Donna M. Panetta, age 70, of Frankford, DE, formerly of Philadelphia, PA, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at Beebe Healthcare in Lewes, DE.

Donna was born in Philadelphia, PA, on December 11, 1955, to the late Norman Wolf and the late Dorothy (Locke) Wolf. She spent many years working as a preschool teacher in the Philadelphia area before making the move to the beach full-time in 2008.

Donna had a gift for making people feel welcome and was happiest when she was surrounded by family and friends. She loved to laugh, share stories, and make memories with the people she cared about. A member of the Mason Dixon VFW Post 7234 Auxiliary in Ocean View, DE, Donna embraced the friendships and activities that brought so much joy to her life. She especially enjoyed water aerobics, Zumba, her book club, and playing mahjong with her friends.

Those who knew Donna will remember her warm heart, her love of people, and her ability to make even ordinary moments special. But above all, Donna treasured her family. Her greatest joy was the time she spent with those she loved, and she leaves behind many cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

In addition to her parents, Donna was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Jennifer Maszlanka, in 2018.

Donna is survived by her loving husband of nearly 43 years, Vincent J. Panetta; her stepson, James Panetta of Philadelphia, PA; her stepdaughter, Míchele Monaghan of Havertown, PA; and her four grandchildren, Zachary Maszlanka of New York City, NY, Alexandria Maszlanka of Philadelphia, PA, Michael Monaghan of Havertown, PA, and Anthony Maszlanka of Marlton, NJ.

Donna’s family will forever carry with them the love, laughter, friendship, and countless memories she gave so generously throughout her life. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM on Thursday, October 1, 2026 at St. Ann Catholic Church, 691 Garfield Parkway, Bethany Beach, DE, where friends and family may gather after 10 AM.

A graveside service will be held at 12 Noon on Friday, October 2, 2026 at Resurrection Cemetery, 5201 Hulmeville Road, Bensalem, PA 19020.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Donna’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by visiting www.stjude.org.

Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com