Donald was born in Clinton, Oklahoma to his parents Eugene and Dorothea along with his brothers Billy, Stanley, and Eddie.
He only lived in Oklahoma a short time and the family move to Chowchilla, California where he stayed.
Donald enlisted in the USN Navy at the age of 18 in Long Beach, California and was transferred to the USS Princeton until his Honorable discharge in 1959.
Later he meet his beloved wife Betty (Edwards) of 66 years until her passing in 2020.
Donald raised his nephew Richard and became roommates, raising him like a son.
He loved spending time with family, friends, and members at his church where he became a Royal Ranger Leader. He also loved to go camping and taking trips with his family to Disneyland, Santa Cruz Boardwalk, Six Flags and many other places. One of his compassions was making Pinewood Derby Cars for the Royal Rangers.
Donald became a true Redskin working as a Custodian Supervisor at Chowchilla Union High School for over 31 years until his retirement.
He is survived by his nephew Richard and his wife Angela and their son Joseph Edwards, nephew Kenny and his wife Melinda, nephew Dustin Edwards, niece Jami Edwards and her sons Billy Fraize, Tommy Thomas, and daughter Bella Williams.
Donald is preceded in death by his parents Eugene and Dorothea Gwartney and his brothers Billy, Stanley, and Eddie Gwartney.
A visitation for Donald will be held Monday, March 25, 2024 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Palm Memorial Worden Chapel, 140 South 6th Street, Chowchilla, CA 93610.
Funeral service will occur Tuesday, March 26, 2024 from 2:00 PM at Chowchilla Cemetery, 23359 Road 14 1/2, Chowchilla, CA 93610.
Donald will be laid to rest in Chowchilla Cemetery District, 23359 Road 14 1/2, Chowchilla, CA 93610.
Through this site, we invite you to view and share cherished photos and videos, share fond memories and expressions of sympathy for the Gwartney and Edwards Family or share the obituary with others via social media and email. Arrangements are under the direction of Palm Memorial Worden Chapel, Lori Whatley, Funeral Arranger and Sierra Calvert, Assistant.
