William Donald Finney

William "Don" Finney

July 27, 1941 – December 18, 2025

Donald "Don" Finney, beloved father, grandfather, and faithful servant of God, passed away peacefully at home on December 18, 2025, surrounded by his loving children. He was 84 years old.

Don was born on July 27,1941, in Booneville, Arkansas, to Charles Noel Finney and Dora Smith Finney. In 1951, he moved with his family to California, where he made his home in Pond, before moving to Bakersfield after graduating from Delano High School in 1959. Don then went on to earn an Associate of Arts degree in Accounting from Bakersfield College in 1961.

On Christmas Eve of 1963, Don received his draft notice for the United States Army and reported to boot camp just three weeks later, answering the call to serve his country with dedication and humility.

Don later met the love of his life, Martha, and they were married on December 11, 1971. They shared nearly 40 wonderful years of marriage before her passing in 2011. He was a devoted husband and caregiver to Martha. Together they raised two children, Deborah and David, whom Don loved deeply and faithfully supported throughout his life.

Don accepted Jesus as his Savior while in high school and was a man of strong faith. He was a member of First Southern Baptist Church of Bakersfield for over 25 years and then Valley Baptist Church for the last 33 years. He was actively involved in church life at Valley, serving as a deacon and participating in his Miners Life Group, forming lasting friendships and serving others with kindness and devotion.

Don was an amazing dad and a wonderful grandpa. He was known for his steady presence, sense of humor and goofy jokes, gentle wisdom, and unwavering love for his family. His grandchildren were a great joy to him, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Dora Finney; his beloved wife, Martha Finney; and two brothers John and Ron Finney.

He is survived by his daughter, Deborah (Finney) Fleming and her husband, Matt; his son, David Finney and his wife, Beth; three cherished grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Jacob, and Macie; as well as nieces, a nephew, and many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

Don's legacy of faith, service, and love will continue to live on through all who knew him.