Donna J. Kostis

Donna Kostis, 77, of Sanford, passed away peacefully at her home on May 4, 2025. Born on November 8, 1947, to Frank and Georgia Kostis, Donna lived a life full of creativity, adventure, and compassion.

A standout student-athlete at Sanford High School, Donna excelled in softball, basketball, and field hockey and proudly twirled as a majorette. She continued her love for sports at Plymouth State College, playing field hockey while earning her Bachelor’s degree before beginning her career in education at Dorchester High School outside Boston.

Donna’s adventurous spirit led her west in the early 1970s on a road trip to Colorado, a journey that turned into the greatest chapter of her life. She studied photography in Denver, which sparked a passion for capturing the world through her lens. Eventually, she settled in the small mountain town of Ophir near Telluride, where she embraced the rugged beauty of the Rockies with her beloved horse and a pair of loyal black labs by her side. Mountain life gave her joy—skiing, exploring, and immersing herself in the wildness of nature.

When she later returned to Maine, her photography evolved to focus on commercial work that took her around the country. Even as arthritis crept into her life and changed her path, Donna’s strength and independence never wavered. She never complained, and those who knew her best saw a woman who faced challenges with quiet resilience and dignity.

Donna was an endlessly curious lifelong student who never forgot an article she read or a story someone shared. She had a deep love for animals, a passion for art and movies (especially the popcorn that came with them), and a heart that instinctively put others before herself. She cherished her family and treasured her lifelong friendships, always going out of her way to make those around her feel seen and supported. Uniquely special, Donna’s presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

She is survived by her loyal brother, Steve Kostis, and his partner, Betty Wills; her nieces Jessica Zeldner (husband, Zach), Risa Kostis, and Gina Lilley (husband, Brandon); and her great-nieces and nephews, Sawyer, Sammy, Dutch, Stevie, Wellie, and Dempsey.

At Donna’s request, no services will be held. To honor her memory, please consider a donation to the American Arthritis Foundation or your local animal shelter—two causes close to her heart.