Donna Lee Peters

Age 92, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 16, 2026, at the Chemung County Nursing Facility. Donna was born in Elmira and grew up on Elmira's Southside. She is the daughter of the late Robert and Esther McNaney Ruggles. Donna was also predeceased by her brother and sister-in-law Robert and Marilyn Ruggles; sister and brother-in-law Betty and Earl Goodwin. She is survived by her husband of 72 years Joseph Peters; daughter Denise Peters (Dean Wenzel) of Elmira ; son and daughter-in-law Joseph R. and Lori Peters of Horseheads; grandchildren, Nicole Newsted (Jason), Jennifer Smith, Jesse Smith (Kalika Osgood), Amanda Hillman (Kevin), Jason Roberts (Bob Farnan), Kevin Kline (Sarah) and Ashley Kline; along with several great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. 

 Donna was born in Elmira and was a graduate of Southside High School. She worked for over 30 years as the office manager for World in Color Productions located in Elmira. Donna later worked as the Chemung County Republican Election Chairman from 1992 to 2004 and then again for six months in late 2006 and early 2007. Along with her husband Joe, Donna enjoyed traveling, visiting casinos and going out to dinner. 

 Private services will be held. 

Those wishing may remember Donna with a donation to the Chemung County Humane Society and SPCA, 2435 State Route 352, Elmira NY 14903.