Donna M. Coddington

Donna Marchand Coddington, born July 12, 1933, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2026 at age 93. A longtime Rochester, New York, resident, Donna devoted her life to her family and to serving her community.

Donna was the daughter of Lottie and Joseph Marchand. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Richard Marchand.

On September 10, 1950, Donna married the love of her life, Bernie Coddington. They shared many years together before his passing on September 27, 2007.

Donna’s greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted wife and mother who dedicated herself to raising her four children: Lynne Defendorf (Michael), James Coddington (Mary Jo), Anne Heller, whose husband, Jaime, preceded her in death, and Michael Coddington (Kim).

Her love and legacy will continue through her four grandchildren: Sara Defendorf, Nicholas Defendorf (Samantha), Brett Heller (fiancée Molly), and Jason Heller; and her two great-grandchildren, Cullen and Reed Defendorf. She is also survived by a niece and two nephews.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Linda Gardner, Danielle and Wendy and Aunt Deb for the compassion and kindness, and care they provided to Donna over the years.

Donna believed in always being put together, and her lipstick and nail polish were never far away. She loved having her hair done and had quite a collection of sneakers, adding her own special touch of style to everyday life. She stayed true to herself and her signature look right until the very end.

While Donna’s primary role was as a stay-at-home mother, she also generously gave her time to volunteering and supporting the workplaces of those around her. One of her most meaningful commitments was her 30+ years of service as a member of the Barnard Ladies Auxiliary, an organization that held a special place in her life. She also volunteered at a hospital in Florida, Gold Circle, and Kodak.

Donna will be remembered for her devotion to her family, her dedication to helping others, and the many years she gave to her community. In a touching coincidence, Donna passed away at 9:10 a.m., a time that echoed September 10, the wedding date she shared with her beloved husband, Bernie.

Her life was defined by the family she nurtured, the people she supported, and the lasting legacy she leaves with the generations who follow her. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 22, from 4:00–8:00 p.m. at Farrell Ryan Funeral & Cremation Services, 777 Long Pond Road, Rochester, NY 14612. A funeral service will be held on Friday, October 23, at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by interment at Falls Cemetery, 509 Latona Road, Rochester, NY 14626.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made in Donna’s memory to the URMC Memory Care Program. To learn more about the program or make a donation, please visit https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/memory-care-program.