Don Estin Emmons

With his son by his side, Don Estin Emmons was called home to be with his Lord on Saturday, January 18, 2025, following a courageous yearlong battle with cancer. He is now reunited with his wife and loving daughter.

Don was born on February 19, 1937, in Tyler. As a child he grew up in what he referred to as the “country” or old Chapel Hill, where he was surrounded by his grandparents and several aunts and uncles until his family moved to Tyler where he lived and worked his entire life. Don was blessed with two children, five grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, ages 5 months to 20 years old, who he adored and loved dearly. He is survived by his family, son Steve Emmons and wife Donna of Tyler and their two children, Chad Emmons, and wife Karen and their son Axel of Cornelius, NC and their daughter, Chelsye Newland, and husband Maxwell and their three children, Audrey-Daye, Lillian, and Henry of Tyler. Grandchildren Justin Robertson and wife Allyson and their children, Nicholas, Cora, and Casey. Clayton Robertson and his children, Robbie, and Logan. Jesse Robertson and her children, Carter, Chloe, and Kirstin, all of Tyler.

Don is preceded in death by his wife Lynn Emmons, daughter Beverly Loughmiller, who he dearly loved and missed daily, and parents Marshel and Elsie Emmons, whom Don was their only child.

Don attended Gary Elementary School, Hogg Middle School, and Tyler High School graduating in 1955. His father worked for the defense department during WWII and while stationed at Camp Maxey, in Paris, TX dad attended Aaron Parker Elementary School in Powderly, TX for a year. While there, dad learned to drive a jeep, standard that is, and be an errand boy for the soldiers at the camp. Once the camp closed Don and his family moved back to Tyler where his parents lived for almost 60 years. After graduating high school, he attended Tyler Junior College and was a driver for Nabisco Cracker Company. On July 19, 1958, he married Lynn where they shared a life together for 58 years. In 1963, Don changed jobs and was a tire builder at Kelly Springfield Tire Company. He advanced within the company and retired after 33 years as a supervisor.

After raising their family in Tyler, he and Lynn moved to Lake Palestine where they made a life for themselves for over 30 years and gave their children and grandchildren a place to play, learn, get into mischief, and be in awe of the magic they created. Some of the fondest memories of life with dad, mom, poppa, and meme were made there. Fishing, BBQ, fireworks, Christmas, 4th of July, boating, skiing, and so many other moments that were all magical and memorable. Life at the lake was so very special, because it was made special by them.

While living at the lake and after retirement, Don became a volunteer fireman for the Westside Volunteer Fire Department of Lake Palestine/Chandler. He served the lake community for 15 years and while a fireman was awarded Fireman of the Year twice and helped others in so many ways. Don was always willing to help a neighbor, friend and especially his family.

While his grandchildren and great-grandchildren were involved in sports, music, dance, and various activities from elementary school through college, both Don and Lynn were there to support and encourage. Together and after Lynn’s passing, hundreds of miles were logged to be there, dozens of games to cheer, recitals, and concerts to applaud, and performances were attended. He was their biggest fan and was amazed at all they did. To the grandchildren and great-grandchildren, you were the light of his life and he always wanted to talk and know about your life, activities, and accomplishments.

Don always encouraged his children and grandchildren to be independent but when help was needed, no matter what, he was always there for them. His wit, sense of humor, sayings, and counsel will be missed by all.

There are many during the past two years who helped Don and his family with love and care and to you we are thankful. We are grateful to the staff of Hospice of East Texas and especially his caregivers and friends from Meadow Lake Senior Living that helped him get through his various challenges and help him thrive during his time there. To those that knew him best, we are so thankful for you and the blessing you were to him and us.

Don’s family welcomes you to join them in celebrating his life on Friday, January 24th at 11:00 am at Lloyd James Funeral home with Brother Park Robertson officiating. Visitation will be held at 10:00am prior to the service to visit and share memories of the life of Don. Following the service, a private burial will take place at Williams Cemetery.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

If you would like to remember Don, he would appreciate it if you would consider a donation to Hospice of East Texas or the Westside Volunteer Fire Department in lieu of flowers.

Hospice of East Texas: https://hospiceofeasttexas.org/giving/memory

Westside Volunteer Fire Dept: PO Box 695, Chandler, TX 75758.

Thank you and blessings!

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.lloydjamesfuneralhome.com for the Emmons family.

A visitation for Don will be held Friday, January 24, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Lloyd James Funeral Home, 1011 East First Street, Tyler, TX 757013308. A celebration of life will occur Friday, January 24, 2025 at 11:00 AM, 1011 East First Street, Tyler, TX 757013308. A private, family graveside service will occur Friday, January 24, 2025 at 12:00 PM at Williams Cemetery, Tyler, TX 75707.