Donna Lee Ruddell

Longtime Goodland, KS resident, Donna Lee Ruddell, 82, passed away on Monday, February 16, 2026 at the Hays Medical Center in Hays, KS.

Donna was born September 28, 1943 to Ed and Dorothy (Bedore) Williams. The family lived in Burlington, Colorado as Donna grew up and attended school. On January 4, 1960, Donna married Richard Ruddell. To this union, three children were born- Sandra Kay, Randy Lee and Richard David.

In 1966, the family relocated to Goodland, Kansas for Richard’s job. Goodland became home for the Ruddell’s and Donna remained there until her death. While in Goodland, Donna held many occupations. All of which were serving and helping people. She worked as a CNA, opened and operated the Corner Cafe, waitressed at the Buffalo Inn and Sunflower Restaurant and prepared meals for the school children as a school cook. Donna loved spending time with her family at their Lake House in Trenton, Nebraska. Their children and grandchildren would gather there with them and countless memories were made. There was no shortage of fun and often mischievous adventures! In addition to the lake house, Donna enjoyed traveling, especially to Branson, Missouri. Donna was an avid Kansas City Chiefs fan and enjoyed giving a hard time to any family members that were Denver Bronco fans! In later years, Donna enjoyed going to the ladies group at the church, crafting and playing bingo with her friends at Wheatridge Acres.

Preceding Donna in death were parents Ed and Dorothy Williams, father-in-law Merit Ruddell, mother-in-law Audra Ruddell, husband Richard Ruddell and son Randy Ruddell.

Donna is survived by daughter, Sandi (Rex) Murray, son David (Jeanette) Ruddell, grandchildren Jason (Rosa) Bowling, Jennifer Bowling, Ryan Murray, Jackie (Tyrel) Smith, Crystal (Travis) Ludowese and Tyson (Angel) Ruddell and 15 great grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made out to the First Christian Church and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.