Donna Rae Garff Marriott, a longtime Bethesda resident and the wife of Marriott International Chairman Emeritus J.W. “Bill” Marriott, Jr., has passed away. Bethesda-based Marriott International announced that Donna Marriott died peacefully on December 30, 2025, at her Bethesda home, surrounded by loved ones. She was 90.
Mrs. Marriott and her husband had recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary, marking a partnership that spanned seven decades and paralleled the growth of one of the world’s most recognizable hospitality companies.
Born June 10, 1935, in Evanston, Illinois, Donna Marriott grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah, where she developed a love for music and dance and later attended the University of Utah. In 1955, she married Bill Marriott, beginning a life centered on family, faith, and service.
She was known first and foremost as a devoted mother and matriarch, raising four children, Debbie, Stephen, John, and David, and creating a home defined by consistency, warmth, and tradition. Family dinners were a nightly priority, and she was a constant presence at carpools, school activities, and sporting events. Holidays held special meaning for her, often bringing together multiple generations, with handmade needlepoint stockings and ornaments becoming cherished family keepsakes.
In a statement, Bill Marriott reflected on their life together, saying he first met Donna at a bus stop bench at the University of Utah and called their marriage a joyful partnership. He said she blessed his life, as well as the lives of their children and grandchildren, and that he would miss her dearly.
Faith played a central role throughout Donna 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. Her commitment to service extended well beyond her church community. For many years, she chaired the American Heart Association’s Heart Luncheon in Washington, D.C., helping build one of the organization’s largest fundraising events in the region.
Marriott International President and CEO Anthony Capuano described her as a woman whose kindness and devotion left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her, noting that her love for family was evident in everything she did.
Donna Marriott is survived by her husband, Bill; her children Debbie, John, and David and their families; daughters-in-law Juliana Marriott and Angela Marriott; 15 grandchildren; and 36 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters, extended family members, and numerous loved ones. She was preceded in death by her son Stephen, her parents, and her brother.
A private memorial service will be held for family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, the Marriott family has requested that contributions be made to the American Heart Association of the Greater Washington, D.C. region.
