Howard Donnell Easter

Howard Donnell Easter, age 84, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2022. He proudly served in the U.S. Army, finishing out his military career in the army reserve, obtaining the rank of sergeant. He retired from the textile industry after working over 40 years. He was an avid golfer for many years and enjoyed playing with his brother, children and nephew. He also enjoyed watching golf, racing and wrestling while trying to ensure they listened to his coaching. He also loved spending time with his brother Rudy watching old western movies, going out to eat and reminiscing. Donnell enjoyed the simple things in life. He was very giving and loved so big. He had an infectious smile and laugh and he enjoyed joking around and picking on those around him. Donnell loved his precious dogs, Emma and Zeus who protected and comforted him. What brought Donnell the most joy to his life was his daughter and his grandson. He was so proud of the young man his grandson had become and the path he had chosen for college.

He is survived by his precious daughter, Donna Kay, who devoted her life to caring for him and was with him as he made his final journey, daughter and son-in-law, Joann (LW) Bennett and step son, Ray Reece. He was a beloved Pa to his grandson, Blake Paul, granddaughter Tonya Bennett and great grandson Cody Bennett. Also left to cherish his memory is his bonus daughter, Angel Cutler and bonus grandson, Carter Todd.

He is also survived by two brothers, Rudy Easter and Doug (Agnes) Easter and many special nieces and nephews whom he loved as his own children. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Dale Easter, his parents Robert Zebedee and Mary Alice Edwards Easter, a stepson Mike Reece and several special brothers, niece and nephews. His family would like to extend their sincere gratitude for all the calls and visits as well as to Mountain Valley Hospice, especially Amy Poindexter, for the love and care she provided for him and his family.

A graveside celebration of Donnell’s life will be held on Sunday, December 18, 2022 at 3:00 PM at Midkiff Cemetery with services conducted by his nephew, Anthony Easter with Military Honors  by VFW Post 2019 of Mt. Airy, and Post 9436 of Pilot Mountain . The family will receive friends on Sunday, December 18, 2022  from 1:30 PM until time to leave for the service at Moody Funeral Home in Mt. Airy. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Donnell’s memory to Mountain Valley Hospice. Online condolences may be made at www.moodyfuneralservices.com.