Donna Shell

Donna Jean Shell-Gross was born in Lansing, Michigan on July 10, 1925 to Charles and Hazel Binkley. After graduating from Sexton High School, Donna met and married Robert R. “Bob” Shell. Together they had three children. Donna and Bob enjoyed 38 years of marriage until his passing in 1989. Donna met John “Bud” Gross and they were married in 2009 until his passing on January 10, 2021.

Donna spent her career working for the State of Michigan and retired from the Michigan Senate. Donna enjoyed traveling, golf, playing cards, dancing, politics, the Michigan State Spartans and cocktail hour. Donna loved her family and took great pride in spending every holiday together. Donna had a feisty side and loved to laugh. Anyone who knew her will never forget her.

Donna entered eternal life on May 30, 2021 at the age of 95. Her spirit is carried on by her children Diane (Merle) Ross, Chuck (Amy) Shell, Joel (Kathy) Shell, her four granddaughters Stacey (Peter) Dayrell, Stephanie (John) MacLeod, Amanda (Geoff) Reddy and Emily (Brandon) Christopher. Donna was blessed with five great-grandchildren, Hazel, John Luke, August, Juliana and Nora, who put a smile on her face whenever she saw them.

The funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 3, 2021, at the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel. Interment will follow in Deepdale Memorial Gardens, Lansing. Her family will receive relatives and friends beginning at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or Interim Hospice, 1971 E. Beltline Ave. NE, Suite 219, Grand Rapids, MI 49525. (616) 229-0004.