Don was employed for 36 years by the Veteran's Administration Hospital in Houston, Texas, where he received many awards. Upon his retirement in 2015, he held the position of Information Technology (IT) Specialist.
Don was preceded in death by his father Charles Spencer Pankhurst, his mother Ruth Cox Pankhurst, his sisters MaryAnn Shands and Charlotte Jane Amos, and brother Jimmy Charles Pankhurst.
Don is survived by his loving wife of 25 years Sally Melancon Pankhurst, his sister Virginia Ruth Furqueron, his brother-in-law Larry Melancon (wife Patty), his sister-in-law Alberta Melancon, and many nieces, nephews, and cherished friends.