Donna E Marks

Donna E. Marks, a beloved educator, writer, and friend to all she met, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2026, after several weeks of being under the tender care of hospice. Born on August 14, 1936, in the sunny town of Garden Grove, California, Donna graced the world with her warmth, intelligence, and boundless creativity for nearly ninety years. Donna was the cherished daughter of Mina E. Shurr and Donald R. Schurr, and the adored younger sister of Lesandra M. Schurr, who survives her. She was preceded in death by her husband, David J. Marks, with whom she shared a beautiful life until his passing in 2011. Donna's life was a tapestry of love and passion woven through her many roles as a teacher, pageant queen, and writer. Her journey in education began at Garden Grove Union High School and continued at Orange Coast Junior College and the University of California at Fullerton, where she earned her teaching credential. For thirty inspiring years, she dedicated herself to the young minds of Salsipuedes School in Watsonville, leaving an indelible mark on her students, many of whom she continued to correspond with long after they left her classroom. Donna's heartfelt letters conveyed her unwavering belief in their potential and her joy in watching them grow and flourish. In 1955, Donna captured the hearts of many when she was crowned "Miss California" at the third Miss Universe Pageant held in Long Beach. Her grace and poise were only matched by her genuine kindness and the light she brought into every room she entered. Donna's personal life was rich with love and adventure. She first married Lloyd Calvin Brett in 1956 and then Glenn Richard Hubbard in 1966. But it was in 1988, when she married David John Marks, that she found her true partner in life. Together, they moved to Mariposa, California, where they nurtured a vibrant herb farm, welcoming visitors with open arms to share in the beauty of their gardens. A passionate writer, Donna was an active member and leader of the Mariposa Writers Group for many years, where she penned stories that reflected her love of nature and the intricacies of life. Her writings were a testament to her introspective nature and her ability to find beauty and meaning in the world around her. While a private funeral ceremony will honor Donna's life, her spirit lives on in the hearts of those she touched. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests donations to a charity of your choice, a gesture that mirrors Donna's lifelong commitment to giving back to her community. Donna E. Marks will be remembered for her radiant smile, her nurturing spirit, and the gentle way she encouraged all those she encountered to see the world through a lens of kindness and curiosity. Her legacy is one of love, and she will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.