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Donald Eakes Obituary
February 17, 1949 - August 8, 2025
Donald Wayne Eakes, 76, passed away on August 9, 2025 at his home in Colonial Beach, VA.
Born February 17, 1949, in Roxboro, North Carolina, to George William Eakes and Mary Etta Oakley Eakes, Don's life was shaped early on by love, resilience, and family. After the passing of his father when Don was young, he was raised by his devoted mother and two older sisters, Myrtle and Myrna Lou.
A dedicated student and athete, Don graduated from Helena High School, where he played basketball and football and contributed to the school newspaper. He attended the University of North Carolina with dreams of becoming a meteorologist or a commercial artist. While there, he met his first wife, Deborah Walker, and they married in 1971. Their son, Jason, was born in 1977.
After earning his degree in Parks and Recreation Management, Don and Debbie moved to Richmond, Virginia, where he became Director of Senior Programs for the City of Richmond Parks and Recreation Department - a position he held for two decades. In this role, he touched the lives of thousands of seniors, created safe parks for children by repurposing unused spaces, and worked tirelessly in other jobs to support his family.
Don was a devoted father and husband, known for cooking family meals whenever he could and taking family trips. In 1986, he married his second wife, Liz, beginning a 36-year marriage and blending their families. Together with Liz's son, Tony, they formed a close-knit family and he later became an important figure in the life of his granddaughter, Alyssa. Don and Tony shared a lifelong bond, and Tony provided steadfast care and companionship after Liz's passing.
A lifelong lover of the outdoors, Don enjoyed fishing, watching the clouds, and following the weather with the curiosity of the meteorologist he once aspired to be. He loved animals, cherished people, and never met a stranger - happily striking up conversations wherever he went.
He was also a devoted and enthusiastic Tar Heels fan, cheering for UNC anywhere, anytime, under any circumstance.
Don's life was one of kindness, connection, and hard work. His love for his family and his community will continue to inspire all who knew him.
A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, August 23, at Sunset Memorial Park, 2901 W Hundred Rd, Chester, Virginia.
Storke Funeral Home, Colonial Beach is handling arrangements.
Storke Funeral Home
31 James Monrow Highway
Colonial Beach Va. 22443
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Donald Eakes
5 Entries
Betty Anne Moore Townsend
August 21, 2025
Donnie and the Eakes family were our neighbors and dear friends all of my childhood years in Person County, North Carolina. We shared rides to church and later to and from Chapel Hill. Many fond memories. I am saddened to hear of his passing and will keep his family in my prayers.
Helen Hess
August 19, 2025
Liz, my sympathy to you and your family. May you find peace in Him.
June Jackson
August 17, 2025
Sorry to read about Don's passing. I worked with Don for many years in Recreation & Parks. He never failed to have conversation with me about the many things he enjoyed. He had quite a sense of humor. He always mentioned something about Jason. My condolences to his family.
Jeannie Bland
August 17, 2025
I met Don when Liz began dating him and I was in their wedding party as a brides maid. We visited each other's homes, shared meals and good times. I had been Liz's friend since 1967 and our friendship with our families lasted throughout our marriages, Don proved a good husband for my best friend. R. I. P. Don and hug Liz for me.
Lee Franklin
August 17, 2025
Don was our neighbor when I was a kid growing up. he drove the cutest VW bug. I cannot tell you how many times he would put a few of us in his little car to go sleigh riding at Forest Hill Park every year. He was a great guy and I want the family to know how many great memories he brought to me. I remember the time when he decided to go down the road instead of the hill, which was a total sheet of ice.All of a sudden we saw him go over the side. He got up all bruised and said I´m OK. Don also got me involved in girls basketball and flag football. Thank you, for helping to mold me as an adult. my condolences to the family.
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