Deb Donaldson’s Bequest Will Help Support the Future of PHS

Deb Donaldson grew up in Bryn Mawr and Villanova and currently lives in Malvern with her husband John. Now retired after a career in jewelry retail, she has been heavily involved with philanthropy for many years. “I’ve always loved horticulture,” she says. “My mom loved gardening, and I have always loved and appreciated plants as she did.”

Deb first connected with the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society in the late 1980s attending Preview Parties with friends. She went on to serve on various events committees, including as chair of the Flower Show committee, and become a member of the 1827 Society for PHS’s most generous and engaged supporters. In gratitude for all the joy that PHS has brought to her life, Deb has made a bequest in her will to help ensure that her support of PHS continues beyond her lifetime.

A bequest—the gift that costs nothing now—is a simple and meaningful way to support the causes you care about the most.

Deb says that the most important things she has gained from her connection with PHS are helping the community with education and community greening—and helping the less fortunate gain access to food. “PHS is making the Philadelphia region a better community for people from all backgrounds,” she says. “It makes me feel good that everyone can feel the impact of PHS’s programs.”

One of Deb’s favorite PHS memories is from 2003, when her friend and mentor, Mrs. Hamilton, encouraged her to enter the Flower Show for the first time. She won a blue ribbon on Saturday at the members’ preview. “John was so excited!” she recalls. “I was no longer a novice.” She won in several classes that year, including orchids. Mrs. Hamilton also introduced Deb to former PHS President Jane Pepper, who inspired Deb to continue learning and to also join different plant organizations.

Deb encourages others to consider the legacies they could leave through thoughtful estate planning. “Look at the annual report to see PHS’s impact on all Philadelphians with all of its programming,” Deb concludes. “PHS does so much work that people aren’t even aware of. It’s so much more than the Flower Show.”