Donal Gene Brown, 77

Donal Gene Brown, 77, of Gainesville, died Oct. 21, 2023. There are no local services planned at this time. 

In honor of Donal's memory, the family suggests celebrating his life in a way that he would have loved. Have a peaceful family dinner, go fishing or take a walk through nature. These simple acts of enjoying life reflect Donal's optimistic spirit and his love for life's simple pleasures.

The family requests that friends and family please respect their wishes to refrain from phone calls at this time. Instead, they hope those who loved him will remember Donal with a smile and keep his "electric" spirit alive in their hearts.

He was born on May 26, 1947, in Sacramento, California. He married Sandra Leigh in July 1970 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Donal, affectionately known as Don, had a truly electrifying personality and lit up every room with his infectious smile, family members say. He had a knack for making people laugh and was always there to brighten their day. Don was commonly mistaken for Santa Claus and Kenny Rogers, both in looks and personality.

Donal was a man of many talents, including being a master electrician. He could amp up any project with his expertise and was truly a force in his field, his loved ones say. His dedication and hard work were second to none. In his off time, he could be found tinkering in the garage with his tobacco pipe in tow or casting his line for his infamous fish stories.

In addition to his career, Donal proudly served in the US Navy as a Vietnam veteran. He was a true hero, bravely navigating the "currents" of life during his time of service.

Donal's family was his greatest joy. 

He is survived by his wife Sandra of family home in Gainesville, loving daughters Dana Goodwin and Tyler White, and the "son he always wanted" Anthony White. 

He was a doting grandfather to Dylan, Courtney, Mason and Kennedy, bringing a spark of joy into their lives.

Donal was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Inez Brown, his brother Charlie Brown, and his brother-in-law and sister, Milton and Anita Eacret.