Yvonne (Donahue) Lieb

99, formerly of Ebensburg, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Thursday, December 5, 2024. Born on March 25, 1925, in Patton, PA, she was the beloved daughter of Edward T. and Inez Donahue. 

Yvonne spent most of her life living, working, and volunteering in Ebensburg, where her kindness and generosity left a lasting impact on the community. She was the devoted wife of 54 years to the late Louis J. “Herky” Lieb Jr. Together, they built a life centered on love, family, and service.

She was the cherished mother of four children: the late Michael J. Lieb (d. 2021), the late Christopher D. Lieb (d. 2024), Mary Jo Braisted (Rob) of Jamestown, RI, and Polly M. Conner (Chris) of Herndon, VA. Yvonne’s legacy lives on through her eight grandchildren (Justin Lieb (Shannon), Michelle Gregory (Chris), Sarah Nelen (Doug), Emily Waugh (James), Elliot Roberts( Portia), Sam Conner (d.2016), Madison Conner, Joseph Conner and seven great-grandchildren, whom she adored. 

Yvonne is also survived by her siblings: Esther D. Smith (Fred) of Patton, Edward D. Donahue of Patton, and Bertrand Donahue (Eileen) of Niagara Falls, NY. She was predeceased by her brother, Louis R. Donahue (d. 1997) of Curwensville, PA.

A devoted homemaker but an extraordinary woman by every measure, Yvonne’s life was marked by selflessness and strength. She was known for her hard work, impeccable home, and remarkable culinary skills, but her heart was perhaps her greatest talent. She was a tireless advocate for individuals with special needs and a quiet force of compassion for anyone in need.

A longtime member of Holy Name Catholic Church in Ebensburg, Yvonne was an active part of its choir and a founding member of the St. Vincent de Paul Society. She opened her doors—and her heart—to travelers in need, families searching for help, and anyone who knocked, no matter the hour. She also served tirelessly with the local food pantry.

Yvonne’s love for music and dance was legendary. Whether playing piano, singing, or joyfully dancing with Herky, her energy was infectious. Her kitchen became a hub of comfort and connection; her cooking and baking brought joy to everyone from family to deer hunters, students, priests, and complete strangers. No one ever left her home hungry or without a story to tell.

Yvonne’s life was a testament to grace, generosity, and joy. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all whose lives she touched. 

A local mass will be held on Tuesday, December 17th at 11:00am at St. Mark Parish in Jamestown, RI. The funeral mass and burial will be held in the spring in Ebensburg, PA. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Yvonne’s memory to:

• St. Vincent de Paul Society, PO Box 544, Ebensburg, PA 15931

• St. Mark Food Pantry, 60 Narragansett Ave., Jamestown, RI 02835 or

• Hope Health Hospice (https://www.hopehealthco.org/ways-to-give/donatenow/) or Mail a donation to: Hope Health Hospice, 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904, Attn: philanthropy