Farmington, NH

Donna J. Chesley, 90, of Farmington, NH, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2026, at the Studley Home in Rochester, NH, surrounded by her loving children.

She was born on April 26, 1935, in Farmington, NH, where she was raised. One of eleven children, she was the daughter of James Hoage, Jr. and Lucille Frances (Hatch) Hoage.

Donna married the love of her life, Norman Chesley Jr., on January 14, 1956. Together they shared 42 years of marriage and raised their four children in their home on Main Street.

Donna took great pride in being a devoted homemaker, caring for her children and later her grandchildren, who brought her immense joy.

Together Donna and Norman enjoyed summer camping trips, especially to Camp Eaton in York, ME and spending 11 winters in Florida. She loved playing bingo—whether the prizes were money or candy—and cherished time spent socializing with her many friends, especially during weekly lunches and dinners. She looked forward to spring and summer yard sales each year. Above all, Donna treasured family gatherings, birthday celebrations, holidays, and Sunday dinners.

Donna will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and a dear friend to many.

She is survived by her daughters, Bonnie Park and Deborah Gordon and her husband, Mark; her son, Norman Chesley; her brother, Edward Hoage; her five grandchildren, Michael Gordon, Michelle Gordon, Ashley Davis, Nicholas Chesley, and Jenna Chesley; and her eight great-grandchildren, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her parents; her beloved husband, Norman; her daughter, Pamela Chesley; her son-in-law, Mitchell Park; her five brothers, Richard, James, Raymond, Donald, and Newell Hoage; and her four sisters, Jeanette Congran, Lillian Smith, Betty Carpenter, and Helen Hoage.

Donna’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff at the Studley Home, as well as Cornerstone VNA Hospice, for the exceptional care and compassion shown to her.

A calling hour will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Peaslee Funeral Home, 24 Central Street, Farmington, NH. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m., with interment at Pine Grove Cemetery in Farmington.