Rev. Donna G. Ives

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Rev. Donna Grow Ives, who left us on May 6, 2025, at the age of 81. Donna was born on November 16, 1943, in Bradford, PA, to loving parents Geneva and Thomas Grow. She spent her formative years in Leverett, MA, alongside her cherished siblings, Julie Collier and Thomas Grow Jr.

Donna pursued her passion for education, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of Massachusetts. On April 10, 1964, Donna married her high school sweetheart, Richard Ives, and together they built a beautiful life and family in Bethany, CT, where they lovingly raised their three children: Jonathan, Emily, and Andrew. Many cherished summer days were spent at Peck Pond, where Donna served as a lifeguard and water safety instructor, creating lasting memories with her family.

Donna was deeply involved in the Bethany Congregational Church, where she felt a calling for a second career in ministry. She earned a Master of Divinity from Andover Newton Theological School and was ordained by the United Church of Christ. Donna served as the devoted pastor of First Congregational Church of Derby where she touched countless lives with her compassion and spiritual guidance until her retirement in 2011.

In retirement, Donna and Richard enjoyed their years together in Spring Hill, FL, where Donna remained active in the Spring Hill United Church of Christ. After Richard's passing, Donna returned to New England, finding solace and community as a proud resident of Mallard Mill at Elim Park.

Donna's love extended beyond her human family to the many pets she and Richard cared for over the years, including numerous cats and dogs. They also fostered dogs through Labs for Rescue for many years in Bethany, providing loving homes for animals in need.

Above all, Donna's greatest joy was her family, particularly her six wonderful grandchildren: Matthew, Christopher, Catherine, Daniel, Tyler, and Gregory. She delighted in watching them grow and develop, always offering her unwavering love and support.

Donna is survived by her sister Julie, as well as her children and their spouses: Sara Ives (Jonathan), Josh Ziac (Emily), and Amy Dawson (Andy). Her legacy of love, faith, and dedication to her family and community will forever be remembered and cherished by all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

A memorial service to celebrate Donna's life will be held at Nelson Hall at Elim Park in Cheshire, CT on Saturday May 31st at 11 AM with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Labs4rescue.

May her soul rest in eternal peace.