James Donald “Don” Christian, on the afternoon of Monday, Jan. 16, 2023 peacefully departed this earth with the destination being “Those Streets of Gold”. He was 89 years old and remained independent and active before a sudden illness landed him in the excellent care of North Miss. ER, 3 south and finally the Hospice unit where he transformed to Heaven. Affectionately known as “Poppa Don” by many and Col. Reb by others, Don was the precious only child of the late Gertrude Curbow (Shelby) and James Richard Christian. Don loved his family, Ole Miss sports and the ocean. He was also a great patriot, serving proudly in the United States Marine Corps (1953). Don was a hardworking man who loved his “craft” of tool and die. He was employed by and retired from Delta Rockwell whre he worked for decades. He gained lots of friends through his long employment there. He was a member of the Palmetto United Methodist Church.
A Private family service (family and close friends) will be held on Friday, Jan. 20, 2023 at 5 pm in the Sadie Holland Memorial Chapel of Holland Funeral Directors-Tupelo with his former pastor, Dr. Jim McClurkan and his current pastor, Rev. Jeremy Funderburk officiating. Private burial will be in Tupelo Memorial Park. For those unable to attend, the service may be viewed at www.hollandfuneraldirectors.com/Livestreaming at 5 PM Friday, and will be archived thereafter.
Don is survived by his son, Donnie Christian (Terri) of Mooreville; one daughter, Betsy Turner (Tony) of Saltillo; three “bonus” sons, Aaron Burgett (Donna) of Panama City, Fla., Greg Burgett (Cheryl) of Saltillo and David Burgett (Debra) of Amory; one son in law, David Hutson of Tupelo. Don also leaves behind 19 grandchildren and 27 great grandchildren whom he loved dearly and was always excited to see. Don was preceded in death by his parents, beloved wife of 34 years, Betty Burgett Christian (Jan. 23, 2021); two daughters, Trudy Hutson and Jamie Burleson; one son in law, Wayne Burleson and his “bonus” son, Danny Burgett.
Memorials may be made to the Palmetto United Methodist Church, P. O. Box 1036, Verona, MS. 38879.
