Donald Tarkington

Donald Tarkington, a pillar of strength, love, and community, bid farewell to this world on December 4th, leaving behind a legacy woven with compassion, commitment, and an unwavering dedication to family and service.

Born on January 28, 1945 in Phoenix, Arizona, to Wonzetta Rubbles and Elmo Tarkington, Donald's journey unfolded on the west side of the city of Phoenix that would become the backdrop to a life filled with profound connections. He met LaVern Swain in his early years and after an honorable discharge from the military, they would reunite and marry on August 19, 1967 at the Little White Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas, Nevada. They celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary last August 19, 2023.

Donald's early years were marked by the discovery of family ties that would shape his future. Alongside his brother, Mikal El Amin (aka Larry Tarkington) he embarked on a journey to reunite with his sisters, Shirley Adams, Laura Gray, and Lorene Taylor. An older brother, Dearmond Tarkington would be the catalyst to bring them all together. Their bond, initiated in adulthood, blossomed over three decades. Visits alternating among Phoenix, Kansas City and Banning California, epitomized a relationship steeped in love, laughter, and unwavering support.

Education became the cornerstone of Donald's path. He graduated from Phoenix Union High School in '63 and subsequently enrolled in Phoenix College on a football scholarship. Recognizing that he was unclear about his path, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. After his tour, as a Vietnam War veteran, Donald continued pursuing studies at Phoenix College. He then transferred and graduated from Arizona State University.

Donald seamlessly blended work and education. After working nights as a Sears and Roebuck custodian, he transitioned into part-time work with the City of Phoenix while attending his classes at ASU. His perseverance culminated in a 30+ year career with the City of Phoenix as the Administrator for South Phoenix Parks and Recreation where his love for the community shone brightly.

Donald's involvement at First Institutional Baptist Church which began while he was in high school remained steadfast for the remainder of his life. Along with his wife LaVern, he was one the co-chairmen for the church’s Centennial Anniversary celebration. He participated in the Men's Ministry with active roles in the Men of Presence Ushers and the Food and Clothing Ministries until his health began to fail. Donald's spirituality was interwoven with his love for serving the community.

Beyond his professional and religious commitments, Donald's footprint extended to coaching youth sports, particularly Pop-Warner Football. Side by side with his close friend and role model, Winston Tease, Sr., he was known as the “winningest coach” in the South Mountain Association with five state championships. His civic engagement included memberships in the American Legion and the National Parks and Recreation Association, where he served as the President of the Ethnic Minority Society.

Among his many awards, Donald received the NAACP “Living the Dream” Award in recognition of his community service. Also, he was inducted into the Phoenix Union High District Sports Hall of Fame in December, 2022.

In the tapestry of Donald's life, hobbies such as hiking, jogging, bowling, and his mastery of grilling and smoking meat were interwoven with his love for Western movies. Yet, above all, he was a family man, a devoted husband to Dr. LaVern Tarkington, a loving father to Frank and Dawn and a cherished grandfather and great-grandfather.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents, brother Dearmond Tarkington and nephews Larry Tarkington and Nadir Hassan.

Donald's departure leaves a void, but his spirit lives on in the hearts of those who survive him. He is survived by his wife, Dr. LaVern Tarkington; children Frank Tarkington and Dawn Tarkington-Redmond, former daughter-in-law Alyssa Tarkington; grandchildren Frank Jr (Daniella), LaRon(Tracey), Jared, and Savannah; great-grandchildren Danica, Danity, Frankee, Kahli, Kyah, and Karsyn; and siblings Mikal (Anita) El Amin, Shirley (Arnold) Adams, Laura Gray and Lorene (Larry)Taylor. He also leaves to grieve his first cousins Andrew (Delores) Michael, Jerry (Jackie)Taylor, Mary Alice Jones, Barry (Sheila) Michaux, Jackie (Walter) Whitfield, and Charlesetta Coleman-Miller. He will be missed by his childhood friends Douglas Bobo, Clarence Newman and Percy Moore and a host of many more relatives and friends.

Donald's legacy is not just in the roles he played, but in the lives he touched. His commitment to family, community and friendship echoes in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. In the tapestry of life, Donald Tarkington's thread was one of love, service, and enduring connection. May he rest in peace.

Please join us in a celebration of his life on Thursday, December 21 at the First Institutional Baptist Church, located at 1141 E. Jefferson, Phoenix, AZ. Visitation will begin at 10 AM with his funeral service to follow at 11 AM.