Don D. Sexton

Don was born, raised and attended school in Belleville. He received his Bachelor of Music Education degree from Milliken University in Decatur, Ill. He also attended Washington University in St. Louis, where he did his graduate study. He served his country in the United States Navy, during the Korean Conflict; and attended the Naval School of Music in Washington, D.C. He was a member of Phi Mu Alpha music fraternity and was a member of the Belleville Music Union, Local #29.

Don taught and served as band director for 41 years, in the New Athens school district, where he was affectionately known as “Sam”. His devotion and dedication to his students and their families was evidenced by the many relationships he maintained over the years. He also served as an adjudicator for local school music contests. He will truly be missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, J. Doward and Pearl M., nee Davis, Sexton and his brother, Carl D. Sexton.

Surviving are his dearest friend, James Thomas, of Fairview Heights, his sister-in-law, Diane C. Sexton; five nieces, Donna (John) Thellman, Carrie Doss, Marsha (Terry) Suppes, Kisha Sexton, and Misty Sexton; 11 great nieces and nephews, all of whom reside in the Kansas City, Kansas metropolitan area; his dear, lifelong friend, Jack Skay, of St. Louis, Missouri; and extended family, Micky (Larry) Harris, Rochel Means, Allison Means, Emily Means, and Julia Means, all of Freeburg, Illinois.

Memorials are appreciated to Family Hospice of Belleville, Belleville Area Humane Society, or any animal rescue organization. Condolences may also be expressed online at www.lakeviewfuneralhm.com.

Visitation: Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m., Sunday, September 13, 2015, at Lake View Funeral Home, Fairview Heights, Illinois.

Funeral: Services will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, September 14, 2015 at the funeral home. Interment will be held in Lake View Memorial Gardens, Fairview Heights, Illinois.