Donna May Ellis

Donna was born on October 10, 1940, in Tryon, Oklahoma, to Loren and Thelma (Grothe) Goodman. She graduated from Seiling High School.

On December 22, 1961, Donna married the love of her life, Carl Wayne Ellis. They shared 41 wonderful years of marriage before his passing on February 27, 2002. Donna made her home in Bethany for 61 years, where she built lasting friendships and became a beloved part of her community.

She had a deep love for country music and never passed up the chance to visit, laugh, and spend time with family and friends. Donna was funny, kind, and full of life. She taught her family how to be good humans: to show compassion, to extend grace, and most importantly, to LOVE. Above all else, she loved her family, and her proudest accomplishment was being a mother.

Donna was a faithful member of House of Prayer and an active member of the Red Hat Society, where she treasured the fellowship and friendships she found there.

She is survived by her daughters, Carla Ellis-Jorski and husband Andrew Jorski of Choctaw, Oklahoma; Sheila Twyman of Mustang, Oklahoma; Cherrie Ellis of Houston, Texas; and Martha Coleman and husband Dan Coleman of Houston, Texas; and her son-in-law, Brian Twyman. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Brett Twyman and Duncan Twyman, both of Bethany, Oklahoma; Carson Jorski and Allison Jorski of Choctaw, Oklahoma; Cooper Twyman of Mustang, Oklahoma; and Tyler Stephens-Jorski and wife Miranda of Choctaw, Oklahoma. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren: Mayberry Twyman of Bethany, Oklahoma; and Carter Stephens-Jorski and Aubree Stephens-Jorski of Choctaw, Oklahoma. She also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends who will cherish her memory.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at Bill Merritt Funeral Service.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at Bill Merritt Funeral Service. Donna will be laid to rest at Bethany Cemetery beside her beloved husband, Carl, and her son, Stuart.

Donna’s life was a beautiful reflection of laughter, faith, and unconditional love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know her.