Donna Lavarne Strites

Donna Lavarne Stites was born October 22, 1958, in Wichita, Kansas, to Thomas W. and Wilma Louise (Buchanan) Thomas. She departed this life on January 17, 2025, at her home in Birch Tree, Missouri at the age of 66. 

Donna married Jerry Rector on November 17, 1982, in Oklahoma. Together, they raised four children: Donna Joann, James, Melinda, and Jeremy. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Wilma Thomas; and two brothers, Edward Thomas and Wesley Thomas. 

Survivors include her lifelong companion, Jerry Rector, children, Joann (Eric) Clutter, James (Courtney) Rector, Melinda (Eddie) Nipper, and Jeremy (Virginia) Rector; 20 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren and one on the way; and sisters, Diane Estus of KS, Denice Stites of MO, and Debra Turner of KS.

Donna loved to go camping, fishing, traveling, and exploring. She enjoyed playing with and spoiling her grandchildren. One of her favorite pastimes was playing with and spoiling her dog Buddy, her sheep Frosty, and her cats. She loved feeding her animals. Donna loved Christmas with her family and loved to look at Christmas lights. 

She was loved by her family and friends. She was the guiding light for her children. 

Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, January 24, 2025, at Yarber Mortuary, Mountain View, Missouri, with Vic Elliott officiating . Visitation will be held prior to the service from 12-1:00 p.m. also at the funeral home. Condolences may be expressed at www.yarbermortuary.com