Donald B. Lanier

Donald Berry Lanier, 91, was born January 4, 1935 in Moultrie, Georgia. He was the oldest child of Dorothy H. (Ruark) and Allen Lanier. He passed away on Sunday, January 11, 2026 at Twin Cities Hospital in Niceville, Florida.

He was united in marriage with Barbara Mae Johnson (also know as his Queen) on August 5, 1956 at the Nazarene Church parsonage in Moultrie, Georgia. Don and Barbara grew up together and were childhood playmates and friends. They had two sons, Don Jr. and Kirk Davis.

Don joined the U.S. Navy in 1953 and served as Paymaster through 1957. After leaving the Navy, he sold insurance for a short time before joining the U.S. Air Force in 1958. He proudly served for 27 years before retiring as SMSgt at Randolph AFB, Texas. He and Barbara were stationed in Georgia, France, Florida, Illinois, Germany, and Texas. His favorite assignment during this time was Scott AFB, Illinois, because of the wonderful people he and Barbara got to know and remained close with throughout the years.

Don then worked in Civil Service for 9 years. During this time, he traveled to 42 different counties. He and Barbara traveled together whenever possible and they both enjoyed history and antiquity. Athens, Greece and Cairo, Egypt were among his favorite places they visited.

Don was a natural entertainer and his singing was enjoyed by all who had the privilege of hearing him perform. He was a gift percussionist and played spoons for most of his life. He served as a DJ for the base radio station in Illinois and also served as auctioneer at countless events and venues. He and Barbara were avid button collectors and makers and he was president of the Button Club in both Texas and Florida. He loved antique cars and owned 3 vintage Thunderbirds, a 1964 Ford Mustang, and an El Camino which he fondly referred to as his "gentleman's truck." He kept them in pristine condition and was so very proud of them.

Don came to faith in Jesus and was baptized in August 2023. He loved the Lord and was so looking forward to Heaven. His work here is done and he has finished the race. 

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife Barbara Mae, his parents, and his youngest brother Ray (Butch). Left to hold his memory close are his sons Don Jr. (Tammy) and Kirk (Theresa), brother Richard (Bobbie), sister Jean (Leo), 9 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews, and countless loved ones. 

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