Donald Francis Walsh

CDR Donald F. Walsh USN ret, of Lake Asbury in Clay County, passed away on August 27, 2023. CDR Walsh is survived by his wife Johnnie Lou Walsh, son Michael F. Walsh, daughter Mary Ann Curry, four grandchildren: Amy Walsh, Katie Adams, David Trosclair, and Haley Smith. Additionally he is survived by five great grandchildren.

CDR Walsh joined the Navy in 1948 as an E-1 working in a blimp squadron and quickly progressed through the ranks. In 15 years he held all enlisted ranks through and including Master Chief before his promotion to Ensign. In the following 15 years he progressed through the officer ranks to Commander.

CDR Walsh is a veteran of both the Korean and the Vietnam wars. And when he retired in 1978 he was in Officer in Charge of the Pinecastle Bombing Range.

Following his retirement CDR Walsh worked at Steuart Petroleum Company for 13 years. A few days after he left Steuart there was a fire at the plant and he was called in to advise on the resolution of the fire.

CDR Walsh married Johnnie Lou Walsh, his wife of 73 years, on May 2, 1952 and they had a wonderful, happy marriage until his passing.

CDR Walsh belonged to numerous military and civic associations e.g. Fleet Reserve, VFW, Military Officers Association, Naval Airship Association, Lake Asbury Civic Association, and the Lake Asbury Lake Lot Owners Association. CDR Walsh held a leadership position in many of these and was well respected by his peers and fellow members.

He will be sorely missed by all who knew him and loved him!

CDR Walsh: We salute you and your service to our military and our community!

A visitation for CDR Walsh will be held Thursday, September 7, 2023 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Hardage - Giddens Holly Hill Funeral Home, 3601 Old Jennings Road, Middleburg, FL 32068.

A graveside service will be Friday, September 8, 2023 from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM at Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218. LANE # 3.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hollyhillfunerals.com for the Walsh family.