Donald Ray Hollis, Sr., 72, of Chapmansboro, TN gained his heavenly wings on Sunday, May 5, 2024, at his earthly home surrounded by his loving family. Although he was never a smoker, he battled lung cancer that spread to his liver, esophagus, and brain. He was born on December 31, 1951, in Cairo, IL to Virgil “Bill” and Lavern (nee Harris) Hollis.
Donald was a true jack of all trades. While living in Cairo, he worked in maintenance at St. Mary’s Hospital and Daystar Nursing Home. He served his hometown community by working as a paramedic, police officer, and firefighter. He also served in the Illinois National Guard. Once he moved to the Clarksville area in 1990, he continued to work in the maintenance and construction fields. Donald spent many years working at Gateway & Tennova Medical Centers.
His favorite past-times included fishing, camping, and piddling around the garage. He was a fan of old westerns, including Gunsmoke, and reading Louis L’Amour books. Playing the guitar came easy to him as he could play by ear. He enjoyed singing and playing gospel music. Donald attended Goodlettsville Pentecostal Church.
In life, Donald was called by many names. His dear uncle, Doug, called him “Sore Toe”. Other family members would call him “Duck”. While completing boot camp at Ft. Leonardwood, his family would regularly send letters that had Smurf stickers all over the envelopes. His slightly younger comrades began referring to him as “Papa Smurf”. Of all the names, his most favorite was to be called “Paw Paw” by the grandchildren and many foster children that came through their home.
Along with his parents, Donald is preceded in death by his brother Billy Ranks, several aunts and uncles, and his faithful furry friend, Teddy.
Donald is survived by his devoted wife of 44 years, Dottie Kay Hollis; sons, Donald Ray Hollis, Jr. and Branden (Avery) Hollis; daughters, Amy (William) Helton, Laura (Dennis) Gupton, and Carolina Hollis; grandchildren, William (Kasey) Helton Jr., Donald Ray Hollis III, Peyton Gupton, Kaleb Gupton, and Paisley Hollis; great-grandchildren, Taylor Helton, Clayton Long, and Natalie Long; siblings, Virgil “Buddy” (Marilyn) Hollis, Phyliss (HB) Carr, and Mark (Sonja) Hollis; as well as several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and many cousins.
A memorial service will be led by Dale Reasons and Dan Russell and held at Neal-Tarpley Funeral Home on Friday, May 10, 2024, at 11:00 AM. Visitation will be Thursday, May 9, 2024, from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM at the funeral home. Burial will follow directly after the service at Bethel Cumberland Presbyterian Church Cemetery.
Serving as Pallbearers: Kevin Androws, Greg Groves, Scott Knox, Donnie Cook, Blane Thompson, and Anthony Williams. Honorary Pallbearers: The Maintenance Dept. at Tennova Medical Center.
For those that knew Donald, he was a down to earth, simple man. He did not like wearing suits. His wishes for everyone’s attire for his funeral are jeans, denim skirts, and plaid or western shirts.
The family would like to thank the nurses and doctors with Alive Hospice.
Arrangements are entrusted to Neal-Tarpley-Parchman Funeral Home, 1510 Madison Street, Clarksville, TN 37040; (931)408-9690. Online condolences may be made at www.nealtarpleyparchman.com.