Donna Lee Harris Rippee
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Donna Lee Harris Rippee
July 5, 1927 – March 18, 2025
Donna Lee Harris Rippee, 97, of Shawnee, Kansas, went to be with her Lord and Savior on the morning of March 18, 2025, passing peacefully in her home, surrounded by her son Doug and his wife, Jana.
Donna was born on July 5, 1927, in Fort Scott, Kansas, to Ernest and Gladine Harris. She grew up in Fort Scott alongside her siblings, Julian and Marilyn Coble, and attended Fort Scott High School and Fort Scott Community College. It was in Fort Scott where she met the love of her life, Raymond Rippee, at the local bank. The two were married and spent 68 beautiful years together before his passing.
A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Donna’s greatest joy was her family. She is preceded in death by her husband, Raymond, and their son, Steve. She is survived by her sons, Douglas Wesley (Jana) and Scott William, as well as her extended family, Thera and Montira Siengsukon. She leaves behind a legacy of love through her grandchildren: Matt Rippee (Jennifer), Tim Siengsukon (Katie), Lauren Worden (Jeremy), Matt (Victoria), Tom (Johanna), Tiffany (Kevin), Justin Zeller (Megan), Grace Rippee, and Rayne Rippee. Donna was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Cameron, Jackson, Connor, Kevin, Dylan, Ella, Ben, Claire, Thomas, Emyln, Kaira, Abram, Macy, Hunter and Addie.
A pillar of her community, Donna dedicated her life to faith and service. She was an active member of First Baptist Church of Shawnee, where she served as a deaconess, participated in several prayer groups, Vacation Bible School, and various committees. Her love for others extended beyond the church, as she volunteered at the Johnson County Election Office and Shawnee Mission Medical Center. She also served as the coordinator at Shawnee Nursing Home for several years, offering care and support to residents.
Donna’s faith was the foundation of her life. She found joy in listening to the Gaither’s gospel music, reading, shopping, cooking, and baking. She believed her purpose in life was to serve the Lord and His Church in whatever way she could each day. Even in the simplest moments, like playing card games with her grandchildren or reminiscing about her first date with Raymond—where they sat in the balcony of a theater because it was cheaper—Donna’s warmth and wisdom shone through.
A graveside service will be held at 1:30 PM CST on Friday, March 21, 2025, at the National Cemetery in Fort Scott, Kansas. Flowers may be sent to National Cemetery, 900 E National Ave, Fort Scott, KS 66701.
Donna’s legacy of faith, love, and service will live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.
We are so happy to have known Donna and Ray for so many years.
The welcome booth at church, would have a new meaning to me, the weeks Ms Donna was working there. She would always come out to give me a welcoming hug. Both her and Mr Ray brought joy to those around them. Back together again, rest in peace friends.
Mrs. Rippee was so precious to our family. I know she is happy to be with Jesus AND with her dear husband. Sending love and prayers.
Donna and Ray… We’re always such an encouragement and joy to our lives and ministry… Praise the Lord!
What a joyous welcome I’m sure you received at your entrance to heaven Jesus and Ray reaching out to fold you in their arms You have been a blessing to me over the years at First Baptist Love you
Ray and Donna served as Sunday School teachers to the class we attended called The New life Class. It was called that because we were building our families at the time. Later it remained New life class even though we were becoming the Empty Nest group. We were blessed to be mentored by this amazingly Christian couple. We loved them.
The sweetest couple ever, Donna was always a delight to be around, so much love she shone to others. Heaven wins a graceful lady.