Donald Gene King

Donald Gene King, 80, known affectionately as "Donnie" or "DG," passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, April 10, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on June 21, 1945 in Moore County, NC to the late Elijah Comeford King and Naomi Lou Vanhoy King Lackey, and was the husband to Ann Dees King of the home. Donnie lived a life marked by devotion, service and deep love for those close to him.

Donnie’s remarkable career was defined by dedication and honor. Serving the community with unwavering commitment, he retired as a Major with the North Carolina Highway Patrol after an impressive thirty-four years of service. But his tireless work ethic did not end there; after retirement, he continued to contribute part-time at Mebane Shrubbery for several years, illustrating his lasting spirit and desire to stay engaged and active.

Family was, without question, Donnie's proudest accomplishment. He cherished his role as a loving husband, father, and grandfather. For sixty years, he walked hand in hand with his devoted wife, Ann Dees King, creating a bond that stood as a testament to enduring love and partnership. Together they raised two sons, Jason Donald King and his wife Kristian, and Joel King and his wife Shannon Beth Graves-King. Donnie was a proud and joyful grandfather to Carter Thomas King, Olivia Grace King and Addison Rose King, who brought so much happiness into his life. Donnie was the older brother to three siblings including James “Jim” King, Antoinette “Toi” King and Allie “Lee” King. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, as well as infant twins, a son and daughter, whose brief presence left a lasting imprint on his heart.

Donnie’s warm spirit extended beyond his immediate family. A true friend to many, he was a proud Mason and an active member of the Mebane Masonic Lodge. In addition, he was a devoted Shriner, and member of the Burlington Shriner Club, who spent countless hours working to raise funds to benefit crippled and burned children. His faith found expression within his church community as a member of Ashley Heights Baptist Church. These relationships formed the foundation of a life rooted in faith, fellowship, and honesty.

He had passions that brought him joy and connection throughout his life. An avid NASCAR and UNC Tar Heel fan, Donnie loved sharing the thrill of the race and the spirit of the game with those around him. He enjoyed traveling to Cherokee and Danville, VA, where relaxation mingled with cherished memories. Not one to stay idle, he found great pleasure in grilling and cooking for family and friends; and was known as a great cook. His yard was his sanctuary; he spent countless hours mowing and meticulously manicuring his yard. Another notable joy was trading cars, a hobby that reflected his zest for life and adventure.

Donald Gene King’s life was one woven with dedication, kindness and an abiding love for family and community.

The family would like to send a special thank you to all the nurses and staff with Duke Hospice and Duke Cancer Center for all their loving care and compassion that was shown to Donnie during his illness.

The family will receive friends from 2:00PM to 4:00PM Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at Lowe Funeral Home & Crematory. The graveside service to celebrate the life of Donnie will be held at 11:00AM on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 at Ashley Heights Baptist Church Cemetery by Rev. Gary Williams and Retired Colonel Coy Blackman with Masonic Rites.

Memorials may be made to Shriners Children’s Hospital, www.shrinerschildrens.org or to Duke Hospice, 12 Moore Drive, Suite 200, Durham, NC 27713. You may send condolences to the family at www.lowefuneralhome.com