Donna Nives

Donna Nives passed away December 15, 2019 at the age of 88 at her home in Wellington, Florida.

Born and raised in Reading, Pa.  After graduating University of Miami, Donna settled in Manhattan and

followed her artistic talents to pursue a successful career as a fashion knitwear designer.  Former

 longtime resident of Greenwich, Ct, she is pre-deceased by her beloved

husband of 56 years, Fred Nives. Friends and relatives fondly remember their generous hospitality

at wonderful celebrations, including Thanksgiving, where Donna showcased remarkable flair for her

holiday decorations. They shared their love of animals and their home always

contained a menagerie of dogs, horses, cats, donkeys, and birds who were like family

members.  An active supporter of animal welfare causes and philanthropist, Donna was a Founder of

Adopt- A- Dog in Westchester and Connecticut, coming to the rescue since 1981 to help secure homes

for unwanted animals.  The Nives also generously funded the Bronx Zoo’s “Fred and Donna Nives African

Wild Dog Pavillion”.  Donna was an avid equestrian and member of Greenwich Riding and Trails

Association (GRTA) and Bedford Riding Lanes Association (BRLA), earning countless top placing ribbons

in Hunter Paces.  Donna was one of the first women to earn her colors as a

member of the Goldens Bridge Hounds (GBH) , North Salem, NY.

She is survived by niece Julie Nives (grandnieces Zoe Nives Schwartzman and Marisa Nives) and cousin

Vivien Niwes Van Buren among other dear relatives and loving friends who will truly miss her.

Services Thursday, December 19 at 11Am at Riverside Memorial Chapel,

Amsterdam Avenue & 76^th Street, NYC.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Donna’s memory to Adopt a Dog, 23 Cox Avenue, Armonk,

NY  10504