Donna Jo Read

Donna Jo Read passed away on Saturday, December 20, 2025 in Yakima, surrounded by loved ones. Born in Bremerton, Washington, to parents Donald and Josephine Rodger (Griffith), she spent the majority of her youth in Phoenix, Arizona. When she reached her teens, the family relocated to Poulsbo, Washington, where she graduated from North Kitsap High School in 1961.

After graduation, she enrolled at Central Washington College of Education, as it was then known, majoring in Home Economics with an eye to becoming a teacher. At the close of her sophomore year, she met her future husband, Jim Read, on a blind date. Jim returned from leave to the Navy, and the two began corresponding. Letters between the two grew increasingly bizarre and creative as their romance developed.

That fall, Donna began employment with Standard Oil in Seattle as a billing clerk. In February, Jim returned home again on leave and asked Donna for her hand after his enlistment had ended. A year later, they married and were soon blessed with their first daughter. Eighteen months later, they welcomed a second daughter, completing the family.

Despite forgoing her degree, she became a “teacher” to many children in her neighborhood, helping them learn sewing and cooking skills. Many went on to professional careers in both fields.

For many years, Donna and the family spent countless hours with the Sea-Tac HCCA driving their 1917 Ford Model T around the States and into Canada. Working the registration desk for the annual tours made her a natural at making everyone attending feel like family. Donna never met a stranger, and after just a few minutes, they had a friend for life.

She took pride in her yard, and she always said that digging in the dirt was her sanctuary. Hosting Friday Night dinners for those who needed a meal and some lively conversation was another way she shared her cooking talents.

Donna leaves behind her husband of 62 years, Jim; her two daughters, Kelly Owen and Kris (John) Kaylor; and her granddaughter, Amanda Owen. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister Karen.

Viewing will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, January 9, 2026, at Johnston & Williams Funeral Home in Ellensburg. Her funeral service will be conducted at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 10, also at the funeral home, with burial to follow at High Valley Memorial Park. In late March or early April, when weather permits safer travel, a celebration of life will be held in Donna’s honor.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Johnston & Williams of Ellensburg. Online condolences for the family may be left at www.johnston-williams.com