Don King French's Obituary
Don King French of Dallas, Texas, passed away on Tuesday, May 5, 2020, at the age of 80. After being diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis six years ago, he lived his life gracefully, continuing to fight, pray and love his family & friends. Don died peacefully in his home, which was a blessing to him and his family.
Don was born in Rockwall, Texas, on June 10, 1939, to father, Dwight O’neil French and mother, Lula Maude King French. He always loved to say, “My parents brought me into this world by paying the doctor by selling 25 chickens.” Don was raised in Rockwall and was the oldest of four children. The family later moved to Garland, Texas, where he graduated from Garland High School. He lettered in football and basketball; eventually being inducted into the Garland Sports Hall of Fame. His strong work ethic and desire to succeed led him to attend North Texas University and graduate in 1965 with a BA in Business. Don was a proud member of the Theta Chi fraternity where he made lifelong friendships he cherished throughout his life.
Don married his lifelong love, Donnie Lee Dees, in March 1969. Soon after, they welcomed their two sons, John and Dax. They lovingly celebrated their fifty-first wedding anniversary earlier this year. Don spent most of his professional career working in the women’s apparel business where he found a long-term home with Jerrell Inc. He worked at Jerrell for over thirty years advancing in roles and responsibilities, ultimately becoming part of the executive leadership team.
Don was kindhearted and charismatic, never having met a stranger. He was blessed to have so many deep friendships throughout his life. He had a zest for life and was multi-talented having passions for cooking, photography, furniture craftsmanship, history and architecture.
Don was preceded in death by his parents and by his brothers Tom French and Michael French. He is survived by his wife Donnie Lee Dees French; his sister Linda Sue Yeager, children John King French and Dax King French; grandchildren Kingsley Soleil French, Callie King French, Dasher King French, Clarke King French and Dax King French II. All held him in the highest regard and loved him dearly.
A visitation for Don is planned for Friday, May 15, 2020, from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at Restland Funeral Home located at 13005 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, TX 75243. The funeral graveside service will follow the visitation at 12:00 p.m. All are invited to attend.
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