Donna Lee Paul

Donna Lee Paul (Herbst), age 79, passed away peacefully at her home in Tulalip, WA, on June 10, 2026. Born on November 20, 1946, in Iowa, Donna lived a life dedicated to her family, her work, and the many passions that brought her joy.

On August 6, 1966, Donna married the love of her life, Orland K. Paul, in Reno, Nevada. Together, they built a beautiful life and family founded on love and mutual devotion.

In the first half of her life, Donna was a familiar, welcoming face to many in her community, working as a waitress at the Beachcomber in Port Orchard and VIP's in Bremerton, Washington. In 1993, together with Orland and Carter, she brought her sharp mind and love for cards to a new career as a poker dealer at the Tulalip Casino, where she worked skillfully until her retirement.

Outside of work, Donna was a woman of many talents and hobbies. She was incredibly skilled with her hands, spending countless hours sewing, crocheting, and knitting. She had a passion for puzzles and playing numerous card games, and she rarely missed an episode of her favorite TV show, Jeopardy. She was also a self proclaimed, legendary backseat driver, a trait her family will fondly remember. Donna had a mad crush on Elvis Presley and loved listening to him and Merle Haggard.

Donna and Orland shared a deep love for traveling together on cruises. Above all, Donna’s greatest joy came from her family; she loved taking her grandchildren on vacations and creating unforgettable memories with them. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren truly fulfilled her life, and she cherished every single moment spent in their company.

Donna was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Orland K. Paul; her parents, Victor and Dorothy Herbst; her son, Carter R. L. Paul; her sisters, Vicky Goodman and Jackie Graham; and her nieces, Starla D. Hauser and Desa Calafiore.

She leaves behind a large, loving family who will carry on her memory. She is survived by her son, Stormmy V. Paul (Nichole Hendricks); her daughter, Dusty D. Blankenship; and David Lee Blankenship I, who remained a true son in law in her heart, and Jeff Simpson.

Donna was the proud grandmother of Chelsea Miller (Ryan), SummerLee Blankenship, David Lee Blankenship II, Marlee Faye Paul, Carter Paul II, Stormmy LaMarr Blankenship (Sophiea), Haley M. Blankenship, Kyler Alvis, Baily Alvis, Corbin Sims, and Francis Sheldon.

She was the doting great grandmother of Cruz Santinanez II, Kingston Miller, Marcus Miller, Nizhoni Phair, Taylene Paul, and was eagerly anticipating the arrival of David L. Blankenship III this July. She also leaves behind her fiercely loved and faithful Rottweiler, Baby Paul.

Service Information

On Tuesday, June 16, 2026, there will be a noon service at Schaefer-Shipman, where she will then be escorted home one last time, followed by a dinner/gathering at Donna's home from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

A funeral service to honor and celebrate Donna's life will be held on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Tulalip Gathering Hall, located at 7512 Totem Beach Road, Tulalip, Washington, 98271. Family and friends are welcome to attend.