Donna Lee Madden

Obituary For Donna Lee Madden

Donna Lee Madden, the daughter of the late Samuel E. Colbert ll and Jean Colbert-Dickey, was born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

She received her formal education in the Steelton Public School District. After a dedicated career, she retired from The Commonwealth of PA Department of Transportation. She also spent several years working in her father's business establishment "Russell's Roller Bar" where she perfected her locally renowned “Russell Burger” recipe.

Donna Lee Also spent time lovingly as a Babysitter out of her home, where she specialized in Potty Training.

Donna was a proud mother, devoted to her four sons, Delmar L. Madden, Sr. (Toni) of Harrisburg, PA, the late Dwayne Gerard Madden, Brandon L. Madden, Sr. (Tyra) of Steelton, PA and the late Carlton L. Madden.

She was adored by her many grand and great-grandchildren who affectionately referred to her as simply, "Gram".

She was one of eleven blended siblings that made up the Colbert-Hailey Clan, Roz, Scat, Lena, Sam, Terry, Sue, Tammy, Donna, Dacey, Ronnie and Norma. As well, she was beloved by her multitude of nieces and nephews that loving called her "Aunnie Lee".

Donna Lee was a devoted lifetime member of New Hope Living Baptist Church in Steelton, PA. Where she served faithfully under the leadership of the late Scott A. White, Sr., the late John White, Sr. and William T. Rucker. Donna served in the Culinary Ministry alongside her besties, Florence Spencer, Norma Burnett and Sharon Neal to name a few.

As her health became an issue it became more convenient for her to attend church services at Full Harvest Ministries under the Leadership of her son, Brandon L. Madden, Sr. While at Full Harvest, she served as a Church Mother alongside her sisters, Tamera, Norma and Lena.

In her spare time Donna was an avid sports fan rooting for the Steel High Rollers, Pittsburg Steelers and her grandkids. She also loved cooking for her family, any and everything that was requested on demand.

She was a superstar at family birthday parties with her standard menu of Chicken Salad, Sloppy Joes, Pickled Eggs, Middleswarth Chips and Green (Not Lime) Kool Aid.

She looked forward every year to going Black Friday shopping with her nieces. She loved spending hours in stores shopping, even though she never held a state driver's license. Whoever was her ride had to just have patience while she talked to everyone in the store.

One thing that will truly be missed is how she would make a point to be the first person to call family members to sing Happy Birthday every year.

In her Steelton, PA home on Sunday May 4, 2025, 8 days before her 80th birthday, Donna Lee Madden's spirit was blessed to depart her earthly vessel.

Her life will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on her birthday, Monday, May 12, 2025 in the Sanctuary of her church, New Hope Living Baptist Church, 395 S. 2nd Street, Steelton with viewing and visitation from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. and burial in William Howard Day Cemetery.

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