Cecil Loyd Donathan

Cecil Loyd Donathan, age 81, passed away on November 27, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on February 16, 1942, in Spur, Texas, to Pellum Carl Donathan and Ruby Augusta (Ware) Donathan.

Cecil's journey through life was marked by resilience, love, and a strong sense of family. He met his first wife Nancy Lou Polley in Ralls, Texas, and they embarked on a journey of love and companionship, marrying on April 18, 1960. Together, they raised three children, creating a home filled with warmth and laughter. Cecil's dedication to his family extended beyond his first marriage; in March 9, 1972, he married Carol Lee Sanders, and together they had 3 children and moved to Cedar Creek in 1981, creating new memories and expanding their family.

Professionally, Cecil was a skilled aircraft mechanic, dedicating many years of service to Dallas Air Motive, where he eventually retired. His passion for all things mechanical extended beyond the professional realm, as he enjoyed working on motors and even built racing cars for friends and family, although he preferred the joy of creation over the thrill of racing.

In his leisure time, Cecil found solace in watching westerns, a love he shared with his family. His affection for animals, particularly Boxers and German Shepherds, was evident in the companionship he shared with his beloved dogs. Family was paramount to Cecil, and he made regular trips to West Texas to visit relatives, strengthening the bonds that meant so much to him.

Cecil was preceded in death by his parents, Pellum Carl and Ruby Augusta Donathan, his brothers Robert (Bob) Donathan, Tommy Donathan, Wayne Donathan , his late first wife Nancy Lou Polley, his second wife Carol Sanders Donathan, their son Carl Lee Donathan.

He is survived by his children: Michael Ray Donathan and wife Holly, Delinda Bailey and husband John, Shelley Arnold and husband Tim, Scott Chapman and wife Linda, and Loyd Donathan and wife Shelly. Cecil's legacy lives on through his grandchildren: Christopher Donathan, LouAnn Rogers, Dustin Donathan, David Payne, Daniel Payne, Amy Dawson, Justin Arnold, Krista Schultz, Madison Arnold, Tyler Arnold, Jessica Brown, Layne Chapman, Lilly Donathan, and Mason Donathan; great-grandchildren: Layne, Addy, Ellie, Jeremiah, SaraBeth, EllaGrace, Micah, KatieJoy, Harmony, Reliegh, Payton, David, Kaydince, Chloe, Raygen, Cole, Audrey, Hunter, Brie, Santiago, Reid, and Owen; along many other relatives and friends each a testament to the love and joy he brought to his family.

Cecil Loyd Donathan will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, and the enduring love he shared with his family. May he rest in peace, surrounded by the memories and the love he so richly deserves.

A visitation for Cecil will be held Sunday, December 3, 2023 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Eubank Cedar Creek, 601 South 3rd Street, Mabank, Texas 75147. A Funeral Service will occur Monday, December 4, 2023 at 1:00 PM, 601 South 3rd Street, Mabank, Texas 75147.

Cecil will be laid to rest in Elm Grove Cemetery, Van Zandt County Road 2708, Mabank, Texas.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.eubankcedarcreek.com for the Donathan family.