Donald Frederick Fairweather

It is with great sadness—and deep hope—that the family of Donald Frederick Fairweather, age 85, of Sunset, Texas, announces that he was ushered into heaven after a short illness on February 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Don was born in Melrose, Massachusetts, and lived a life marked by service and quiet strength. He proudly served his country as a United States Air Force veteran, a commitment that reflected his lifelong sense of duty. For the bulk of his professional career, Don worked at IBM for 30 years (Burlington, VT/Dallas, TX), where his work ethic and reliability mirrored what he displayed in every area of his life.

Don was a man who loved deeply and lived simply. He was an avid sports fan, faithfully supporting all Dallas teams—especially the Dallas Mavericks and Dallas Stars—and he found great joy on the golf course, particularly when sharing those moments with his sons-in-law, grandsons, and friends. He loved working in his yard, tending to it with care, just as he did with the people entrusted to him. Above all, Don was an encourager—always offering steady words, gentle wisdom, and unwavering support to those he loved.

Known affectionately as Don, Dad, Gramps, and Little Dawg, he wore each name with pride, but the role that brought him the greatest joy was that of husband, father, and grandpa. The highlight of his life was his family. He was never happier than when surrounded by them.

He shared 63 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Nancy, whom he affectionately called “Chickie.” She was his girl and his loyal lifelong partner. Together, they raised four daughters (listed with their husbands) Cathy and Rick Perkey, Patty and David Covey, Jennifer and Mark Yarbrough and Karin and John Watson.

Along with his devoted wife, daughters, and sons-in-law, Don leaves behind 14 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren, with a tenth soon to arrive—a legacy of love that continues to grow.

In love and joy, his wife and daughters walked him to the finish line.

Don will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His love and devotion to family, along with his steady encouragement, live on in the many lives he touched. While we grieve his absence, we rejoice in the promise of eternity and the assurance that he is now at peace, fully healed, and home.

Home with the Lord.

And Don’s family is left with rich memories that will last until we hug him again.

The family will be holding a private celebration of life.    In place of flowers, donations may be made to:

Cornerstone Bible Church (2297 Litsey Rd, Roanoke, TX 76262) 

Dallas Theological Seminary (3909 Swiss Ave, Dallas, TX 75204)