Selma F Donaway

We celebrate the life of Selma Francis Edelson Donaway, born December 20, 1930, and departing February 8, 2024. Selma, 93, was born in Tampa, Florida, to Anna Davidson and Harry Edelson. The youngest of 4 (Irving, Helen and Edward). A graduate of Jefferson High School, she continued her education and training to become an X-ray technician. A career that took her from Tampa, Florida to Denver, Colorado, back to Tampa and, in 1956, to Pensacola, Florida, where she married Russell W. Donaway. There she worked at Baptist Hospital, Gayfers, and beginning in 1968, went to work at the Florida State Health Department, where she served until she retired in 2000. She was a loving mother to Stanley Edward and Daniel Walter, a faithful daughter-in-law to Ezra and Lena Donaway, and devoted sister-in-law to Louise Holson. Born Jewish, a heritage she was proud of, she converted to protestant, joining Richards Memorial United Methodist Church, where she attended and served until her death. Selma loved and adored her family, was always a true friend and inspiration to so many people who all loved her tremendously. She was always kind, generous, funny, faithful and authentic. She has impacted so many lives along the journey. Selma is survived by son, Stanley and wife, Melissa Donaway; four grandchildren, Jasmine and Taylor Varner, Sam Doss, Jackie Doss and Alton Doss; great granddaughter, Eliya Varner; eight nieces and nephews and their children and grandchildren; adopted daughters, Brenda Cadem and Judy Armour. A special and heartfelt thanks to Eddie Edelson, Laurie McWhatters, and Dr. Jeremy Olmstead for loving my mom and giving her the wonderful last year of her life, keeping her safe, happy and comfortable. Funeral Services will be Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at 1:30 PM, at Faith Chapel Funeral Home South. Visitation will be Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at the Funeral Home. Pastor Robin Noble and Pastor Cheryl Hinnen will be officiating. Interment will be in Pensacola Memorial Gardens. Faith Chapel Funeral Home South, 100 Beverly Parkway, Pensacola, is entrusted with arrangements. You may express condolences online at www.fcfhs.com.

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Selma F Donaway

December 20, 1930 - February 8, 2024