J. Donald Furlong

Born October 15, 1931, passed away in his home on July 18, 2011. Dearly loved by his wife of 56 years, Doris Sims Furlong. Loving father of Lisa K. Sindt (Michael) of St. Paul, MN, son Joel D. Furlong (Sherry) of Corona, CA, daughter MaryAnn Iwanski (Paul) of Menomonee Falls, WI. Cherished Grandfather of Rachel Furlong Reyes (Michael), Lauren and Natalie Sindt, Nathan and Emma Stadelmann and Samuel Iwanski. Proud Great-grandfather to Madeline Reyes. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Furlong and Margaret Neil Furlong and his sister Sara. He was born in Pittsburgh, PA, moved to Fairfax, VA in 1964, to St. Paul, MN in 1972 and to Roswell, GA in 1986. Don was a graduate of Point Park University earning a degree in Business Administration. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, served in active duty in the Korean War and remained in the U.S. Army Reserves until his Honorable Discharge in July of 1960. He enjoyed a successful 30 year career with 3M Company during which time he was editor of 3Ms International Microfilm Press in New York. While with IM/Press he was very involved with the Black Academy of Arts and Letters promoting African American education and worked closely with many key leaders in the civil rights movement. He remained a member in good standing in the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels since 1969. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge and the Syria Shrine. Following his career at 3M, Don and Doris purchased and ran a successful travel and incentive management agency in Atlanta. They were able to enjoy many benefits of traveling together during the last 12 years, their favorite destination being Jamaica. Don was an avid sailor and yachtsman and commodore of the St. Croix Sailing Club. He was a downhill skier and enjoyed many family trips to Colorado. Don enjoyed working in his yard and loved to complete the crossword puzzle while sitting on the patio listening to his fountains. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. The family expresses their sincere gratitude to Donnie Allen and to all at Embracing Hospice. Services will be held on Friday, July 22 at 6:30 P.M. at Northminster Presbyterian Church, 2400 Old Alabama Road, Roswell.