
LAKEPORT, Calif. – Donnette passed away on Oct. 16, 2016 in Lakeport after a lengthy illness, surrounded by family. She was 65 years old.
Donnette Motley was born in Oakland, Calif., on Feb. 18, 1951. She was the third child and first daughter of Louie Lawrence Motley and Neelgia Motley.
Donnette was raised in Oakland, with seven brothers and sisters. In her early childhood, she attended St. Mary's Catholic School.
Her sister Deardra lovingly remembers that growing up, Donnette loved to sew and had a passion for dancing. Donnette graduated from Castlemont High School in Oakland in 1970, and later spent some time at Merritt College.
In 1989, Donnette and her family moved to Hidden Valley, Calif. There, she developed her career at Guenoc Winery as a line supervisor and raised her family.
Donnette cherished her garden, which she decorated with heart-shaped rocks she found, and she always had fresh cut flowers in the house. She was an amazing cook and baked the best pineapple cream pies. She loved animals, especially her cats Chewie and Lucy.
Donnette was preceded in death by her, father Louie Lawrence Motley; grandfather, Dr. Arthur Motley; great-grandmother, Pearl Hall-Wilson; aunt, Lizzymae Wison-Thompson; grandmother, Maleitha Wilson-Scarver; grandmother, Freddie Royster-Hale; cousin, Jackie Royster; and uncle, Fred Royster.
She is survived by her husband, Walter Howard; son, Kevin Motley; daughter, Maleitha Beck; mother, Neelgia Motley; brothers, Marlon, Harold, Roderick, Ronald, Keith and Jon; and sister, Deardra. She is also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.
Friends and family are warmly invited to attend a celebration of life which will be held Saturday, Nov. 12, beginning at 6 p.m. at South Berkley Senior Center, 2939 Ellis St., Berkeley.
The family wishes to thank Evergreen Lakeport Healthcare and nurse Dina for their attentive care during Donnette's illness.
Those who wish to send thoughts or condolences are invited to sign the guestbook at www.jonesandlewis.com .
Arrangements under the direction of Jones & Lewis Clear Lake Memorial Chapel FD 800, Lower Lake.