Donald Clark Nye

Donald Clark Nye, 83, of Monroe, GA, passed away peacefully in his sleep on August 3, 2026, at Piedmont Walton Hospital. He was diagnosed in April with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. He was born on January 12, 1943, in New Hampshire, the son of Harold and Rheta Nye.

Don graduated from Nashua High School in 1961 and from 1963-1965, served as a Military Police in the United States Army at Kagnew Station in Eritrea, a country in East Africa. That chapter of his life reflected what those who knew him understood well: Don lived with a steady sense of duty and a quiet commitment to service. For 40 years he worked for Wonalancet Company in Atlanta, GA, and was Vice President at the time if his retirement. Through each stage of life, he carried himself with the kind of calm presence that made others feel at ease.

Those close to Don will remember his humor most of all. He was a funny man with a great sense of humor, and he loved telling stories about his life. He had a way of making people smile, not by trying to be the center of attention, but by being himself. He was not an extravagant man, but he was generous to those who really needed it. He was calm and loving, and he had a special gift for offering a sincere compliment that could brighten someone’s day and make them feel seen.

Don was devoted to his family and is survived by his wife of 33 years, Dorothy Nye, and his children: David Nye (Denise), Daniel Nye (Carrie), Derek Nye (Basia), Devin Nye (Angela), Mary Bennett (Luke); and stepsons: Jim Lightsey, Joe Lightsey, and Jon Lightsey. He also leaves behind 11 grandchildren: Drake, Megan, Dalen, Donovan, Derian, Dominik, Hannah Nye, Davey Bennett, Stephanie, Christopher, and Harmony Lightsey; and his brother Jerry Nye. His family was an important part of his life, and his warmth, humor, and gentle spirit will live on in the memories they hold close.

A devout Catholic, Don lived a life shaped by faith as well as service to others serving in the Atlanta Cursillo Movement for over fifty years. His beliefs were not something he kept apart from daily life; they were reflected in the way he treated people, in his generosity, and in the quiet care he extended to those around him. He found joy in the simple and the meaningful, including collecting rare Hot Wheels, a hobby he enjoyed for many years and pursued with enthusiasm. At one time, his collection included more than 5,000 pieces, a detail that speaks to both his interests and the delight he found in them.

Donald Nye’s life was one of service, faith, humor, and love. He left behind a legacy not of extravagance, but of kindness, steadiness, and heartfelt generosity. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, and remembered with affection for the good he did and the grace with which he lived.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Anna's Catholic Church, Monroe, GA on Saturday, August 22, 2026, 10:00 am followed by a reception in the Fellowship Hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Knights of Columbus Service Organization #14425, St. Anna's Catholic Church, 1401 Alcovy St., Monroe, GA 30655.