Donald Charles Donley, 71

Donald Charles Donley, passed away on November 9, 2024, in Salisbury, MD.

Born on April 7, 1953, Donald, affectionately known as Don by those close to him, was renowned for his big-hearted, kind, and humorous nature. He was a man of faith, a talented individual, known for his inquisitive mind and his love for teaching.

Don graduated from William Penn Senior High School in York, PA and furthered his education at Millersville University, Western Maryland College, and ultimately earned a PhD from the University of Maryland. His passion for education was evident through his dedicated career in various educational roles. Don served as an Industrial Arts Teacher in the Southern York County and York City School Districts before moving into administrative positions as the Alternative Education Director in York City School District, Assistant Principal at York County School of Technology, and Principal at Elizabethtown Area High School and Abraham Lincoln High School of Philadelphia. In addition to his educational career, Don enjoyed working at Woodcraft and Somers Cove Marina during his retirement, where he was able to indulge his love for woodworking and boating. Outside of his professional life, Don was an avid boater, fisherman, and craftsman who enjoyed woodworking. He was also passionate about watching his son play soccer and wrestle, coaching high school wrestling, including the Junior National World Olympic team, attending auctions, and relaxing with his beloved Great Danes, Jackson, Joey, and Jordy.

To continue his devotion to education, Don chose to donate his body to the Maryland State Anatomy Board which provides an opportunity to advance medical and health sciences objectives throughout Maryland that positively improves the public’s health and well-being.

Don is survived by his loving wife, Darla Donley; his son, Chase Donley, Chase's fiancée, Dylan MacDonald, and  his sisters Sharon Donley, Connie Trujillo, and Denise Trunk. He was preceded in death by his mother, Vivian Margaret Smuck Donley Gingerich, and his stepfather, Shorty Gingerich.

A celebration of Don's life will be held on Saturday, November 23, 2024, from 2:00-4:00 pm at Fisherman's Grille, 923 Spruce Street, Crisfield, MD, 21817. Guests are invited to enjoy some of Don's favorite foods and share memories of his well-lived life.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude or the Salvation Army in memory of Donald Donley.

His legacy of kindness, humor, and dedication to education and his community will be deeply missed by all who knew him. “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom” - James 3:13.