Donna M. Ruffier

On October 21, 2024, Donna Marie Ruffier, age 63, passed away surrounded by family after an unexpected hospitalization. Donna Marie’s wishes were abided by every step of the way and she left us peacefully and without pain. Donna Marie had one daughter, Angela, and three grandchildren; Chloe, Cole and Cali. In addition, she was survived by her father, Dennis (Marylou); two sisters, Julie and Wendy; one brother, Bill (Amanda); and nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her mother, Elizabeth and youngest sister, Kelly. Donna Marie had many friends throughout her lifetime and some amazing companions, who remained by her side until the day she passed. 

Anyone who knew Donna Marie, knew she was an artist, who could create beauty out of the most ordinary of items. She loved nature in all forms; being in and near water, creating garden spaces, enjoying fires in her backyard and simply walking barefoot in the grass. If the sun was out, so was Donna Marie. Nature inspired much of her art and she passed her creativity on to her grandchildren, always spending time outside with them and encouraging their artistic abilities. 

As a grandmother, Donna Marie was known as Gamma. Her grandchildren found their Gamma to be entertaining and fun. Between the curse words, the messes they were allowed to make in the name of art, and the snacks she always had on hand, she was the best around. As older grandchildren, Gamma was appreciated for her free spirit, her unconditional love of family and the compassion she had for all living beings. She could name all the birds and all the flowers she came across.

As a mother, Donna Marie, never to be referred to as “Ma”, was unique and creative. She was a confidante and her daughter’s biggest fan. She never missed an opportunity to encourage and applaud her daughter’s achievements and kept mementos from every stage of her life, even if it embarrassed her daughter to obtain them (imagine taking photos of your child’s first day of work, but in front of all their new coworkers and customers). Donna Marie taught her daughter how to be strong and independent, how to accept herself as beautiful, intelligent, and creative, and how to survive life’s greatest challenges. 

As a woman, Donna Marie brought beauty to the world, both strength and softness to all her relationships, joy to those who loved her, and occasionally some stress…but lots of joy nonetheless. She could make any house a home and sought to bring peace into her own life and the lives of others. She loved moments of solitude with her books and pets, but also times of family related chaos. For anyone who loved Donna Marie, she was like no one else they knew. She was a fierce presence in the world and will be missed beyond measure. 

There will be no traditional services for Donna Marie, but a celebration of life at a later date. If any would like to make a donation in her memory, we ask that you donate to a pet rescue of your choosing. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donna M. Ruffier, please visit our floral store.