Ruth Donaldson

Ruth Lynn Donaldson, 71, of Lubbock, Texas, passed away on December 24, 2025, in Lubbock.

Ruth was born on September 30, 1954, in Washington, DC to Horace and LaVerne Tinsley. While they lived all over the world as an Air Force family, she graduated from Douglas MacArthur High School in San Antonio, Texas. She spent her life devoted to her family and those she loved, finding joy in the everyday moments that made a house a home.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 31 years, Warren Donaldson, her children Laura Vandergriff, Russell Johnson (Heather), Leigh Donaldson, Lisa Donaldson, and Joey Donaldson (Emily) all of Lubbock. She was a proud grandmother to Dylan Gentry, Nicholas Vandergriff, Ethan Vandergriff, and Carter Smith, each of whom brought her immense happiness. She is also survived by her brother, Mark Tinsley (Amy) of Amarillo, Texas.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, Horace and LaVerne Tinsley.

A memorial visitation will be from 1:00-3:00 pm, Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Venue on Broadway, 2202 Broadway. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations in Ruth’s honor be made to Hospice of Lubbock, www.compassus.com/about-us/giving-and-donations/ 

Ruth will be remembered for her love of family, her strength, and the care she gave so freely to others.