Don Whiteside

Don Whiteside, lifetime Elmo resident, passed away peacefully on Oct. 17, 2016 at his home. He was born Sept. 25, 1939 in Terrell, to Griff and Ola Mae (Shepard) Whiteside, both of whom preceded him in death along with his brother, Jack Holton Whiteside, parents-in-law: Edgar and Eula B. Jordan, sister-in-law, Sue Johnson and brother-in-law, Charles Dudley. Don had a personality that never excluded anyone or any activity and his ability to be a solid foundation for his family along with being a steadfast local resident is a legacy that will be treasured by all who knew him. He had a reputation for being the one to call whenever anyone needed anything and he served in several roles, besides devoted husband and loving father, for his occupations and his community. Growing up, Don attended Elmo schools and graduated Wills Point HS in 1957 and then attended what was then Henderson County Jr. College (now TVCC). He worked skillfully in construction with his specialty being carpentry and roofing. As a young man, Don’s hobby was flying his Piper Cub and getting a perfect view of the land he loved so much. He served in the Army National Guard for 14 years and was a member of Artesia Lodge #406 A.F. & A.M. having served as Past Master and past District Deputy Grand Master. He also was a member of Scottish Rite . Don was also elected Constable for Pct. 3 in Kaufman County for 12 years, served as a bailiff for Judge Maxine Darst and was also an officer for Kaufman County Litter Abatement retiring after 21 years of serving Kaufman County. When he wasn’t helping his neighbors and the residents of Kaufman County, he could be found spending time with family and friends riding four-wheelers, his Honda Goldwing, gardening, hunting and, his very favorite, fishing. A warm smile with a wonderful spirit, Don will be missed greatly by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves to cherish his legacy his loving wife, Linda Whiteside of Elmo; sons: Dean Whiteside and partner, A.J. Juarez, of Terrell; Landon Whiteside and wife, Gina of Elmo; grandsons: Colt Whiteside (Holly Griffith) and Clay Whiteside, all of Elmo; brother, Tommy Whiteside and wife, Wanda of Elmo; sister, Margaret Dudley of Elmo; sister-in-law, Bobbie Whiteside of Louisiana as well as several nieces, nephews, extended family and a host of friends. A Celebration of Don’s life will be held at 3:00pm, Friday, October 21, 2016 at Max Slayton Funeral Chapel with the family receiving friends beginning at 2:00pm until service time. Don's family is planning an interment at a later date at Elmo Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for memorials in Don's name to be made to the Elmo Cemetery Association, PO Box 124, Elmo, TX, 75118.

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Don Whiteside

September 25, 1939 - October 17, 2016