Born September 26, 1932 in Odin to Beryle and Eva Belle (Albertson) Durbin, he married the love of his life, Ruth Ann McClary on August 8, 1951 in Fairview. Together they recently celebrated 75 years of Christian marriage.
Surviving are his wife; three daughters, Debra (Mike) Mason of Lebanon, Kentucky, Judith Bryan of Pekin and Renae (Todd) Hall of Pekin; one son, James (Julie) Durbin of Gulfport, Mississippi; 20 grandchildren; 54 great-grandchildren; 15 great-great-grandchildren and two grand puppies.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two daughters, Patricia Lynn Miller and Pamela Marie Barrett; one brother, Beryle Durbin; five sisters, Mildred Moore, Violet Sefton, Ellen Hunter, Nelita Evans and Juanita Durbin and a son-in-law, Ed Bryan.
Don worked for Keystone Steel & Wire Company in Bartonville for more than 37 years as a millwright, retiring in 1996.
He was a devoted member of North Pekin Church of the Nazarene, where he was a longtime trustee, Sunday school teacher and vocalist. He also participated in live nativity scenes held at the church. Don received the Distinguished Service Award from the District for the Church of the Nazarene and the Heritage Award from the local church for his commitment and faithful service to the Lord. Don enjoyed gardening at home and with the upkeep of the church property.
He was a selfless person and was generous to have donated over 24 gallons of blood with the American Red Cross. Don never knew a stranger and had the gift of being able to talk and witness with anyone about the Lord.
His funeral will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 25, 2026 at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Pastor Cheryl Sherwood will officiate. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Burial will be at Spring Lake Cemetery in rural Manito.
Memorial contributions may be made to Autism Society, 6110 Executive Boulevard, Suite 305, Rockville, Maryland 20852 or OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home, 8630 Illinois Route 91, Peoria, Illinois 61615.
To express condolences online, visit www.Preston-Hanley.com
