Donna Marie Chafin
Best remembered for her love of animals and her caring, fun loving and feisty personality
Donna Marie Chafin, who had lived in Chelsea her entire life, died on November 17 at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston following a prolonged illness. She was 55 years old.
A native of Winthrop, she was one of ten children born to the late Ralph and June (Morico) Chafin. Donna was married to Bonnie Freda, her wife and closest companion. She completed her education at local schools and worked as a waitress for local catering companies.
Throughout her life, Donna found joy in day trips and board games, played in local softball leagues, and followed tennis and sports of all kinds. Known as a self-proclaimed “Miss Fix-It,” she spent her time restoring everything from jewelry to small appliances. Those who knew her treasured her devotion to animals along with her caring, fun loving and feisty nature.
Donna was preceded in death by her parents, her infant son David Sean Chafin who was 5-month old, her sister Shelia Chafin, and two brothers, Wayne Morico and Ralph Chafin. She leaves behind her wife of 27 years, Bonnie Freda; three sisters, Doreen Petterson, Shirley Chafin and Sharon Chafin-Mells; and three brothers, Jimmy, Charlie and Leo Chafin. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.
The Frank A. Welsh & Sons Funeral Home in Chelsea is handling arrangements. A Funeral Mass and inurnment at Woodlawn Cemetery will be scheduled for a later date.