Donna Mae Elliott

Donna Mae Elliott, of White Lake, formerly of Waterford, passed away on September 8, 2025, at 95 years of age.

She was born in Pontiac, Michigan, on November 29, 1929, to her loving parents William Robert Black Aldrich and Helen Correll Aldrich (née Reene). Donna grew up in Pontiac and graduated from Pontiac High School in 1947.

She met the love of her life, H. James Elliott—who had just finished serving in the Navy—on a blind date at Rip’s Restaurant (now known as Heroes). He laid a big ol’ kiss on her that night, and the rest was history. The two were married on July 19, 1952, at the Methodist Church in downtown Pontiac. Later, they became devoted members of Community United Presbyterian Church in Waterford.

Donna was a dedicated and hardworking woman. She worked as a legal secretary both privately and for Oakland County, serving as the executive secretary at the Children’s Village in Oakland County and as the legal secretary in the probate court under Judge Barnard. Her service as a legal professional spanned roughly 30 years. In retirement, she remained active as a realtor and served on the Waterford Township Board of Review.

A woman of deep faith, Donna found joy in giving back. She loved knitting and created "stork blankets" and "prayer bears" for St. John’s Baby Pantry. She also had a passion for travel. She visited all 50 states with her special friend Jim McFarland during retirement and spent time RVing in Mesa, Arizona. Donna also explored Scandinavia and the British Isles with her church group, and she had a special fondness for traveling through Europe.

She leaves behind her beloved children: Lois (Dr. Charles) Graham, Nancy (Donald) Hall, and William (Cecilia) Elliott; her grandchildren: Christopher (Amanda Fogle) Graham, Dr. Holly Graham, Megan (Joe) Thompson, David (Edna) Hall, Hillary Elliott, Brett Elliott, Bryan Elliott, and Abigail Elliott; and great-grandchildren: Alex, Allen, Henry, and Amber.

She was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 46 years, H. James Elliott; her parents; and her brother, Robert (Barbara) Aldrich.

Family will receive friends on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM at Coats Funeral Home – Waterford.

In honor of Donna’s generous and compassionate spirit, donations may be made to St. John’s Baby Pantry, The Salvation Army, or Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

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