Donna Marie McQuatters

With hearts full of love and gratitude for the time we were blessed to share with her, we celebrate the life of Donna Marie McQuatters, who entered into the arms of the Lord on February 5, 2025. Born on June 30, 1960, in Monahans, TX, Donna was lovingly adopted by Arthur and Esther McQuatters, who raised her with steadfast love and devotion.

A proud member of Midland High School’s Class of 1978, Donna carried her passion for learning forward, earning an Associate of Science in General Studies from Midland College in May 1999. She built a distinguished career as an Executive Administrative Assistant and Office Manager, where her keen intellect, unwavering punctuality, boundless creativity, and impeccable organizational skills set her apart. Known for her exceptional work ethic and problem-solving abilities, Donna had a unique talent for assessing and resolving complex challenges. Her customers placed immense trust in her expertise, relying on her insightful advice and deep knowledge of the products she represented, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of working with her.

Donna was preceded in death by her father, Arthur “Jay” (A.J.) McQuatters, in 2001, and her mother, Esther McQuatters, in 2010.

Her heart belonged to God, her family, and her tight circle of friends. She is survived by her beloved sister, Nancy Roys; her cherished niece, Mich Etzel, and her husband, Mitchel Etzel; her devoted nephew, Andy Neatherlin; and her treasured great-nieces, Tori Stephens and her husband, Michael Stephens, Payton Robertson, Sydney Etzel, and Sophia Veloz. Among the greatest joys of her life was her great-great-niece, Sophia Veloz, who brought her endless happiness. Donna beamed with pride over Sophia, sharing pictures of ‘Miss Sophia’—whom she lovingly nicknamed ‘Sopapilla’—with anyone willing to look. She loved being her great-great aunt more than words could express.

To know Donna was to experience fierce love, sharp wit, and unfailing loyalty. Her sense of humor was unmatched, and her quick wit could turn even the hardest days into something lighter. She deeply adored her parents and honored their legacy in every way possible. The bond she shared with her sister, Nancy, was unbreakable. She doted on her niece, Mich, often saying she had loved her as her own child from the moment she was born. Likewise, Andy was a light in her life, bearing the A.J. initials in honor of her beloved father.

Donna was cool. So cool. The kind of cool that taught Mich to drive at just 14—in her legendary Fire Bird, speeding down the country roads off Rankin Highway. The kind of cool that made her the fun aunt who loved Monday Night Wrestling, taking Mich to wrestling events at the Ector County Coliseum more times than she could count. She took Andy to rattlesnake roundups near and far, instilling a love for adventure. But Donna’s greatest love was her home—the house her parents built. She vowed to care for it as long as she lived, honoring their legacy with pride and devotion.

A true music aficionado, Donna had an unmatched ear for great guitar riffs. Her playlist was legendary, spanning old and new gospel music along with artists like Stevie Ray Vaughan, ZZ Top, Sam Cooke, Gary Stewart, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Dire Straits, George Thorogood, John Cougar Mellencamp, and Pink Floyd—just to name a few. If you ever dared to challenge her in a music trivia contest—or any trivia game, for that matter—you were almost certainly going to lose. Her sharp mind and incredible memory put most to shame.

Beyond her love of music and quick wit, Donna had a gift for making people feel loved, whether near or far. In 2016, when her Aunt Rose in Washington State entered hospice care, Donna made it a point to write to her regularly, ensuring she felt remembered and cherished even from miles away. She was a prayer warrior, always lifting up her family and friends with intention and love.

She was also a master in the kitchen, a lover of books, a passionate gardener, and a fierce advocate for animals. There wasn’t a dog or cat she didn’t love, and she generously supported animal rescues, always giving a voice to those who had none. In 2021, she adopted Cowgirl, her beloved pug, who quickly became the queen of the house. Pampered, adored, and dressed for every occasion, Cowgirl lived a life of luxury—just as any pet lucky enough to belong to Donna would.

Even as her body grew weary, her mind remained strong, her humor sharp, and her love enduring. She had a heart for the less fortunate, always willing to help others—but never afraid to share some spicy wisdom if it meant saving someone from heartache.

Her absence leaves a void that can never be filled, but her love, laughter, loyalty, and legendary music taste will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A celebration of her life will be held at 10:00 am on Wednesday March 19th at Living Way Foursquare Church of Midland, 415 Alta Avenue, the very church her mother founded in 1948.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her honor to Bully Beds Inc. of Andrews, TX, Fix West Texas, Midland Humane Coalition, Kerrville Pets Alive (kerrvillepetsalive.com), or a pet rescue of your choice.

Her love was deep, her heart was pure, and her impact immeasurable. Rest in peace, sweet Donna.