Mary Kay Donaldson-Hemming

Mary Kay Donaldson-Hemming, 62, of Rockford, passed away Wednesday, November 2, 2016, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on May 4, 1954 in Rockford, the daughter of Clayton and Charlotte (Whitaker) Donaldson. She moved to Florida, where she met the love of her life, Pierre Hemming, the two married on February 1, 1985 in New Zealand. She worked for the Rockford Public School system for many years serving as a teacher and reading specialist. Mary was an avid gardener, even winning awards, and loved to travel. Mary touched the lives of all those she met, and will be greatly missed.

She is survived by her husband, Pierre Hemming; her son, Liam Hemming, her sister, Marcia Eliseo Donaldson; nephew, Matthew Eliseo; and many wonderful friends. Predeceased by her parents, and her sister, Lydia Sawyer Bennett.

A memorial visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 9, 2016 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Riverside Chapel, 3910 N. Rockton Ave, Rockford. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Rockford Rescue Mission or Noah’s Ark appreciated.