Donnie Dean Day
Donnie Dean Day, affectionately known as Donnie to his friends and family, left this world on June 9, 2024, at the age of 80. Born on May 2, 1944, in King City, Missouri, Donnie was the beloved son of Robert Ray and Ruby Mae (Myers) Day. His journey on earth came to a peaceful end in Big Spring, Texas, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.
Donnie grew up in a tightknit family and moved to Midland, Texas during his formative years. His sense of duty and patriotism led him to serve his country with distinction. Donnie answered the call of service by joining the Army National Guard before enlisting in the US Navy, where he proudly served on the USS Bridget. His military career was marked by honor and courage, serving 5 years, 1 month, and 27 days of active duty, including 2 years and 3 months during the Vietnam War. Donnie was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and achieved the rank of E3, receiving an honorable discharge on August 1, 1966.
After his military service, Donnie embarked on a career as a cross-country trucker, a profession that suited his adventurous spirit. For 40 years, he traveled the highways of America, witnessing its vast beauty and meeting people from all walks of life. Upon retirement, Donnie settled in Andrews, Texas, where he continued to lead a life marked by the same values he held dear during his time in the service—courage, selflessness, and a sense of adventure.
Donnie was a man of faith and community. He was a dedicated member of the Cowboy Church of Andrews, the Sons of God Motorcycle Ministry, and the Patriot Guard Riders. His involvement in these organizations reflected his commitment to fellowship, his love for the open road, and his unwavering support for his fellow veterans.
Although preceded in death by his parents, Robert Ray and Ruby Mae Day, his son Steven Andrew Day, and his brother Robert Lee Day, Donnie’s legacy lives on through his cherished family. He is survived by his sons, William “Bill” Ray Day of Carlsbad, TX, and Marshall Dean Day of Odessa, TX; his daughter, Teresa Michelle Wheeler of Odessa, TX; his brother, John Elwin Day and wife Mary of Ballinger, TX; his sister, Lois Jean Day McCreery and husband Jack of Millersview, TX; and his numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Donnie also leaves behind a special friend, Patty Tidwell of Andrews, TX, who brought joy and companionship to his later years.
Donnie’s life was a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of service to others. He will be remembered as a courageous and selfless man who lived life to the fullest, never shying away from adventure or the opportunity to lend a helping hand.
A memorial service to honor and celebrate the life of Donnie Dean Day will be held at Mc-Nett Funeral Home, 705 North Main Street in Andrews, Texas, on Monday, June 17, 2024, at 2 pm. A graveside memorial will follow at Berlin Cemetery in Berlin, Missouri, with the date to be scheduled later.
Donnie’s presence will be profoundly missed, but his spirit will continue to inspire those who knew him. As we bid farewell to a remarkable man, we take solace in the memories he leaves behind and the indelible mark he made on the lives of so many. Donnie Dean Day’s journey through life was one of purpose, service, and love—a journey that will not be forgotten.
