Donna Faye Ruse, beloved sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2024, in Wilmington, North Carolina, at the age of 73. Born on September 1, 1951, in Quantico, Virginia, Donna was a cherished member of her community, known for her vivacious spirit and kind heart.
In her formative years, Donna was a proud member of the Onslow Assembly #42 Order of the Rainbow for Girls during her time at Jacksonville High School, from which she graduated. She continued her education at Coastal Carolina Community College, where she developed a lifelong appreciation for learning. Donna took immense pride in her heritage, especially the fact that her father, Clark Ruse, was one of the original thirteen Marines stationed at Camp Lejeune during its inception.
Donna dedicated over four decades to her professional career at the Credit Bureau of Jacksonville, working alongside her mother, Bea Ruse. Her dedication and commitment to her work were admired by many, and she forged lasting relationships with colleagues and clients alike.
A true social butterfly, Donna loved to dance at the beach on weekends, engage in lengthy phone conversations, and meet new people wherever she went. Her warmth and enthusiasm for life touched all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Donna lived a significant portion of her life in Jacksonville, North Carolina, from June 1957 until she made Wilmington her home in June 2010. Though she had no children of her own, she shared a deep bond with her niece and nephews, providing them with love and guidance throughout their lives.
Donna was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Coleman L. Maready, with whom she shared 25 wonderful years of marriage, as well as by her parents, Clark and Bea Ruse, and her sister, Marsha Ruse East. She is survived by her sister, Pamela Ruse Yarborough of Wilmington, Delaware; her nephew, Brian C. Yarborough, his wife Heather, and their two children of Delaware; her niece, Donna W. Wallace and her husband Andrew of Delaware; and her nephew, Rusty East of Jacksonville, North Carolina.
In honor of Donna's memory, memorial donations can be made to
American Cancer Society or
American Lung Association at the links below.
A memorial visitation will take place at Wilmington Funeral & Cremation Chapel on November 13, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Following this, a private inurnment will be held.
Donna's legacy is one of love, laughter, and cherished memories, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her family and friends take comfort in knowing that her vibrant spirit will live on in their hearts forever.
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Care entrusted to Wilmington Funeral & Cremation – Wilmington Chapel – 1535 S. 41st Street Wilmington, NC 28403 910-791-9099
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