Denise M. Donnelly

Denise M. Donnelly (D’Alexander)

Age 78, a longtime resident of Northville, passed away unexpectedly on December 11, 2022. She was born on September 2, 1944 in Detroit, Michigan; daughter of Joseph and Rosemary (Noonan) D’Alexander. Denise graduated from Holy Redeemer High School; class of 1962.  She continued her education at Eastern Michigan University where she earned her bachelor’s degree in social work and later graduated from The University of Michigan with a master’s degree in social work.

Denise was a brilliant clinical social worker who dedicated herself to helping others during her 40-year career, which included a private practice in Northville. Faith in God was the most important aspect of her life besides her family. She was a devoted member of Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church. Denise loved going to church for daily prayers.

Denise loved spending time with her grandchildren. She also loved to dance.  She was very creative and artistic and shared her talents and love with others by way of handwritten cards and beautifully wrapped gifts. She loved listening, supporting, and healing all those who were in need. Denise was known for her heart of gold, compassion, and empathy; she always put others needs before her own. Denise was a kind, loving, and caring mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, daughter, and friend.

She is survived by her children, Michael (Deborah) Donnelly and Kelle Donnelly; and her grandchildren, Micaela Donnelly, Paulina Donnelly, Alexa Donnelly, Skylar Miller, Bella Miller, and Jasper Miller; her brother Joseph D’Alexander; her brother-in-law, Jamie Hatty; her niece Stacey McQueen; her nephew Fernando D’Alexander; her great niece Lexi; and great nephew Brad. Denise was preceded in death by her parents and her sisters, Debbie and Donna.

Visitation will be held Monday, December 19, 2022 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. with a Rosary at 6:00 p.m. at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville.  A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Tuesday, December 20, 2022 at 11:00 a.m., in state at 10:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church, 133 Orchard Drive, Northville.

The family would appreciate memorial contributions to Capuchin Soup Kitchen , 1820 Mount Elliot St., Detroit, MI 48207 or Homeless Angels , 3216 West Main Street, Lansing, MI 48917.