Donna Harris Wisniewski

Donna Harris Wisniewski, born February 9, 1947, in Washington, D.C., passed away peacefully on March 19, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Donna was the daughter of Raymond Harris, a World War II bomber gunner and former editor of the Post Newspaper in Maryland, and Martha Harris, a school administrator, painter, and homemaker. From an early age, Donna was surrounded by creativity, education, and service—values that remained with her throughout her life.

She attended college where she became an accomplished ballet dancer and later earned a degree in graphic design. Donna’s artistic spirit and love of performance would shape much of her life and career.

In 1975, Donna met her husband, David Wisniewski. Their story began when Donna hired David to work for the Prince George’s County Puppet Theatre. Six months later—without ever having gone on a single date—they married in 1976, beginning a lifelong creative partnership. The couple remained entertainers on the county payroll for four years before founding their own troupe, Clarion Shadow Theatre, in 1980. Together, they toured schools and theaters across the region and performed at prestigious venues including the Smithsonian. In 1990, they presented a shadow puppet adaptation of Peter and the Wolf at the Kennedy Center. David passed away in 2002.

Later in life, Donna worked at Pools, Patios & Porches, where she was beloved by coworkers and customers alike. Known for her warmth, positivity, and outgoing personality, she especially delighted in creating beautiful Christmas wreaths for customers during the holiday season.

Donna will be remembered for her creativity, kindness, and the joy she brought to everyone she met. Her life was filled with art, performance, and love for family, community and all creatures great and small.

Donna is survived by her two children, Ariana and Alexander.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Family and friends can gather at the Keeney and Basford Funeral Homes, P.A., 106 East Church Street, Frederick, MD 21701 on Saturday March 28, 2026 from 1pm until the start of the memorial service at 2pm. Inurnment will be held privately by the family.