Donald Ray Hemby, a beloved and gentle giant with a heart of gold, passed away on Wednesday, January 10, 2024 at the PruittHealth Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation facility in Farmville, NC.

Donald leaves behind a strong legacy of love, humility, friendship, and an unwavering dedication to his family and friends

Born on May 22, 1962 in Greenville, NC to Elwood and Marjorie Hemby, Donald was a towering figure both in stature and in the lives of those he touched. Donald will be remembered for his kind and gentle demeanor. He exemplified the Biblical meaning of being a true friend which says, "Friends honor each other above themselves" (Romans 12:10) and "Love one another as Christ loves us" (John 15:12).

In spite of his health challenges later in life, Donald approached each day with courage and determination. Donald was a loving son, brother, and uncle as well as a loving godfather to his godchildren and great-godchildren. His love for them knew no bounds, and he took great joy in nurturing and guiding them through milestones.

Donald graduated from Aurora High School in 1980 and shortly thereafter worked for Texas Gulf in Aurora, NC. He eventually joined the rest of his family in Greenville, NC and became a member of Philippi Church of Christ. Donald worked for Greenville TV Appliance for a few years, but he ultimately landed employment with Promised Learning where he transported little ones to and from preschool.

Donald (known as Mr. D by the preschoolers) found the most fulfillment in this role, and his patience, kindness, and genuine concern for their well-being left an indelible mark on their young hearts. "Mr. D's" impact on their lives will be remembered for years to come.

Donald's absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him. While he may no longer walk among us, his spirit and legacy will live on and continue to inspire us all.

Donald was preceded in death by his father, Elwood Hemby; his brother, Johnny Moe; his paternal grandfather and grandmother, Will and Aredell Hemby; maternal grandfather and grandmother, John and Martha Parker; uncles, John Parker, Clifton Parker, Jackie Parker, David Earl Parker, James Lee Hemby; and aunts, Laura Bell Parker, Mae West Barnett, Iceline Palmer, and Doris Hemby Minor.

Remaining to celebrate Donald's life is his mother, Marjorie Hemby and stepfather, James Arthur Reddick of Greenville, NC; his brothers, Sherwood Hemby, Vincent Hemby (Daphne), and Dominick Hemby of Greenville, NC; nieces, Jasmine Hemby, Brianna Hemby, Brittany Hemby, Camya Hemby and Diamond Hemby of Greenville, NC; nephew, Dominick "DJ" Hemby, Jr; great nephew, Jelani Hemby; his
uncles, James Earl Parker and Robert Parker (Irene) of Greenville, NC; Theodore Hemby (Sarah); his aunts, Martha Lee Weaver (Clayton), Catherine Grimes, and Zelma Keys (Nathaniel) of Greenville, NC; Linda Becton of Edward, NC; Vernell Williams of Blounts Creek, NC; and aunt, Ozedra Morris(John) of Long Island, NY; and first godson, Khmarin Jenkins of Greenville, NC; best friend, Sandra Ebron of Greenville, NC; a host of cousins and ten additional godchildren.

Please keep the Hemby family in your thoughts and prayers.

A service of Love and Care Entrusted to Mitchell's Memorial Funeral Home Inc. Located at 1026 W. 5th St. Greenville N.C. 27834