Search by Name

Search by Name

Donald Blaine Ely

4/3/1948 - 9/25/2025

BORN

4/3/1948

DIED

9/25/2025

Donald Ely Obituary

Westminster, S.C. - Donald Blaine Ely, 77, of Westminster, S.C., passed away peacefully at his residence Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025. Born April 3, 1948, in Anderson, S.C., the son of the late Blaine Everal Ely and Edna Ruth Muir Ely.

Donald proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Navy, carrying with him the discipline, strength, and honor instilled during his year of service. After his military career, he worked as a construction engineer, where his skill and dedication were evident in the projects he helped bring to life. Donald was a black belt in Jiu Jitsu, and Tang Soo Do. He will be remembered as a hardworking and loyal man, one who valued both his service to his country and his work in his community. Donald leaves behind cherished memories for those who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Dale Anderson Ely; daughters, Dawn Alesha Ely of Stonington, and Diane Bethany Ramsden of Acton, Mass; grandchildren, Marcus, Alesha, Madison, Isaac, Sebastian, Brenya, and Sadie; and a sister Pamela Rhyne of Woodstock, Ga.

In keeping with his wishes, no formal services will be held. The family will be at their respective homes. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Donald's memory may be made to a charity of one's choice. Condolences may be expressed online by visiting www.sandiferfuneralbome.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Day on Oct. 1, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Donald Ely

Not sure what to say?





3 Entries

Lisa Poirier

October 3, 2025

Don was a good and caring man both professionally and personally. He was also a good friend to me and my children, teaching them karate skills. It's been a while since I last saw Don, but kept updated on him through friends. I'm so sorry for your loss.

David McPartland

October 2, 2025

Very sorry to hear of his passing. He was a good mentor and friend.

Dave Fairman

October 1, 2025

Rest in Peace Don

Showing 1 - 3 of 3 results

Make a Donation
in Donald Ely's name

Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

Memorial Events
for Donald Ely

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Donald's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Donald Ely's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more