Corsicana - James Donald "Don" Paschal passed away peacefully on November 4, 2025 in his hometown of Kerens, Texas, surrounded by family and friends. Born on the first day of spring, March

20, 1932, to J.A. and Lillian Paschal, Don brought warmth and renewal wherever he went. He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved sister, Betty Ullman.

Don is survived by his devoted wife of 70 years, Jean Ann Paschal of Kerens; sons Mark Paschal and wife Andrea of Dallas, John Paschal of Dallas, and David Paschal of Kerens; and cherished nieces Donna Ellis and husband Richard of Plano and Diane Graham of College Station. He also leaves behind a number of grandnieces and nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends who will continue to honor his memory.

A man of tireless energy and many talents, Don was a funeral director for more than 50 years, many of those years as owner of Paschal Funeral Homes in Kerens and Malakoff. He retired in 2000 but continued to hold an active funeral director's license until last year, making him one of the oldest active licensees in the state of Texas. Long before emergency services were centralized, Don was affectionately known as "Kerens' 911"—always the first to respond in times of need and comfort.

Don was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Kerens throughout his life and served as a deacon for over 60 years, exemplifying his steadfast faith and devotion to his church

family. He also co-owned and operated Maywood Manor Nursing Home, provided the first mini-warehouses in Kerens, and managed his family farm and cattle operation, where he found

his greatest joy.

Don loved his hometown deeply and gave himself to its care and growth. He served as Mayor of Kerens, on the Kerens School Board, with the Kerens Cemetery Association, in the Kiwanis

Club, and on several Navarro County boards. He was also instrumental in establishing the Kerens Library, a reflection of his belief in community and lifelong learning.

A proud member of the Texas National Guard, Don lived a life of quiet service, integrity, and deep faith.

Those who knew Don will never forget his welcoming spirit—he greeted everyone who entered his home or crossed his path with a warm smile, a ready handshake, and often, a story. He had a way of making people feel seen, valued, and missed when they left.

He was known for humming tunes throughout the day, a gentle melody that became part of the soundtrack of his life—so constant that friends often said, "You can hear Don coming

before you see him."

His love of nature was amazing; his knowledge of trees, flowers, and the changing seasons was endless, and he delighted in sharing that wisdom with others. To many, Don was a living historian—a "wealth of knowledge" about Kerens, Navarro County, and the generations who have called it home.

Don will be remembered for his eternal positivity, sense of humor, humility, and boundless love for family and community. He leaves behind a legacy not just of service, but of warmth,

joy, and grace.

Visitation will be 5 to 7 pm Wednesday at Paschal Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 10 am Thursday at First Baptist Church, Kerens, with Reverend Danny Sandifer and Reverend Olin Boles officiating. Burial will follow at Kerens City Cemetery. Pallbearers

are A.L. Atkeisson, Norton Connor, Larry Christie, Bobby Bain, Bryan Ainsworth, Phil Posey, Benny Cherry, and Dolwin Smallwood. Honorary pallbearers are deacons of the Frist

Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church of Kerens and the Kerens City Cemetery Association.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." - Matthew 25:21