Donald R. Lewison Sr.

Don was born on April 11, 1937, in Adams, Minnesota to Earl and Alvina Lewison. He liked to say his first job was delivering newspapers at the age of two, and that he walked uphill both ways to school every day. With Don, you were never quite sure which version of the story you were going to get, but it was always a good one.

While stationed at Fort Chaffee, Don met the love of his life, JoAnne Proctor. They were married in 1959 and shared 49 wonderful years together until JoAnne’s passing. Together they raised four children: Helen Ann, Mary Elizabeth, Donald Jr., and Jo Lynn. Don and JoAnne loved filling their home with laughter and hospitality by entertaining and spending time with family and friends.

Throughout his life, Don formed many close friendships. Those friends were often happily involved in whatever shenanigans he happened to be orchestrating. He had a deep love for fishing on Lake Tenkiller and deer hunting. Every trip produced a story that he proudly told again and again.

Don was a member of numerous clubs and organizations throughout his life, including the Knights of Columbus, the Rotary Club, and the Arthritis Foundation, among others. He served as president of the family-owned business, Alford’s House of Carpets, for more than half a century. Don truly loved his work, and the only time he ever missed a day was when he was traveling across the country or around the world with JoAnne. He was a devout catholic and member of Sacred Heart of Mary Church in Barling.

Don is survived by his three daughters: Helen Ann and her husband Jerry Whorton; Liz and her husband Ken Jumper; and Jo Lynn and her husband Thomas Lamphere. He is also survived by his 13 grandchildren, Travis, Austin (Lauren), and Alex (Sarika) Jumper; Madelyn (Joe) Sturgill; Hannah (Phillip) Brandon; Hunter (Abbey) and Harrison Whorton; Addison (Graham) Lero; Mitchell (Hunter) and Makinley Spradlin; Kylie (Justin) Anderson; Emily Ardiana; and Meghan Lewison, as well as 10 great-grandchildren.

He is further survived by his four siblings, all of whom reside in Minnesota: Gene and Shirley Lewison; Roger and Joyce Lewison; Shirley and Rich Peter; and Sharon and Barry Knapp. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Jimmy Proctor of Little Rock. Don leaves behind many nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife, JoAnne, and their son, Donnie.

Don will be remembered for his humor, his storytelling, and the love he had for his family and friends. His stories, laughter, and presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Don’s family would like to express how grateful they are for his extraordinary team of caregivers—Sherry and Roger Lairamore, Rakalyn, Rakell, Tracy, Tangey, and Bree. They filled his home with love, laughter, and kindness. The family will forever be thankful for the exceptional care they provided. More than that, they will cherish the compassion and genuine friendship they shared with him. Sherry and her family gave Dad the dignity, comfort, and quality of life he deserved as our family navigated his Alzheimer’s journey. Their devotion meant more to us than words can fully express.

Rosary service will be held at 10:00 am Tuesday, March 17, 2026, with the Funeral Mass to follow at 11:00 am, at Sacred Heart of Mary Church. Family will greet friends after the rosary service. Arrangements are under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home of Fort Smith.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Sacred Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 1301 Frank St, Barling, Arkansas, in honor of Don’s memory.