Rosalee (“Donna”) Sharon (Yahm) Lee, aged 78, was born on May 17, 1947 in Bronx, NY and died peacefully on November 17, 2025 in Rochester, NY after a long battle with kidney disease. Donna was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.
She was known for her NYC accent, quick wit, love of coffee and white wine (always with ice!), the Yankees, her history of pet rottweilers, and was passionate about women’s rights. She enjoyed reading mysteries, cooking a variety of ethnic foods for her family, and spending time with her cherished granddaughters who affectionately called her “Mimi.”
Donna is predeceased by her parents, Freida and Samuel Yahm, and her infant children Barbara Ann D’Amaro and Matthew Brian Lee. She leaves behind her husband of 45 years, Simon Bennett Lee; son, Robert Lee; daughter, Danielle Gerardi (Joseph) of Sebastian, FL; son, David Lee (Katelyn) of Rochester, NY; and granddaughters, Madison and Harper Lee. She also leaves behind many adoring friends, many of whom she worked with for decades.
At Donna’s request, there will not be calling hours or a funeral service.
In lieu of flowers, please donate in Donna’s name to Hildebrandt Hospice Care Center Fund or Planned Parenthood of Central and Western New York.
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