by Mia Taylor
Last updated: 12:55 PM ET, Wed December 31, 2025
Donna Rae Garff Marriott, the wife of Marriott International’s Chairman Emeritus J.W. “Bill” Marriott Jr., has passed away.
A statement released today by the global hotel company said Garff Marriott passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on December 30. She and J.W. “Bill” Marriott Jr. had recently celebrated 70 years of marriage.
Born June 10, 1935, in Evanston, Illinois Garff Marriott grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah, where she developed a love for music and dance and attended the University of Utah. In 1955, she married Bill Marriott and embarked upon a life centered around family, faith, and service. Garff Marriott’s life touched countless others through her warmth and generosity.
She was known for creating a home filled with love and tradition and devoted herself to raising four children – Debbie, Stephen, John, and David – instilling values of kindness, patience, and integrity.
Garff Marriott was known for driving carpools, cheering at sporting events, and making sure family dinners were a nightly ritual.
She took particular joy in holidays, which she ensured were marked by gatherings that brought together children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and by her handmade needlepoint stockings and ornaments that became treasured family keepsakes.
"I first met the girl of my dreams sitting on a bench at a bus stop at the University of Utah," said Bill Marriott. "She has blessed my life and the lives 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."
Faith was a cornerstone of Garff Marriott's life. A dedicated member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she served in leadership roles including Primary President and Relief Society Counselor.
Garff Marriott’s commitment to service extended beyond the church; for many years, she chaired the American Heart Association's Heart Luncheon in Washington, D.C., one of the organization's largest fundraisers.
"Donna's kindness and devotion touched everyone who knew her," said Anthony Capuano, president and CEO, Marriott International. "She exemplified grace and strength, and her love for family was evident in everything she did. Our hearts are with Mr. Marriott, David, Debbie, John, and the entire Marriott family as they navigate this profound loss."
Donna Marriott is survived by her husband, Bill; children Debbie and her husband, Ron; John and his wife, Muriel; David and his wife, Carrie; daughters-in-law Juliana Marriott and Angela Marriott.
She is also survived by 15 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, sisters Joanne (Ray Hart) and Linda (Michael Rutter); sister-in-law Suzanne Cooper; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Dick and Nancy Marriott; and many extended family members. She was preceded in death by her son, Stephen; her father, Royal Garff; her mother, Marba; Royal's second wife, Maxine, who lovingly helped raise the Garff children; and her brother, Dennis Garff.
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