Service set for Surprise mayor’s wife

Services for Donna Truitt, the wife of Surprise Mayor Lyn Truitt who lost her battle with cancer and died Aug. 8, will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Vineyard Church of Surprise, 14795 W. Mountain View Blvd.

"She was a pillar of strength in our family," Truitt said Thursday. "She was the glue that caused us to stay together, who I will miss greatly."

The Truitts were married for 37 years and moved to Surprise from Orange County, Calif., in 1989.

Donna, who most recently worked as an administrative assistant with the Dysart Unified School District, is survived by her sister, Laura Ramirez; son and daughter-in-law, Tim and Nicole Truitt; daughter, Becky Truitt; and three grandchildren.

The mayor said that his wife, who was 56, was originally diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and had surgery in April 2007.

Just after the New Year, though, the cancer had spread to her stomach and liver, he said.

Donna continued to work for quite a while as she battled the disease, he said.

"She was a productive person," Truitt said. "And in the last few weeks it was my privilege to be her caregiver."

Truitt said the City Council staff had been helpful as he dealt with Donna's cancer battle.

"These guys were just great, anything I asked they would deliver," Truitt said. "I am so appreciative."

Truitt said Saturday service is "open to family and friends of Donna."

Donations in Donna Truitt's name may be made to Banner Health by visiting www.bannerhealth.com and clicking on "Giving Back" or to HopeKids.org at www.hopekids.org/secure/donatenow.aspx.