Donald Ray Young

Donald Ray Young, 93, formerly of Keene, Texas, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2026. He was born on December 16, 1932, in Sherman, Texas.

Don served honorably in the United States Air Force during the Korean War, and spent part of his service stationed overseas. While still in the Air Force, Don met Wanda Mae Brownfield, and a short time later the two were married. Their marriage lasted 66 years.

Early in his career, Don attended the Dallas Art Institute, and enjoyed working as a commercial artist. His artistic nature extended beyond his profession, as he expressed his creativity in photography and personal projects.

Don was later inspired to pursue a career in the Publishing Ministry of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, where he worked for many years sharing the gospel through books and literature. He dedicated time to serving his church community, a testament to his profound belief in leading others to Jesus, which Don considered his proudest accomplishment.

An avid golfer, Don frequently enjoyed the camaraderie of playing with his son and friends. He was also an accomplished bowler and pool player. He supported the local sports teams, particularly the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers.

His love for music was a theme for his life as he enjoyed several genres of music spanning many decades.

The name Don loved to hear the most was “GanGan”, which he was affectionately called by all of his grandchildren, whom he dearly loved!

Donald was preceded in death by his wife, Wanda Young; his step-grandson Ryan Robinson; his parents J.B. Paine and Effie Velma Paine; and his siblings Dorothy Smith, Paula Wilcox, Janette Hamel, Annette Inman, James Paine, and Cosetta Rock.

Survivors include children, Marc Young and his wife Mona, Pam Robinson and her husband Michael; grandchildren, Amanda Sullivan and her husband Casey, Zachary Robinson and his fiancée Emily Hall; and great grandchildren, Layla Robinson, Nolan Terry, and Forest Sullivan, along with numerous cherished nieces, nephews, and friends.

Donald Ray Young will be greatly missed by the family and friends he leaves behind.