Remembering Donna Shor

The latest from Hollywood on the Potomac.

Donna Shor and Robert Devaney — Photo by Janet Donovan

With the death of Donna Shor on April 9th at 101, Washington loses not just a chronicler, but a distinct style of witness—she didn’t merely cover the capital; she helped give it its reflection.

In a city driven by access and ambition, she cultivated something rarer: presence—the kind that never needed to announce itself. She understood the choreography of Washington—the lunches that quietly rewrote narratives, the receptions where power softened, the unspoken hierarchy of who lingered and who was sought. Never ornamental, despite the label of elegance, she wore it as the visible edge of a sharper intelligence.

She moved in two registers at once: the journalist—precise, perceptive, attuned to subtext—and the figure who glided through salons and embassies as if completing the scene rather than observing it. She knew information traveled not just through headlines, but through glances, seating charts, and who claimed the last word before dessert.

She understood, too, that Washington is a stage that outlives its players. That knowledge lent her grace: she could admire, critique, and participate without ever appearing consumed.

Donna with her son Brian Fifield (left) at the home of Shahin Mafi for her 100th birthday party

A recap:

A lively gathering of friends and family converged at Shahin Mafi’s stunning Potomac home to celebrate a momentous milestone: Donna Shor’s 100th birthday! The event, hosted by her daughter and son, Donnali and Brian, honored Donna, a beloved journalist renowned for her captivating work with Washington Life. The day was filled with heartfelt tributes, marking a century of remarkable achievements and cherished memories.

Photo credit: Donnali Fifield

But before the world came to know her as Donna Shor, there was Donna Hamilton — a name that whispered through the glamorous corridors of Hollywood’s golden era. Picture this: Donna Hamilton, a budding starlet shared a dressing trailer with none other than Marilyn Monroe herself. Yes, that Marilyn Monroe — the very epitome of stardom and allure.

But most of all, Donna is known for her kindness. Richard Marks and Nicole d’Amecourt put it this way as a medal of honor to their friendship:

“Our souls travel through music, thus this medallion from Washington International Piano Arts Council. This medallion represents the best of what it means to be human – gallantry, heroism and love. So from the world to you, Donna Shor, this medal of love from Nicole.”