Marriott International has announced with deep sadness the passing of Donna Rae Garff Marriott, the wife of Chairman Emeritus J.W. “Bill” Marriott, Jr., who died peacefully on December 30, 2025, surrounded by family.
Donna Rae Garff Marriott
The announcement comes just weeks after the couple celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary, marking one of the longest partnerships in the company’s history.
Born in 1935, Donna Marriott was widely admired for her grace, faith and lifelong dedication to family and service. While she remained largely out of the public spotlight, her influence was deeply felt across generations of the Marriott family and beyond.
A Life Rooted in Family, Faith and Service
Donna Rae Garff was born on June 10, 1935, in Evanston, Illinois, and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah. It was there that she developed a love for music and dance and later attended the University of Utah.
In 1955, she married Bill Marriott, beginning a partnership that would span seven decades. Together, they built a family life grounded in shared values of faith, humility and service—principles that would quietly shape both their personal lives and the broader Marriott legacy.
Creating a Home Filled With Tradition
Family was at the heart of Donna Marriott’s life. She devoted herself to raising four children—Debbie, Stephen, John and David—placing particular importance on kindness, patience and integrity.
She was known for the everyday moments that defined family life:
- Driving carpools and cheering at sporting events
- Ensuring family dinners were a nightly tradition
- Hosting holidays that brought together multiple generations
Holidays held special meaning for Donna, marked by gatherings of children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her handmade needlepoint stockings and ornaments became cherished keepsakes, passed down as symbols of continuity and love.
A 70-Year Partnership
Reflecting on their life together, Bill Marriott shared a personal tribute to his late wife.
“I first met the girl of my dreams sitting on a bench at a bus stop at the University of Utah. She has blessed my life and the lives of our children and grandchildren for over 70 years. It has been a joyful marriage and partnership. I will dearly miss her. I love her with all of my heart.”
The couple’s recent 70th wedding anniversary stood as a rare milestone, underscoring a partnership defined by mutual respect, devotion and shared purpose.
Commitment to Faith and Community
Faith was a cornerstone of Donna Marriott’s life. A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she served in leadership roles including Primary President and Relief Society Counselor.
Her commitment to service also extended beyond the church. For many years, she chaired the American Heart Association’s Heart Luncheon in Washington, D.C., one of the organisation’s largest fundraising events, supporting cardiovascular research and awareness.
Tributes From Marriott International
Marriott International President and Chief Executive Officer Anthony Capuano paid tribute to Donna Marriott’s legacy.
“Donna’s kindness and devotion touched everyone who knew her. She exemplified grace and strength, and her love for family was evident in everything she did. Our hearts are with Mr. Marriott, David, Debbie, John, and the entire Marriott family as they navigate this profound loss.”
Family and Legacy
Donna Marriott is survived by her husband, Bill; her children Debbie and her husband Ron; John and his wife Muriel; David and his wife Carrie; and daughters-in-law Juliana Marriott and Angela Marriott. She is also survived by 15 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, her sisters Joanne (Ray Hart) and Linda (Michael Rutter), sister-in-law Suzanne Cooper, brother-in-law and sister-in-law Dick and Nancy Marriott, and many extended family members.
She was preceded in death by her son Stephen; her father Royal Garff; her mother Marba; Royal’s second wife Maxine, who helped raise the Garff children; and her brother Dennis Garff.
The Obituary In Loving Memory Of Donna Marriott June 10, 1935 – December 30, 2025
Memorial Arrangements
A private memorial service will be held for family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, the Marriott family has requested that contributions be made to the American Heart Association of the Greater Washington, D.C. Region.
At a Glance
- Who: Donna Rae Garff Marriott
- What: Passing of the Marriott family matriarch
- When: December 30, 2025
- Age: 90
- Known for: Family devotion, faith, community service
- Survived by: Husband Bill Marriott, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren
- Memorial: Private service; donations to the American Heart Association
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