Donna Leary-Snider

Donna Leary-Snider, 69, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. While our hearts are broken by her passing, we are forever grateful for the remarkable life she lived and the countless lives she touched through her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love.

Donna was born on May 10, 1957, in Manchester, Connecticut, to Marcus W. and Elsie (Elliott) Kibbe. As a young girl, her family moved to Indiana, where she grew up and graduated from North Central High School in 1975.

Donna’s greatest calling in life was never found in a job title—it was found in the home she built and the people she cared for. She was, first and foremost, a devoted mother, grandmother, daughter, sister and friend. She had a servant’s heart, and caring for others came as naturally to her as breathing.

She lovingly cared for both of her parents throughout their later years, faithfully walking beside each of them until they passed away. She never hesitated to put the needs of those she loved before her own, and she carried that same selfless spirit into every relationship throughout her life.

Nothing brought Donna more joy than her children and grandchildren. She was their biggest fan, always ready for one more ride to practice, one more pickup, one more last-minute favor, or one more baseball game. It wasn’t unusual for her to spend an entire day driving from field to field just so she wouldn’t miss a single inning. Whether cheering from the bleachers or simply showing up when someone needed her, her grandchildren always knew Mommaw would be there.

Donna also had a gift for making people feel cared for. Her kitchen was a place of comfort, where family, friends, and neighbors were welcomed with home-cooked meals and open arms. If someone was hurting, sick, or in need, she was often the first to show up with food, encouragement, and a listening ear. She never sought recognition for these acts—they were simply an expression of who she was.

When she found a quiet moment for herself, Donna loved spending time reading her Bible. Her faith was the foundation of her life and gave her strength, hope, and comfort through every season.

She leaves behind a family who will forever cherish her memory: her children, Matthew Leary; Erika Leary; Amanda (Leary) Ferrill and husband Brandon; and Kristina (Snider) Cohen and husband Bar; her brother, Mark Kibbe and wife Sharon; her step-sister-in-law, Barbi Stenacker; her beloved grandchildren, Conrad, Camryn, Quincy, Colton, Cashton, Margaret, Harlow, Case and Ace as well as her niece and nephew Laura (Kibbe) Donaldson and husband Joe and Scott Kibbe and wife Alexandria ("Alex").

Donna was preceded in death by her husband, Amos A. Leary, her parents, Marcus W. Kibbe and Elsie Kibbe Stenacker, as well as her step-father, Jack Stenacker, and her step-brother John ("Jack") Stenacker.

Donna’s legacy will not be measured by awards or accomplishments, but by the thousands of quiet acts of love she gave so freely. She taught those around her what it meant to show up, to serve without expecting anything in return, and to love unconditionally. Her family was her greatest joy, and they will carry her love with them every day.

Though she will be deeply missed, we find comfort knowing that her faith has become sight and that she is finally at peace.

Donna's family will celebrate her life privately. Every thoughtful gesture and prayer is sincerely appreciated by her family.