Donna (Dixie) Lee Orth (née Dow)

Donna Lee “Dixie” Orth (née Dow), age 88, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loved ones, on February 8, 2026, in San Diego, California.

Born on July 9, 1937, in Wenatchee, Washington, Donna moved with her family to Seattle in 1942, where she spent her childhood years. Donna lived a life enriched by creativity, compassion, and a deep appreciation for the world around her. Her journey was marked by a love of music, nature, animals, travel—and most profoundly—her family.

Donna is survived by her husband, Fred, and her two sons, David (Dianna) and Mike. She met Fred during high school at the Dunlap Baptist Church Youth Group in Rainier Valley, Seattle, Washington. They were married in 1956 and moved to San Diego, California, in 1965. They went on to share 69 devoted years together, building a warm and loving home centered on family. Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Josephine and Kyle Dow, and her brothers, Gail and Loren Dow.

A gifted musician who could read music and play by ear, she mastered several instruments throughout her life but always returned to the piano, which remained her truest form of expression. Her music brought joy to those around her and became a lasting symbol of her artistic spirit.

Her adventurous heart led her to explore the world, embracing every opportunity to experience new cultures and landscapes. A breast cancer survivor, she found peace in nature. Her garden was a sanctuary where she lovingly tended to plants and flowers. During the winter months, she delighted in cross-country skiing along snowy trails that offered both tranquility and exhilaration.

Donna was a skilled administrative assistant. She worked for ten years at Boeing in the Seattle area and later, after moving to San Diego, at San Diego State University and the Grossmont Union High School District.

Donna’s compassion extended deeply to animals, and she cared for dogs, cats, and other small pets throughout her life.

She also had a strong sense of family heritage. Donna celebrated this connection through travel, music, cooking, and clothing that reflected her roots across the British Isles. She felt a particular bond with Wales through the Hughes side of her family and proudly traced her Scottish ancestry, identifying her clan crest and plaid.

Donna’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. May her legacy continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to share in her journey.