Donna Jean Cerreta

Donna Jean (Helline) Cerreta, age 86, of Massillon, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2026, in the ICU at Aultman Hospital. She was born on April 16, 1939, in Roanoke, Virginia, the daughter of the late Leo and Ruth (Drouhard) Helline.

A proud graduate of Central Catholic High School, Class of 1959, Donna went on to build a long and dedicated career with Ohio Edison, where she served as a customer service representative. She was also a member of the Massillon Knights of Columbus.

Donna lived her life with energy, warmth, and an open heart. She was an avid bowler and cherished her weekend trips to Las Vegas with her sisters, where they shared laughter and tested their luck at the slot machines. She loved sunshine on her shoulders—whether relaxing on the beach, traveling on weekend adventures with Lou, or simply enjoying the company of friends and family. Donna never met a stranger; she had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and included.

She was united in marriage to her soulmate, Louis Cerreta, who preceded her in death.

Donna is survived by her children: Brent “Mike” Connors of Massillon, Jeffrey L. Connors of Port Charlotte, Florida, and Michelle M. Connors of Massillon.

She is also survived by her stepchildren: Jeff Cerreta (d) (Linda), DeeDee Cerreta Harris, Jerry (Luann) Cerreta, Debbie Cerreta McManamon, and Joel Cerreta.

Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Jeff Connors Jr., Chris (Meaghan) Connors, Ryan (Paige) Ison, Dustin (Clarissa) Connors, Sierra Ison Rice (Marvin), and Mackenzie Connors Hill (Dakota); her siblings: Marilyn Helline Pauley (d), Ann Helline Berens (Ken)(d), Joyce Helline Brown (John)(d), and Joseph (Nancy) Helline; as well as numerous nieces and nephews and nine beloved great-grandchildren.

A celebration of Donna’s life will be held on Saturday, March 14th at 2:00 p.m. at Paquelet Funeral Home on Wales Road in Massillon. Pastor Ed Gretchko will officiate the service.

The family extends a warm and heartfelt thank‑you to the exceptional staff of the Aultman Hospital Emergency Department and ICU, with special gratitude to Bri, RN, Maddie, RN, and Dr. Boutros for their compassionate care and support during Donna’s final days.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.