Donna Ruth Groat

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donna Ruth Groat, affectionately known to many as "Cricket," who left this world on July 14, 2026, at the age of 62. She Born on March 7, 1964, in Palo Alto, California, Donna was the cherished daughter of Melba Loyce Sasnett and Donald Clare Groat Sr, both of whom preceded her in death, along with her beloved brother, Dewey Jernigan. Donna spent her formative years in Oklahoma, graduating from Jenks High School and later earning her degree from Tulsa Community College. She was a woman of remarkable ambition and a trailblazer in her own right, embarking on numerous ventures throughout her life. Her early career in hospitality laid the groundwork for her entrepreneurial spirit, leading her to establish "Cricket's Creative Plant Care," with esteemed clients such as The Sheraton Kensington in Tulsa. However, it was in real estate and property management where Donna truly found her calling. Cricket Loved her Nieces and Nephews Most! She was the fun aunt that would eat at the kids table during family gatherings creating joy and laughter. Donna was a passionate advocate for animals, dedicating much of her time and resources to their care and welfare. Her love for her many rescued cats was a testament to her generous and nurturing nature. As an ardent donor to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Cricket was known for her infectious spirit and wickedly funny sense of humor. Conversations with her were never without a witty pop culture reference or a cleverly crafted original quip. Her admiration for comedians like Steve Martin, Steven Wright, and her favorite cast members on SNL. She had her own ability to weave their humor into her everyday life,while generating unique and original lines of her own always making those around her laugh and smile. A celebration of Donna's life will be held on August 15, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Renee's Pope Johnson's Ranch Home, located at 613 SE 1180th Ave, Red Oak, Oklahoma, just a mile west of Leflore on The Green Valley Loop. Family and friends are invited to gather and share fond memories of a life well-lived. In lieu of flowers, donations in Donna's memory can be made to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), reflecting her lifelong commitment to the welfare of animals. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the ICU nurses and doctors at Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast, whose exceptional care and compassion for Donna made them true "Rock Stars" in their time of need. Donna Ruth Groat's legacy of kindness, humor, and love for all creatures great and small will forever be cherished by those who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered.