Donna Rae Garff Marriott, Cherished Wife, Mother, Grandmother, and Community Leader, Passes Away at Age 90
Marriott (NASDAQ: MAR) announced the passing of Donna Rae Garff Marriott on December 30, 2025, at age 90.
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Rhea-AI Summary
Marriott (NASDAQ: MAR) announced the passing of Donna Rae Garff Marriott on December 30, 2025, at age 90. She died peacefully surrounded by family after celebrating her 70th wedding anniversary with husband J.W. “Bill” Marriott, Jr.
Born June 10, 1935, Donna grew up in Salt Lake City, attended the University of Utah, raised four children, and was active in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and community philanthropy, including chairing the American Heart Association Heart Luncheon in Washington, D.C. A private memorial will be held; the family requests donations to the American Heart Association of Greater Washington DC Region in lieu of flowers.
Details
News Market Reaction – MAR
On Dec 31, the day this news came out, MAR closed 1.18% below the previous close.
Data tracked by StockTitan Argus for the Dec 31 session.
Key Figures
- Age at passing
- 90 years
- Donna Rae Garff Marriott’s age at death
- Marriage duration
- 70 years
- Length of marriage to J.W. “Bill” Marriott, Jr.
- Children
- 4 children
- Number of children raised by Donna and Bill Marriott
- Grandchildren
- 15 grandchildren
- Descendants noted in obituary
- Great-grandchildren
- 36 great-grandchildren
- Descendants noted in obituary
Historical Context
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BETHESDA, Md., Dec. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Marriott International announces with deep sadness the passing of Donna Rae Garff Marriott, a woman of grace, faith, and unwavering devotion to family. Mrs. Marriott passed away peacefully on December 30, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. She and J.W. "Bill" Marriott, Jr., Chairman Emeritus of Marriott International, recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary.
Born June 10, 1935, in Evanston,
Donna was known for creating a home filled with love and tradition. She devoted herself to raising four children – Debbie, Stephen, John, and David – instilling values of kindness, patience, and integrity. She drove carpools, cheered at sporting events, and made sure family dinners were a nightly ritual. Holidays were her special joy, marked by gatherings that brought together children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and by her handmade needlepoint stockings and ornaments that became treasured family keepsakes.
"I first met the girl of my dreams sitting on a bench at a bus stop at the University of
Faith was a cornerstone of Donna's life. A dedicated member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she served in leadership roles including Primary President and Relief Society Counselor. Her commitment to service extended beyond the church; for many years, she chaired the American Heart Association's Heart Luncheon in
"Donna's kindness and devotion touched everyone who knew her," said Anthony Capuano, President and Chief Executive Officer, Marriott International. "She exemplified grace and strength, and her love for family was evident in everything she did. Our hearts are with Mr. Marriott, David, Debbie, John, and the entire Marriott family as they navigate this profound loss."
Donna Marriott is survived by her husband, Bill; children Debbie and her husband, Ron; John and his wife, Muriel; David and his wife, Carrie; daughters-in-law Juliana Marriott and Angela Marriott. She is also survived by 15 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, sisters Joanne (Ray Hart) and Linda (Michael Rutter); sister-in-law Suzanne Cooper; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Dick and Nancy Marriott; and many extended family members. She was preceded in death by her son, Stephen; her father, Royal Garff; her mother, Marba; Royal's second wife, Maxine, who lovingly helped raise the Garff children; and her brother, Dennis Garff. Donna's obituary can be found here.
A private memorial service will be held for family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, the Marriott family requests contributions be made to the American Heart Association of
ABOUT MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL
Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR) is based in
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SOURCE Marriott International, Inc.
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