Donna Curty, a retired teacher from Avenal State Prison, passed away March 1, 2024. She was 88 years old.
She taught first grade at Avenal Elementary School for 35 years before joining the department. Curty taught GED classes at Avenal State Prison for 20 years, holding one of the highest success rates for GED graduates.
She began teaching at Avenal State Prison in August 1998, retiring 20 years later at the age of 83.
“Donna was a bright, beautiful lady and will be missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her,” according to a statement issued by Avenal State Prison.
Did you know? Curty was a driving force behind getting Avenal incorporated as a city in 1979. She was also part of the committee that brought the state prison to Avenal.
Funeral Services will be held Friday, May 10, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church at 19 Follett St. in Lemoore. Rosary services will begin at 9 a.m. followed by a funeral mass at 9:30 a.m. According to the family, all are welcome to attend.
Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.
Related content
High Desert State Prison, FCI‑Herlong honor fallen officers
Staff from High Desert State Prison in Susanville joined their counterparts at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Herlong to host…
Brian Fenderson, retired correctional lieutenant
Brian Fenderson, a retired correctional lieutenant, passed away June 1, 2026. He worked for the department for 24 years, retiring…
Ralph Torres, retired correctional counselor II
Ralph Torres, a retired correctional counselor II, passed away May 16, 2026, at the age of 76. He dedicated more…
Calipatria State Prison mourns loss of Carlton Hargrave
Calipatria State Prison announced the May 27, 2026, passing of staff member Carlton Hargrave, a materials and stores supervisor II.…
Olga Desai, retired supervising registered nurse II
Olga Desai, a retired supervising registered nurse II, passed away May 22, 2026. She worked for the department for 15…
Bruce Frank, retired correctional lieutenant
Bruce Frank, a retired correctional lieutenant, passed away May 22, 2026. Frank began his career with the department in September…