May 8, 30, La Grange
Donald Ryan Gaston, 30, of La Grange, passed away Monday, May 8, 2017. Donald took great pride in his role as husband and father to Cassie and Shealyn. His happiest moments were seeing them smile. Donald was a man of deep faith in God. His faith in God gave him the strength required to face the challenges of life. Donald loved seeing others smile. His sense of humor, jokes and bright smile endeared him to everyone he came in contact with. Donald lived to serve others and his community. He passionately answered the call to serve and help others. He began his firefighting career with the La Grange Volunteer Fire Department and for the last three years has served with the Jason Volunteer Fire Department. From 2009-2016 Donald served as an assistant advisor to KDPS Explorer Post 1033. Known as “Uncle Duck”, he instantly connected with the children under his tutelage. Donald was a passionate music lover. He especially enjoyed the music of Earth, Wind & Fire, The Jackson 5, The Temptations, 80’s Hip-Hop and the sweet, soothing sounds of music from the Motown era. His life leaves a lasting impression in the lives of all who knew him.
A service to remember and celebrate Donald’s life will be held Saturday, May 13, 2017 at 11 a.m. from Rouse Funeral Home with Pastor Steve Dixon officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Memorial Park, Pink Hill.
A loving husband and amazing father, Donald is survived by his wife of six years, Cassie Barss Gaston; his precious daughter, Shealyn Pearl Gaston. Donald often referred to Shealyn as “Corn”, “Pooh Bear” or “Shea Bug”. In addition to his wife and daughter, Donald is survived by his father, Rufus Gaston, Jr.; mother, Evelyn Gaston-Wilfong; four siblings, Markus Branthoover, Brandon Spikes-Moss, R.J. Wilfong and Tia Hannah; his maternal grandmother, Shirley Marie Spikes; his father and mother-in-law, Will and Sandy Barss; and his sister-in-law, Renee Turner.
Donald’s family will receive friends Friday from 5-7 p.m. at Rouse Funeral Home and at other times they will be at the home of Mr. & Mrs. Will Barss, 2856 Abby Court, Kinston. A education fund for Donald’s daughter, Shealyn. Details will be posted later.