Donald Nelson Mize

Donald Nelson Mize, 80, of McGregor, Texas passed away peacefully Friday morning, October 7, 2011. Memorial service will be 10:00 a.m., Monday, October 10, 2011 at The First Baptist Church in McGregor with Rev. Mark Newton and Rev. Terry Johnston officiating. Visitation will be 5 to 7 p.m., Sunday, October 9, 2011 at Cole Funeral Home in McGregor.

Donald was born on March 5, 1931 in McGregor, Texas to Walter and Lorraine Mize. He graduated from McGregor High School in 1948. Donald attended John Tarleton College and Texas A & M University before entering the U.S. Air Force. He served his country from 1954-1957. Upon return from the Air Force, Donald entered Baylor University and graduated in 1957 with a degree in education. He married Viola Mae Lange in McGregor, Texas on February 22nd, 1958. Together, they shared 53 years of marriage. He taught school in Oglesby, Texas for 30 years before retiring in 1991. Life spent living in the country and raising cattle was also one of his many passions. Donald was also a lifetime member of the First Baptist Church of McGregor where he served as a Deacon, taught Sunday school, and worked on various church committees.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Lorraine Mize.

Donald is survived by his loving wife, Viola Mae Mize; daughters, Tami and husband Kenneth Wiethorn of Hewitt, Marilyn and husband James Oliver of Waco; six grandchildren, Sara and husband Adam Kenton, Katy Mallard, Dana and husband Miles Whitney, Brady Gann, Dustin Gann, and Kaci Gann; and two great-grandchildren, Miles and Drue Kenton. He is also survived by the countless number of students whose lives he touched at Oglesby High School. The family wishes to express gratitude to Providence Hospice Services for the care of their husband, dad, grandfather and great-grandfather.

For those desiring, contributions to the First Baptist Church, 700 W. 6th Street, McGregor, Texas, 76657 or McGregor EMS Services % Mynette Taylor , 311 S. Main, McGregor, Texas, 76657 is suggested.