Donna Jean Ryan Rose, 71, of Mystic, Connecticut, passed away peacefully at home on April 26, 2026.
Born on December 18, 1954, in Bronx, New York, Donna was the daughter of Daniel and Cecilia Ryan. She was raised in White Plains, New York, and cherished her summers sailing on Lake Bomoseen in Vermont—a place that remained close to her heart throughout her life.
Donna was deeply committed to her education and intellectual growth. She earned a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering from The Catholic University of America, an MBA in Finance from the University of Rhode Island, a graduate certificate in International Business from the University of New Haven, and a Master of Science in Engineering from The University of Texas at Austin. She was curious, insightful, and worldly— well-read, well-traveled, and a passionate lover of theatre and politics.
Donna began her professional career at a time when women in engineering were rare, forging a path with determination and skill. During her tenure at Pfizer, she rose to the position of Senior Manager. Among her most meaningful Pfizer accomplishments was overseeing the construction of an AIDS hospital in Uganda, a project that reflected both her expertise and her compassion. Later in her career, she joined Northwell Health, where she served as Assistant Vice President in the Physical Assets Department, Facilities Services.
Donna was predeceased by her beloved husband of 40 years, Robert Rose; her parents, Cecilia and Daniel Ryan; her grandparents, Lillian and Edmund Raphael; her aunt and uncle, Sylvia and Robert Raphael; and her cousin, Robert Raphael Jr.
She is survived by her sister, Patty Ryan; her brother, Eddie Ryan (Mary) both of Rutland, Vermont; and her cousins, Brian Raphael of Yorktown Heights, New York; Kevin Raphael (Amy), Zach Raphael, and Amanda Raphael, all of Flourtown, Pennsylvania.
Donna maintained a close-knit circle of college and lifelong friends. The family is especially grateful to Sue Moschella and Jeremy Loiselle for their unwavering friendship, kindness, and support.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the amazing staff at Hartford Health Care at. Home Hospice Care for the compassionate care they provided to Donna in her final days. Your compassion, dedication, and support will never be forgotten,
Donations in Donna’s memory may be made to the Stonington Animal Rescue Project, 206 Greenhaven Road, Pawcatuck, CT 06379
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.