Don Oliver

Don Allen Oliver, 91, of Mount Gilead, transitioned peacefully to his heavenly home on Wednesday, February 19 after a brief illness. He died at FirstHealth Hospice, surrounded by family.  Don was born March 29, 1933 to the late Vance and Grace Hendren Oliver of Stony Point, NC. Being raised on a working dairy farm instilled his lifelong work ethic. He was a 1952 graduate of Stony Point High School. Don was a deeply religious man that loved the Lord and his church family. He was an active member of First United Methodist Church of Mt. Gilead, serving as a member of the Men’s Club and in various church offices. He was a member of Blackmer Lodge #127, former member of Mt. Gilead Civitan Club, and the Mt. Gilead Town Board. Don was a Lion Club’s member, who played a key role in the creation of the Mt. Gilead pool at Stanback Park. He was a charter member of the NC Plant Food Association, where he served as a past president and board of directors. At retirement, he was the co-owner of Norwood Fertilizer Company.

Don is survived by his wife of 70 years Betty DeJarnette Oliver of the home, son Allen Oliver (Mindy) of Kure Beach, daughter Anne Oliver Evans (Bruce) of Mt. Gilead. Grandchildren Austin Oliver (Ashley) of Cary, Daniel Oliver of Cary, Maribeth Evans Leonard (Robert) of Raleigh and Rebecca Evans Pittman (Michael) of Sylva. Great grandchildren Jane Oliver, Mary Oliver, Charlie Oliver, Sam Oliver and Oliver Leonard. Brother Rex Oliver (Wilma) of Stony Point along with many nieces and nephews that he loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Grace Oliver Stout, Neil Oliver, Mack Oliver and daughter in law Wendy Haithcock Oliver. He loved his family deeply and led by example with humility and quiet determination. He was our leader, rock to lean on, and loved each of us endlessly. In retirement, he enjoyed working in his yard and spending time with his family.

Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, PO Box 176, Mt.Gilead, NC 27306, Blackmer Lodge #127, St. Judes, or First Health Hospice House. 

A celebration of life for the lives of Betty DeJarnette Oliver and Don Allen Oliver will be held on Saturday March 1, 2025 at 1:00 PM, at the First United Methodist Church of Mt. Gilead. The family will receive visitors immediately following the service.

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