Joseph Donnie Rankin, 78, transitioned into glory on July 17, 2021, after a long battle with heart disease. He was born on December 9, 1942 to Joseph P. Rankin, Jr. and Edith Mae Jones Rankin. Don is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Geneal Muckleory Rankin; brother, Dewitt; and sister, Doris. He leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife, Linda Rankin; daughter, Carol Findlay (Nathan Pee); son, David Rankin (Danielle); grandchildren, Alexa Rankin and Faith Rankin; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Don was an artist who not only freelanced but taught art at Samford University for over 2 decades. He published 5 books of his work over the years. Don was a 2nd degree black belt out of the U.S. Oyama Dojo. He proudly served his nation in the Navy and the Army. Don took pride in his Shawnee heritage. He was a member of the Messianic Jewish Church, Beth Hallel and frequently attended Open Door Church with his wife.
The visitation will be Friday, July 23, 2021 at Elmwood Chapel Funeral Home at 1 pm. A celebration of Don’s life will follow at 2pm. His burial will be at Elmwood Cemetery.
