Donna Marie Kvartek, aged 81, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 14, 2026, in Pensacola, Florida. Born on February 23, 1944, in Meridian, Mississippi. She was the cherished daughter of the late Otha and Viola Ballard. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sister, Marion Jean Ballard.

Donna was the loving wife of John Kvartek, who preceded her in death. She met and married John on November 29, 1962. From their union came two beautiful children, John Michael Kvartek (Tammy) and Michelle Kvartek, who survive her and will forever remember her nurturing spirit.

In addition to her children, Donna is also survived by her brothers, Leon and Ronnie Ballard, and her sister, Corrine Mason ,grandchildren, Kelsey Kvartek (Matt), Kyle Kvartek (Kyla), Kaleb Kvartek (Taylor), Maryam Bentchich (Hamza Zlaihi), and Yusef Bentchich, and great-grandchildren, Ivey Kathleen Kvartek and Knox Christopher Kvartek, who will dearly miss their beloved sister, grandmother and great-grandmother. Donna also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews, all of whom she loved dearly.

Donna's life was characterized by service to others and dedication to her family. After marrying the love of her life, John Kvartek, on November 29, 1962, Donna embarked on a fulfilling career. She worked as a switchboard worker for a phone company, served as an LPN in a hospital, and eventually joined the office of Dr. George Knefely, where she worked diligently as an office manager for 47 years until 2024.

Donna's life was not all work, however. She relished spending time with her family and friends and enjoyed playing Bingo, visiting Wind Creek Casino, and in her later years, became an avid football fan. Possessing an angelic nature, Donna always prioritized others before herself, never asking for anything in return.

The family would like to extend special thanks to the staff, nurses, and doctors at Solaris Healthcare who provided exceptional care for Donna since her arrival in 2025. Gratitude is also extended to special friends Linda Johnson, Dana Franks, Patsy Flowers, Janet Coulter, Kia Briggman, Vonchell Knight, her brothers, sisters, and nieces, and nephews who often visited her while in the care of Solaris Healthcare, as well as UAB Dr. Coreen Schwartzlow and many other friends who visited her.

Donna's wish was to be cremated. A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel, 2276 Airport Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32504.

A family committal service will be held at a later time at Barrancas Cemetery in Pensacola, Florida where she will be laid to rest with her beloved husband, John Kvartek.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for contributions to be made to St. Jude in Donna's memory.

Donna's selfless nature, loving heart, and remarkable resilience will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her legacy will continue to inspire and guide us always.