Donald Edwin DeHart

Donald Edwin DeHart, a devoted father, loving husband, beloved educator, faithful servant of God, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on July 20th, 2025, at the age of 72
Born on August 21st, 1952, in Pulaski, Virginia, Donald lived a life grounded in faith, wisdom, and service. He was known for his intelligence, his unwavering belief in the Lord, and his deep commitment to providing for and guiding those he loved. Donald spent his life not only raising his own family, but also serving as a father figure and mentor to many.
He carried his values into every part of his life. Donald showed up for school drop-offs and pick-ups, and offered wise counsel and support through every season. His quiet strength and consistent presence left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
Donald spent his early years moving frequently with his family due to military service, until the tragic loss of his father, who served in the U.S. Air Force. He ultimately settled and came of age in the rolling blue hills of Pulaski, Virginia, where he found direction and community. In his youth, Donald was active in extracurriculars including band, choir, and track.
Coming of age during the Civil Rights era, Donald confronted deeply rooted racial barriers with quiet strength and perseverance. One powerful example of this was during high school, when he was overwhelmingly nominated by his peers to be captain of the track team. However, due to the adversity of the time, school officials denied him the full title and instead named him co-captain. Even in the face of this injustice, Donald continued to lead with integrity, becoming one of the first Black student leaders in his school and earning the admiration of those around him. His strength and resilience in moments like this would go on to define his life, yet he rose above them to become a trailblazer in many aspects of his life, including being many of Firsts.
Donald continued his pursuit of excellence through education, attending St. Paul's College earning his Bachelor's degree in Sociology, then continued pursuing post-graduate work in Sociology at Virginia Tech. He also completed postgraduate coursework toward a Master's degree, a testament to his lifelong dedication to learning.
Donald built a distinguished and respected career in criminal justice, dedicating over 30 years of service to the State of New Jersey's Probation Department in Passaic County. In that time, he wore many hats, working in all divisions of probation. As an example, he worked as a certified domestic violence counselor where he led group counseling sessions for probationers, demonstrating both compassion and accountability.
He also worked as part of Passaic County's Village Initiative Program, a community-centered project aimed at supporting probationers and residents in the city of Paterson, New Jersey, where he spent the bulk of his professional life. His leadership helped countless individuals reclaim their futures.
Donald also served as a union representative, participated on numerous professional committees, and was often sought out by colleagues for his knowledge and mentorship.
Outside of work, he was a dedicated civic leader. As a longstanding member and former State President of the New Jersey Jaycees (Junior Chamber of Commerce), he worked to empower young leaders and strengthen communities. His accomplishments earned him an invitation to a young professionals meeting President Ronald Reagan, and he was featured in Ebony Jet magazine, a leading publication celebrating Black excellence, for his trailblazing work.
Donald dedicated much of his life to PANJ (Probation Association of New Jersey) and the spiritual development of others. He was a lifelong learner, a gifted teacher, and a man who never wavered from his walk with Christ. His faith was not just a part of who he was-it was the foundation of everything he did.
Some of the awards Donald recieved included multiple Junior Chamber of Commerce (Jaycees) Excellence Awards, Past State President Awards, and many others throughout his careers working in Probation-including the most prestigious award offered by New Jersey Probation, the John Augustus Award.
Donald's accolades are too numerous to list in full, but his life was a constant accumulation of honors recognizing his integrity, vision, and dedication. He lived with purpose, broke barriers, and lifted others every step of the way.
Upon retirement, Donald relocated to Branson, Missouri, but his commitment to serving others never faded. He became Recording Secretary on the Board of the Branson Senior Center and served as a Senior Citizen Representative for the Branson Parks and Recreation RecPlex. Even in a new town, Donald continued to uplift and advocate for those around him, embodying community wherever he lived.
A gifted vocalist, Donald also had a lifelong love of music. Until his illness affected his abilities, he actively sang and often served as a volunteer vocal director for several churches in New Jersey. His voice - both literal and symbolic - was one of strength, comfort, and inspiration.
He is survived by his wife Paula DeHart, Faith Ello (Daughter), Dorian DeHart (Son), Desiree DeHart (Daughter), Daralyn DeHart (Daughter), his brother Thomas DeHart (Dale), Pre-Deceased by his son Devyn, and a wide community of loved ones, colleagues, and brothers and sisters in Christ who were blessed by his love, his guidance, and his example.
A funeral service celebrating Donald's life will be held on July 28th, 2025 at 1 PM at Greenlawn Funeral Home in Branson, Missouri. All who knew and loved him are welcome to attend and share in honoring the remarkable life he lived.
Though he is departed from this world, Donald Edwin DeHart's legacy lives on in the hearts and lives of all who were touched by his faith, his kindness, and his unwavering devotion
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to PANJ (Probation Association of New Jersey), an organization close to Donald's heart.
Probation Association of New Jersey (PANJ)
2409 Paynters Road
Wall, NJ 08736