Cleveland Teachers, Donald and Maria Nunney, Tragically Lose Their Lives in North Carolina Crash, Leaving Family and Community Devastated
CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Cleveland community is in mourning after the untimely deaths of Donald and Maria Nunney, two dedicated educators from the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD). The couple, both pillars of the local education system, tragically passed away in a car accident while vacationing with their family in North Carolina. Their loss has left a profound void, not only in their family but also in the classrooms and hearts of the students they nurtured for so many years.
On Friday, August 15, 2025, at around 1:18 p.m., the Nunneys were involved in a tragic crash near Chapel Hill, North Carolina. They were en route to drop off their oldest son, who was starting his freshman year at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. According to state troopers, the family's vehicle swerved off the road and crashed into a tree before catching fire. Maria, 50, tragically died at the scene, while Donald, 55, was rushed to UNC Chapel Hill in critical condition. Sadly, despite the best efforts of medical personnel, he too succumbed to his injuries.
The couple's two younger children, ages 9 and 14, were seriously injured in the crash and are currently recovering at Duke Hospital. The children’s survival, though a small comfort amidst the heartbreak, underscores the devastation faced by this family in what was meant to be a celebratory moment of sending their son to college.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the incident, with some reports stating that the Nunney's oldest son, who was traveling in a separate car, witnessed the crash and immediately stopped to be with his family. This horrifying event has left the family struggling to comprehend the loss of both parents in such a tragic and sudden manner.
Shari Obrenski, president of the Cleveland Teachers Union, spoke of the Nunneys with deep admiration. “They were great teachers, caring and devoted parents, and genuinely committed to their kids and community,” Obrenski shared. “They will be deeply missed.” The Cleveland Metropolitan School District has promised grief counselors to support staff and students when classrooms open again, as the sorrow felt throughout the district is immeasurable.
As members of the Cleveland education community reflect on the impact the Nunneys had on their students, many shared how they inspired, encouraged, and deeply cared for everyone around them. Donald and Maria were known for their unflagging dedication to their work, their warmth, and their commitment to fostering learning environments where all children could thrive.
The loss of such selfless and loving individuals has sent waves of grief through the community. In addition to their professional contributions, the Nunneys were cherished members of their local neighborhood, where their presence was marked by kindness, generosity, and a willingness to help others in times of need. Their untimely deaths are not just felt by their immediate family, but by every student and colleague who had the privilege of working with them.
The grief is palpable as community members come together to support the Nunney family during this painful time. As the days pass, those who knew and loved Donald and Maria will hold onto the memories of their teaching legacy and the love they so generously gave to their children, their students, and their community.
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