Donna Marie Passamonte of East Hampton died at Peconic Bay Medical Center on March 16. She was 57 and had been a resident of Independent Group Home Living in East Moriches.
Born on January 25, 1959, at Southampton Hospital, she contracted encephalitis at the age of 18 months and, as a result, suffered brain damage. She was cared for at home by her mother, Jessie, until 2002. Survivors said that over the years, many local women came to assist Donna with what is called “patterning,” which helps with neurological development.
Predeceased by her parents, Charles and Jessie, she is survived by a brother, Charles Justin Passamonte and wife Diane Rogers Passamonte, of Springs.
A funeral service took place at Mostly Holy Trinity Church on March 19. Burial followed at the church cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of the Yardley and Pino Funeral Home in East Hampton.
Memorial donations may be made to Independent Group Home Living, 65 Pine Street, East Moriches, NY 11940.
on Mar 25, 2016