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 โRussell Burgerโ 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.
So sorry to learn of the passing of your loved one,I shall cherish the memories we shared together at Penndot, with Sincere Condolences to the entire family may she sleep in Heavenly peace ๐น๐น
My deepest condolences for the family of Donna praying ๐ for comfort ๐
Sending our deepest condolences to the family. Keeping the family in prayer. Troy and Kim
I'll always hold the bond that we shared close to my heart and your legacy will live on through Brandi. Going to miss you immensely ๐
Sending our deepest condolences to the family.
Our Condolences ๐๐พ to the Brandon Family. โค๏ธ
Sending love and heartfelt condolences from me, Michelle and our family. Even from miles away, we're thinking of you and praying for strength and peace during this time. May you feel surrounded by love and comfort, even in the hardest moments. Love Aunt Elvin, Michelle and family ๐๐พ๐๐พ
Tamera and Norma, GOD bless you all at this most difficult time. Sincerely, Cousin Vikki O'Neal-Brown Felton, Delaware
Condolences to the family. RIH
To Brannden sorry to hear of the passing of your mother. You lived next door to my family in Cole Crest when you were a baby. I will miss the smile you mother had. Praying for you and family during this time. I loved your mother and will not forget her. Love to you and the family.
Mother was such a beautiful person and her smile was contagious my condolences to the family and may she R I P.
My sincere and heartfelt condolences to Donna's Family and all of her close Friends (of which there are MANY). God Bless you Lady and RIP.
My condolences to the family. Sorry for your loss
My prayers and condolences are with you
Condolences to the family. May your happy memories give you peace and comfort during this challenging time. Praying for your family.
CONDOLENCES to the family in this time of grief and give the family strengths to know that she now has her wings.l loved her from the day I met her and she will always be missed by family and friends .I love you my sister in law Frankie Madden Adams
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.