Donald Edward Herring

Donald Edward “Don” Herring, 71, of Marietta, Georgia, passed away on November 24, 2025. Born on January 17, 1954, in Birmingham, Alabama, he was the beloved son of the late Jesse Herring and Emily Griswold Herring. Roll Tide.

After formative years growing up in Birmingham, Don graduated from the University of Alabama. Roll Tide. He embarked on a long career with Allstate Insurance, beginning in 1977 and retiring in 2015, where he was known for his steadfast loyalty, charming wit, and dedication to his work. Roll Tide.

Outside of his professional life, Don had a passion for music — playing guitar was his joy, and he loved sharing that gift with family and friends. He was a lifelong Alabama Crimson Tide fan (“Roll Tide!”) and carried his Alabama pride into every part of his life. Not only did he enjoy watching baseball, but he was a skilled player himself. He also played golf exceptionally well, with many fond memories spent on the green (despite an unapproved forfeit of first place in a father and son tournament we won’t mention). His weekly critiques and commentary of said sports relayed to family proves the excellence he would have showcased if he played them all professionally.

Above all, Don cherished his family who kept him grounded and provided him with comedic material that also kept them grounded. He also loved his devoted dogs, Ozzie and Buddy, whose companionship brought him great comfort; despite declaring early on in marriage no pets would grace his life. He is preceded in death by beloved pets K.C., Bart, Zac, Max, Abby, and Tucker Herring - may they greet him at the gate. Roll Tide.

He is survived by his loving wife, Mary O'Donnell Herring; son, Stephen Michael Herring. His brother Lee Herring and wife Gail; Lee’s sons Daniel “Pencil Neck” Herring and Todd “Dog Face” Herring, as well as their families. His brother David Herring and wife Claudia; their children Nic “Cool Breeze” Herring and Cindy Arrington, as well as their families. Also left are his numerous in-laws on his wife’s side. They are Catholic and Irish so there are too many to mention, but they will love and miss him dearly. Roll Tide.

Don’s presence enriched the lives of many, and his memory will live on in the music he played, the sports he loved, and the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know him. Roll Tide.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.

Friends are cordially invited to a Celebration of Life Gathering to honor Mr. Herring on December 7, 2025, between the hours of 2:00pm and 4:00pm at HM Patterson Canton Hill.