Donald A. Ryan passed away on July 22, 2023 at the Clyde W. Cosper Texas State Veterans Home in Bonham, Texas at the age of 78.was born on December 11, 1944, in Brockton, Massachusetts. Donald was adopted by James and Muriel Ryan of Brockton. The family later relocated to Clearwater, Florida where Donald graduated from Dunedin High School in 1963.

Upon graduating from high school, Donald joined the U.S. Army and served until his retirement in 1983. His service included deployment to the Vietnam War from February to July of 1968. Service in the U.S. Army brought Donald adventure and pride. Donald's duty stations included Fort Gordon, Georgia; Fort Cavazos (Fort Hood), Texas; Fort Liberty (Fort Bragg), North Carolina; and several assignments to Germany. While stationed at Fort Gordon, Donald met and married Diane (Richard) Ryan on July 9, 1968. Together they had three daughters. Following his military retirement, Donald settled with his family in Tyler, Texas. He worked several different jobs trying to find his place in the civilian world. His last job was at Vincent Graphics and Supply.

In 1999, Donald was reunited with his biological siblings. He was welcomed with open arms by his brothers and sister and came to know the full story of his birth and journey to adoption. Donald held strong to his Brockton roots and was an ardent fan of the Boston Red Socks and Boston Celtics. He loved the music of Creedence Clearwater Revival, the Beach Boys, and the Eagles. Toe tapping or steering wheel drumming would ensue whenever the music of these bands were played, and the volume would immediately be turned up.

Donald is preceded in death by his wife of 34 years, Diane (Richard) Ryan; his sister Edwina Cox and brothers Robert Wilkie and Richard Wilkie; and his parents James and Muriel Ryan. He is survived by three daughters Michelle Kidd, Christie McCall (Ronald McCall), and Amanda Prewitt (Jeffrey Prewitt);  five grandchildren Morgan Garner (Alex Garner), Kielin Kidd, Kaitlin Prewitt, Emily Prewitt, and Brodie McCall; members of the Richard family; and his niece Karen (Wilkie) Fike, among other extended family.

A private service is currently planned.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Dementia Society in Donald's name.