Dona J. James 1930-2025

Dona was born Aug. 3, 1930, in Youngstown, the daughter of Frederick and Anona Wilson Puscher.

She had worked for the Mahoning County Health Department as a secretary for two years before marrying Daniel R. James on July 1, 1950.

She was a member of Church Hill United Methodist Church for many years.

Dona enjoyed traveling, making ceramics, sewing and baking, but the most enjoyment in her life was her family, as she was a loving homemaker to her husband and children.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her children, Dennis R. (Janet) James of Allen, Texas, and Catharine (Rick) Ware of Barberton; grandchildren, Lynn (John) Moran, Andrew ( Laurie) James, Daniel (Melissa) Knupp, Mathew (Trisha) James, Jennifer (Mitchell) Oldaker, Mark (Sarah) Herold and Amy (Shane) Yates; 17 great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Deanna (William) James Wilson.

Besides her parents, Dona was preceded in death by her husband, Daniel R. James, who passed Nov. 4, 2002; her sister, Elaine Rimer; and brother, Fred Puscher.

A memorial service will be held 5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025, at Blackstone Funeral Home, where visitation will be from 3 p.m. until the time of service.

The family would like to thank Assumption Nursing Home for the kindness and compassion that was given to their mother, and Dr. John Gianetti for his many years of concern and devotion to Dona. They would also like to extend their thanks to Harmony Hospice for the compassion and respectful care given to Dona.

(special notice)