Donna Jean Rowe
Donna Jean Rowe, of Portsmouth, passed away at the age of 81 on Wednesday, May 4, 2022 at
the SOMC Hospice House. Donna was born October 16, 1940 in Portsmouth and was a 1958
graduate of Portsmouth East High School. After graduation, Donna went on to study at the
Mercy Hospital CLA program, Marshall University, and then the Virginia School of Medicine
where she received a Master’s Degree in Medical Technology. Returning home, she worked at
Southern Hills Hospital in Portsmouth as Lab Director then finished her career at Scioto
Memorial/SOMC where she retired in 2010 with over 50 years of hospital laboratory service.
When she was younger, Donna was an avid golfer who participated in many regional golf
tournaments. She was a member of Sciotoville Christian Church. Donna was a great writer who
loved to study the Bible. Although she never wanted recognition, Donna was a very giving
person who often helped others with financial matters or cards of encouragement.
Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Marie Margaret Gleim Rowe and Reed Palmer
Rowe of Sciotoville and Great Nephew Scott Brennan Morgan and a dear friend Ina Jane Bowen
of Portsmouth. She is survived by a brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Darlene Rowe of
Huntsville, Alabama, two nieces Sheri Morgan and Lisa East (Jeff), of Huntsville, Alabama, an
adopted nephew Scott Mays of Wheelersburg and Great Nephews Matthew Reed Morgan,
Benjamin Blake East, Austin Cory East, Collin Daniel East, and Great Nieces, Stephanie Grace
Morgan and Shelby Nicole East.
A celebration of life will be held to honor Donna at a graveside service in Sunset Memorial
Gardens in Franklin Furnace under the direction of D.W. SWICK FUNERAL HOME Wheelersburg on Monday, May 9, 2022 at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, donations may
be sent to SOMC Hospice.
