Donald Thornton Fisher

Donald proudly served his country for more than two decades in the United States Army. A decorated paratrooper, he first served during the Vietnam War as an M-60 gunner with the legendary 101st Airborne Division. In 1976, he reenlisted and continued his military career as an Aircraft Maintenance Senior Sergeant, serving with the 82nd Airborne Division and the XVIII Airborne Corps. During his distinguished Non-Commissioned Officer career, he was deployed to Grenada in support of Operation Urgent Fury in October 1983 and later to Saudi Arabia during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in 1990.

While deeply committed to his military service, Don considered the birth of his three sons among the greatest milestones of his life.

Following his retirement from the Army, Don continued a life of service as a Corrections Officer for the State of Tennessee. After several years, he and his beloved wife, Kim, relocated to northern Michigan, where he enjoyed working in residential construction, helping build homes. Eventually, Tennessee called him home once again. Settling on the Tennessee River, Don found great joy in boating, fishing, and spending peaceful days watching the river drift by.

He was a proud member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and the American Legion.

Donald was preceded in death by his father, Ralph Donald Fisher; his mother, Arbutus Smith Fisher; his brother, Michael Ralph Fisher; and his daughter, Kristen Lee Brashears.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Kimberley Kay Woodcock Fisher of Loudon, Tennessee; his sons, M. Shawn Fisher and wife, Heather, of Crossville, Tennessee, Daniel C. Fisher and wife, April, of Williamsburg, Virginia, and Brad J. Fisher and wife, Lisa, of Nashwauk, Minnesota. He is also survived by his brothers, Rick D. Fisher of Crossville, Tennessee, and Steven D. Fisher and wife, Cathy, of Murfreesboro, Tennessee; his sister, Conda Elizabeth Fisher Wagner and husband, Robert, of Crossville, Tennessee; along with multiple beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family members, and many friends who will cherish his memory.

Don will be remembered as a proud soldier, devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and a man who faithfully served both his country and his family. His strength, courage, and quiet appreciation for life's simple pleasures leave behind a legacy that will endure in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Receiving of friends and family will be held on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at 10am with a funeral service to follow at 12 noon. A graveside service with full military honors will be held on Thursday, July 2, 2026 at East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery on John Sevier.