George Peter "Pete" Donaldson

George Peter Donaldson III, known to family and friends as “Pete”, passed away on December 9, 2024, at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on April 16, 1947, in Ft. Benning, Georgia, to George Peter Donaldson Jr. and his wife Marianna Mella.

Pete dedicated his life to the practice of law, serving the South Georgia community for over 52 years with a focus on civil and criminal trial work. Throughout his career, he earned a reputation for his unwavering commitment to justice and the defense of the underrepresented. As a long-time and active member of the faculties of the National Criminal Defense College and the Bill Daniel Trial Practice Institute, Pete imparted his knowledge and passion for trial advocacy to aspiring lawyers. His leadership in the legal community was further demonstrated by his role as past president of the Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, as well as his service on its Executive Board.

Pete’s career was distinguished by numerous accolades, including the 2017 "C. Terry Jackson, Friend of the Constitution" award, which recognized his courage and excellence in the defense of difficult criminal cases. He was a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, the American Bar Association, and the United States Supreme Court Historical Society, among other prestigious organizations. His efforts to improve the legal landscape in Georgia included his appointment by the Georgia Supreme Court to serve as a founding member and later chair of the Georgia Indigent Defense Council, where he worked tirelessly to secure legislative funding for the state’s indigent defense system.

Beyond his professional achievements, Pete was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He is survived by his devoted wife of 34 years, Lea Fitzgibbons (Hixon) Donaldson; his children, Chris Donaldson of Albany, GA, Steve Donaldson (Julie) of Stone Mountain, GA, Brooke Hixon of Albany, GA, Holly Hixon Strickland (Kenny) of Albany, GA, and Brent Hixon (Lindsey) of Cuthbert, GA; and his beloved grandchildren, Cassidy, Isaiah, Aaron, Emmy, Mallory, Walker, Brooks, Hayes, and Allea. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters, Tom (Kathy), Mary Anne, Bob (Anna), Bill (Debbie), Holly (Kevin), Jim (Suzie), and numerous nieces and nephews.

Pete is preceded in death by his grandparents, Mr. & Mrs. George Peter Donaldson Sr. of Tifton, GA; his parents, Mr. & Mrs. George Peter Donaldson Jr. of Bedford, TX; and his brother, John Donaldson of Houston, TX.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff of the CCU unit at Phoebe Putney Hospital. Their exceptional care and kindness have left a lasting impression on the family.

A memorial service will be held Monday, December 16, 2024 at 11:00 a.m., at Porterfield Methodist Church in Albany, GA. The Rev. Judge Willie Lockette will officiate, Pastor of Greater Pine Chapel Baptist Church of Albany, GA.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Holding Hope, Inc. (C/O Danny Lake, 200 West Church St. Cuthbert, GA 39840; Venmo--http.s://venmo.com/U/HOLDINGHOPEGA) or your favorite pet rescue.