Donald Pentecost M.D.

1932 - 2021

Donald Pentecost, M.D.
July 6, 1932 - December 10, 2021
North Richland Hills, Texas - Donald Pentecost, 89, was devoted to every part of his life. A loving and devoted husband to his wife, Rosemary, of 70+ years, a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, son, and friend. He was a devoted physician and most of his patients counted him as a friend. He was devoted to his church, his community, his neighbors and above all, to his faith and personal relationship with the ever-loving presence of God.
He was born on July 6, 1932 in Indiana. He passed away on December 10, 2021, with his beloved wife Rosemary by his side. Donald fought a courageous battle with cancer for six months. He faced this final battle with the same enthusiasm and faith that he interacted with all aspects of life. He never once complained. He interacted with the doctors and nurses as honored colleagues. He trusted their experience and expertise. He also shared his lifetime medical experience with each of them. In this way, he was able to participate during his six months of treatment as a student and teacher. Donald spent the final months of his life planning a successful outcome, but also worked out details for the possibility of death. Donald never feared death. He always embraced the mystery and beauty of life which for him included transition from the physical body. He was always curious, enthusiastic, joyful, and determined. He remained peaceful, loving, and wise even as he entered hospice care where he passed within 24 hours.
Donald moved to Fort Worth in 1948 where he met the love of his life, Rosemary, at Arlington Heights High School. They married in 1951. Donald served in the Korean war from 1952-1954 when he was honorably discharged with the rank of Corporal. He graduated from TCU in 1957. He graduated from UT Southwestern Medical School in 1961. He served his internship at Dallas Methodist Hospital. Donald began his medical practice in 1962 in Brady, Texas. He moved his practice to Aransas Pass, Texas in 1966. In 1967, he joined his partners at T&R Clinic and (Twin Oaks) Haltom General Hospital in Haltom City, Texas. He remained in the Fort Worth area for the remainder of his career. Some of his happiest memories as a physician were the many babies he delivered. He also worked with American Airlines during this time of his career at their corporate headquarters. He was on staff with most Fort Worth area hospitals including: All Saints, Saint Joseph, Harris-Methodist, Haltom General, and (Twin Oaks) Glenview Hospital. He enjoyed being the team doctor for Haltom High School football during the years 1980 to 1987.
He retired as a family physician in 1992 and then practiced Occupational Medicine with Concentra until 2004. He continued his practice until 2010 and was still a licensed physician at the time of his death. Donald remained a tireless student in his studies of medical progress. He was also very interested in alternative therapies including, homeopathy. He was a lifelong learner, especially when it came to health and well-being, and his spiritual path.
Some of the groups Donald belonged to included: Richland Hills Christian Church since 1967 where he served as a Deacon, Elder, Chairman of the Board, member of the choir and adult Sunday school teacher. Diamond Oaks Country Club since 1967. He loved the game of golf most of his adult life and he finally made that hole in one at DOCC on April 1, 2015. He was a member of the Petroleum Club of Fort Worth since 1969 where he enjoyed many date nights with his beautiful wife and favorite dance partner. Both Donald and Rosemary were lifelong fans and supporters of TCU football and the Frog Club.
Donald was the Director of the DFW branch of the Himalayan Institute where he taught yoga and led many spiritual courses beginning in 1977. One of his many accomplishments with this organization was helping establish a clinic in the state of Uttarakhand, India under the leadership of Donald's beloved guru, Swami Rama. This clinic has grown into a medical university that trains doctors, nurses, and other fields of science. This is the first medical university in that state and has enriched the area for the past 27 years.
Professional associations include Tarrant County Academy of Family Physicians, Tarrant County Medical Society, Texas Academy of Family Physicians, and American Academy of Family Physicians. Donald was President of TCAFP in 1976.
Donald is preceded in death by his parents, Levi John and Elizabeth (Kolb) Pentecost, and his sister, Barbara Pentecost Howard. He is survived by his wife, Rosemary (Cooper) Pentecost; his four children: Douglas (Penne) Pentecost, Roselyn (Michael) Perry; Alyce (Robert) Payne; Del (Missy) Pentecost; nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; his two brothers: Richard (Frances) Pentecost and Robert (Carolyn) Pentecost; many beloved nieces and nephews; and friends that he loved as family.
To continue his legacy with UT Southwestern Medical School, Donald willed his body to benefit future medical doctors. His family's wish is they are truly inspired by his generous nature and love for his fellow man. A memorial service is planned for early spring.