Don Sentell

SENTELL, Don

Don W. Sentell, age 85, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025, surrounded by loved ones after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease. Throughout his life, Don was defined by his warmth, curiosity, and unfailing generosity - qualities that shaped the countless lives he touched.

He grew up in Smyrna, Georgia, and graduated from Campbell High School, where he was an outstanding football player. His pursuit of learning took him to Furman University, where he was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon and captain of the cheerleading squad. After graduating, he attained his master's degree from Indiana University. These academic achievements reflected his deep commitment to education and his natural connection with people.

Don began his career teaching at The Westminster Schools in Atlanta before becoming headmaster of Oak Mountain Academy in Carrollton, GA, at only 25 years old. Even in these early roles, his kindness, steady leadership, and ability to bring out the best in others were unmistakable. In 1970, he shifted his path toward the travel industry and, alongside his first wife, Grace, founded Corporate Travel International. During this time, he led countless groups on tours all over the world, including taking a group of over 500 from Coca Cola to China in the late 1970s as one of the first major tourism steps following a thawing in U.S.–China relations. His charisma, business insight, and extraordinary ability to make everyone feel known helped the company flourish into the largest privately owned travel agency in the Southeast by 1985, when he sold it to American Express.

Upon retirement, Don fully embraced his artistic side. He was a singer throughout high school and college, and later enjoyed acting onstage in community theater productions. He also explored hobbies like piano and tap dancing, approaching every creative pursuit with his characteristic fun-loving spirit. His athletic side remained equally present; he was an avid handball, racquetball, tennis, and pickleball player, and loved golf, approaching every outing with enthusiasm, humor, and a genuine appreciation for the people around him.

Don found deep happiness in Cashiers, North Carolina, where he spent many cherished summers. After meeting his beloved wife, Amanda, they lived there full-time for several years building lasting friendships. He was a significant supporter of the local schools, and gave generously to nonprofits, all while enjoying the community of the Country Club of Sapphire Valley.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alene and Albert Sentell; his first wife, Grace Sentell; and his stepchildren, Allen Pait and Nancy Pait. He is survived by his loving wife, Amanda; his brother, Jack (Joan); his stepdaughter, Ginny Green; his stepson, John Pait (Carolyn); grandchildren Pipa Cortez, Ash Pait (Kelly), David Pait (Katie), Anica Cortez, Laney Redfearn (Lee), and Eric Pait; nine great-grandchildren; his nieces, Sally Hood and Susan Sanders; and nephew, Todd Sentell. Each carries forward part of his legacy.

A celebration of Don's life will be held on December 16, 2025, 3:00 PM at Peachtree Hills Place. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Emory Goizueta Brain Health Institute. H.M. Patterson is overseeing final arrangements.

The family will forever be grateful for Eugene Siluyele, whose tireless commitment and deep compassion provided Don with exceptional, loving care throughout his final years.

May Don's memory bring comfort and inspiration, reminding all who knew him of the extraordinary impact one gentle, joyful life can have.