Donna R. Nickeson                    “beloved mother and grandmother”

AUSTIN, PA—Donna R. Nickeson, born January 12, 1949, to Margaret Barr and Harold VanWhy, passed away after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease on Saturday, November 29, 2025.

Donna lived her life with strength, deep love, and unwavering resilience. She faced every hardship with fiery spirit, and her charm touched everyone fortunate enough to know her.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Philip, and by her grandson, Trevor.

Donna is survived by her cherished children:

Jack (Sue) Judlin of Tennessee, parents of Kailyn and Jordan; Jonell (Terry) Judlin of Austin, PA. Her children are Trevor, Lukas, and Becca; Matthew (Jennifer) Nickeson, parents of Cameron, Katie, Brynn, and Hannah; Lukas (Cerissa) Dynda, parents of Jacelyn and Vayla; Becca Dynda is the mother of Trevor and Nash.

Donna’s family was her greatest joy and angst,  and her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who will continue to carry her love and spirit forward.

She will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever loved.

In keeping with her wishes, there will be no services.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Donna’s name may be made to Teacher’s Pet Rescue, 19 Blackberry Lane, Coudersport, PA 16915.

Donna’s family has entrusted her care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.

To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Donna, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.