Norman - Donna Kruis Hayes went to her heavenly home in the early morning hours of July 2, 2026. She had suffered with a prolonged illness and early stage of dementia. Her late parents were Roland and Jo Kruis. She is survived by her husband Bill Hayes, son Billy Hayes & daughter-in-law Summer Hayes, son Christopher Hayes, grandson Alex Hayes, niece Jennifer Howard and great-nephew Christian Howard, sisters Elaine Kruis Henson, Cindy Kruis Aldinger, brother-in-law Michael Aldinger, niece Teresa Schuster and husband Mike, and nephews David Henson (Penny), Timothy Aldinger (Becky), and Nathan Aldinger (Sara), and twelve great nephews and nieces.

Donna was an adept and generous local business woman for many years. As founder and owner of the popular boutique/shoe store (Steppin' Out on East Main in Norman, 1987 to 2008), Donna helped countless numbers of brides, prom goers, beauty contestants and others find the perfect shoes and accessories for their special occasion. When her parents lost their business during the recession in the mid-eighties, Donna opened the boutique in order for them to continue their love of serving the community. It was one example of her loving care of family.

Donna also designed her parents' home which her husband Bill built for them in the late 70s. It is still a beautiful home to this day. She was active in the community when she was younger, serving as president of the Parent-Teacher Association for one of the local grade schools which her sons attended and participating in various activities of the Norman Builders Association. She also sang and danced in several productions of The Red Stocking Follies, a popular fundraiser for Norman Regional Hospital.

As a child Donna's sisters remember her as a real spitfire, tattling on her big sister and terrorizing her little sister as siblings often do. By the time they were all in their twenties, they were the best of friends and remained so throughout her life. As a youth she won awards for her art projects, and she also sang and acted in one or more of her high school plays at Norman High.

Donna was a very beloved aunt, grandmother, mother, and sister. While she will be missed, the family is grateful for her journey to Heaven and relief from pain and illness.