Jul 17, 2018

David Edward Donley died Friday, June 29, 2018, while in hospice care in Ruby Memorial Hospital, Morgantown, W.Va.

Survived by three sons, David and wife Susan, Richard and wife Jan and Justin and wife Mandy; grandchildren Arlie, Eliza, Elnora and James; a daughter, Pamela and husband Thomas; grandchildren Elayne and Matthew LoFiego, Sayre Donley and Stella.

He was the only child of Edward and Brenda McClure Donley, born November 7, 1928, in Morgantown.

David spent his childhood in Mt. Morris, hunting and exploring the hills of Greene County. He graduated from Mt. Morris High School in 1946, received a bachelor of science degree from Waynesburg College in 1950, master of science degree from West Virginia University in 1951 and his doctorate from Ohio State University in 1959.

He served honorably in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War.

After graduation from Ohio State University, he moved to Delaware, Ohio, to raise his family and begin his 30-plus-year career as a research entomologist with the U.S. Forest Service. His research resulted in numerous discoveries and publications. Possessing a brilliant intellect, he could figure out anything he put his mind to. He was always the smartest person in the room. David loved his work and had a passion for forests and outdoor activities.

An avid hunter, he was an excellent shot who simply never missed. He especially enjoyed training, handling and hunting with his beloved black Labrador retriever “Hondo” (John Havlicek’s nickname). Dad also had a passion for baseball and chauffeured his three sons and their friends to cheer on the Columbus Jets many summer evenings in the late 1960s.

He married his true love, Jacqueline Dusenberry, July 12, 1952.

After retirement, Dave and Jackie built their dream home in rural Greene County. They put their hearts and souls into transforming the wilderness into their version of paradise. David and Jackie were together for over 50 years of marital bliss until Jackie died in 2004 from breast cancer. He took care of Jackie during her long illness and his love and affection alleviated her suffering and added many years to her life. That was one of his many great gifts to his family. After losing his wife, he gave generously of his time and resources to Morgantown Hospice, but spoiling his grandchildren became his main job. He made lots of road trips to cheer on Elayne at Irish dancing competitions and Matt’s high school football games. Dad lived life on his own terms, fiercely independent and self-reliant. He made the decision it was his time to leave this world, not wanting to lose his independence or dignity. At the end, there were moments of celebration, stories and Irish poems, laughter and love. He will live in our hearts and memories forever.

Donations may be made to Hospice: WV Caring, P.O. Box 760, Arthurdale, WV 26520.

Milliken and Throckmorton Funeral Home Inc., Mt. Morris, is in charge of arrangements.