In Greer family lore, an often repeated story tells about an evangelist who asks the members of a revival congregation to raise their hands if they wanted to go to Heaven. Noticing that one boy did not raise his hand, the preacher inquired, “Don’t you want to go to Heaven when you die?” The boy replied, “Oh yes, when I die. I thought you were gathering a busload now.”
During his recent illness, Don often referenced this story by saying he wasn’t getting on the bus yet. On January 17, surrounded by friends, family members and the music of Hank Williams, Sr., Don Greer boarded his bus to join his parents, Samuel and Myrtle Greer, and his nine siblings.
Born on January 7, 1927, in Red Level, Alabama, or “God’s country” as he called it, Don’s first words may have been “Roll Tide!” After serving in the Army during the Korean Conflict, Don moved to Macon where he worked at Armstrong World Industries for 33 years until retirement. As a devoted and active charter member of Central Fellowship Baptist Church, he served as a deacon and school board member.
Don is survived by his wife of 64 years, Billie; his only child, Donna, always introduced as his favorite daughter; his son-in-law, Dr. Bill Thornton, who served as Don’s personal medical advisor; his grandson, Matthew (Katie), who inherited his grandfather’s sense of humor; his granddaughter, Jennifer (Dustyn) Ferguson, who inherited her grandfather’s gregarious nature; his great grandchildren, Autumn Thornton and Grady Ferguson, his pride and joy. Don also leaves behind one brother-in-law, one sister-in-law, numerous nieces and nephews, and many good friends, all of whom he treasured.
A celebration of Don’s life will be held at Central Fellowship Baptist Church, January 22, 2015 at 11 am with Pastor Rodney Queen and the Rev. John Prettyman officiating. Burial will be at Glen Haven Memorial Gardens with Military Honors. The family will receive visitors Wednesday, from 5 – 7 pm, at
Snow’s Memorial Chapel, Pio Nono Avenue.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Heart of Georgia Hospice, 103 West Ridge Drive, Warner Robins, GA 31088 or a charity of your choice.
Visit www.snowsmacon.com to express condolences.
Snow’s Memorial Chapel, Pio Nono Avenue has charge of arrangements.
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