Don was born on January 27, 1947, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Robert and Mary Gormley. He grew up in a large family alongside his six siblings: Robert Jr., Mary, Philip, Howard, Alisha, and Bill.
A 1965 graduate of North Catholic High School in Philadelphia, Don entered the workforce shortly after graduation and began a career that would provide for his family and take them on new adventures. His work in the oil industry brought his family from Philadelphia to Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, in the fall of 1977. Don and his wife, Terry, spent the next twenty-two years raising their family there before relocating to Spring, Texas, where they made their home for the remainder of his life. Don concluded his long career with Shell Oil Company, retiring in 2017.
On February 7, 1970, Don married Teresa "Terry" Minogue. Together, they built a marriage that spanned more than fifty-six years. Seventeen months after their wedding, they welcomed their first son, Brian, followed by two more sons, Christian and Michael.
Faith and service were central to Don's life. While living in Broken Arrow, Don and Terry were active parishioners of St. Anne Catholic Church. Don served as a member of the Knights of Columbus, participated on the school's council, and volunteered as a youth sports coach. He was also a dedicated advocate for the pro-life movement, supporting its mission both in Broken Arrow and later in Spring, Texas.
Don is survived by his beloved wife, Terry; his sons Brian Gormley and wife Sherri of Salina, Kansas, and their eight children: Damon, Andrew (Siobhan), Tyler (Alaina), Jackson, Jacob (Karik), Grace, Olivia, Liam; and four great-grandchildren: Rowan, Adaline, Declan, and Levi. He is also survived by his son Christian Gormley of Houston, Texas; and his son Michael Gormley and wife Shannon of Magnolia, Texas, and their four children: Kateri, Cecilia, Noah, Thomas; four siblings, and many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.
More than anything, Don loved his family. He took great pride in the lives and accomplishments of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His steady presence, sense of responsibility, deep faith, and love for those closest to him will remain a lasting part of his legacy.
Don's life was a testament to hard work, dedication to family, faith, and service to others. He will be remembered with love, gratitude, and affection by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A vigil service will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 28, at Presentation of the Lord Catholic Church in Montgomery, Texas. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, June 29, at Our Lady of the Angels Chapel located at Saint Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in The Woodlands, Texas.
