Donald Robert Shelnutt

Mr. Donald Robert Shelnutt peacefully entered into eternal rest surrounded by his family on Wednesday, September 11, 2019 at Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center.

Donald, also known as ”Big Don and “Big Daddy” was born in LaFayette, Alabama and a life long resident of Athens. He attended Athens High and Clark Central High School. He received both his Bachelors of Business Administration and his Masters Degree in Adult Education at the University of Georgia.

After graduating college, he began his work career with the Troupe County Sheriff’s Department and as an EMT. He was always very proud of his service there. He moved on to work for Thornton Brothers Paper Company for over 20 years before changing career paths and teaching at Burney-Harris-Lyons Middle School. He loved his students and always spoke of them with true care and compassion. He had such a kind heart and was always an advocate for those less fortunate. After retiring, he worked part-time for the non-profit Athens Land trust. Once again sharing his love and care for his community and others. He was an incredible photographer and loved capturing all of the beauty in life on film. This was a hobby he and his beloved wife, Mary, shared. They so enjoyed capturing these moments together.

Donald was one of kind; a caring, compassionate man who loved his family with all he had. He adored time with his 7 grandchildren and leaves a legacy of true kindness etched into the minds of all who knew him.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Grover Shelnutt and Ruth Lynch Shelnutt.
In addition to his loving wife, Mary Shelnutt, he is survived by his children, Jonathan Shelnutt (Melanie) of Augusta, GA and Heather Shelnutt Gonzales of Statesboro, GA; his brother Douglas Shelnutt (Buzzy) of Athens, GA and 7 grandchildren; Lily Gonzales, A.J. Gonzales, Ruthie Shelnutt, Gracie Shelnutt, Johnny Shelnutt, Henry Shelnutt, and Landry Shelnutt.

Additional survivors include his wife’s children, Andrea Arnold of Placerville, California and Ryan Arnold of Columbus, Ohio.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, September 22 at 1pm at “The Hill”, 1800 Crescent Lane, Athens, GA 30607.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to The Ronald McDonald House Augusta, GA via www.rmhcaugusta.org or can be mailed to 1442 Harper Street, Augusta, GA 30901.

Berry Funeral Home & Crematory of Elberton is assisting the family of Mr. Donald Robert Shelnutt.