Danny Donalson

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside still waters. -Psalm 23

Danny Donalson was born in Santa Monica, California on February 19, 1949, to the late Reverend Paul and Roberta Donalson. Danny was raised in a loving and large family including eight sisters and four brothers. He attended schools in Venice Beach and graduated from Venice High School.

At an early age, Danny dedicated his life to Christ at First Baptist Venice Church under the tutelage of Pastor E. L. Holmes.  As an active member of First Baptist Venice Church, Danny served dutifully in many positions. He was an enthused and passionate choir and usher member. As a devout Christian, Danny later became a member of New Antioch Baptist Church in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. He faithfully attended and worshiped with family and friends until his health failed him. 

Many people knew Danny by the nickname “Diver” and he was affectionately called “Dan-Dan” by his loving wife Lawanda. He was a very outgoing and bubbly person that seemed to never meet a stranger. Danny enjoyed spending quality time with his wife, grandchildren, and family. He was very fond of dancing and old school music especially Motown.

Danny worked at the Los Angeles Unified School District. He began his career as a security guard, but ultimately his love of children led him to complete his career as a teacher’s assistant. Danny worked devotedly for thirty years.

On February 29, 2012, Danny took a leap of faith during a leap year and married Lawanda Anderson. Their marriage was later celebrated for over twelve years together with five children- three daughters and two sons.  They have lived in Dallas, Texas, Gurdon, Arkansas, and nestled their home in Hope, Arkansas. Danny and Lawanda lived as compassionate companions and best friends until God beckoned Danny home.

Danny Donalson, slipped into eternal rest on Monday, December 28, 2020, at Southern Pines Health and Rehabilitation Center in Prescott, Arkansas. He was an awesome son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather. Danny is preceded in death by grandmother- Susie Williams, parents, 4-sisters-Betty Donalson, Delores Donalson, Mary McFadden, and Julia Campbell, 2-brothers- Henry McCowen and Mobil McCowen.  

Danny leaves to cherish his loving memories and fond moments: wife- Lawanda Donalson, together five children: Tamela Hall, Tiara Hall, Tyheia Thompson, Bernard Thompson, and Chris Thompson. In-laws: Frank and Minister Martha Anderson. Six siblings: Arlene (BoBo) McCowen, Florina McCowen, Josie McCowen, Barbara Donalson, Almore McCowen, and Charles Donalson. Danny also has thirteen grandchildren and a host of uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Although we will miss him dearly, we will cherish the teachings, love, and many happy memories Danny has left with us.

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