Kimberly Ann Donald, a longtime resident of Chelmsford, Massachusetts and subsequently Lexington, Massachusetts, passed away on March 1, 2026, in Burlington, Massachusetts, at the age of 57.  A devoted educator and advocate for children, Kim was a beacon of positivity for all who knew her.

Born on November 30, 1968, in St. Clair, Illinois, Kim was of West Indian and African-American heritage, the daughter of Henry Lewis Donald, originally of Washington, DC, and Margaret Mary Linton, originally of St. Elizabeth's Parish, Jamaica.  She spent her formative years in Kansas City, MO before moving to Chelmsford, MA in 1975 and Lexington, MA in the early 2000s.  Massachusetts is the area she would eventually call home for the rest of her life.

A lifelong learner with a vibrant soul, Kim was an alumna of the Dana Hall School in Wellesley, MA, and Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT.  In addition, she earned a Masters in Education degree from Harvard University in Cambridge, MA.  Her academic years were defined by her deep love for dance, literature, and the beauty of languages—passions that informed her lifelong commitment to the arts and humanities

Kim's career was rooted in her belief that every child deserves a champion.  As an educator in several Boston-area public and independent schools, she didn't just teach; she advocated.  She cared deeply about the well-being of her students both inside and outside the classroom, working tirelessly to ensure that equal educational opportunities were available to all children, regardless of their background.

What many will remember most about Kim, however, was her indomitable spirit.  Despite facing the challenges of a chronic illness, she radiated a rare generosity and warmth.  She was a constant source of support for her friends and family, always ready to lend a hand, a listening ear, or a kind word to anyone in need.

Kimberly is survived by her daughter, Sofia Rose Donald; her husband, Keith Sterling Hoyte; and her brothers, Andrew Donald and Robert Donald.  She also leaves behind a beloved community of nephews, a niece, and in-laws. She was preceded in death by her sister, Claudia Donald, and her parents.

Service Information

Family and friends are invited to honor Kim's life during a wake on Saturday, March 14, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Douglas Funeral Home, located at 51 Worthen Rd, Lexington, MA.