Donna's obituary
It is with great sadness that the family of Donna Marie Carson announces her passing. She took her last breath peacefully, listening to her music on the morning of November 21st, 2019.
Donna had a transcendent voice of smoke and honey. In her early life she shared her gift with us all, releasing 6 albums as a part of the folk duo, "Hedge & Donna" from 1967-1973. While music remained a constant part of Donna's life, the duo split in the early 1970's and she moved on with her degree from Whittier College. Her heart ever open, she eventually went on to work with special needs children at the California State Diagnostic School, and ultimately as a protector working for Los Angeles County Courts as a Child Advocate Supervisor. She found joy in helping kids and believed in supporting them so that no child would fall through the cracks of the court system. She worked tirelessly until she retired in 2004.
Donna was also a senior leader in the lay organization for Nichiren Shoshu Buddhism, and helped introduce and guide countless other Buddhist members through their practice of the Lotus Sutra, sharing the benefits of chanting Nam Myoho Renge Kyo, and remained connected to the Head Temple in Japan throughout her life. Donna had a captivating and infectious smile and lived a kind of joy that turned everything a celebration. She was exuberant and her laughter filled any room. When she smiled, everyone around her would join in.
Donna was born to U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant Harry "Kit" Carson and his wife Dorothy in November of 1946. She was preceded in death by both her mother and father. Donna will be lovingly remembered by her sisters: Paula, Cynthia, Rita, and Jana. She is dearly missed by her son Ethan and his wife Sara. She will also be fondly remembered by her grandchildren Allen (Kaida), Kenjin, Hunter, and Scarlett.
The legacy of her music is still celebrated to this day by Hedge & Donna fans around the world. The message they had to offer the world and sweet harmonies they created remain as potent now as it was when it was first released. We invite any reader to celebrate her life by searching for and listening to their music. In this way, she may continue to touch the world with her joy and beauty, for as long as we listen.
A private service for family will be held in celebration of Donna's life in San Diego.