Janet Joyce Donaldson

Janet Joyce Donaldson, a beloved mother, sister, and friend, went peacefully to her eternal rest on July 7, 2026, at the age of 80. Born on October 22, 1945, in the heartland of Oklahoma, Janet was the cherished daughter of Lillie Mae Stone. She was predeceased by her dear son, Curtis Crosby, whose memory she held close to her heart throughout her life. Janet's journey was one of strength, resilience, and unwavering faith. She grew up in a loving family and excelled in her studies, graduating from McCylomonds High School in Oakland. Her career began humbly as a custodian at Hewlett-Packard, where her dedication and hard work saw her advance to the position of a PC inspector. After 12 years of valued service, she retired from the company, leaving behind a legacy of diligence and integrity. A devoted member of My Sini Baptist Church in Sacramento, California, Janet found joy and purpose in serving her community. She was an active participant in the church’s women’s ministry and made significant contributions to the food pantry program, embodying the spirit of kindness and generosity. Janet cherished the summer picnics at the church, where her warmth and laughter were a blessing to all who knew her. Janet’s life was enriched by her deep love for her family. She is survived by her loving daughters, Althea Smith and Teresa Patterson, her son Robert Donaldson, her sister Kathy Manning, and her brother Mark Jones. She was a proud grandmother to nine grandchildren and a great-grandmother to seven great-grandchildren, each of whom brought immense joy to her life. Janet's marriage to Robert Donaldson, though it ended in divorce, was a chapter in her life that brought her one of her greatest joys, her son. Her family remembers her as a pillar of support, a source of wisdom, and a beacon of love. In her leisure, Janet found solace in the pages of her Bible and the fellowship of her church community. Though she never partook in drinking, she cherished the camaraderie of the beer busts at her workplace, where she enjoyed the company of her colleagues. As we celebrate Janet’s life, we are reminded of her compassion, her dedication to service, and her unwavering faith. Her love and kindness have left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing. She was the matriarch of our family, as like a mother to relatives of our family. Janet Joyce Donaldson will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love and service will continue to inspire all who knew her. May she rest in peace, enveloped in the love and grace she so freely shared with the world.