Donna (Sutherland) Beckner

Donna Mae Sutherland Beckner died peacefully on July 14, 2017 in Fitchburg, MA at the age of 85. 

Donna is survived by her two children, Greg Beckner (Judy Griffith) of Cleveland Heights, OH and Beth Newcombe (Scott) of Fitchburg, MA.  She leaves two beautiful grandchildren, Nathan Newcombe of Columbus, OH and Hallie Newcombe of Fitchburg, MA.  Donna is also survived by her two siblings, Jean Sutherland Booth (J. Robert) of Lake Monticello, VA and Jack Sutherland (Sally) of Waynesburg, OH.  She also leaves many nieces and nephews.  She is preceded in death by her husband, Gerald Howard Beckner, born in Grantsville, WV.  

Donna was born on February 8, 1932 in Canton, OH to John and Vesta Sutherland.   She graduated from Hiram College in 1954 with a degree in Elementary Education.  After teaching for a few years she became a professional Girl Scout.  She met her husband through scouting and married in 1959.  They raised their children in Cincinnati, OH, Louisville, KY, Cape Girardeau, MO and Cleveland, OH while Jerry worked for the Boy Scouts of America.  Her love of decorating while working for Home Interiors kept her busy. For almost 27 years in Cleveland, Donna was very active in church and cared for others in her community.  In her late years she moved to Fitchburg, MA to spend time with her daughter and her family. 

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, July 27, 2017at 7:00pm in the Leominster United Methodist Church, Leominster, MA.  A memorial service will also be held on Saturday, August 5, 2017 at 11:00am at Disciples Christian Church, 3663 Mayfield Rd, Cleveland Heights, OH.  A luncheon reception will follow at the church.  A burial service will be held on Sunday, August 6, 2017 at 12:30 at The Beckner Cemetery in Cisco, WVA where she will join her husband, Jerry.   Lunch will follow at the home of Tom and Marilyn Beckner.    All are welcome to attend and celebrate Donna’s life.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Boy Scouts of America.

Aubuchon-Moorcroft Funeral Home, Fitchburg is assisting the family with arrangements.

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