Remembering Donna Lee Ebbs

June 26, 1960 – April 19, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Donna Lee Ebbs on April 19, 2025 at Mariposa House Hospice after a courageous battle with glioblastoma. In her 65th year Donna Lee was taken too soon and will be dearly missed, her legacy of fierce love, joy, laughter and unforgettable warmth will never fade.

Donna had a spirit that couldn’t be contained. She was bold, compassionate and full of light. Her laugh loud, contagious and completely her own, could brighten the darkest room. Her presence made you feel at home, whether you knew her for decades or had only just met her. She loved hard, gave freely and always made sure you knew how much you meant to her.

Beloved partner and best friend of Robert Fowler for 20 years, their relationship was built on deep love, laughter and an unshakable bond. Cherished daughter of Gloria Longhurst(deceased) and loved step-daughter to Bill Longhurst. Daughter to Alfred (Al) Ebbs(deceased). Loving sister to Timothy McPhee(deceased)(Fran – deceased), Robin Ebbs(deceased) and Cindi Ingersoll(Peter). Treasured step-sister to Cindilou Jardine, Helen Pegg(Danny – deceased), Nola Sweet(Ron), Sherry Frost(Steve), John Longhurst(Shelley) and William(Billy) Longhurst.

Devoted mother to her three sons, James Fraser, Chad Murdoch (Danielle) and Wayne Murdoch (Sarah). Her love for them was unwavering, unconditional and she was so very proud of them all. She poured her heart into her family and they were her greatest source of joy and strength.

Her favourite title was Nanna, yes that spelling is the right way, according to Donna Lee. She was most excited about new grandbabies and loved her grandchildren more than anything. Her heart equally beat for James David, Jacob, Heaven-Lee Angel(deceased), Madison, Angelyn, Chase, Carter, Sawyer, Ethan, Matthew, Ellaina, Andrew and Henry. They lit up her world and she lit up theirs right back.

To her nieces and nephews, Rhonda, Adam, Megan, Timmy, Robert, Samantha, Crystal, Clayton and Codey she was known as ‘Auntie Donna’, always ready with a hug, a joke or a knowing smile. She also leaves behind many cousins, Aunts, Uncles, great-nieces and great-nephews and countless friends who will carry her love in their hearts forever.

We take comfort in knowing Donna Lee has been reunited with her Darlin, Dave Jacobson, a man she carried in her heart always. Now together again, they’re surely dancing among the stars, watching over those they love. Donna Lee would like everyone to know that three kisses mean ‘I. Love. You.’ And that cards and letters should be signed with xoxoxo, which also means ‘I love you’. Donna believed in signs from beyond so if you see a hummingbird or butterfly close by, she is visiting you, it’s her way of saying ‘I’m with you’

A graveside service will be held May 2 at 2:00pm at the Free Methodist Cemetery on Coppers Falls Rd followed by a reception at Simcoe Funeral Home in Orillia from 4:00-6:00pm. All who loved Donna Lee are welcome to come and celebrate her love-filled and vibrant life.

The family would like to thank Carsons Funeral Home for arranging the service and supporting the family through this time.

They would also like to thank Simcoe Funeral Home for holding the reception.

A huge thank you goes to the team at Mariposa House Hospice where Donna Lee spent her final six weeks surrounded by love, dignity and tender care.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Donna Lee’s name to Mariposa House Hospice so other families can receive the same support, love and care.

Donna was the heart of her family, the laughter in every room and the love in all of us.