Donald Oldham

GOLDSTON, NC — Donald Carson Oldham, age 88, of Goldston, passed away on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at UNC Hospital in Chapel Hill.

He was born in Chatham County the son of the late John Carson Oldham and Gladys Martindale Oldham. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Mary Catherine Huguelet Oldham and son John Clinton Oldham. He attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he earned his degree and proudly played on the Tar Heel baseball team. His passion for the game continued beyond his playing days as he went on to serve as an assistant coach for the UNC baseball program. He was a devoted educator, administrator, and coach having served schools in Hamlet and Lee County. A man of deep faith and unwavering integrity, he dedicated his life to serving others—both in the classroom and on the athletic field. Throughout his career, Mr. Oldham touched countless lives as a teacher, school administrator, coach, and mentor. His leadership was marked by a steady commitment to excellence and a genuine care for every student and athlete he encountered. He also enjoyed coaching American Legion Baseball, where he inspired young athletes, instilling in them the values of discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship. He was a member of Carbonton Community Church where he was a devoted Sunday School teacher for many years. Mr. Oldham loved spending time with his grandsons, whether it was playing ball in the yard, working on math problems, playing checkers, or making grilled cheese sandwiches and soup for them. He enjoyed watching them grow up and was so proud of their accomplishments in the classroom, on the ball field, and in life in general.

He is survived by his children Catherine O. Hughes of Sanford, Donald C. Oldham, Jr. of Goldston and Marie O. Johnson of Sanford; sisters Nancy Upchurch of Lemon Springs and Brenda Harris and husband Clyde of Wilson and three grandchildren Hunter Johnson and wife Odalis, Colin, and Landon Johnson. He was blessed to have wonderful caregivers in his later years who truly loved him and became part of the family (Lori Spinks, Loretta McSwain, Anita Matthews, and Cozy Wilkie).

The family received friends on Tuesday, September 2, 2025 from 6-8 p.m. at Bridges-Cameron Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at 2 p.m. at Carbonton Community Church with Pastor William Cashion and Mike Seawell officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Arrangements by Bridges-Cameron Funeral Home.