Dr. Donald Joseph Gordon, age 82, passed away on January 15, 2025, surrounded by family in San Antonio, Texas. Dr. Donald Joseph Gordon, PhD, MD, LTC Ret. was born in Washington D.C. May 4, 1942, to Frank and Frances Gordon. He was raised in Silver Spring, Maryland with his brothers Edward, Michael and Carl.
Don had a distinguished life of service, blending his dedication to education, medicine, and community. He graduated Summa Cum Laude with a B.S. in Physical Chemistry from Howard University and earned his PhD in the same field at Oregon State University as a NASA fellow. A Vietnam War veteran, he served with the First Cavalry, receiving numerous medals, including the Bronze Star and the Air Medal with Oak Leaf Clusters. After his military service, Don had a notable career in medicine, earning his M.D. from the University of Maryland School of Medicine and completing his residency at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio. He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel, having served 20 years in the Army.
Don was a dedicated educator and leader, teaching at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and later at UT Health Science Center, where he retired as a full professor. He was also the Medical Director for San Antonio and Bexar County’s EMS for 22 years and served as President of the American Red Cross in San Antonio.
In addition to his medical and military career, Don was an accomplished musician, craftsman, and community volunteer. He played multiple instruments with the National Symphony, crafted and collected stained-glass lamps, exotic pens and chess sets. He was an active member of local organizations, serving as President of the Bexar County Medical Society, the Northwest Rotary Club, and the West San Antonio Chamber of Commerce.
Don’s legacy includes contributions to numerous causes, including the American Heart Association and the Multiple Sclerosis Society, and his lifelong commitment to improving emergency medical care. He leaves behind a lasting impact on both his community and the many lives he touched throughout his career.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 50 years, Judith; and his brother, Michael. Don is survived by his wife, Valerie Ching Morris; and his sons, Martin and Mathew Gordon; his daughters, Christina McQueary and Elanya Morris-Duran; and his grandchildren, Amanda and Melanie Gordon; Liam McQueary and Jacob Morris-Duran.
Interment with Full Military Honors will be at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Road on Wednesday, February 5, 2025 at 1:30 P.M.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to www.childfund.org, or mail to Child Fund International, 2821 Emerywood Parkway, Richmond, VA 23294.
