Donna Rae Waring

Donna Rae Waring, a radiant presence in the lives of those who knew her, was born on August 1, 1955, in Aberdeen, Washington. She departed this world on July 1, 2025, leaving behind a legacy woven with love, kindness, and an unmistakable warmth that touched all who were fortunate enough to cross her path.

Following her graduation from South Kitsap High School, where she was notably on the drill team and excelled in home economics, Donna embarked on a diverse career. She held various positions including a car hop at A&W, a teller, secretary, and loan officer at Kitsap Bank, and the WSU extension. Her professional journey was marked by her exceptional kindness, generosity, and a deep passion for helping others succeed.

Donna's personality was a tapestry of qualities that enchained everyone around her. She was kind, compassionate, sweet, innocent, playful, and easygoing—a romantic dreamer with a sassy flair. Her thoughtful spirit, remarkable sense of style, stunning smile, and contagious laughter left an indelible imprint in the hearts of family and friends alike. The warmth she exuded was like sunshine; to be near her was to feel embraced by her generosity and love for life.

Quality time spent with her cherished family and friends was paramount to Donna. She loved to sing and dance, to laugh, and to listen to the stories of others, always quick to share a compliment that would brighten someone's day. Her tender-heartedness and her affinity for nature made her find joy in God’s perfect creations—flowers, beaches, trees, and the laughter of children, all serving as reminders of beauty in simplicity.

Donna met the love of her life Gary on a blind date in September 1993, married on 29 January 1994 and they were together for remainder of her life. Donna took immense pride in her family, crediting their splendor and success to her faith in Jesus Christ. Her proudest accomplishment was undoubtedly her family— her devoted son, Robert Wilson; adoring daughter, Raylene Lightheart; and bonus children Julie, Justin, and Kimberly. She was also blessed with twelve perfect, amazing grandchildren who were the light of her life. Donna was further supported by her younger sister, Tammy Elledge; older brother, Rick Barnes; and the dearest friendship of Crystal Berry.

Though Donna experienced the deep sorrow of losing her beloved parents, Al and Jackie Tomizek, and her infant son, Scott, she remained a beacon of hope and joy for her family. She cherished the memories of her sisters Debbie Finney and Nancy Shelton, and she found comfort in the love she shared with her other parents, Bob and Dorothy Wilson.

Beyond her roles as a mother and friend, Donna's vibrant spirit thrived through her embracing of life's adventures. She explored a multitude of hobbies—from knitting to traveling with her husband—always eager to try new things, all while maintaining an unwaveringly positive outlook. With an appreciation for all things beautiful, she particularly adored the color purple while cherishing every other hue that filled her world with brightness.

In every aspect of her life, Donna Rae Waring was a loyal friend, a bosom buddy, and a source of inspiration for many. She had an innate ability to see the glory of God in all beautiful things and celebrated the life around her with unwavering love. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, who will forever carry her light with them.