4800 E Indian School Rd
Phoenix, AZ 85018
DONNELLY, LYNDSAY CARLENE
Lyndsay Carlene Donnelly (née Reeves), was born on November 19, 1956 in Lubbock Texas. She was raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where she would later meet her spouse of 35 years, Matthew George Donnelly, while he was stationed at Kirtland Air Force Base. They met June 11, 1982, and were married in 1983. In keeping with her lifelong theme of being unique and special, they had two weddings; April 1, 1983 (civil ceremony) and again on July 30, 1983 (Catholic Church). Lyndsay had a zest for life most people only dream of. Lyndsay was enigmatic and magnetic; a very independent and strong woman. She was vibrant and radiant, and wore colors to match her warm personality and spirit. She lived life on her own terms and in her own unique way, never letting anyone dictate her choices – always staying true to herself. She taught her children to live fearlessly and to embrace their individuality and dreams. She brought joy and wisdom to everyone she met. Her beautiful smile would light up a room and leave an impression. People were drawn to her, and she had an uncommon ability to make each person who got to know her feel uniquely important and special. She always made time for others and was quick to lend a helping hand, constantly teaching those in her life to be joyful and grateful – to maintain an attitude of gratitude. She had a habit of leaving written affirmations throughout her house to see every day. She was a big proponent of standing up for what is right and standing up for others, even if it meant standing alone. Lyndsay was an avid reader and would always want to learn new skills. She was talented in everything she did and tried. She loved to cook from scratch, and enjoyed cooking for others and sharing her recipes with others. She knew how to sew so well that she sewed her wedding gown, the bridesmaids’ dresses, all of the children’s Halloween costumes throughout their childhood, dance costumes from high school, and she would hem the occasional skirt or pants for her children once they were grown and in the professional world. When she worked, she would always be one of the best employees at that company, and she would whip others quickly into shape, teaching them the “Lyndsay Donnelly way” of being thorough and organized. Lyndsay enjoyed spending time with friends and loved meeting new people. She loved to “hang out,” as she would call it, and she preferred spontaneity. She absolutely loved living in Phoenix, Arizona since her arrival in 2009, and she was the happiest she had ever been. During her last few years, she would travel with her husband and enjoyed vacationing. She also loved going to church and spending time with her prayer group. During a planned vacation, Lyndsay Donnelly passed away on May 20, 2018 in Harlingen, Texas after a month-long stay in the hospital there. The world is less bright without her exuberance and she will be missed. She is survived by her spouse, Matthew George Donnelly, and her four children: Rhiannon C. Gardier (Bernard), Francis M. Donnelly (Karissa), Octavia L. Martinez (Antonio), and Trevor R. Donnelly (Vanessa). She is also survived by her mother, Betty M. McKinney (née Washington). Additionally, she is survived by her five grandchildren: Giancarleau, Cleopatra, Mariana, MaKahlyn, and Ezra. She was preceded in death by her father, Donald Everett Reeves, and her two sisters, Donna (called Elaine) and Veronica.
She sounded like such a wonderful person. I wish I could have met her, as I am certain she would have brought even more light into my life as well. Please accept my deepest condolences.
Mrs. Donnelly and I really connected a few years back. I was battling ankle issues and a few other health problems. She would share with me a lot of new information and things I have done to improve my life over the last few years. She was extremely supportive and was always a blessing to be around. I am grateful for her family that I have been lucky to know for 20 years. She is sorely missed, thank you for being you Mrs. Donnelly!
Aunt Lyndsay it was a treasure to be your niece. The world shines a little less brighter but I know you’re right here next to us, and that our happiness and love is still shared with you through spirit. One day we will meet again, until then take care and enjoy yourself as you always did.
Prayers for the Donnelly and Reeves families. I’m deeply sorry for your loss!
Mama Donnelly (as I would sometimes call her) was a wealth of knowledge. She was always so willing to teach what she knew. Always a joy, she will be missed.
Mama Donnelly as I’d call her – Lyndsay was a kind, charismatic and extremely loving lady. She treated me like a part of the extended family and always kept in touch with me even when life got busy. She gave me great advice and I always looked forward to hearing from her. She will be greatly missed, sending the Donnelly family all of my love and condolences.
I feel honored to have met your mom, Octavia and am extremely sorry for your loss. She has been blessed with the prospect of a resurrection because of her deep faith in the Biblical hope.
Sending love to the Donnelly family and friends, most especially my sorority sister Octavia! She was recently there for me from a distance to help comfort me after my mother’s death in February. Very saddened that she and her family must endure this pain because she lived her life here full of love and compassion! Having known Octavia for many years, I now see where she gets her personality from! Hugging you all and prayers for comfort during this tough time! Love from Philadelphia…
We send our sympathies, prayers and love to the family. She sounds like such a beautiful lady. May she rest in peace. She will be missed.
Lyndsay’s bright smile and love for Jesus, her family and friends was evident from the first day we meet in Prayer Group. She was so smart, energetic, inquisitive, sincere, and loving. She will be missed. What an amazing woman. So sorry for your loss. Sincere blessings to you all during these days of sorrow.
Dear Octavia,
Please accept my most heartfelt condolences on the passing of your mother. Although I know your mom through being Facebook friends, I know her character through you. I pray that during the next few months you and your family receive peace and comfort as you grieve. If you are in need of anything please contact me.
With Love,
Melanie
Receive condolences and prayer from the Tia’s Sofi and Juani.
My condolences to Octavia Donnelly, whom I personally know, and her family in this time of mourning. I know that Mrs. Donnelly must have been an amazing woman as she raised an amazing daughter. May God comfort you and give you the strength as you mourn her incredible life.
In Christ and in His love for us-
Julie
Thank you for sharing such a wonderful and colorful obituary—unlike any I’ve ever read, which is fitting for Lyndsay. A true original.
Eternal memory and blessed repose,
Nora Peralta
Lyndsay was one of the most precious and special people in my life. I am truly blessed to have had her as my dear friend for so many years. She was loyal, loving, funny, smart and just bursting with a zest for life. She is greatly missed by all who’s lives she touched. Please take comfort in knowing that even though you can’t see her, she is with you and watching over you. She will always live on in your memories but most importantly in your heart. May you Rest In Peace dear friend.
Lyndsay and I met in college in 1977 and our connection was immediate. We have been sisters ever since. There were many years when we lost touch after college but we would always find each other again, and pick up right where we left off. We love each other very much and that will never change. Lyndsay is burned into my heart forever. I was blessed to spend the last 2 days of my wonderful friend’s time here at her bedside with her family. I am so grateful to Matthew, Rhiannon, Francis, Octavia, and Trevor for sharing that time with me. I love all of you very much.
Lyndsay and I met at college in Las Cruces, NM IN 1977. We clicked immediately and were pretty much inseparable from then on. She was one of the strongest, sweetest, most loyal and loving people I’ve ever known. Over the years we lost touch several times but always found each other again, and would pick up right where we left off! She was truly my sister, and we loved each other very much. I’m so grateful that I was blessed to spend the last 2 days of her time here, with her and her family. Thank you Matt, Rhiannon, Octavia, Francis, and Trevor for sharing that time with me. I love you all very much.