John E. Donaldson

Colonel John E. Donaldson of Texarkana , Texas has passed away on February 19, 2022. Colonel Donaldson was born December 15, 1927 in Cleveland Ohio and raised by his adoptive parents David and Shirley Donaldson. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, David and Shirley Donaldson and his wife of fifty-three years,Estelle Louise Donaldson. He is survived by his four children, Rob Donaldson and wife Andrea, Brad Donaldson, Karen Donaldson Brine and husband Mark and Ted Donaldson and wife Amanda; seven grandchildren, Jenna Brine Roundtree, Stephen Donaldson, Josh Brine, Jacque Donaldson Baily, Sean Donaldson, Brayden Donaldson and Taelyn Donaldson; 5 great-grand children, Claire Roundtree, JJ Donaldson, Jolie Roundtree, Tate Roundtree, Jack Donaldson, and June Donaldson. Colonel Donaldson began his military service when he joined the Navy in 1944. This was just the beginning of a Military career that would span 33 years and take him and his family around the world. After two years in the Navy he went to Ohio University on a ROTC scholarship and upon graduation was commissioned a Second Lieutenant. His Army career began at Ft. Sill in Oklahoma where he became an Artillery Officer. Shortly afterwards he was sent to Korea where he served with honor and distinction during two tours of duty. In 1954 he was sent to Ft. Sam Houston in San Antonio Texas where he met the love of his life and married Estelle Louise Wright in July 1955. Colonel Donaldson’s Army career would take him to the rank to Full Colonel. Prior to this achievement he would serve 3 tours in Vietnam, work in the Pentagon, and receive a Master’s degree from The Ohio State University. He would go on to graduate from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces, and command Pueblo Army Depot and Red River Army Depot. His list of medals and achievements include 3 Legion of Merits, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and many others. His most proud achievement was induction into the U.S Army’s Quarter Master Corps Hall of Fame in 2016. He retired from the Army in 1978 and proceeded to run the United Way in Texarkana Texas for 13 years. He set and broke many records during his second career and was loved for his service to the community. He was deeply respected by his peers and loved by his children and grandchildren. His wisdom and unconditional love will be greatly missed. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to United Way of Greater Texarkana, Wounded Warriors or a charity of your choice.