Donna R. Pappas

Donna Ruth Pappas, 82, passed away peacefully on June 12th at 7:00 a.m.

Born on May 7, 1944, in Bellows Falls, Vermont, Donna was the beloved daughter of the late John and Dorothy Robinson. She grew up in Palmer, Massachusetts, and graduated from Palmer High School in 1962.

Donna dedicated more than 20 years of her career to the United States Postal Service, serving for many of those years as Postmaster of Brimfield, MA 01010. In that role, she took special joy each holiday season in answering the letters to Santa Claus that poured in from children across the country — and even a few from Europe — all addressed to the North Pole, 01010. Donna was Santa’s voice, bringing a little extra magic into countless children’s lives each Christmas.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 51 years, Gus K. Pappas, her parents and sisters Bonnie and Jeanne Riddle. Donna will be deeply missed by her son, Peter Pappas and his wife Iliana Ortiz-Pappas, and her daughter, Christine Pappas, as well as her grandchildren, Alex and Elizabeth (Pappas) Gibbons, in addition to her many nieces and nephews.

Donna’s life was one of devotion — to her family, her community, and the countless children whose holiday letters she answered with warmth and care. She will be remembered for her kindness, her dedication, and the quiet magic she brought to so many.

In her retirement, she began a new adventure and established Shoe Box Quilts. She was a member of the National Association of Miniature Enthusiasts, and was a juried member of the International Guild of Miniature Artisans.

Donna also enjoyed her summers in her happy place, her home on Prudence Island in Rhode Island. She was a member of the PI Quilters where they make quilts for Bay Area groups helping area residents.

A celebration of Donna’s life will be held at Beers and Story Funeral Home 1475 North Main St, Palmer MA on June 25. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer's Association | Alzheimer's Disease & Dementia Help, or the Prudence Island Volunteer Fire Department at PIVFD.org, in the name of Donna R. Pappas.

May she rest in eternal peace.