L. C. "Don" Donaldson

Mr. Donaldson was born Aug. 5, 1927, in Mt. Vernon, Texas to Samuel Donaldson, Sr. and Georgia Bryant Donaldson.

He married his sweetheart, Gippie Jo Castleman, on Oct. 11, 1950, in Texarkana, Arkansas. In 1951, he enlisted for his second tour in the U. S. Navy and while in California, lived in San Diego, San Francisco, and Long Beach. While living in San Diego he was assigned to the USS Walton (DE-361). He served three tours of duty during the Korean Conflict, participating in combat operations. It was during this time that the ship was assigned to Pearl Harbor, and he and Gippie enjoyed living in Honolulu. Following his military service, they returned to Texas and lived in Austin, Mesquite, and Garland. He retired from Walraven Book Cover Company in Richardson, Texas where he worked for 36 years.

Don enjoyed fishing, camping, gardening, bird watching, and spending time with his family. He was hard working, humble and selfless. He had a good sense of humor and a quick smile. A nice and kind man, he cared for others and quietly devoted time to lending a helping hand to anyone that needed assistance. He attended the Powderly Church of Christ regularly until his health failed.

Survivors include his wife of 68 years, Gippie Jo Donaldson; two children, Linda Litchfield & husband Matthew of Front Royal, VA and Michael Donaldson & wife Susan of Royse City, TX, one sister, Betty Black of Paris, TX along with 5 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and a plethora of friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, Ray, Virgil, Jerry, and Sam Donaldson, Jr., and a sister, Mary Smith.

Special thanks and deepest gratitude to both Platinum Home Health and Platinum Hospice.

Services are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. Monday, Sept. 2nd at Bright-Holland Funeral Home with Bro. Bobby Allison officiating. Burial will follow in Fairview Cemetery in Franklin County. The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 1st at the funeral home.