Rubie, Donna R

Donna Rosalie Rubie, 80, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family, on July 21, 2026. A devoted Christian, Donna lived a life marked by faith, compassion, service, and an unwavering love for her family. She shared 53 wonderful years of marriage with her devoted husband, Stephen D. Rubie, whose love and companionship were among life’s greatest blessings.

Born and raised in North St. Louis, Donna was the youngest of seven children. Her siblings affectionately called her “Little Bits” and “Snoodles”. She was preceded in death by her mother, Esther May Christian (née Harman); her brothers, William Christian and Richard “Dick” Christian; and her sisters, Esther “Sis” Helvey Sargent, Georgia Diane Morrison, and Joan Stroud. She is survived by her beloved sister, Myrna Swyers; her beloved niece, Sandra McMahon, with whom she shared a special lifelong bond after growing up together; and many other cherished nieces and nephews.

Their love story began when Steve asked Donna to dance, and they continued dancing together throughout their marriage. One of their favorite songs was Sweet Caroline, a melody that always brought smiles and memories of the life they built together.

Donna’s greatest joy was her family. With a smile, she would often remind her children and grandchildren, “If it wasn’t for me, none of you would be here!” Behind the joke was a heart full of gratitude. She marveled that 22 people are alive today because of the life she began and the family she nurtured—her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Nothing brought her greater happiness than watching her family grow, and she considered each new generation one of God’s greatest blessings.

Donna is lovingly remembered by her children: John Higgins; Michelle Vlasak (née Higgins) and her husband, Chester; Jennifer Kizior (née Rubie) and her husband, Eric; Rebecca Rubie and her husband, Robert Wilson; Stephen Rubie Jr.; and Elizabeth Rubie and her husband, Mike Herman.

Her greatest joy was being a grandmother to Angela Peterson (née Vlasak) and her husband, Pete; Heather Kuelker (née Vlasak) and her husband, John; Krista Vlasak; Daniel Vlasak; Alexander Vlasak; Gabrielle Vlasak; Kayleanne Kizior; Kameron LeDuc (née Kizior) and her husband, Trey; Eric Anthony Kizior Jr.; and Nathaniel Kizior. She was also blessed with eight great-grandchildren: Calvin, Mateo, Scotty, Maggie, Kairi, Alexis, Trenton, and Lauren, each of whom brought her so much happiness and pride.

Donna was endlessly curious and had a deep love for genealogy, always searching for the stories of those who came before her. She loved learning, creating, and finding new ways to share her passions with others. She had a gift for making things grow, filling her home and gardens with beautiful plants and flowers. She also enjoyed creating unique beaded jewelry, which she proudly sold at local art shows. In her 60s, she took up tap dancing, proving it is never too late to learn something new.

Throughout her life, Donna had a passion for helping others. Long before ADHD was widely understood, she became a passionate advocate for children and adults living with ADHD. In the late 1980s, she founded a CHADD support group, offering education, encouragement, and hope to countless families when few resources existed. Her compassion and determination helped many people feel seen, understood, and accepted.

Donna’s early career included working at KSDK, Trader Vic’s, and the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. Whatever role she held, she was known for her warmth, kindness, and genuine interest in people.

Faith was the foundation of Donna’s life. Prayer, Bible study, and her relationship with God guided her every day. She welcomed others with love, acceptance, and a generous heart. She was loving, caring, inquisitive, passionate, and always willing to help those in need. Above all, she treasured every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Though our hearts are broken, we rejoice knowing Donna is whole again, dancing in the presence of her Savior, reunited with loved ones who have gone before her. We can imagine her hearing the words from Matthew 25:23, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Her love, unwavering faith, and remarkable legacy will continue to live on through the generations she cherished and in the countless lives she touched.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm at Kutis South County Chapel (5255 Lemay Ferry Road). Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 29, 2026. The funeral procession will depart from Kutis South County Chapel (5255 Lemay Ferry Road) at 8:45 a.m. for a 9:30 a.m. Mass at Queen of All Saints Catholic Church (6611 Christopher Drive). Interment will follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. Luncheon starting at 12:00 pm at Andres South (4254 Telegraph Road).