Donald Wade Capps

Donald Wade Capps of Roanoke, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, October 4, 2009, after an extended illness. He was surrounded by family and friends during his last days. Donald was born on March 21, 1949, in South Boston, Va., a son of the late William Oliver Capps Sr. and Esther Turner Reaves Capps. He was also preceded in death by his twin brother, Ronald Wayne Capps; and older brother, William Oliver Capps Jr.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 26 years, Brenda Smith Capps; sons, Christopher Todd Capps, of Roanoke, and Jeffrey Chad (Fawn) Capps, of Richmond; grandchildren, Andrew Capps, and Conner and Moira Capps; nieces, Nancy Lee, Melissa Davis, Joanna Capps, and Mary Leigh Capps; and half sister, Dianna LeCroy, of Fayetteville, N.C. He was known as "GrandDonny" to his namesake, Donald Ryan, W.J. and the late Katie Mae. Other relatives include sisters-in-law, Sharon Capps, and Linda Altman (Glenn); brothers-in-law, Otis Smith (Joyce) and Donald Smith (Peggy); many nieces and nephews; and great-nieces and great-nephews.
Donald proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam Conflict. He was an avid motorcyclist. One of his proudest activities was riding with Rolling Thunder to the Vietnam Memorial on Memorial Days. He also enjoyed riding on the Blue Ridge Parkway, as well as riding in poker runs for various charities in both Roanoke and Brunswick, Ga. Donald loved music, and sang and played guitar throughout his whole life. He loved to sing and play with his friends and family. His love of motorcycles and music has been passed on to the generations that have loved him here, and look forward to a glorious reunion with him in Heaven.
Donald was a graduate of William Fleming High School, and also attended Virginia Western Community College where he majored in business administration. He worked in the telecommunications industry for 30 years. Donald and his wife operated Cherokee Cable in Roanoke and then moved to Brunswick, Ga., where Brenda's family lives. They became an integral part of his life, and also mourn his passing.
The family would like to thank Carilion Hospice, especially Alan and Julie, and Friendship Hospice for their special care during this time. Brenda would also like to thank Phil and Drake Layman; and very special friends, Adrianna Conway, Kathy Tomlinson, Wayne Henderson, Jimmy Bales, Stuart Bethel, and Mark McSweeney.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to Carilion Hospice.
A memorial service will be conducted 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 10, 2009, at Simpson Funeral Home, 5160 Peters Creek Road. Following the service the family will receive friends at Oakland Baptist Church. The day will conclude with a celebration ride on the Blue Ridge Parkway in the afternoon.
Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home & Crematory, 540-366-0707.