Donna Ann Dean

Donna A. Dean, 57, of Waterford, Michigan, passed away on February 24, 2025. She was born on December 7, 1967, in Pontiac, Michigan, to the late Elvin and Sarah (Crosley) West.

Donna married the love of her life, Ronald Dean, Sr., on May 14, 1993, at the courthouse in Pontiac, Michigan. Theirs was a “when you know, you know” kind of love, and they spent 37 beautiful years together before Ronald’s passing in May 2024. Together, they built a loving family and raised three incredible children: Ashley, Christina, and Ronald Jr.

For 22 years, Donna worked at Toys "R" Us, a fitting job for someone with a heart full of joy and a passion for making people smile. She was the life of the party, always cracking jokes—especially her favorite “Deez Nuts” jokes—whenever she could. Her laughter was contagious, and she had a way of brightening any room she entered.

When she wasn’t making people laugh, Donna enjoyed crocheting blankets, always eager to learn new stitches with her sister. She also cherished time with her beloved dogs, Precious and Bandit.

Above all, Donna was a devoted mother, grandmother, and sister who put family first. She loved nothing more than bringing everyone together, especially around the dinner table. Cooking and baking were her love languages, and her desserts were legendary—a highlight at every family gathering.

Donna’s warmth, humor, and love will be deeply missed by those who knew her. She is survived by her children: Ashley West, Christina (Nate) West, and Ronald J. (Rachel) Dean, Jr.; her grandchildren: Hannah (Marko) Marotz, Hailey Marotz, Hayden (Arianna) Marotz, Ronald Dean III, Ryleigh Dean, and Aniyah West; her great-grandchildren, Storm Hill and Starr Hill; as well as many dear siblings, nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ronald J. Dean, Sr., and her parents, Elvin and Sarah West.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 7, 2025, at Coats Funeral Home (3141 Sashabaw Rd., Waterford, MI 48329) from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A funeral service will take place on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Coats Funeral Home, beginning at 1:00 PM, with visitation prior starting at 12:00 PM. Officiating the services will be Pastor Jack Mannschreck of Central United Methodist Church – Waterford.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Donna’s honor to the Oakland County Humane Society or Detroit Children’s Hospital.

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