Donna Cynthia Lyga, 73, passed away peacefully at Saint Francis Hospital, surrounded by her loving niece, Lauren.

Donna was born in Waterbury, Connecticut, to Harry and Elizabeth (Liz) Lyga. She graduated from Thomaston High School with the Class of 1971. She attended Central Connecticut State University, earning her Bachelor of Science in Education in 1975. She began her career as a teacher in Nebraska before returning to Connecticut, where she continued her education at CCSU and earned a degree in computer science.

Donna spent 39 years working at Epicor, where she built a long and successful career as a senior support analyst and formed friendships that became a meaningful part of her life. She cared deeply about the people around her, and her kindness, generosity, and willingness to help others touched countless lives.

Giving back to her community was simply part of who Donna was. She generously volunteered her time with the Thomaston Library, Thomaston Opera House, and Thomaston Fire Department. She also spent countless hours baking for community events, always happy to share her time and talents with others.

Donna had a special love for dogs, who brought her great comfort, companionship, and joy throughout her life. She especially adored her Welsh Terrier, Jiminey, who was her devoted companion and held a very special place in her heart. The bond they shared was truly precious, and Jiminey was a cherished part of Donna’s life. Her love for him reflected her caring nature.

Donna was a woman of many talents and interests. She had a natural gift for sewing and was a talented seamstress. She also enjoyed playing tennis as a hobby and treasured the time she spent on the court. She loved her garden and spent her summers tending to it, always proud to have fresh tomatoes on hand to share.

Donna especially loved the holidays—not only for the traditions, but for the opportunity to bring people together. Her home was always warm and welcoming, and her holiday dinners were filled with good food, laughter, and family. For Donna, being together with the people she loved was what mattered most.

Those who knew Donna will remember her beautiful smile, her warmth, her generous heart, and the way she made everyone feel welcome. She had a quiet way of making a difference in the lives of others, never seeking recognition for all that she did. She gave her time, her talents, and her love freely.

Above all, Donna treasured her family. She especially cherished the time she spent with her great-nephew, Alexander Lapp, who brought her tremendous joy. Her love for her family was evident in all that she did, and the memories she created with them will be treasured forever.

Donna is survived by her sister Elizabeth and brother-in-law, Michael Cerwinka; her sister Joanne Lytle; and sister-in-law, Marty Lyga; nieces Lauren Lyga, Jessica Lyga, and another niece who wishes to remain anonymous; nephews Seth Lytle, Craig Lytle and his partner Danielle Robinson, and Justin Lyga; great-nephews Carter Lytle and Alexander Lapp; her best friend since first grade, Bev Aubrey; and many other loving family members and friends.

She was predeceased by her parents, Harry and Liz Lyga; her brothers, Peter and Harry Lyga; her brother-in-law Frank Lytle and her nephews, Mark Lytle and Paul Lyga.

Donna leaves behind a lifetime of kindness, laughter, friendship, and love. Her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her, but so will the warmth of the memories she gave us. Her smile, generous spirit, love of family, and caring heart will remain with us always.

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in our hearts.