It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved, Donna, who left us on July 8th, 2025, at the age of 69. Donna was born on October 24th, 1955 in Oakdale, California, to Bernice Worley Cupit and Billy Ray Cupit.
Donna was known for her kindness, warmth, and the unconditional love she shared with everyone around her. She was the heart of our family, always ready with comforting words, a helping hand, and a beautiful smile and laugh that could light up any room.
She spent her life devoted to her family and friends, creating lasting memories through her generosity, delicious cooking, and her ability to bring people together. She was a collector of fairies, dragons, along with the Sun, Moon, and stars. Donna loved Monterey Bay, and could sit for hours at the beach, admiring the ocean waves.
Donna is survived by her son, Billy Ray Van Houten; daughter-in-law Jennifer Leigh Van Houten; grandchildren Shawn Edward Garvin, Nicole Taelir Van Houten, Ayla Illiana Weldon Posadas, and Addilynn Gail Van Houten; her sister Cherrie Darlene Cupit; her nephew Michael Anthony Whiteley; niece Tiffany Ryan Wingo, one great-nephew, and five great-nieces. She was preceded in death by her husband Richard James Van Houten; her brother Gregory Cupit; and her parents, Bernice Worley Cupit and Billy Ray Cupit.
A service to honor Donna's life will be held on July 17th, 2025, at Lakewood Funeral Home, located at 900 Santa Fe Avenue in Hughson, CA. The day will begin with a viewing at 9:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 10:00 a.m. We will then lay Donna to rest with a graveside flower tribute at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to help cover funeral expenses and to honor Donna's memory.
She will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.
