Donald Dees

Don Dees - Beloved Husband, Father, and Community Leader.

Donald Dees of Danville, VA, a cherished member of the community, passed away on December 9, 2023, at his residence. He was born on December 7, 1929, in DeBerry, Texas, to Orden and Lottie Stroud Dees. Don was preceded in death by his loving parents and his brother, John, who tragically lost his life in a single car accident in Alice, Texas in 1980. His father also met a similar fate in a car accident near Atlanta, Texas in 1938. Don's mother, Lottie, passed away peacefully in DeBerry, Texas in 1972.

Don's educational journey began in Atlanta, Texas, where he attended public schools until 1946. Later, he and his mother relocated to DeBerry, and Don completed his high school education in Carthage, Texas in 1948. Displaying a passion for knowledge and growth, he graduated from Texas A&M University in 1952, In March 1953, Don joined the United States Air Force as a Second Lieutenant, serving as an Air Police Officer and later as a Special Agent in the Office of Special Investigation. He was honorably discharged in 1968, after dedicating several years of his life to the nation's service. That same year, he embarked on a new chapter and joined the Federal Bureau of Investigation as a Special Agent, retiring with distinction in 1988.

Don's personal life was filled with love and companionship. He married Kathleen O'Donald in 1957, and together they raised a son, Dr. Charles Dees (Sarah), who resides in North Augusta, GA. Sadly, Kathleen passed away in May 1997. In January 1999, Don found love once again and married Marguerite (Eddie) Dees, who became his devoted wife.

Don's impact on the Danville community was immeasurable. He dedicated his time and efforts to various organizations, serving as Chairman of the Danville Rescue Squad Board and volunteering for many years as a board member for God's Storehouse. Don was an active member of the Society of former FBI agents and a lifetime member of Rotary International, a testament to his commitment to service and community. He actively participated in Sacred Heart Catholic Church, contributing his time and energy as an active member of the Knights of Columbus.

In addition to his wife, Eddie, Don leaves behind a legacy of love and family. His memory will be cherished by his son, Dr. Charles Dees (Sarah), stepdaughter Beth Hancock Yopp (Eric), stepson Ryan Hancock (Elizabeth Markham), and his grandchildren: Hannah (Teddy), Abigail, Charlie. He will also be fondly remembered by his step-grandchildren Caleb and Hayden Yopp, Peyton, and Liam Markham.

To honor Don's life and continue his spirit of generosity, the family kindly requests donations to be made to House of Hope, God's Storehouse, Sacred Heart School, or the Danville Rescue Squad.

A Funeral mass will be held for Donald Dees on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at 1:00 PM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with viewing an hour prior. Interment will follow at Danville Memorial Gardens.

Don Dees will forever remain in our hearts, remembered for his unwavering dedication to family, community, and service. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Please sign the online guestbook on the Memory Wall at www.townesfuneralhome.com The Dees family has entrusted arrangements to Townes Funeral Home and Crematory, 215 West Main St., Danville, VA, 434-793-1211.