Donn Michael Lancaster died on January 5th, 2019 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Richmond, Virginia after a short battle with a swiftly advancing cancer. He was born on January 14th, 1950 in Ithaca, New York. Donn was an extraordinary man whose soul was given to his family, his faith and his calling as an educator. He deeply appreciated the beauty of nature, music and the visual arts. He loved people.
Donn is survived by his wife, Mary Carol Compton Lancaster. Together they shared a life of laughter and mutual love. For 48 years they engaged the world together. He is also survived by his son, Jeffrey Lancaster (Rebecca) and grandchildren Kayleigh and Brendan of Manassas, Virginia; his mother, Virginia Pauline Lancaster of Fayetteville, Arkansas; one brother, Richard Lancaster (Rebecca) of North Little Rock, Arkansas; one sister, Susan Lawrence (Ben) of Montrose, Arkansas and eleven nieces and nephews.
Donn was preceded in death by his father, J.L. Lancaster, Jr. and by his brother Eric Lancaster.
Donn was a graduate of the University of Arkansas (BS and PhD), Colorado State University (Masters), and University of Richmond (Masters of Teaching). His life’s work was dedicated to the students at The New Community School, inspiring them to feed their curiosity and encouraging them to strive for excellence in developing their gifts and passions. He enjoyed playing and coaching volleyball and basketball and time spent fly fishing and hiking the mountains of Colorado.
Donn was a member of Three Chopt Presbyterian Church and an Elder of the Presbyterian Church USA. For 30 years he and Carol sang in the TCPC Chancel Choir.
Donn believed in people working together in community and he lived his life for the common good. He is now at peace and his voice is added to the heavenly anthem. A memorial service will be conducted at Three Chopt Presbyterian Church on Saturday, April 6, 2019, at 1 p.m. Memorial gifts may be made to The Donn Lancaster Memorial Scholarship Fund at The New Community School, 4211 Hermitage Road, Richmond, Va. 23227. Online condolences may be made at woodyfuneralhomehuguenot.com.
