Donna Marriott, 90, wife of J.W. “Bill” Marriott, Jr., chairman emeritus of Marriott International, died on Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025.
“I first met the girl of my dreams sitting on a bench at a bus stop at the University of Utah,” said Bill Marriott in a press release. “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.”
Donna Marriott was born June 10, 1935, in Evanston, Illinois. After losing her mother at age 12, Donna helped raise her siblings.
Married 70 years ago in 1955, the Marriotts raised four children — Debbie, Stephen, John, and David. They have 15 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren.
According to Marriott’s obituary: “Donna was known for her devotion to family dinners, her hands-on approach to parenting, and her joy in celebrating holidays surrounded by children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.”
Faith was described as a “cornerstone” of her life, with service and leadership roles as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Marriott also chaired the American Heart Association’s Heart Luncheon in Washington, D.C., one of the organization’s largest fundraisers.
“She lived a life of quiet strength, unwavering faith, and enduring love, a legacy cherished by her family and friends,” according to her obituary.
Marriott’s loving relationship with her husband stands out. “Donna and Bill shared a deep and enduring love, marked by weekly date nights and summers spent with family in New Hampshire,” according to her obituary. “Their bond sustained them through life’s joys and sorrows, including the loss of their eldest son, Stephen, in 2013.”
A private memorial service will be held for family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, the Marriott family requests contributions be made to the American Heart Association of Greater Washington DC Region.