Dieatra "Dee" Herbst

Dieatra “Dee” (Donadio) Herbst, 79, passed away peacefully on June 30, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.

Born on August 14, 1946, Dee was the beloved daughter of the late Gladys and Patsy Donadio. She was raised in Schenectady, New York, where she enjoyed a happy childhood surrounded by a large, close-knit family of aunts, uncles, and cousins. Those early years instilled in her a deep appreciation for family that remained the guiding force throughout her life.

After graduating from Mount Pleasant High School, Dee earned her cosmetology license before beginning a career with the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, where she worked faithfully until her retirement.

On April 17, 1971, she married the love of her life, Raymond. Together they built a life centered on love, commitment, and family, sharing 55 wonderful years of marriage. Their enduring partnership was an inspiration to all who knew them.

Family was the heart of Dee's life. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished sister, proud aunt, adored Nana, and treasured great-grandmother. Nothing brought her more happiness than spending time with her grandchildren. Whether playing cards, board games, or simply sitting around the table talking and laughing, she created countless memories they will cherish forever. Her grandchildren will always remember Nana's warm smile, gentle heart, and the unconditional love she gave so freely.

Dee shared an especially close and lifelong bond with her sister, Sandra. Their relationship was one of unwavering love, friendship, and support. Through every season of life, they remained each other's confidantes and greatest champions, sharing a connection that was admired by all who knew them. She also treasured the special relationships she shared with her nieces, nephew, great-nieces, and great-nephews, always taking an active interest in their lives and celebrating their accomplishments with genuine pride and joy.

Anyone fortunate enough to know Dee experienced her generous spirit. She was always ready to lend a helping hand, offer words of encouragement, or simply be there when someone needed her. She found joy in bringing her family together, celebrating life's milestones, and making everyone around her feel welcomed and loved. Her kindness, compassion, and selflessness will remain in her legacy.

She is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband of 55 years, Raymond Herbst; her two children Tracy (Mickey) Schellenger, Darren (Brigette) Herbst, her beloved sister, Sandra Baxter; her grandchildren, Jordan (Danielle) Schellenger, Zachary (Perri) Schellenger, Patrick, Connor, and Brendan Herbst; her great-grandchildren, Anthony, Watson, and Paisley; her sisters-in-law Janice (Sonny) Gilder, brother-in-law George (Sharon) Schroeder and many cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

She was predeceased by her parents, Gladys and Patsy Donadio, and her son-in-law, Michael (Mickey) Schellenger.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Emily, Liz, the compassionate staff at DCI Dialysis in Clifton Park, the dedicated drivers of the Senior Transportation Van, and the caring professionals at the Hospice of Saratoga County. Their exceptional care, kindness, and compassion brought comfort to Dee and her family during her final journey.

Though her family mourns her passing, they find comfort in knowing that the love she shared and the values she instilled will live on for generations. It brings them much peace to know she is at rest rejoicing with her Lord and Savior. Dee’s generosity, warmth, and devotion to family will never be forgotten, and her memory will forever be treasured by all who were blessed to know her.

Funeral services and a celebration of Dee's life will be held at DeMarco-Stone Funeral Home, 1605 Helderberg Avenue, Rotterdam.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

A funeral service will take place on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will immediately follow Memory Gardens Cemetery and Memorial Park in Colonie.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice of Saratoga County or to a charity of one's choice in Dee’s memory.