Donley Name Meaning, Origin and Heraldry

Bearers of the name Donley share their surname's story with Donnelly, its better-known spelling. Its meaning, shared with Donnelly, is “Descendant of Donnghal ("brown valour")”.

• Related forms: O'Donnelly and Donelly.
• Records show Donley as one of the forms Donnelly took over time.

Heraldry and the Donley name

Heraldry is personal: arms associated with the Donnelly surname were borne by specific families, and sharing the name does not mean sharing the blazon. Want more than a summary? See the Donley family name pack.