Donna Lee Forty

Donna Lee Forty, strong willed, determined, committed family member and friend and passionate about life, passed away on December 16,2021 at the Jack Byrne Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire after a short illness.

Donna was born on December 23, 1942, in Bellows Falls, Vermont to Robert and Ona Brooks Forty.   She lived most of her life in Barton Vermont and attended Barton Academy graduating in 1960.  After graduation, Donna attended Elie Academy of Cosmetology and worked in Brattleboro Vermont for many years.  In addition, Donna enjoyed working in her family greenhouse business in Hinsdale, New Hampshire.  Upon returning to the Northeast Kingdom, she worked at Slalom Skiwear in Newport.

Donna enjoyed going to yard sales no matter where she was at any time.  She purchased items from Florida to Vermont and often sold pieces at her consignment booths.  Likewise, there was never a garden stand that she came upon that she did not stop and purchase local produce.  At times she would travel many miles for a specific product.  When asparagus were in season, she would often travel to Massachusetts to buy a substantial amount to enjoy and share with her friends.   Donna demonstrated exceptional skills in the kitchen.  She always looked forward to cooking up a storm for family at holiday gatherings and creating delicious entrees.  Her interest in cooking also resulted in her extensive collection of menus from eating establishments she frequented all over the country.

Donna is survived by her mother, Ona Forty of Barton, Vermont; her sister Connie Whigham and her husband Bill of South Hadley, Massachusetts; her niece Tonya Rhae Whigham of Manassas, Virginia and an aunt and several cousins.

She was predeceased by her father Robert Forty.

If Donna were here today, she would leave you with her usual parting words: "And you have a better tomorrow".

A celebration of Donna's life will be held in the Spring at the convenience of the family.  Donations can be made in her name to an animal rescue organization of your choice or the Orleans Ambulance, 1 Memorial Square, Orleans, Vermont, 05860. On-line condolences at curtis-britch.com.  Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Curtis-Britch & Bouffard Funeral Home & Cremation Service, locally family owned and operated.