Donny Joe Charlton

Donny Joe Charlton, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great‑grandfather, and brother, was born on August 20, 1931, in Drumright, Oklahoma, to the late Judson and Bertha Charlton. He was called to Heaven on March 26, 2026, passing away peacefully at his home in Southlake, Texas.

Don graduated from Drumright High School, where he was a standout three‑sport athlete—quarterback of the football team, pitcher on the baseball team, and a four‑year letterman in basketball. Don and his twin brother, Danny, both earned football scholarships to East Central State College in Ada, Oklahoma, where Don played quarterback and Danny was a receiver for the ECSC Tigers.

Following college, Don proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1951 to 1954. His time in the military sparked a lifelong appreciation for World War II collectible airplanes.

After completing his service, Don earned his chemical engineering degree from Oklahoma State University. He went on to build a distinguished career at Atlantic Richfield Oil Company, serving as head of the Engineering Design and Construction Department for more than 30 years. After his time at ARCO, he continued to share his expertise as an oil and gas consultant, traveling to countries including Russia and Dubai. Don and his wife, Lauren, were also co‑owners of Walnut Hill Paint, where he worked until his retirement in 2019.

Don loved sports of all kinds—especially fishing and hunting with his family—and he found great joy in playing golf, particularly at his favorite courses in Maui and Kona, Hawaii.

A man of faith, Don was baptized at Fellowship Church and later attended Gateway Church, where he enjoyed services at the Southlake campus.

Don is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Lauren Charlton; daughter Karen Hollingshead and husband James; son Gary Charlton and wife Taressa; son Greg Charlton and wife Ginny; twin brother Danny Charlton and wife Tommy; sister‑in‑law Marsha Godfrey and husband Eddie; eight grandchildren; and eleven great‑grandchildren, who lovingly knew him as PopPop.

Services are pending. Don will receive military honors at his burial at the Dallas–Fort Worth National Cemetery at a later date.