Donald R Anderson Sr.

Cherished husband, devoted father, beloved son, and brother passed away on March 20, 2024, surrounded by family and friends.

Donald was born on November 26, 1936, to Essie Beatrice and Roosevelt Anderson in Lockfield. He was youngest of three children. Donald attended Indianapolis Public Schools, graduating from Cripus Attucks High School, class of 1954.

Donald accepted Christ as his personal Savior at an early age in life and baptized.

Donald joined the Air Force after graduating from high school and after being honorably discharged he returned home to Indianapolis.

Donald had seven children of which his oldest daughter Valisa Ware preceded him in death and six children from his first marriage to Esther Webster.

Donald married Betty Jean Scurlock (Anderson) and they enjoyed over 50 years of marriage, raising the children and eventually traveling, cruising and simply enjoying their lives together.

Donald worked different jobs during his life, but his love was cooking! He worked for years as one of the managers of Barbeque Heavens Restaurant chain. Donald left Barbeque Heaven and started managing Sam’s Subway Restaurant and worked there for years and finally retired from Addison Wesley.

Donald played basketball in high school and enjoyed tailoring and woodworking. He also had a love for taking pictures, making plants, and playing jokes on his family and friends. Donald also enjoyed entertaining family and friends at home while serving barbeque ribs or his favorite pig’s feet. He was strong, very handsome, charming and smart.

Donald is preceded in death by his parents Roosevelt and Essie Beatrice Anderson, sister Carmel Jean, brother Robert, grandsons, Milton Ware, Darrell White Jr., extended family members Charles and Barbara Jean Kinchelow, Gertrude Hunt and Delbert Hampton.

Donald is survived by his loving wife Betty Jean Anderson, six children Donald Jr., Bruce (Julie), Rickey, Lisa, Rodney (Shea), Gina (Anthony Sr.), and a host of grandchildren, other relatives and friends.

A visitation for Donald will be held Saturday, April 6, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at New Haven Missionary Baptist Church, 3418 Schofield Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46218, followed by a Celebration of Life at 12:00 PM.