Donald R. Gilreath

Died: Jan. 1, 2013

BLOUNTVILLE -- Donald R. Gilreath, 82, of Chuckey, received his homegoing Tuesday at the Johnson City Medical Center.

A native of Kingsport, he was the son of the late Harley and Vessie Rogers Gilreath.

Donald was a member of New Haven Church in Greeneville. He was a good Christian man, very active in his church and was the official church choir director and a Senior Men's Sunday School teacher.

He enjoyed golfing, hunting, and fishing. He was very talented in writing beautiful hymns and poems.

Donald retired after 33 years of service from Tennessee Eastman Co., where he was lead in the Polymer Division.

He served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

He is survived by his loving wife of 30 years: Betty L. Gilreath of the home; a son Ret. Maj. Steven R. Gilreath and wife, Karen, of Kentucky; three daughters: Deborah G. Stevenson of Bristol, Sharron Buckingham and husband, Mark, of Franklin, and Denice Sheehan of Lexington, S.C.; a brother Harold Gilreath and wife, Irene, of Kingsport; a sister: June Lawson of Kingsport; 10 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a brother, C.A. Gilreath.

The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at Tri Cities Funeral Home with services to follow at 2 p.m. in the chapel. The Rev. Keith Williams and the Rev. Mike Mack will officiate.

Burial will immediately follow in Tri Cities Memory Gardens with military honors provided by American Legion, Hammond Post No. 3, and Gate City Post No. 265.

For more information or to post online condolences, please visit the website at http://www.tcfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Tri Cities Funeral Home, Blountville Chapel.