Donald Strode

Donald was born on July 31, 1934 at St. Landry in Eunice, Louisiana. His parents were Damascus and Cora Lee Strode. Donald was raised in Eunice, Louisiana and Beaumont, Texas. He was brought up to be self-confident and dependable. These were traits that would serve him well throughout his life. He had one younger brother, Russell. Donald was constantly involved in activities with his brother. As a young child, Donald was never someone who needed to be the center of attention. He wasn’t pushy and never forced his way into games or other activities. Donald developed a variety of interests, though, and the things he enjoyed doing he did well. He was always curious about the world around him and was often eager to explore it. Donald took part in football for one week. However, what Donald enjoyed most was simply playing and spending time with his many friends. He graduated from Charleston Pollard High School in 1952. On May 30, 1999 Donald exchanged wedding vows with Marian K. Kirven at the Emmanuel Baptist Church of Jesus Christ of Beaumont, Texas. Donald brought the same traditional values in his marriage to bear on how he raised his children. Donald was blessed with five children, Carla (deceased), Pamela, Tina, Donald, Jr. and step-daughter Jenn. They were also blessed with five grandchildren, William (Billy), Celeste, Donald III, Isaiah, India; and one great-grandson Sharif, born in August 2013. Donald greatly enjoyed what he did for a living. He was employed for 34 years by the US Postal Service. Donald was a Navy Veteran. Through his hard work and dedication, he achieved the rank of MM3. He received praise for his valor, including being awarded China Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal. His results-oriented approach to things made him committed to the job, and he understood well his role in serving his country. He is survived by his wife Marian; his children Pamela, Tina, Donald Jr., and Jenni. Services were held at Palm Northwest Mortuary in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as Calvary Mortuary in Beaumont, Texas. Donald was laid to rest in Live Oak's Mausoleum in Beaumont, Texas. Arrangements under the direction of Palm Northwest Mortuary, Las Vegas, NV.