Donyell Marie Thompson

Donyell Thompson transitioned on May 16, 2020 at the age of 49.  Donyell was born in Trenton, NJ to Joan (Woodland) and Reginald Thompson. She spent the last twelve years as a resident of Brooklyn, NY.  Donyell will be missed by many and will be remembered in the hearts and minds of all of those who had an opportunity to know her as a kind and generous person who cared deeply about humankind. As a staunch social justice advocate, she brought leadership, dedication, and tireless efforts in support of her passions and beliefs. 

Donyell was a public servant who served as Senior Trial Attorney for the U.S. Department of Labor - Office of the Solicitor, where she represented the Agency in enforcement actions pertaining to the Occupational Safety and Health Act, Mine Safety and Health Act, Wage and Hour Act, and other federal employment-related legislation. She served as a member of the board at the International School of Brooklyn with energy and passion since 2017. She also served as the Special Events Coordinator for Mocha Moms Brooklyn, a support group for mothers of color, and is responsible for organizing their annual Independent School Fair and Panel Discussion. 

Donyell graduated from Trenton Central High School in 1989.  She received a B.A. degree from Douglass College - Rutgers University in Urban Management and Political Science, a M.S. in Social Work from Columbia University School of Social Work, and a J.D. from Rutgers University School of Law - Newark.

In her free time, Donyell loved to travel, read, cook and spend time with her family. 

Donyell was predeceased by her father Reginald.  She is survived by her loving wife, Krista Blanchette and the apple of her eye, her son, Quinn Thompson. She is also survived by her mother Joan, brother James (Lisa) Thompson, nieces and nephews including Tayanna Washington, Elijah Weber, James Jr., Brittany, Amani, and Ahmad Thompson. Donyell is also survived by a host of cousins, aunts, uncles and countless friends and colleagues.  She will be remembered as an extraordinary person who left the world in a better place. 

 In lieu of flowers, Krista and the family ask that you remember Donyell's focus on education and social justice and make a donation in her memory to an educational or social justice cause of your choice.  Cards and well wishes to the family should be sent to: 

Buckland Funeral Home c/o Krista Blanchette
10 W End Ave.
Somerville, NJ 08876

Please consider signing the Tribute Wall to let Donyell's family know that you attended the Virtual Memorial Service.

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