Donna Swingle Mangubat - Cremation Society of Virginia

Donna Swingle Mangubat

July 23, 1961 - April 2, 2024

Donna Swingle Mangubat, 62, passed away Tuesday, April 2nd, 2024 in Norfolk, Virginia after a two-year long battle with pulmonary fibrosis. Donna was born July 23, 1961 in Seneca, South Carolina. She attended Boiling Springs High School and Spartanburg Methodist College. She went on to complete Montessori Certification through the American Montessori Society, which became a lifelong passion.

Donna met the love of her life, Norman Mangubat, while living in Charleston, South Carolina. They got married on August 18th, 1985 and relocated to Hampton Roads. The Mangubats’ marriage brought forth two children, Elisa and Nicholas. Donna loved her family more than words could convey. She is predeceased by her mother Peggy Knight, father Larry Swingle, and brother Tim Swingle. She is survived by her husband Norman, daughter Elisa (Matt), son Nicholas (Jenna), and her beloved granddaughters Eleanor Joy and Emma Jane, and her fur baby Scout.

In her spare time, she loved cooking, singing, spending time with friends, having meaningful conversations, and taking photos of the people and things she loved. Donna had a pure love for anyone that would walk into her life and welcomed everyone in with her Southern hospitality. In addition to this, she carried her teacher mentality and love for early childhood development throughout the entirety of her life.

Donna would always want to encourage everyone to pursue their dreams, regardless of obstacles, and would go to extreme lengths to ensure that you could achieve your goals. She knew how to make you feel comforted and whether it be emotionally, mentally, or anything else, she was there for you if you needed her. There will never be another person who walks this Earth that was as gracious as Donna.

“In a world where you can be anything, be kind.”

A celebration of life will be held from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. on Thursday, May 2nd, 2024 at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Fisher House at Fort Belvoir or The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation.

Cremation Society of Virginia

Tricia Makin (Myers)

Tina Yokoyama

Megan Stackhouse

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I remember Donna most for cheerfully participating in the neighborhood July 4th cookout. She was a great organizer and and sweet person. She will be missed. Saundra Winstead

Your mom was such a guiding light in my youth. I loved running into her randomly when I visited home. Her light will continue to shine on in you and her grandchildren. I’m keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.

It’s so hard to believe this wonderful, beautiful person is gone. Please take comfort in knowing that she is with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and is looking down on all of you with that beautiful smile on her face.

In memory of Donna Swingle Mangubat, Megan Stackhouse lit a candle

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

How we will miss our sweet Donna! There was truly never a sweeter person. She loved everyone so deeply. She has left a mark on this world that will continue for generations. Much love to you all!

Donna was indeed a love-filled and gracious spirit who led a joyful life, in spite of her illness and the challenges she met along the way. She was proud of her family and held on to long term friendships that meant so much to her. She was a problem solver and always had solutions to suggest no matter the problem. I cherish her and her memory. With love and deepest condolences to her family and many friends.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.