, and their daughters Laura, Rachel, and Heather.

Donna was interred at the columbarium at St. Ann’s in a private ceremony.

There will be a celebration of life for Donna at Webhannet Golf Club in the second week in August.

“A life well lived is the most exquisite work of art.” – Erwin McManus

Donna’s legacy of love, adventure, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Arrangements are by Hope Memorial Chapel, 480 Elm St, Biddeford, ME 04005. To leave online condolences, please visit http://www. hopememorial.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Animal Welfare Society in Kennebunk, an organization dear to Donna’s heart.