Donald D Lord

Louisville - Retired Deputy Sheriff Donald D. ("Donnie") Lord, Jr. died November 8, 2024 at his residence. Donnie was born in Louisville, Kentucky in 1964 to Donald D. Lord, Sr. and Norma J. (Tingle) Lord. Donnie graduated from Southern High School, then joined the U.S. Army, serving from 1983-1985 in the Airborne Infantry. He worked at Cave Hill Cemetery, first as a gardener, then as security office after being sworn in as a Jefferson County Sheriff. Donnie was employed by the Jefferson County Sheriff's office from 1990 to 2010, retiring with the rank of Sargeant. He went back to the Sheriff's office after retirement, working from 2011 to 2024. Over his years of service, Donnie earned many awards and recognition. Donnie was a friend to all and never met a stranger, particularly at Cave Hill cemetery. He gave impromptu historical tours to visitors at Cave Hill having educated himself by reading books about notable Louisvillians and he had passion for Louisville history. In 2018, Donnie founded the Hungry Goose Club at Cave Hill. Donnie loved the wildlife at Cave Hill and fed the geese, squirrels and water-fowl daily. Donnie loved the black swans, Percival and Petunia and spoke of them as though they were personal human friends. Donnie studied and learned what types of food and produce were healthy for the animals to consume and never let them down, appearing at Cave Hill every day until he became too ill to drive. Donnie had a sharp wit and was quick to make a joke. Donnie will be missed by his Jefferson County Sheriff's Office family and by a legion of close friends. His parents and (3) sisters predeceased him. A grave side service for Donnie will be held at the Lord Family plot, Section 37, Lot 465, in Cave Hill Cemetery on December 7, 2024. The procession to the gravesite will commence at the Broadway entrance of Cave Hill Cemetery at 11:00 a.m.