Dear Friends,

Many of you have already heard the heartbreaking news, but I wanted to reach out personally to those who knew and loved my Mom, Donna.

The week before her passing, we celebrated a wonderful Mother’s Day together. The following Monday, May 18th, was my birthday. It was simply a normal day spent with Mom, laughing, talking, and enjoying time together, as we often did. She was healthy, vibrant, and fully herself.

The next morning, completely out of nowhere, we found ourselves in the ER. Mom suffered a sudden aortic dissection and was gone within just a few hours. These events are rare, unpredictable, and often impossible to prevent. No one saw this coming.

I was with her as she left this world, and while the shock and grief are still very real, I am deeply grateful that I was by her side.

The outpouring of love, messages, calls, meals, flowers, donations, and support from so many people has meant more than I can express. It has truly helped soothe what often feels impossible to soothe.

Donna was vibrant, intelligent, funny, creative, loving, and deeply connected to people wherever she went. She had a gift for making others feel seen and welcomed. She loved her island community and carried genuine curiosity and kindness throughout her life.

For me, she was much more than my mother. She was my inspiration, champion, confidante, and biggest cheerleader. She is a large part of the reason I became the artist, activist, entrepreneur, and community-builder I am today. She encouraged me to dream boldly, create beauty, care deeply, and keep going even when life became difficult.

As many of you know, Mom and I were incredibly close. The ache of losing her is profound, yet I continue to feel her love, wisdom, humor, and spirit with me every day.

One unexpected source of comfort has been Mom’s beloved cat, Shadow. The two of us are finding our way together through this shared grief and transition. In many ways, Shadow feels like one final gift from Mom, a daily reminder of her love, companionship, and the home we shared.

We will be gathering next Saturday to celebrate Donna’s life, and I would love for those whose lives she touched to join us if you are able. If you have photos, stories, memories, or would like to help with the celebration, please reach out. We are gathering images and stories for a slideshow and remembrance display, and every contribution is welcome.

We are hanging in there, one day at a time, and your support continues to carry us forward.

With gratitude and love,

Pam

In loving memory of Donna

Cards, photos, memories, and correspondence may be sent to:

Family of Donna Brockway

c/o Pam Hoke 550 University Rd #9 Friday Harbor, WA 98250