Donna Gavel Humphreys

ALBANY- Donna Gavel Humphreys died unexpectedly, but peacefully, at her home on May 24, 2024.  Donna was born on September 3, 1947 in Batavia, New York.  She was the daughter of the of the late Elaine and John Gavel (John died when Donna was three).  Donna was a graduate of Batavia High School and received her Bachelor’s degree and Masters of Social Work degree from the State University of New York at Albany.  She was also an active member of the Psi Gamma Sorority.

Donna’s professional career was working for the Albany County Department of Social Services, first as a foster care caseworker, then as a Supervisor of Child Protective Services and then, and most significantly, as a Supervisor of Adult Protective Services.  There have been many clients and colleagues who benefitted from Donna’s caring wisdom and leadership.

Donna is survived by her loving husband of 47 years, Glenn Humphreys and her cherished sons, Stephen (Cheryl) Humphreys and Brian (Christine) Humphreys and most importantly, her adored grandchildren, Cadence, Clover, Brynn, Eleanor and Nolan.  She is also survived by her sisters, Jeanne Knouse (Robert) of Voorheesville, New York and Virgina Sperry (the late Gary) of Milton, Florida.

Donna’s number one priority was family, especially her grandchildren.  She took great pleasure in cooking Sunday meals for the whole family, helping the grandchildren make the cranberry sauce for Thanksgiving dinner, and overall teaching and sharing recipes with the girls.  Thankfully she was able to share some of her recipes this past year.  She was always thinking of family and animal friends and buying them food, clothes, dog bones, nicknacks or whatever (one of her favorite words).

She also enjoyed reading, traveling, eating out, doing word puzzles and watching those British baking shows.  She particularly appreciated her book club friends and her partners-in-fun on the “Where’s My Tent?” trivia team.  And of course, a year wasn’t complete until she made her annual, time-honored trip to Wells Beach, Maine.  Mostly though Donna was one of the most kind, sweet, caring, accepting, non-judgmental, respected people that you could meet.  She was a treasured and trusted soul who truly cared about others.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Donna's family on Friday May 31, 2024 from 4-7 pm in the Daniel Keenan Funeral Home 490 Delaware Ave. Albany.

In lieu of flowers, Donna’s family asks that you consider making a donation to the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York, 965 Albany Shaker Road, Latham, New York 1