Donald Paul McIntier, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and a steadfast friend to many, passed away peacefully at his home in Owens Cross Roads, AL on August 23, 2024, at the age of 82, after a brief battle with leukemia. Throughout his life, Don displayed resilience, unwavering faith, and a deep love for his family. He is dearly missed by his loved ones who celebrate the fact that he is now at peace with his Lord.
He was born on July 24, 1942 to Ralph and Caroline McIntier of Madison, Connecticut. He grew up in CT where he met his future father-in-law Herbert T. Gale who introduced him to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
To cherish his memory, he has left his wife of 61 years, Sandra, his daughters, Lynn McIntier, Christine (Al) Nash, Bonnie (Shawn) Brooks, his grandchildren, Abigail Nash, Alex (Sally) Nash and Sabian Brooks, four great grandchildren, as well as his siblings, Caroline, Mary, Joel, Albert, and Thomas. He is predeceased by his brothers, Jim, Ed, Russ, and his sisters, Margaret and Jean.
Don married Sandra Lynn Gale on July 9, 1963. In 1972, they moved to Maine where he began his own construction business. He was tested and tried many times during his life, yet he never wavered in his devotion to the Lord. After becoming disabled in 1984, he spent many winters traveling with Sandy throughout the country, visiting family and meeting new friends wherever they went. In 2002, their final stop was Owens Cross Roads, Alabama, to help and care for Sandy’s aging parents.
Despite a tragic accident limiting his ability to work a regular job. Don remained as active as possible. Gardening was one of his favorite pastimes, and he considered golf a special treat. Sitting down to a tasty meal, always with dessert, was something he thoroughly enjoyed. He had never been to a restaurant before meeting his wife, but once he was introduced to the idea, it became one of his favorite things to do. He spent many hours in the morning with his coffee and his Bible, reflecting on the Word of God and its application to his life.
Woodworking was Don’s passion and gift throughout his life. Whether he was building houses or furniture, he was capable of building anything. He had a great love of working with wood. In his final years, his favorite pastime was turning wooden bowls on his lathe. He created many unique pieces, which he often gave to family and friends.
His family finds solace in the outpouring of support and kindness they have received during this challenging time. Don will be deeply missed, but his spirit and legacy will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
A viewing will begin at 1:30 PM followed by the funeral service at 2 PM, Tuesday, August 27th, 2024 at New Hope Funeral Home with Chaplin Todd Oldman officiating immediately followed by a graveside committal at Neals Chapel Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Donald P. McIntier’s name to the Hospice of North Alabama in Huntsville, AL or to the charity of your choice.
