Donald "Don" Philip Shoemaker

Donald Philip "Don" Shoemaker, a charismatic and hardworking man, passed away on March 1, 2026. Born on October 2, 1937, in Columbus, Ohio, Don lived a vibrant life filled with deep passions and a great sense of humor.

Don married Lynda Jean Gallaher on June 14, 1958. Amusingly, he actually had to get permission from his mother, Alma, to marry Lynda! The couple shared 64 beautiful years together until Lynda's passing in August 2022. He is survived by his sister, Mary (affectionately known as Miffie), as well as his children: D. Philip (Debbie) Shoemaker of Arizona, Steven (Phyllis) Shoemaker of Nebraska, and Traci (KC) White of Arkansas. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Jake (Abby) Shoemaker of Nebraska, Ben (Ashley) Shoemaker of Washington, and Rachel Lyn Shoemaker of Nebraska. He was preceded in death by his mother, Alma; his father, Isaac (affectionately known as “Ike”); his stepmother, Helen; and beloved wife, Lynda.

Don was a proud graduate of The Ohio State University, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Arts and was a member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity. His professional journey featured a successful career in Sales and Executive Leadership at Lozier. Combining their business acumen with a deep appreciation for Native American art, he and Lynda operated art stores in Omaha, Nebraska. When it came to where he planted his roots, Don's journey was quite the unexpected adventure. Though his roots were firmly planted in Columbus, Ohio, Don's life took him on a geographic tour he likely never anticipated. If you had told his younger self he'd one day be putting down stakes in Elkhorn, Nebraska; Hutto, Texas; or Jordan, Arkansas, he probably would have laughed! Despite these surprising changes in scenery, the time he and Lynda spent living in Santa Fe, New Mexico, remained a highlight of their lives.

Don was a proud Eagle Scout, and he was exceptionally proud of the fact that his two sons also achieved this prestigious rank.

Don’s meticulous personality shone through his many unique interests. He was famous for his ongoing “Projects,” which involved home improvement and yard work, earning him the fond reputation among loved ones as a diligent “mover of rocks, bricks, and other heavy items”. He loved to travel and read, and his devotion to Ohio State football was unmatched. Friends and family will remember him for loving his beef rare, enjoying red wine (out of a short glass), taking great pleasure paying for things with crisp $100 bills, and shooting his cannon!

A family service to celebrate Don's remarkable life is planned for later this spring. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Rodney-Jordan Volunteer Fire Department. RVFPD Auxiliary, Kathy Myren, Treasurer, 83 Arapaho Drive, Jordan, AR 72519.

Arrangements are by Kirby and Family Funeral and Cremation Services - Mountain Home, Arkansas. Visit an online obituary and guestbook at www.kirbyandfamily.com.