Donald J. Sebastian, 87, born in Gladewater, Texas, and long-time Dallas resident, died on Wednesday after a long illness. Don grew up in Texas and Louisiana as his father followed work in the oil fields, settling in Baton Rouge for high school and college. Don played varsity basketball at Istrouma High School, and was chosen All-City, All-District, and All-State. He was named the first Louisiana Mr. Basketball. At LSU, "Diminutive Don" was the fan-favorite "sixth man" guard during the Bob Pettit era of the 1950's. In an era before assists were recorded, he was a defensive player and playmaker extraordinaire. Don was a US Army veteran, successful businessman, and cherished husband and father. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Eula Belle Sebastian, of Baton Rouge; and by his siblings, Helen Spurlock, Mamie Sue Carpenter, and Mansel "Pete" Sebastian. Don is survived by his wife of seven decades, Jacqueline Gail Forcha of Baton Rouge; by his daughter and son-in-law, Kendall and Barry Folse, of Dallas; by his son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Dana Sebastian, of Denver, Colorado; by four grandchildren, Lauren Folse Matragrano (Savino), Lindsey Folse, Kallen and Trent Sebastian; and 3 great-grandchildren, Grayson, Gabriel, and Graham Matragrano. Visitation will be held at Greenoaks Funeral Home in Baton Rouge, Wednesday July 28 from 12 pm until time of funeral at 2 pm. Interment to follow in Greenoaks Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Heart Association or the Alzheimer’s Association. Please visit www.greenoaksfunerals.com to leave condolences to the family.
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