Donna Eplett

Donna Pierce Eplett was born on October 27, 1941, in Detroit, Michigan. She passed away surrounded by love, leaving behind a legacy of devotion, creativity, and lifelong friendships. Donna graduated from Lakeview High School in 1959 and began a life of dedicated service shortly thereafter. On February 5, 1962, she met her best friend of 64 years, June DiGirolamo, while working together at the General Services Administration (GSA). Their bond was more than friendship, they were like sisters, sharing a lifetime of memories, laughter, and unwavering support. Donna worked as a secretary at TACOM from 1963 to 1964 before beginning a long and distinguished career at Selfridge Air Force Base in 1964. There, she served as a secretary to multiple colonels, earning deep respect for her professionalism, loyalty, and strong work ethic. She retired in 1994 after 30 years of dedicated service. In 1967, Donna met the love of her life, Sergeant Major Thomas D. Eplett Sr., during an interview at Selfridge. They were married on November 26, 1971, and shared many loving years together until Tom’s passing on April 4, 1997. Donna was a proud and devoted mother to her daughter, Jill Becker. Jill’s husband, William Becker, was like a son to her, and together Jill and Bill meant the world to her. Donna was a very creative soul. She loved painting and working with ceramics, where she created several porcelain dolls. She also enjoyed flower arranging and had a natural eye for beauty. Staying active brought her joy as well, she loved Jazzercise, Zumba, and line dancing, embracing life with energy and grace. Donna was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas D. Eplett Sr.; her father, Edward Pierce; and her mother, Hattie Pierce. She will be remembered for her kindness, creativity, dedication, and the deep love she held for her family and friends. Her presence will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved her. Visitation Friday, February 6th, from 2-8pm at Wujek - Calcaterra & Sons Inc., (Shelby) 54880 Van Dyke at 25 Mile Rd. Funeral Saturday, February 7th, Instate from 10am until time of 11am Funeral Service at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 17051 24 Mile Rd., Macomb, 48042 (NW corner of Romeo Plank & 24). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Donna’s memory to the University of Michigan Medicine Scleroderma Program (https://giving.umich.edu/basket/fund/320985?pk_vid=2e18971f53c2a64617696985456aa737). Please share memories with the family at their online guestbook at WujekCalcaterra.com

Donna Eplett

October 27, 1941 - January 28, 2026