Donald Ray Mezo Sr.

Donald Ray Mezo, Sr., age 85, of Marion, passed away Thursday morning, November 20, 2025 at Barnes Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.
Don was born Friday, February 23, 1940 in Herrin, a son of Horace Benjamin and Wanda Mae (Fox) Mezo. He married the love of his life, Yvonne Lucille "Luci" Williams on March 14, 1997 in Paducah, Kentucky. She survives in their home in Marion.
Don leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and stories to be remembered for years. His remarkable career spanned over 48 years at Maytag, where he retired with pride, and then continued to serve his community working at Marion Wal-Mart for seven years. A proud veteran of the United States National Guard, Don's commitment to service extended far beyond his professional life. He was a man who cherished the great outdoors, finding joy in camping, splitting wood, and tending to his fireplace. His love for sports was unwavering, particularly when it came to St. Louis Cardinal Baseball, and he could often be found cheering on his favorite team. Don's warm and generous spirit made him the center of family gatherings, especially Saturday breakfasts with his family. He was always up for a lively game of cards and poker. His love for people was evident in his dedication to taking care of those around him, and he found great pleasure in being productive and active, whether going out for a shopping trip or hitting the bowling lanes. Don's adventures were not limited to his local community; he also enjoyed traveling to Las Vegas, where he could try his luck. His family and friends will remember him as a kind, fun-loving, and adventurous person who will be deeply missed. Don's legacy lives on through the countless memories he created with his loved ones, and his impact on those who knew him will never be forgotten.
He is survived by his wife- Yvonne L. "Luci" Mezo of Marion; son- Donald Mezo, Jr. of Herrin; daughter- Pamela Sue (Joseph) Wright of Du Quoin; son- Clifton Mezo of Herrin; daughter- Brooke Mezo of Carbondale; step-children- Thomas (Stephanie) Petitt III of Marion, Heath Wininger of Herrin, Charla (Gene) Samples of Pittsburg; eleven grandchildren- Dustin Mezo, Amy Johnson, Amber (Joe) Bartle, Alecia (Mike) Keichler, Doug Mezo, Chris Mezo, Cassie Umland, Ashley Kratzer, Mia Mezo, Mitchell Riggs, and Taylor (Calvin) Threadgill; great grandchildren- Hailie Keichler, Kaila Keichler, Lilly Mezo, Simon Kwasniewski, Lorenzo Mezo, and Hardy Kratzer; and three brothers- Ron Mezo of Herrin, Winston Mezo of Carbondale, and Frank Mezo of Herrin.
He is preceded in death by his parents, infant grandson- Johnathon Benjamin Mezo, and his brother- Jerry Mezo.
A time of visitation will be held from 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin.
Memorial services will follow at 2:00 PM on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin with Rev. Ralph Brandon officiating.
Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin is honored to serve the family. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.johnsonhughes.com or call 618-942-3102 for more information.