Donald Gene Sears, Sr.

Donald Gene Sears, Sr (known to loved ones as Donnie, Don, Papa Don, Pops and Papaw) was born on November 23, 1958, in Miami, Florida, and left this world on March 30, 2024, from Columbus Ohio. He was 65 years old.  

Don, a devoted family man and Christian, lived a life of service to his family and his Savior. He was a member of Family of Faith Community Church for over 30 years.  He dedicated himself to spreading the love of God to those around him. He was a man of compassion and integrity, leading his family by example.  He spent many years working as an electrician and maintenance technician.  He retired from CBRE in 2021.  Outside of his faith, family and incredible work ethic, Don enjoyed fishing and riding his Harley. He cherished family events and spending time with his loved ones.

He was met in his next life by several loved ones, including his parents, 2 sisters, several aunts, uncles, and cousins, his first wife, 1 unborn child, and 2 unborn grandchildren.  He is celebrated by many earthly family members, including his wife of 42 years, Kelli Sears; birth son, Donnie Sears, Jr.; birth daughter and son-in-law, Stephen and Kendra Potts; brother, Steve Rinehart; sister, Suzanne Swearingen; brother and sister-in-law, Kenton and Saundra Brown, sister-in-law, Karen Brown, and many cousins, nieces, nephews and children he adopted in his heart (James Hester Sears, Matthew Green, Bekah Slotterbeck, The Bevly boys, Quindell Bowyer, and his nephew, Scott Hershey). He leaves a legacy of many grandchildren, whom he adored.

A celebration of Don’s life on earth will be held at Alley Park Lodge, Main Room, on Sunday, April 14, 2024 from 1-4 pm, where you can catch/release in Don’s memory.  Bring your fishing pole and lawn chair!

Memorial gifts may be made to Wounded Warrior Project in his memory.

Don will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him. May he rest in peace and his legacy of love and service continue through those he touched.