Alfred was born in Fountain Hill, Arkansas, on April 16, 1949, to James Wilson Donaldson and Josephine Duggar Donaldson, into a family of eventually six brothers and one sister: Virginia Donaldson Kelley, George Donaldson, Ronnie (Debbie) Donaldson, Wade (Martha) Donaldson, Curtis (Ann) Donaldson and two predeceased brothers, Kathy and the late James Donaldson, and Nathan Donaldson. More than anything, Alfred loved roaming the hills near his home with his brothers and often went hunting and fishing before school, as well as camping and playing basketball in his free time. This is when he discovered how much he loved outdoor living and clean country air, but especially retelling the stories lived there: Alfred loved to throw horseshoes and talk.
After graduating from high school in Fountain Hill, Alfred served his country and state by enlisting into the Arkansas National Guard. But the greatest day of his life arrived when he met Robbie Davis Donaldson at the hamburger joint where she worked. Sitting on a stool or in a booth, Alfred longed for the chance to visit with Robbie after catching her eye, ready to impress her with his tales of rough living in the great outdoors. Later, their own adventure together began with their marriage on November 3, 1972. In time, they had two sons: Alfred Donaldson, Jr. and Kevin Donaldson. More than anything, Alfred loved his family. Throughout his life, his home with Robbie and their boys became known as a house of warmth and love, where guests were well fed with Alfred's good home cooking and barbecue and well entertained with his stories. At length, their family expanded to include four grandchildren: Dillon, Preston, Raegan and Kristina; years later came three great-grandchildren: Granger, Axel and Lily.
To make a living, Alfred drove a box truck for twenty-four years as a milkman, working well before most of the world was awake and seeing each day as it dawned, bright and clear. Later, he was employed at Texas A&M University's Research Center and cared for animals there. His strong work ethic never overshadowed Alfred's reputation as a jokester with a love for others; he was a man who would stop to help anyone with anything, a true friend.
He lived and loved life with a simple joy, sustained by his affection for family and friends. Likewise, his family now thanks Janelle Bayird Vance and Regina Dalsis for their support.
Family and friends will gather to celebrate and honor the life from 6 to 8 PM on Wednesday, November 4, 2015 at Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Home. A graveside services will be held at 10 AM on Thursday, November 5, 2015 at Flat Creek Cemetery in Fountain Hill, Arkansas. Arrangements by Hillier Funeral Home in Bryan, Texas and Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Home, Inc. Online guestbook www.stephensondearman.com.
Condolences(6)
Bruce & Gayla Parker Cockerham
Hamburg, AR Wednesday, November 11, 2015 Robbie, I was very sorry to hear of Alfred's passing. It has been many years since your moving to Texas. When we were in High School you never passed him that he did'nt have a big smile. I know you and your children will have a great void in your lives now. Please know I am praying and thinking of you. GaylaMellie Buchanon
Star city, AR Friday, November 6, 2015 The obituary for Alfred was a great tribute to a great man, I know he will be missed by all who knew him, I grew up in MONTICELLO and knew him when I was a teenager working at Ray's he would deliver milk there and was a very joyful person he always brightened everyone's day with his jokes and just overall positive personality. I haven't seen him in years and I hate to here of his passing but I'm sure he is making is in Heaven making everyone laugh. I'm sure he impacted many others with his infectious personality and I hope his family will find peace knowing he made a difference here on earthDewayne Willis
El Dorado, AR Thursday, November 5, 2015 Alfred was a great fellow. I enjoyed playing ball with him before we got married and went separate ways. He always had such a good outlook on life. God bless his family at this time. Dewayne WillisMichelle Davis
Monticello, AR Tuesday, November 3, 2015 To all of the family, my thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. It is a joy to have known Mr. Alfred. While I attended college, I had the pleasure of working at a small restaurant and he delivered milk to us. He was always the same when you saw him; happy and joking. He will be missed by many. With deepest sympathy, MichelleHazel Potts
Monticello, AR Tuesday, November 3, 2015 Dear George and FamilyI was so sorry to hear of your brother passing Remember all the good times you had together He will always be close to your heart. I am sorry I cannot attend any of the services but know my prayers are with you and family. Look to the Lord for comfort and strength Our deepest sympathy
Hazel and Alan
Melissa Busch-Petty
Monticello, AR Saturday, October 31, 2015 I'm so sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Alfred. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.