Donna Jean Godchaux, the legendary singer best known for her time with the iconic rock band Grateful Dead, left behind not only a rich musical legacy but also a loving family. Following her death on November 2, 2025, at the age of 78, fans have shown renewed interest in learning more about her personal life — especially her children, who have continued her musical spirit in their own unique ways.
Donna Jean Godchaux was the proud mother of two sons — Zion Godchaux and Kinsman MacKay.
Born in 1974 to Donna Jean and her first husband, Keith Godchaux, Zion followed closely in his parents’ musical footsteps. He is best known as a musician, songwriter, and producer, and one-half of the popular electronic-rock duo BoomBox. The band is known for its blend of funk, soul, and dance music, a modern reflection of the musical experimentation that characterized the Grateful Dead’s era.
Zion has often spoken about how growing up in a creative environment influenced his style. His performances carry hints of the improvisational energy that made his parents’ music legendary.
After Keith Godchaux’s tragic death in 1980, Donna Jean later married David MacKay, with whom she had her second son, Kinsman MacKay. Like his mother and older brother, Kinsman also shares a deep connection with music and creativity. While he keeps a lower public profile than Zion, he has occasionally collaborated in live projects and family music ventures.
In interviews, Donna Jean often expressed her pride in both sons, calling them her “tight core” and crediting them for carrying on the family’s musical legacy.
