Family, friends and the De Anza campus community gathered on Jan. 10 to commemorate the life of sociology instructor Randi McHargue O’Donnell, who passed away Dec. 26.

McHargue O’Donnell was suffering from depression. She leaves her husband Scott O’ Donnell and her daughters, three-year-old Molly and one-year-old Kelly.

For 15 years, McHargue O’Donnell served De Anza as an instructor of sociology. Her classes included “Introduction to Sociology,” “So-ciology of Men and Women” and “Inti-macy and Marriage Today.”

In addition, she was a teacher for the Academically Talented Youth Program and interpreted for deaf students. She met her husband when he was one of her deaf students.

The memorial service gave colleagues the opportunity to share memories of McHargue O’Donnell.

Cathy Haas, a close friend and American Sign Language instructor taught McHargue O’Donnell sign language and remembered her interest in helping the deaf.

“She was really enthusiastic about the ASL classes provided at Stanford University,” Haas said.

McHargue O’Donnell attended Stanford University, where she received a bachelor’s of arts degree in behavioral science and a master’s of arts degree in sociology.

Dean of Academic Services, Christina Espinosa-Pieb read a letter from former student Tatiana Tsukerman, who commented on McHargue O’Donnell’s devotion for her students. “Even while she was in treatment, she still graded our reports and tests.”

According to history instructor and close friend Margaret Stevens, her students were the most important thing to McHargue O’Donnell next to her family.

Student Marisa Torres said she was shocked and saddened to hear about McHargue O’Donnell’s death.

“She always had a sweet smile, and was always happy. She helped me with anything,” Torres said.

McHargue O’Donnell’s family suggests any donations in her memory be made to Mike McHargue for the Molly and Kelly O’Donnell Education Fund, 1786 McDaniel Ave., San Jose, CA 95126.