Donald Elam

Donald Elam, 91, went home to be with his Lord on November 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was first married to the late Wanda Elam, and for the past 30 years shared a devoted and cherished marriage with Phyllis Hearn Elam.
Don was blessed to have 9 children, Karen Bowling (Jerry), Terri Combs (late Arlie 'Dook' Combs), Angie Crawford (Keith), Quentin Elam (Tammy), Carla Bray (Terry), Chuck Elam (Rhonda), Marsha Elam (deceased), Donald Mark Elam (deceased), and step daughter Carla Shaine Hearn (deceased). He also had 9 Grandchildren, and 18 great grandchildren, and 3 great great grandchildren. And many loving nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends, all of whom will miss his warmth and special sense of humor.
Don is survived by his siblings, Chesley Rudd of Verona, KY, Jean Keeton of Mt. Sterling, KY, Robert Elam of Verona, KY. He was preceded in death by brothers, Dallas Daulton Elam, Verona, KY, Owens Lee Elam, Verona, KY, and Manuel Elam, Warsaw, KY, and one sister Emma Lois Settles of Owingsville, KY.
Throughout his life he loved to garden, tending each plant with care and sharing the fruits of his labor generously with anyone around him. Whatever task he took on, he carried a song in his heart, heard in the soft whistle or gentle hum that followed him. His humor was quick, warm, and rarely matched, bringing laughter to moments both big and small. A man of quiet strength and steady determination, he moved through life at his own thoughtful pace. Though never in a hurry, he remained unwavering in his commitment to hard work. His humility made him easy to admire, and his lighthearted spirit brought warmth to every room he entered. He never needed to be the loudest or the fastest; it was his steady presence, dependable character, and effortless ability to make others smile that truly set him apart.
He was a man who loved being outdoors, whether he was coon hunting with friends or throwing a line in the water. He enjoyed the peace of the woods and the company of his dogs, and he never got tired of talking about them. Stories from the hunts, the dogs he trained, and the nights spent under the stars were some of his favorite memories, and he shared them with anyone, with a chuckle and a grin.
Don was a devoted Christian man who gave his life to the Lord at the age of 33 and remained faithful in His service until God gently called him home at 91. He loved his family deeply and worked tirelessly to ensure they were cared for, supported, and surrounded by love. As a stepmom, I can say wholeheartedly that they are a remarkable family-one that embraced my late daughter and me with a level of love and kindness that words can scarcely describe. Don and Wanda raised their children to walk in the ways of the Lord, instilling values that shaped each of their lives. Don was also a loyal and steadfast member of Crestview Holy Sanctuary Church in Berea, KY, where he served faithfully for many years.
Funeral services will be 1:00PM Saturday November 22, 2025, at Crestview Holy Sanctuary Church. Burial will follow in the Berea Cemetery. Pallbearers are Frank Napier, Mark Adams, Donnie Willis, Richard Howard, Shannon Combs, and Jim Lamb. Visitation will be 11:00AM – 1:00PM Saturday November 22, 2025 at the church.