Donna Marie Hersey

Donna Marie Hersey, lovingly known to many as Grandma Donna, passed away peacefully on May 10th at the age of 85 in Omak, Washington. Though our hearts are heavy, we are deeply grateful for the love, wisdom, recipes, hugs, and laughter she leaves behind. Donna was born on April 21, 1941, in Omak, Washington to Floyd and Eula Utt; Donna was the youngest of three girls. She spent her early years helping on the family ranch, riding horses and participating in the Brewster Bridle Club and making lifelong memories with her family and friends. She later built a family and life with James “Jim” Hersey, marrying on January 3, 1958, in Brewster Washington. Together they raised three children and supported them through all of their rodeos, athletics, and life adventures. She served as a 4-H Leader, Washington State High School Rodeo Secretary, and as a Barn Superintendent at the Waterville Fair. Donna also volunteered in the ticket office at the Omak Stampede for over 30 years. and was proud to be a PRCA Gold Card Member. She worked for many years at JCPenney and dedicated 34 years as a Bus Driver for the Omak School District, impacting many lives along the way. Donna lived life exactly the way she wanted — with strong opinions, a sharp sense of humor, and often a Coke within arm’s reach. She had a way of lighting up a room- almost as quickly as she lit up a cigarette. Donna was known for her incredible cooking, beautiful garden, and her ability to make ordinary moments feel special. Whether it was a pickle or pink cookie, a warm hug or just simply listening, Donna always made people feel cared for. She especially cherished spoiling her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and attending all of their activities. Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Eula Utt; her sister, Velma; and her husband, Jim. She is lovingly membered by her sister, Shirley Groh; her children, Diana Hersey, Geral Hersey (Kay), and Janet Hersey (Cliff); her grandchildren, John Pineda (Bonnie), Jennifer Ramirez (Ruben), Reghan Krestian (Kenneth), and Logan Hersey; her great-grandchildren, Jazlynn and Arya Pineda; Olivia, Alex, and Elissa Ramirez; and Cade and Elise Krestian. She is also survived by her very special neighbors, Codi, Hec, Kaelyn (Shawn), Krista, Ravyn, and Hollis-who were more like family than anything else. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, June 5th, 2026, at the River Valley Funeral Home at 12:00 PM. A gathering to continue celebrating her life will follow at her home at 1:30. Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, laughter, and memories in honor of a life that was so beautifully lived

Donna Marie Hersey

April 21, 1941 - May 10, 2026