Donald Heslep

Donald Heslep

November 2, 2024

Donald B. Heslep, of Richmond, died November 2, 2024, at the age of 91. Don grew up in the foothills of the Blue Ridge near Fairfield, VA, in Rockbridge County. After Fairfield High School, he attended VMI, graduating with a degree in Civil Engineering. Following graduation, he served two years in the US Army and then in the U.S.Army Reserve until 1965. He was with DuPont Construction from 1958 to 1963, and then started his own Building and Development Company in Richmond, VA, where he built large custom homes. He was interested in building all types of house styles in addition to light commercial.

He also built and owned the first self-storage facility in Chesterfield County. Founded in 1974, Blue & Gray Self Storage is now one of the largest in the Richmond area. He also developed The Oasis Sports Park, a golfing and baseball practice facility located in Chesterfield County. Heslep served a three-year term as a Non-Lawyer Member of the Third District Committee of the Virginia State Bar. He was a Construction Arbitrator for the American Arbitration Association for 23 years. He served two terms (12 years) with the VMI Keydet Club Board of Governors and was always a great supporter for VMI. He served on several Boards in the Richmond area and was active and supportive of community affairs. He was also a long-time member of the Willow Oaks Country Club, and always loved the game of golf, enjoying friends for foursomes and golf trips for many years. Both he and son, Mark, enjoyed hiking and hiked several trips on the Appalachian Trail.

Donald is predeceased by parents Hunter Lacy Heslep and Edna Mae Faris Heslep; and 2 brothers, Hunter Lacy Heslep Jr., and John Clifford Heslep. He is survived by Jo, his devoted wife of 65 years and business partner; his son, Mark and wife Catherine; son, Donald Jr.; five grandchildren, Donald Heslep III, Deanna, Will, Luke, and Mary Heslep.

There will be a memorial service at 2 p.m., on November 23, 2024, at Bliley's Chippenham. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the VMI Keydet Club, P.O. Box 932, Lexington, VA 24460.