Donna Maye Kitzmiller

Mrs. Donna Maye Kitzmiller, affectionately known as “Donna Maye,” passed away peacefully on October 16, 2025, in Springfield, Colorado, at the age of 76.

Born on May 1, 1949, in Kermit, Texas, Donna was the beloved daughter of Oscar and Gaile Skurlock. She later gained a second mother in Norma Skurlock. Throughout her life, Donna embodied warmth, resilience, and an unwavering love for those around her.

In 1996, Donna earned her Certified Nurse’s Aide certificate and proudly received her GED in 1998 alongside her daughter Krista—a moment she cherished deeply. Her professional journey was as diverse and vibrant as she was. She worked briefly as a telephone operator before becoming a bartender at Vics in Springfield, where she met the love of her life, Buck Kitzmiller. Their bond was strong and enduring. Buck and Donna were Married October 8,1977. In 1981, they adopted the light of their lives, Krista. They gave unwavering love and support to her throughout every day! Carol Ellis was Donna’s best friend. They had almost 50 years of memories and love, and don't be fooled they also shared many days of onery. She took on the role of Aunt Donna to all her children. In 2011, Donna gained a daughter Christy, she often told people that her and Buck had their own personal nurse. She loved when Christy would doll her up, doing her hair and nails, but most importantly she just loved the time she got to spend with her. At the same time, she gained three amazing grandkids that she adored and loved beyond measure.

After moving to Lamar with Buck, Donna worked as a secretary at Ark Valley Auto Service, where her dedication and organizational skills helped hold the team together. She later transitioned to Southeast Colorado Hospital, first in laundry and then in housekeeping. However, it was at the Baca County Sheriff's Office where Donna found her true calling. As a dispatcher for twelve years full time, and a couple years part time, she brought calm and compassion to every call—a role that became one of the most fulfilling chapters of her career.

Donna’s heart belonged to her family. She is lovingly remembered by her daughters Krista Kitzmiller and Christy Williams of Springfield, Colorado; granddaughter Kelsie McEndree (Brandon Maes) with great-granddaughters Arya and Alaya Maes of Pueblo; grandson Kody McEndree and wife Timber with great-grandson Koehn of Springfield; grandson Kegan McEndree of Springfield; daughter Laura (Donnie) Higgins of Springfield; granddaughter Shelby Watkins with children Maylea, Braydon, Jaxton, Raynlee, Jay of Las Animas; granddaughter Ramona Garcia (Rafe) and daughter Evelyn of Springfield; granddaughter Laura Lyn Garcia (Raven) with daughters Esperanza and Sophia of Springfield. Niece Samantha (Robert) Mason and their kids Ashlynn, Hailey and Robert.

She is also survived by her brother Danny Skurlock and wife Brenda of Terrell, Texas; niece Lydia Skurlock with children Avery and Jesse; nephew Dan-L Skurlock (Lisa) with children Hunter, Payton, Canyon, & Kolton; sister Frannie Cope with nephew Michael and niece Jaime; sister Patricia Smith with nieces Vanessa and Katy; brother Mitchell Smith (Donna) with nephew Joshua and his family; niece Michelle Pace with children Abby and Jacob.

Donna’s extended family includes cousins Wray Jean & Todd Rose with sons Matt and Dillon; cousin Neoma Wait and her son Ian; cousin Sheri Coulon with daughter Allie (Dustin) and their daughters Hannah, Kynlee, and Dyllan; brother-in-law Tom Kitzmiller (Carolyn); niece Kaylynn Duncan (Mike) with daughters Gabbie and Gavin—and many more beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who were like family.

She now joins in eternal rest her husband Buck Kitzmiller; parents Oscar and Gaile Skurlock; mother Norma Skurlock; best friend Carol Ellis, brothers Dale Smith and Stephan Skurlock; sister Doris Ashton; nephew Nathan Smith; in-laws Bob and Madoline Kitzmiller; Aunt Glenna Chandler (Jerry); Cousin Vaden Chandler, greatgrand kid Evelyn—and many other cherished family members who preceded her.

Donna had a zest for life that was infectious. She loved playing word games, reading novels, crocheting beautiful pieces by hand, card games -where she often playfully “cheated,” according to her best friend Carol and daughter Krista. Her laughter echoed through every game night at Springfield West among friends. She loved to read and never gave up even when her eyesight was not the best. LauraBelle was taken in as a daughter and gained three more grandkids. Donna was asked by Laura to walk her down the aisle, but when she wasn't able to be there, the wedding was brought to her! The nurse Karleigh Bencomo became an ordained minister online and helped assist Donna is being able to attend! It was a moment at the hospital that no one had ever experienced! In Donna's last days she still was able to help people and bring light, love and laughter to all around her! She touched many lives and hearts! Her spirit was defined by kindness. Donna never judged anyone for their past—she simply loved them for who they were. To know Donna was to be welcomed into her heart without hesitation. She didn’t know a stranger—only friends or family waiting to be embraced.

In recent conversations, Donna shared that one of her greatest accomplishments was the relationship she had with her daughter Krista. But those who knew her would say that the love she gave so freely—the joy she spread—and the strength she carried through life were accomplishments that spoke volumes about the remarkable woman she was.

May the memory of Donna Maye Kitzmiller bring comfort to all who knew her—and may her legacy of unconditional love continue to inspire generations to come.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, November 7, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at Maltbie Funeral Services Chapel, 265 W. 8th Avenue, Springfield, Colorado.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the Donna Kitzmiller memorial fund at Community State Bank in Springfield, Colorado.