Donna L. Cornellier

AYER: Donna Louise Cornellier of Ayer, MA passed away on Saturday October 12, 2024 after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s at the age of 79. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend who brought joy and laughter to all who knew her. Donna is survived by her husband Charles Edward Cornellier, her two daughters Cathy Pauly (husband Eric), Cindy Testa (husband Brian) and her grandchildren Mackenzie, Thomas & Jonathan Pauly and Lily & Ella Testa. She is also survived by her two brothers-in-law, Terrence Cornellier and Francis Callahan, and her nephews Michael Callahan and Mark Callahan and niece Betsy Amenta. She was predeceased by her parents she was born to, Don and Louise Benz, and June Benz. While her father served with the Coast Guard, she was born in Cambridge, MA on March 30, 1945. The family returned to the Midwest where Donna spent her childhood in Iowa. She graduated from Ottumwa High School and attended the University of Iowa. Donna returned to the East Coast when she transferred to Boston University where she earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree and began her career as an actuary at John Hancock insurance. She later pursued her Master’s in Education at Fitchburg State University. . Donna met her husband of 52 years while teaching at Ayer Jr. High school; she taught math and Eddie taught science. After they had children, Donna switched gears and was proud to work in adult education. Donna spent many years on Ft. Devens helping English language learners, taught courses with Mt. Wachusett Community college and spent over 15 years working with the Massachusetts Department of Education when she finally retired in 2015. She was very passionate about helping others. Beyond her professional achievements, Donna valued time spent with family and friends. Her love for her daughters and their friends got her actively involved in many school, athletic, band & girl scout programs. Donna organized and distributed thousands of cases of girl scout cookies out of her garage. She chaperoned band trips to Disney World, Virginia Beach, Niagara Falls and local parades in South Boston and Worcester, MA. Donna led fundraising to ensure everyone had the opportunity to participate in trips; she even brought a circus to town, elephant and all! Class and team events were often held at the house; hundreds of hamburgers and hotdogs were grilled in the backyard over the years. Donna enjoyed many hobbies including playing bridge & mahjong, golfing, skiing, and traveling near and far. When not on the go, Donna loved to sit and relax on the family shore of Sandy Pond. Known for her strong will and take-charge attitude, there weren’t many things Donna wouldn’t take on, but she had a genuine soft spot for her closest friends. It didn’t take long for the laughter and cackles to fill the room when Donna and her friends gathered. Donna’s memory will live on in the stories shared by those fortunate to call her a friend. We are grateful to the staff at RiverCourt Residences for the love and care Donna received while living there and the support we received during her final days. The staff treated Donna like she was a family member. The family will receive family and friends on Thursday, October 17, 2024 from 4-7 at the Anderson Funeral Home, 25 Fitchburg Road, (Rte. 2A) Ayer. A memorial service and burial to celebrate Donna’s life will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to RiverCourt Residences, c/o Donna Cornellier Holiday Fund, 8 West Main Street Groton MA 01450 or the Alzheimer’s Association.

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Donna L. Cornellier

March 30, 1945 - October 12, 2024