Cambridge - Donna M. Keays, 65, of Cambridge, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 14, 2025, at Southwestern Vermont Medical Center in Bennington, VT. A devoted partner, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Donna leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Born on September 30, 1959, in Troy, NY, Donna was the daughter of the late Francis and Anna Mary (Paone) Hahn. She attended St. Paul the Apostle School in Troy before moving to Cambridge in 1973, where she graduated from Cambridge Central School in 1977. 

Donna spent 15 years working for Ball Metal in Saratoga Springs, a job she took great pride in. Following her retirement, Donna worked part-time at Ace Hardware in Cambridge, where she continued to engage with the community she loved.

A woman of many talents, Donna was passionate about working with animals, raising goats and chickens on her property. She also had a love for woodworking and could often be found outdoors, enjoying the beauty of nature. Donna's easygoing nature and warmth made her a pleasure to be around—whether she was enjoying the company of family and friends or simply chatting with someone she had just met. She had a deep affection for her dogs, Bob, Mia, and Dobbie, who were constant companions, and her admiration for muscle cars was well known to those who knew her.

Donna was an avid New York Giants fan and looked forward to every season, but it was her role as a grandmother that brought her the greatest joy. She treasured every moment spent watching her granddaughters, Mackenzie and Sophia, play sports, and her pride in them was immeasurable.

Donna is survived by her life partner, Lisa A. Verchereau of Cambridge; her son, Cory (Heather) Keays of Salem; her sister, Cordelia (Glen) Stone of Cambridge; her brother, Frank Hahn of Shushan; her beloved granddaughters, Mackenzie (Mason) Turcie of Fallbrook, CA, and Sophia Keays of Salem; many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents, Francis and Anna Mary Hahn, and her beloved family will carry on her memory with love and gratitude.

A celebration of life will be Saturday, March 29, 2025 from 2-6 pm at the Salem Firehouse, 53 South Main St., Salem.

Memorial contributions in Donna’s memory may be made to the Second Chance Animal Shelter, 1779 Vermont Route 7A, Arlington, VT 05270, or the American Heart Association, 4 Atrium Drive #100, Albany, NY 12205.

To express your sympathy or share a memory of Donna, please visit www.gariepyfuneralhomes.com

The McClellan-Gariepy Funeral Home, Inc. in Salem, NY, is assisting the family during this difficult time.