Donna Ruth Schlaepfer

Donna Ruth (Shawn) Schlaepfer, 61, passed away on Sunday, May 3, 2026.

Donna was born in Abilene and grew up around Albany. She later made her home in many places throughout her life, especially enjoying her years in Arcadia, where she worked for Burger King and Winn-Dixie. Since 2017, Donna has resided in Clifton with her longtime friends, John and Vanessa Johnson.

Donna devoted much of her life to being a stay-at-home caregiver, always putting others before herself. She was a member of Ancient Path Ministries and found joy in fellowship and helping those around her. One of Donna’s favorite pastimes was visiting the Pot of Gold secondhand store, where she loved searching for treasures and adding to her cherished stuffed animal collection.

Donna was a woman with a kind and generous heart who loved everyone she met. She was deeply devoted to her family and friends and was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Her warmth, compassion, and caring spirit will be remembered by all who knew her.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Donny and Helen Shawn of Albany; her sister, Penny Shawn of Albany; and her beloved grandchildren, Kolby Frank Tetmeyer, Vicki Rose Roucloux, and Baby Lerma.

She is survived by her daughter, Mary Sanders, and son-in-law, Gary Sanders, of Wichita Falls; her grandchildren, Abbygail Tetmeyer, Ricky Tetmeyer, and Hope Roucloux, all of Wichita Falls; her longtime friends, John and Vanessa Johnson; her sisters, Mary Jane Shawn and Gracie Shawn of Albany; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will cherish her memory.