On Tuesday, December 22nd, 2015 Ischua Valley Historical Society lost a wonderful supporter and former board member to a tragic accident. Donna Abbott died as a result of a car accident while traveling to the Ithaca area to spend the Christmas holidays with her family.

She was born on December 9, 1938 in Arcade to Harold Henry and K. Electa McCluer Henry Wieberg. Donna was especially proud to be a descendant of General Joseph McCluer, the founder of Franklinville. She was a member of the Class of 1956 at Ten Broeck Academy. On December 28, 1956 she married Phillip C. Abbott.

Donna worked for Dr. Richard Brink DDS for several years and then continued her career at Ten Broeck Academy and Franklinville Central School. She was the treasurer of the school and the secretary to the superintendent for many years.

She served on the Board of Ischua Valley Historical Society and was an active participant in the Philomanthic Society and the Olean YMCA. She is survived by her daughter Amy (Andrew) McDonnell, her son Lee (Kim) Abbott two grandsons Liam and Drew McDonnell, two sisters, two brothers and many beloved nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Phillip on March 31, 2010 and a sister, Alice.

Her funeral was held on Thursday, December 31 at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church in Franklinville where she was a member. Bishop R. William Franklin of the Episcopal Diocese, Rev. Barbara Baxter and former pastor Rev. Joseph Dedde held the service honoring her.

Donna was an enthusiastic supporter of our organization. Her dedication to Ischua Valley Historical Society will always be remembered. We valued her input and dedication. She will be missed!