Donnan Lynn

Etta Donnan Mann Lynn, known affectionately as "Donni," passed away recently. Born into a family with a history of public service, Donni was the daughter, of Petersburg's former Mayor, William Hodges Mann, Jr.; and the granddaughter, of William Hodges Mann, Governor of Virginia 1910-1914. Donni carried forward the commitment to community that defined her forebearers. Her life was a living homage to the values of civic duty and personal integrity instilled in her by her esteemed family.

Beloved wife, of Dr. John Worth Lynn, for 66 years in Petersburg, Virginia, Donni was an essential part of her husband's dental practice. Donnan Lynn is survived by her sister, Ann Hodges Mann Morris, of London, England, and her spirit will live on through her children and their families; her daughter, Anne Catherine Leigh and son-in-law, Timothy Alan Leigh; her grandchildren, Chelsea Donnan Leigh and Mary Morgan Leigh, of Gloucester, VA, will hold dear the memories of her warmth and kindness; her son, John Worth Lynn, Jr. and daughter-in-law, Athena Lynn, of Palm Beach, Florida; as well as her daughter, Mary Page Rich and son-in-law, Kenneth John Rich, and granddaughter, Jennifer Lynn Rich, of Raleigh, NC, will continue to draw inspiration from her life.

Donni loved fun and a good laugh. She proudly represented the Lynn family whenever anyone was in need of a shoulder to find comfort. A passionate member of T.H.E. Bridge Club and the Garden Club of Petersburg, Donni was also known for her cherished beach escapes to Nags Head and her adoration for her beloved dogs, Happy and Joy. Donni's life story is a tapestry of love, service, and the joy found in life's simple pleasures. Her memory will remain as a testament to her gentle, caring nature and her commitment to her family and the community she loved so dearly.

The family welcomes those who wish to honor Donni's memory to send flowers to Christ and Grace Episcopal Church or donate to the Portuguese Water Dog Club of America (PWDCA). Donni will be laid to rest in the historic Blandford Cemetery, alongside generations of friends, family, and distinguished Virginians, on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 2 p.m.