Donald Agee Seago

Don’s early life reflected both humble beginnings and steady purpose. After attending elementary school in a two-room schoolhouse, he went on to high school in Mounds, Oklahoma, where he was named valedictorian of his graduating class—an early sign of the quiet confidence and disciplined focus that would guide him throughout his life.

Don’s passion for aviation began in college, where he worked as a commercial industrial photographer, taking aerial photographs of buildings in all phases of construction. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics, a foundation that served him well in the United States Air Force, where he ultimately completed training equivalent to a Master’s degree. Don served in the Air Force from 1958 to 1979. In the final two years of his service, he conducted flight tests on new aircraft systems. After retiring from the Air Force, he continued to fly for International Harvester—still drawn, as ever, to the precision, challenge, and promise of flight.

On July 9, 1958, Don married Lea Seago. Together they welcomed two sons, Christopher (deceased) and Donald II. Don treasured time with his grandchildren, Samantha and Donald III, and his great-grandchildren, Clementine and Arthur. His sense of humor, along with his keen ability to explain complicated physics concepts, will be greatly missed at family gatherings.

Music was another enduring thread in Don’s life. As a child, his mother ensured that Don and his brothers took piano lessons, and those lessons grew into a lasting devotion. Don played piano for Bixby Methodist Church, for religious quartets, and for various dance bands—sharing his love of music with warmth, skill, and understated grace. While living in Little Rock, Don and Lea were members of the Arkansas Arts Center and volunteered during many events, continuing a lifelong commitment to creativity and community.

Though Don left his family farm to attend college and pursue aviation, he never forgot his Oklahoma roots. He taught at Will Rogers High School in Tulsa, and when the opportunity arose to become financial supporters of the Will Rogers Stage Foundation at the high school, Don and Lea chose to invest—not for personal gain, but as a commitment to the vitality and creativity of the Tulsa community. Through that support, they helped preserve a grand auditorium—resplendent with velvet curtains and a pipe organ—so that concerts and theater productions could continue to inspire. Don remained a supporter of the arts throughout his life.

Don understood what he wanted for himself and his career, and he pursued it with thoughtful logic and steady resolve. Recruited to be an Apollo Space Pilot, he was declared in peak physical condition and deemed ready for the Apollo mission—yet he declined. It was a decision that reflected not only drive, but also careful judgment and a clear sense of purpose.

To anyone who has not served in the military, the marriage of Don and Lea may have looked very unconventional. They were often separated by states and even oceans, with Lea sometimes not even knowing what country Don was flying over that day. But their unwavering support of one another bridged all physical distance. They worked in tandem to live fulfilling lives and succeed in careers they truly enjoyed. They are the model.

Don’s family is extremely grateful for the kind care he received at Villa Serene II in Litchfield Park and Americare Hospice.