Don Belcher

We are saddened to announce the passing of Mr. Donald Abner Belcher, Sr., age 93, of Bainbridge, Georgia. Mr. Belcher passed away Friday, January 2, 2026, in Tallahassee, Florida. A private graveside service will be held. The family will receive friends 5:00-7:00 p.m., Monday evening, in the Cadwell Chapel of Cox-Ivey Funeral.

Donald Abner Belcher, Sr. was born on October 10, 1932, in Pelham, Georgia, to Norwood and Lois White Belcher. He graduated from Bainbridge High School and went on to study at Valdosta State University before joining the United States Navy on January 3, 1952. He served eight years, beginning during the Korean War aboard the USS Repose, a hospital ship. He remained on active duty until 1955 and then continued his service in the Navy Reserves until 1960.

Don met Eva Ann Ellison on a blind date in Tallahassee, Florida when she was a senior in high school, beginning a story together that would span 71 years of marriage. Near the end of his active service, while stationed in San Diego, California, Don took leave and returned home so the two could elope. They were later married in Donalsonville, Georgia. Don often told the story of getting a flat tire on the old Flint River bridge on the way to their wedding in Donalsonville.

They began their family in 1956 with the birth of Donny Jr., and they didn’t slow down—welcoming Woody (1958), Alyce (1960), Jim (1961), Georgia (1964), and Barbara (1966).

To provide for their family of eight, Don worked various jobs over the years, often holding multiple positions at the same time. He would work a day job, come home to eat a meal prepared by Ann, and then head out for a second job at night. Even with his demanding schedule, he found time to help coach softball. As the children grew older, they often marveled at how he managed to do so much.

After years of varied work, in 1994 Don partnered with Cotton Hester at the Decatur County Tax Office. Following Cotton’s retirement, Don assumed the role of Tax Commissioner in 2001 and was elected to two full terms in 2004 and 2008.

Don was a devoted and active member of his church for many years, serving as a Sunday School teacher. He was deeply charitable to numerous organizations and individuals in need. One of his greatest joys was studying the Bible and sharing his faith and love for Jesus with others.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters, Bobbie Duke and Mary Ann Belcher. He is survived by the love of his life, Ann Belcher -- forever known as his “Darlin’”—and their children: Donny Belcher Jr. (Sheron), Woody Belcher (Missy), Alyce McCarty (Gary), Jim Belcher (Susan), Georgia Long (Donny), and Barbara Hinson (Lofley). He also leaves behind ten grandchildren, twenty-one great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Samaritan’s Purse, PO Box 3000, Boone, North Carolina 28607.