Sep 8, 2018

Donna Jo Soviero passed away Sunday, August 19, 2018.

She was born April 10, 1947, in Washington County, to Joseph and Margaret Soviero. She was the granddaughter of Paul and Concetta Ciaffon.

Surviving are her husband of 52 years, Robin K. Roche; her daughter, Robin Kelly Roche (Hallie Hinkhouse); her mother, Margaret Soviero; siblings Suzette Soviero (Rusk Bolsinger) and Anthony Soviero (Maria Lass); and scores of beloved friends and family.

Donna Jo, known to many as “DJ,” was a lifelong learner and multitasker. She graduated from Middletown (N.J.) High School and the School of International Service at American University, Washington, D.C. She received her law degree from San Francisco New College of Law, where she also became board chair. She was a student of French, Italian, American Sign Language and Bikram Yoga, among many other interests. She was an ardent and tireless advocate for women seeking office. She also worked for the Democratic leadership in San Francisco, Calif., and around the country.

Her professional career began in Washington, D.C., with the Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service. In 1973, she was transferred to San Francisco Region 9 Headquarters and became director of the National Health Service Corps, a program to place physicians in needy areas. Later, she was house counsel to the Regional Health Administrator. In 1980, she opened a private law practice representing landlords and tenants and authored the first handbook of tenant rights for the city of San Francisco. After the birth of her daughter in 1990, DJ was appointed as an administrative law judge for the state of California, where she heard cases until 2016.

An avid critic, she enjoyed film and theater, especially during 20 years of summers in Ashland, Ore., for Oregon Shakespeare Festival. DJ frequently vacationed and studied in Italy, becoming an Italian citizen through her paternal grandfather’s lineage. She commonly amazed her friends with her prodigious memory and keen intellect. Her tireless humor and love of life was a beacon to her family and friends each and every day.

Donna Jo survived 18 years of breast cancer with the care and support of University of California – San Francisco, where her care team marveled at her determination and resilience to live out a productive and loving life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Emily’s List in honor of Donna Jo Soviero. To donate, visit https://secure.emilyslist.org/page/outreach/view/membership/DONNAJO.

A memorial service will be held at noon Friday, September 14, in Swedenborgian Church, San Francisco.