NEW ULM–Donna Marie Parrish, age 86 of New Ulm died on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at her home in New Ulm.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 23, 2025, at the Minnesota Valley Funeral Home-South Chapel in New Ulm with a luncheon reception to follow.

Visitation will take place from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. on Sunday at the funeral home prior to the service.

To leave an online condolence for her family, or to sign the guestbook, go to: mvfh.org

Donna is survived by her daughter, Debbi Davis of New Ulm; her son, Robert “Mike” Sherman of Spokane, Washington; her 8 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren; her sisters, June (Wayne) Freeberg of Galena, Illinois, Jean Hayes of Washington; her brother, Bill (Debbie) Johnson of North Carolina; and many other nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Jerry Sherman in 1999; her second husband, John Parrish in 2020; her sister, Mona Grover; and her brothers, Dale, and Ronald Johnson.

Donna Marie Johnson was born on November 22, 1939, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Leonard and Lucille (Miller) Johnson. Growing up in Minneapolis, Donna was a 1957 graduate from South High School. Early in her career, Donna worked for the City of Scottsdale, Arizona, in Data Processing, where she developed a reputation for being detail-oriented and dependable. She later returned to Minnesota and continued her career with Northwestern National Bank in Minneapolis before eventually heading back to Arizona. There, she worked as a secretary for Rural Metro and later for several savings and loan companies in Scottsdale. Throughout her life, Donna called many places home, including Arizona, Montana, and Colorado. After many years in the Southwest, Donna retired to Minnesota to be closer to her family, something that meant the world to her.

Donna found joy in life’s quieter moments. She loved keeping her hands busy with jigsaw puzzles and her mind sharp with crossword puzzles. Starting the day with a nice cup of coffee, and finishing her day with a good book was her favorite way to relax. While living in Arizona, she was active in the local Jaycees and deeply involved with her church community, always giving her time and energy to the people around her.

Donna had a natural gift for caring for others. Whether it was family, friends, or neighbors, she was always looking out for someone, offering help before anyone had to ask. She found purpose in being there for others and took pride in making life easier for the people she loved. More than anything, Donna loved her family. Her greatest pride and joy came from being a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, as she was affectionately known as “Nana” to many. She cherished every visit, every laugh, and every milestone shared with her loved ones.

Donna will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her caring heart, and the love she gave so freely. Her life was the kind that leaves a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Though she will be deeply missed, her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends. Blessed be her memory.

Mvfh.org

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