Donald D. McVey, 91, of Shelbyville, passed away Tuesday, July 11, 2023, at Timber Creek Village Assisted Living of Shelbyville.
He was born December 11, 1931, in Shelbyville, the son of Samuel G. and Florence (Pereira) McVey. On June 5, 1951, he married his wife of 65 years, Mary Ann Anderson, and she preceded him in death on December 28, 2016. Don married Mildred A. “Milly” Chapin Brown, on April 17, 2017, and she survives.
In addition to Milly, Don is survived by his daughters, Deborah L. Zerr and husband, Robert, of Bloomington, and Linda J. Gaudin of Shelbyville; son-in-law, Jim Gaudin of Shelbyville; grandchildren, Shane Towne and wife, Brittney, Amber Connor and husband, James, and Katie Smith and husband, David; great-grandchildren, Sophie Connor, Desmond Towne, Graham Smith, Charlotte Smith and Meara Towne; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Also surviving Don, is Milly’s daughter, Brenda Pfarr and husband, Michael; and son, Bruce Brown. He was lovingly known as “Grandpa Don” to many grandchildren and great-grandchildren on Milly’s side of the family.
In addition to Mary Ann, Don was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Doris Drake; and brother, Howard McVey.
In 1950, Don graduated from Shelbyville High School.
Don was a U.S. Navy veteran, serving during the Korean Conflict from October 9, 1950 until being honorably discharged on August 6, 1954. He was humbled and proud to be a part of the Honor’s Flight Program to Washington, D. C.
He was a member of First Baptist Church in Shelbyville for many years.
Don retired from the United States Postal Service, with 40 years of service.
He was the patriarch of his family and has left a true legacy of love. Don was a willing and loving caregiver to both, Mary Ann and Milly. He extended his love and devotion to the many people whose lives he touched, this included the residents and staff at Timber Creek Village. Don loved to help other people by being an inspiration and a leader. While living at Timber Creek Village, he enjoyed organizing events for the residents and was awarded the position of “Valentine King” for two years in a row.
Don also enjoyed technical and electric gadgets and flying his drones.
A Gathering of Friends and Family will be from 11 am to Noon, Friday, July 28, 2023, at Freeman Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, Carmony-Ewing Chapel, 819 S. Harrison St. in Shelbyville.
The Celebration of Don’s life will follow at Noon on Friday, at the funeral home.
Inurnment will be at Miller Cemetery in Shelby County.
Don’s family would like to thank Gentiva Hospice and the Timber Creek Village staff and residents for their love and support.
Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church, 27 W. Broadway St., Shelbyville, Indiana 46176 or Gentiva Hospice, 37 South Park Blvd., Suite 37, Greenwood, Indiana 46143.
Online condolences may be shared with Don’s family at www.freemanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
