Donald Lewis East

Donald East Obituary

It's Monday, November 30, 2009, and Donald Lewis East, of Roanoke, Va., is walking side-by-side with his Heavenly Father, our Lord and Savior. Don is celebrating in God's presence at the age of 76. He was a gifted musician. A natural chordsman, he played rhythm guitar for such bands as The Divots, The Coordinators, and The Royal Kings. In 1968 Don was "born again" and moved to Lexington, Ky., where he played for a Christian band called The Contenders. He would later continue his ministry through music with the band Truth and the Coeburn Christian Family Band. He wrote several songs such as "Let Us Thank Him" and "Kingdom Clan." But Don's greatest gift was his ability to minister and fellowship with the youth. He called them his "Rookies" or "Rookettes." Don opened "God's Tree House," a building where the youth could play sports guided by Christian leadership. In 1985 Don moved back to Virginia and continued with his youth ministry. Don was blessed with the gift of creativity. He could make something out of nothing and turn it into a masterpiece. He would share this creativity with his "Rookies." Don was preceded in death by his parents; four sisters; and three brothers. Don's legacy continues to live through numerous nieces and nephews; rookies and rookettes. The family wishes a heartfelt thank you to Dr. William Ward and everyone at Salem Health and Rehab. A celebration of Don's life will be held 2 p.m. on Friday, December 4, 2009, at Oakey's Roanoke Chapel with Pastor Mike Lauridsen of Parkway Wesleyan Church officiating. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 3, 2009, from 2 to 4 p.m. and from 6 to 8 p.m. at Oakey's Roanoke Chapel, 540-982-2100.

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Published by Roanoke Times from Dec. 2 to Dec. 4, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Donald East

10 Entries

LINDA AVALON

November 26, 2024

I remember how Don enjoyed spending time with the younger generation. They were encouraged and became better people having known him.
Clearly, he had the heart of Jesus in caring and pointing them to a life of faith in our Lord.
I can only imagine his encounter with Jesus hearing the words we long to hear, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

Elizabeth Parker Kirouac

December 7, 2009

As I remember Don I remember someone that was able to jump over the generation gaps with ease. He was a friend to all people rather rich or poor, of social status or homeless. Doesn't this sound like Jesus? Don loved and served his Lord and Savior fervently and I am comforted to know that He now sees Him face to face! Elizabeth Parker Kirouac

Harmon Parker

December 6, 2009

To say it simply, Don was a shining light. He was a light so bright, blinding me with the love of God when I was 12 years old as a struggling teenager, 42 years ago. Sincerely, he was one-of-a-kind in the best sense of the meaning. Every person who had the privilege of knowing Don, without doubt, is a better person today. This present world has lost a great champion, a kind-warrior who gave all he had to represent the God he loved so much. I would not be the man I am today without Don's love for me. Thank you Don!

Harmon Parker
Nairobi, Kenya

Linda Fortmuller

December 5, 2009

Don was a true example of shining your Light and Love on to the world. I will always remember his kind,gentle manner and sincere heart from which his deep love of God flowed. His earthly existence perished with his body but hie eternal Light will continue within our hearts as a reminder that we are all here to Love.

Robbie and Mary-Ann Parker

December 4, 2009

Don was so dear to our family while we lived in Lexington, Kentucky that we considered him a member of the Parker family. Don was dearly loved by us and we cherish our time of being with him on this earth and we look forward to being with him again in Heaven.
Don was and is now and forever a bright star in God's family, too. And while he is missed here on earth we're sure the folks in Heaven are rejoicing with Don being there with them.

Joey Draper

December 4, 2009

God bless you Don. Thank you for the memories.

Kathi Shields

December 3, 2009

Uncle Don...my birthday twin!!! I remember looking forward to your call on my birthday because it was so easy for you to remember (February 25 is the best day!) You always were so warm and welcoming whenever we'd come visit you at Uncle Bill's house...I'm sure your love and wisdom of the guitar is what convinced Cindy and Kristen to pursue such paths as well (you'd be amazed if you heard them play - Kristen sings and plays in the church choir). I'm so sad I lost touch with you when you moved back to Roanoke but I know Linda and the family took well care of you. I'll never forget your smile or laughter...or that little song you taught me on the phone...You are greatly missed but I know you're singing and dancing on Heaven just as you were here. I love you <3

James & Lana Smith

December 3, 2009

You are in our thoughts and prayers

Ronda

December 2, 2009

Neal and Family,

My God bless you and your family. Our Thoughts and Prayers are with you. We are here for you anytime.

Love you
Mike and Ronda and Family

December 2, 2009

Neal and Family,

All of you have our deepest sympathy. May love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Love Ya like family,
Dottie & Pete
D

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