Donna Jeanne Watters Miller

TAVARES, Fla. — Donna Jeanne Watters Miller, 98, formerly of Main Street, Hinsdale, N.Y., and most recently a resident of Alto Senior Living in Tavares, passed away Monday (July 20, 2026).

Donna was born in Bradford, Pa. on Aug. 25, 1927, to David and Doris Potter Watters.

The family lived in Derrick City, Pa., where Donna began school.  When Donna was in fourth grade, the family moved to Rock City, N.Y., where Donna attended a one-room school taught by Mrs. Lillian Payne, a highly regarded individual who prepared her students well for the big leap to high school.

Donna flourished at Olean (N.Y.) High School, playing string bass in the high school orchestra, piano for assembly programs and being active in many other school organizations.  It is believed that Donna was the last surviving member of the Class of 1945.  She remained committed to her alma mater, faithfully attending OHS reunions and serving on her class planning committees.

Following graduation, Donna was employed by AE Ewing Co in Olean. As a result, she never met a hardware store she didn’t like! Donna loved working with the public and was very popular with customers and co-workers.

On Feb. 26, 1950, Donna married William M. Miller at the Hinsdale Methodist Church and moved to Hinsdale. It was in Hinsdale that Donna’s commitment to public service took root.

In 1955, Donna was asked to run for Hinsdale Town Clerk, an office she held for 32 years. Next to her family, the people of Hinsdale were foremost in Donna’s heart and she was most grateful for their loyal support and friendship through the years.

Donna worked tirelessly on behalf of the Democratic Party, serving as an officer and committee person for the Cattaraugus County Democratic Party. She hosted many in-home coffees to promote candidates, planned major fund raising events, circulated petitions, stuffed envelopes and campaigned door to door with candidates to introduce them to the voters of Hinsdale.

From 1976 to 1988, Donna served as executive secretary for New York State Majority Leader Daniel B Walsh, in his Olean office.

Donna is survived by daughters, Michelle (Paul) De Ritter of Eustis and Pamela (John Kenney) Miller of Angelica; and nephew, David McGee of Bristol, Tenn.

She was predeceased by her parents; husband Bill in 1988; and sister, Phyllis Watters McGee in 2012.

A memorial service is planned for Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026, at the Hinsdale Community Church, formerly the Hinsdale Methodist Church.  Donna’s family will be greeting friends beginning at 1 p.m., followed by a service at 2 p.m. Light refreshments and conversation will follow in the church social hall.

Flowers are gratefully declined.  Memorials, if desired, may be made to the Hinsdale Fire Department or the Hinsdale Community Church.