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1938-2026
WELLSVILLE -- Donna Lee Robinson Smith, 87, of Wellsville, passed away Friday, Aug. 21, 2026, at her home surrounded by her loving family.
She was born Dec. 13, 1938, in McGrann, Pennsylvania, the daughter of the now deceased Raymond and Leona Robinson.
She leaves behind her husband, Richard "Dave" Smith, her high school sweetheart and the love of her life. They were married for 62 years. Also surviving are her children: Ann (Russ Raley) Bobalik of East Liverpool and Dave (Michelle) Smith of Wellsville; three granddaughters: Alexandra (Joe Scorse) Bobalik, Emma Smith, and Jennifer (John) Traina; three great-grandchildren: Vayda and Brooklyn Traina, and Hugo Scorse, as well as several nieces and nephews.
Donna was preceded in death by three sisters: Evelyn (George) Curry of Columbia, S.C., Jean (Tom) Dickey of Chester, and Sue (Joe) Hall of Las Vegas, Nevada.
She lived in the area most of her life and graduated from Wells High School in Newell, W.Va., in 1956. She was Christian by faith and an active member of the Newell First Church of Christ.
Donna graduated from the East Liverpool City Hospital Training School for Nurses Diploma Program in 1959. Upon graduation, she left the area and was employed as a nurse at Cincinnati University Hospital, San Francisco University Hospital, and St. Francis Hospital in San Francisco. She returned to East Liverpool, married her husband in 1964, and was employed by East Liverpool City Hospital from 1963 until the mid-1980s, working as a staff nurse on the obstetrical unit and the critical care unit. She also worked as a nursing supervisor, assistant vice president of nursing, and interim vice president of nursing. Donna was the first nurse at East Liverpool City Hospital to become certified by the American Nurses Association, receiving certification in nursing administration. She left the hospital and temporarily worked as a school nurse in Wellsville, filling in for the regular nurse who was on leave. She then was employed by the Ohio Valley College of Technology as an instructor teaching medical and dental associates. During that time, she was recognized by her peers as instructor of the year.
She was a past member of the American Heart Association, where she served as secretary of the county association, chaired fundraisers, and taught CPR classes for several years.
Donna loved nursing and was always willing to help others with medical needs and support, even when not employed as a nurse. Along with her husband, Donna enjoyed going to yard sales and auctions. She also loved to play Bingo with her dear friend, Fran Deem.
Above all else, she loved Jesus and her family.
The funeral service will be held at 6 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 28, 2026, at the Roberts Funeral Home with Pastor David Strum of the church officiating.
Burial will be in Shadow Lawn Memorial Gardens.
Family and friends may visit from 4 to 6 p.m. on Friday at the Roberts Funeral Home, 631 Main St. in Wellsville.
In lieu of flowers, Donna requested that any donations in her memory be sent to: Newell First Church of Christ, 319 Washington Street, Newell, WV 26050; or Southern Care Hospice, 100 Welday Suite G, Wintersville, OH 43953, who took wonderful care of her in her final days, especially her special angel nurse, Lisa.
You may view this obituary and send condolences online at www.robertsfuneralhomewellsville.com.
8/26/26