Donna Kaye Gunther Dudley passed away peacefully on December 8, 2023, in Chicago, Illinois, after a long struggle with Parkinson's Disease. Born on October 5, 1946, in Exeter, New Hampshire, Donna enriched every community she was a part of. She brought laughter and kindness into the world, and her absence will be deeply felt.

The daughter of the late Martin Edward Gunther and Katherine Beatrice Joss Gunther, Donna grew up in a home filled with love. Her childhood was shared with her two brothers, John Robert Gunther (Peggy Lee) and Richard Gunther. Donna's extended family, including many loving cousins, nieces, and nephews, will remember her as a warm and selfless individual whose generosity knew no bounds. And anyone who spent time with her quickly became acquainted with her infectious sense of humor and ready laugh.

Donna was the valedictorian of Winnacunnet High School in Hampton, NH. Her academic journey took her to Wheaton College in Illinois, where she pursued her passions for religious study and community service. While at Wheaton, she spent her junior year studying at the Sorbonne in Paris. Following her graduation, Donna embarked on a career that would define her legacy.

After an early career in nonprofits, including many years at the Chicago Lighthouse for the Blind, Donna found what became her professional home at BUILD, a nationally respected gang intervention, violence prevention, and youth development organization located on Chicago's West Side. BUILD was also the home of people she grew to love and count among her dearest friends.

Her work was not just a job; it was a calling. Donna dedicated her life to service, working tirelessly to support and uplift the youth in her community. Her efforts helped guide countless individuals towards brighter futures, and her impact will continue to resonate for generations to come.

Donna's spiritual life was her foundation, and she was a graduate of Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary. She made a decision late in life to serve beyond Chicago, spending two years as a missionary in Angola, an experience that continued to develop her (even if Portuguese never became her go-to language!) She managed to extend her community to another continent and took from her time there as much as she gave.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Donna had a zest for life that was contagious. Music and dancing were among her greatest joys, and no one was ever allowed to turn off Marvin Gaye. Her love for connecting with people was evident in everything she did. She had a gift for making others feel seen and valued, a trait that drew people to her and forged countless lasting friendships.

Donna's sense of humor was unparalleled, and she had a knack for finding the funny in every situation. This, combined with her generous spirit and selfless nature, made her a cherished presence in any gathering. She offered her time, her resources, and her heart freely, embodying the true essence of community and compassion.

In every aspect of her life, Donna was a giver. She shared her laughter, her kindness, her wisdom, her expertise, and her love without reservation. Her legacy is one of joy, generosity, and selflessness. Those who had the privilege of knowing Donna will carry her spirit with them, finding comfort in the memories of her unwavering positivity and the profound difference she made in the world.

Donna's story is one of a life well-lived and a heart well-loved. We celebrate the indelible mark she has left on all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her laughter will echo in our memories, her love of music will remind us to sing along, and her legacy of service will continue to inspire. May her faith in people and community guide us toward a kinder, more compassionate world.

As we mourn Donna's passing, we also honor the extraordinary life she led and the countless ways in which she enriched our lives. Rest in peace, dear Donna. Your journey here may have ended, but the story of your life will be told for years to come, a narrative of a woman who gave so much and asked for so little in return.

Information about a memorial service that will be held at BUILD in early 2024 will be forthcoming.

BUILD is establishing "The Donna Dudley Scholarship Fund" in her honor.

If you would like to make a tribute to Donna, we ask that you give to

BUILD, Inc. 5100 W. Harrison Street/Chicago, IL 60644 in her honor.

All donations in Donna's honor will go to the Scholarship Fund.

Donations can be made at: https://www.buildchicago.org/