Donna M. Carleton

Donna M. Carleton, 65, of Stoneham, MA, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2025. 

Born on July 23, 1959, Donna was the daughter of the late Matilda and Ronald Nelder of Malden. She was the sister of Stephen Nelder of Ballston Lake, NY, and Nancy Athridge of Wakefield, MA. She graduated from Malden High School class of 1977.

Donna is survived by her husband Frederick Carleton of Stoneham and was a devoted mother to Jaclyn Murphy of Stoneham, Megan Thelen of Wakefield, and Ronald Carleton of Stoneham. Her greatest joy was her role as “Noni” to her four grandchildren — Nora Murphy, Darren Murphy, Miles Thelen, and Isla Thelen — whom she adored and lovingly cared for in her retirement.

Donna dedicated much of her professional life to the children and families of the Purpose School. After retiring, she found deep fulfillment in being a caregiver to her grandchildren.

She will be remembered for her deep love of Fantastik, a clean kitchen, and Nahant Beach.

Calling Hours will be held Thursday May 1st between 4-7 pm at McDonald-Finnegan Funeral Home, 322 Main Street, Stoneham MA. Funeral mass will be held Friday May 2nd beginning at 10 am at Saint Patrick’s Parish, 71 Central Street, Stoneham MA.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Donna’s memory may be made to the Dementia Society.