A member of America's greatest generation, Carolyn D. Donaldson, 96, of Rochester, was surrounded by her loving family and canine companion Abby when she passed on Saturday morning May 30, 2026, at her home.
In Boone County, Carolyn D. Naylor was born on May 8, 1930. She was the cherished daughter of Earl William and Irene J. Adams Naylor. Growing up, she shared her childhood with an older brother, Donald. It was during her formative years that her strong work ethic was grounded and developed during the great depression. Carolyn graduated with her class in 1948 from North Manchester High School.
On June 10, 1948, Carolyn married her high school sweetheart Devon L. Brubaker in New Paris. They enjoyed 46 years of life's adventures. From their union came 3 wonderful children Janet, Mike and Mark. Carolyn worked as the office manager of the Farm Bureau Lumber Yard in North Manchester for many years. She later oversaw the soil testing lab at the Farm Bureau Feed Mill also in North Manchester. Later she and Devon opened the Miami County Lumber Company in Peru supplying area contractors with building supplies for about decade. Gifted with her hands she also found time to make clothing for the kids and of course Janet's baby dolls. Sadly, Devon passed away from a sudden illness in 1994.
On June 23, 2000, Carolyn married Gary C. Donaldson at Rochester's Trinity United Methodist Church. They enjoyed nearly 26 years together and blended a beautiful family. She and Gary were members of Friends of Sycamore Sam's Camping. They met up with friends at various campgrounds but especially enjoyed camping near the Mentone Airport Campgrounds or the Howard County Fairgrounds.
Each spring Carolyn and Gary planted a large garden. The bountiful harvest was enjoyed by family and special friends. She also loved enhancing the landscape of their home by planting colorful flowers around the border.
Continuing her professional career, Carolyn worked as the bookkeeper at Life Care Center until her retirement. She was also a devoted member of the Trinity United Methodist Church for many years. With a servant's heart Carolyn volunteered as a member of Woodlawn Hospital Auxiliary for over a half century.
As the matriarch of the family, Grandma was proud to oversee her legacy of 5 generations. She was at home in her kitchen command post creating a variety of culinary delights for special events and the holidays. Among her specialties are pies of all types as she made the most tasty crusts using lard! Most in demand were her two types of brownies that she sweetly delivered to her kid's offices for their work family to savor.
Carolyn is lovingly remembered by her husband Gary; children: Janet (Doug) Holcomb, Dr. Michael (Tina) Brubaker, Mark Brubaker all of Rochester, Katheryn (Tom) Books, Beth Ann Ramsey (Companion Alan Hight) all of Peru, Paul Donaldson of Marion and John (Laura) Donaldson of Westfield; 17 Grandchildren: Ashley, Bryan, Matthew & Desiree, Michelle, Michaela & Travis, Dan, Dustin, Andy & Samantha, Vickie, Joe, Mary Ann, Michael, Nicole, Christopher, Jacob; 15 Great-Grandchildren: Everett, Wyatt, Nolan, Courtney, Brantlyn, Madison, Camden, Colton, Treyson, Asa, Evelyn, Isa, Mason, Danny and Austin.
Preceding her in death are Carolyn's parents Earl and Irene Naylor; her husband, Devon Brubaker Nov. 20, 1994; a brother, Donald Naylor; and a daughter-in-law, Shelly Brubaker on June 5, 2023.
A celebration of the life of Carolyn D. Donaldson will be at 10:00 AM EST, Friday June 5, 2026, in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th Street, Rochester. Chaplain Teri White will officiate.
Her family will receive friends on Thursday evening, June 4th from 4:00 - 7:00 PM and an hour prior to her services on Friday.
Burial will follow in North Manchester's Oaklawn Cemetery.
Memorials may be directed to the Trinity United Methodist Church or the Woodlawn Hospital Auxiliary.
