Donna Marie Starrett Retano
Donna Marie Starrett Retano entered into heavenly peace on Saturday, July 19th surrounded by her family. She was born in Galveston on October 13, 1941 to parents, Dale Vernon and Robbie Preas Starrett. As a part of a large extended family, Donna spent most of her childhood in Galveston County.
She married the love of her life, John J. Retano in 1962 and they enjoyed 46 beautiful years together before he went to be with the Lord in 2009. Their lives were devoted to serving God, enjoying their children, and helping others. A woman known for her generous heart, zest for life and leadership, Donna touched the lives of many children and parents in her 45 years in the daycare business. She served as the director of Joyland School in Alvin before becoming the owner and director of several schools through the years – Golden Rule Day School of LaMarque, Little House on the Prairie Preschool of Santa Fe, Country Day Preschool and Daycare of Santa Fe, and Collins Evans Private School and Daycare of Santa Fe. She loved being an active member in her church and with her prayer partner friends.
Leaving to cherish her memory are Ronald Starrett and wife, Joan of Alexandria, LA; Patti Myers and husband, Bruce of Magnolia, TX; Ray Starrett and wife, Dee Dee of College Station, TX; Robbie Lyn Guyton and husband, Jimmie of Santa Fe, TX; John J. Retano, Jr. and wife, Deyna of League City, TX. Grandchildren: Randall Starrett, Rodney Starrett (Rebecca), Joey Johns, Brent Johns, Ashley Restivo (Brian), Justin Starrett, Spencer Starrett, Josh Guyton (Miranda), Katelyn Guyton, Jessica Palacios (Martin), Lindsay Retano, and Emily Retano. Great Grandchildren: Grant, Ashlynn, Addison, Emma, Briley, Reagan, Kennedy, Klein, and Hayden. Also, sister in law, Grace Milligan and husband, Stan of Santa Fe, TX, and brother in law, Sammy and wife, Marla, of Austin, TX.
The family will receive friends at noon on Saturday, July 26th at Crowder Funeral Home in Dickinson, TX. The funeral service will begin at 1:00. A private burial will be held later in the day at Grace Memorial Park Cemetery in Hitchcock, TX.
The family wishes to extend sincere gratitude to three precious caregivers – Marvena Wulf, Doreeda Bowens and Sandy Clark of Loving Care. Friends and family who so desire may honor her memory with a contribution to a cause dear to her heart :
Christians United For Israel at http://www.cufi.org
(210) 477-4714 PO BOX 1307 San Antonio, TX 78295-1307
Ms. Donna was a loving and wonderful lady. My family and I loved her very much. She will be missed by many.
Donna touched my heart in so many ways. I remember watching her in church and seeing her love for God and all the people around her. She had a way of making you feel important and loved. Always funny and uplifting. I enjoyed out little chats. I remember as a child I use to tell her she was so young and beautiful and had no wrinkles., she would just laugh at me and think it was so sweet. I see her shouting the streets of glory, hands held high, praising the Lord. She is loved and will be deeply missed by all, but each of us will carry a part of her with us.
I only knew Mrs. Retano through my former marriage. However, on the few times we met she was always the sweetest and most gracious of ladies. John, I know the hole that is left in the heart when losing a precious mother. Rest assured your mom is happy and gracing Heaven with her beautiful smile and sweet spirit.
All my best,
Mark
Having known Donna for more than 50 years, I can truthfully say that she was one of the most gracious and caring ladies to have graced this earth. My deepest sympathy for your loss.
Best regards,
Bernice Shirey
Ms. Donna was a beautiful person who touched many lives in a positive way. My grandchildren were in one of her daycare centers and loved her so very much. She will be sadly missed. Prayers to all her family for their loss.
Sincerely,
Jeanette Mancill (grandmother of Art S. and Jenna F)
I worked for mrs. Donna she was such a good soul she truly loved her lord and savior and her family. My daughter also thought the world of her, I will truly miss her and I know she is with The Lord. I am glad I got to work with such a sweet lady. I will miss you mrs. Donna. Love ms. Debbie and Bridgette