Donald Ray Neafus

Donald Ray Neafus, 85, passed away Thursday, May 2, 2024 at Four Seasons Healthcare Center. Donald was born September 6, 1938 in Louisville, KY to Wilbur Neafus (railroad worker) and Catherine McMonigle Neafus (homemaker). Don lived with his family in Crothersville, IN and then eventually moved to Shelbyville, IN with his parents, twin brothers, Jerry and Larry, brother Bob, and twin sisters Marol and Carol. In his young adult years, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and served in France, Germany, England, and North Africa. While serving in the Air Force, he received his GED. After his honorable discharge, Don married his sweetheart from Shelbyville, Sharon McCalip in 1960. They welcomed the birth of their daughter, Karen in 1961, and then a son, Mark in 1962. In 1966, the family moved to Columbus, IN where Don became a member of the City of Columbus Fire Department. He ascended in rank over the years and retired as a Battalion Chief in 2001. He received the Fireman of the Year award in 1977. During this time, Don also operated a successful painting business with his fellow fire fighter and friend, Jim Johnson (J.J.) Throughout his life, Don enjoyed connecting with people through his sense of humor, playfulness, and fun personality. He was a talented musician and dancer, and participated in many activities throughout the years, and loved gathering with his family for all occasions. In his senior years, he enjoyed many activities with his friends at Mill Race Center, and considered it his home away from home. He also shared a special relationship with long-time dance partner and great friend, Barbara Humpert. They spent many hours dancing together and having fun over the years. Don was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was a constant source of joy, encouragement, and help to us all. Don is survived by his daughter, Karen (Darrell) Baugher; son, Mark Neafus; grandchildren, David (Sarah) Baugher, Emily (Andrew) Hebble, Shane (Kelsie) Neafus, and Nick Neafus; and great-grandchildren, Smith, Atticus, and Rosie Baugher, Nyssa, Kabell, and Ridge Hebble, and Gunner, Sayler, and Walker Neafus. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, and sisters, and his ex-wife, Sharon. In celebration of Don’s life, a memorial gathering will be held Saturday, May 25 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Mill Race Center. To share a fond memory of Don, or leave a condolence for the family, visit www.Myers-Reed.com. Myers-Reed Chapel is assisting the Neafus family.