Don Searcy

Don Searcy, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2025, at the age of 93, in Columbus, Indiana. Born December 17, 1931, in Elizabethtown, Indiana, to the late Clinton Edward and Ethel Elizabeth Dinkins Searcy, Don's life was a journey of dedication, love, and service. On his birthday in 1954, Don married the love of his life, Leora F. Hendricks, and together they embarked on a life filled with joy and love. Through this union, they welcomed their children Susan Jayne (Tony) Calloway, Jonathan Edward Searcy, Donald Michael Searcy, and Mary F. (Christopher) Searcy Soto. The family felt the heartache of loss with the passing of their daughter Brenda Kay Searcy, but the bond of their love only strengthened with time. Don was also preceded in death by his sisters Mary Elizabeth Mellard, Sandra Shulaw, and Barbara Nell Craig. Professionally, Don retired from Arvin-Meritor Inc. as a Tool Room Supervisor after 35 years of service, where his diligence and expertise were greatly valued. Beyond his professional life, Don was deeply involved in his community, upholding values of faith and fellowship. He was an active member of the Elizabethtown Christian Church, serving as both an Elder and Chairman of the Church Board, offerings of service that spoke to his committed spirituality. Don's legacy extends beyond his work and church contributions, as he was also a proud 50-year member of the Hope Masonic Lodge, and a U.S. Navy Veteran, serving during the Korean Conflict from 1951 until 1954. His hobbies of fishing, hunting, and caring for haflinger horses were among his simplest joys. A fan of competition, Don's love for Purdue University's teams rivaled only his passion for NASCAR, where he rooted heartily for his favorite drivers, Mark Martin and Kyle Bush. Beyond his broad interests, Don's heart soared most in the warmth of his family's company. His adoration for his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren was unparalleled. He would light up at family gatherings, cherishing every moment spent with Sara Ellen Foley, Dustin and Nicholas Soto, Samantha Henderson, Bethany Douglas, Darren Henderson, Cordell Foley, Brooke Tracy, Kacey Huff, Abigail, Layney, and Kensley Henderson, Oliver, and Eli Tracy. A funeral service celebrating Don’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at the Jewell – Rittman Family Funeral Home with Rev. Doren Chambers officiating. Friends may visit with the family from 11:00 a.m. Wednesday until the time of services. Don will be laid to rest in Garland Brook Cemetery. Those wishing to make a memorial donation in memory of Don may do so to Elizabethtown Christian Church or to Our Hopsice of South Central Indiana through the funeral home. Known for being loving, kind, and intelligent, Don's presence uplifted everyone around him. His legacy is one of gentle guidance, unwavering love, and insightful wisdom. As Helen Keller once said, "What we have once enjoyed deeply we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us." Don Searcy indeed became a part of all who knew him, leaving memories that will forever resonate in the hearts of his beloved family and friends. His life, a testament to the power of love and commitment, stands as an enduring beacon to all. Don will be profoundly missed but lovingly remembered as a man who made the most of the time given to him, making every day count for those he loved