Gearhart, Donald Wayne

Donald Wayne Gearhart, Age 82, passed away on August 26, 2026, at home surrounded by his family. He was born on December 25, 1943. Donald is now at peace and rejoicing in heaven with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Donald retired from Norfolk Southern Railroad after 34 years of service and enjoyed farming, spending time with family and his beagle dog, Roscoe.

He is proceeded in death by his parents, Roy and Stefana Gearhart, mother and father-in-law, Lewis and Blondine Clower and brother-in-law, James Clower and nephew, Darryl Gearhart.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Opal Clower Gearhart; son Randell (Anne) Gearhart; daughter Angie (Doug) Vest; 6 Grandchildren; Brandon (Holly) Gearhart, Wyatt (Bryce) Gearhart, Matthew (Hannah) Vest, Hannah (Jarrett) Williams, Shaylee (Chad) Earles, Colby (Caileigh) Gearhart; 8 great grandchildren; Kade Gearhart, Luke Gearhart, Lula Gearhart, Walker Earles, Clay Williams, Hope Gearhart, Hattie Gearhart, and expecting Baby Earles; brothers Melvin (Brenda) Gearhart and Larry (Margaret) Gearhart, sister-in-law; Betty Clower; many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend gratitude to all caregivers, therapists, and nurses: Sherry, Lois, Krislyn, Jonathan, Emily, and Good Samaritan Hospice. Not only did they care for Donald, they cared and supported his family.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at 11:00am at Copper Hill Church of the Brethren with Pastor Horace Light and Pastor Todd Reed officiating. Interment will be at Restvale Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Friday, August 28, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Gardner Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Copper Hill Church of the Brethren Food Bank at P.O. Box 67, Copper Hill, VA 24079.