Donald “Papaw” English, 75, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of stories, laughter, and memories that will be treasured forever.
In addition to his parents, Finis and Evelyn (Sosh) English, Donald was preceded in death by the love of his life, Mae English; his son, Nick Durbin. While the family grieves his absence here on earth, there is comfort in imagining Donald reunited with Mae, casting a line into the best fishing hole Heaven has to offer. Those who loved him find peace in knowing they are finally together again
Donald was a hardworking man who spent his life providing for and loving his family. He was stubborn, frugal, and never afraid to stand his ground, but he was also a loving man, a good listener, and someone who was almost always happy. He was known for a side-eye that could communicate an entire conversation without a single word and for laughing harder at his own jokes than anyone he was telling them to—because no one appreciated Donald’s sense of humor quite as much as Donald did. Beneath his tough exterior was a generous heart, and he would do anything for the people he loved. He enjoyed fishing, his weekly lunches with “the sisters,” grilling, sports, cheering on Kyle Busch and Tony Stewart, and telling fishing stories that somehow seemed to get a little bigger every time they were told. While fishing was one of his greatest passions, family was his true catch of a lifetime.
Donald leaves behind his daughter, Holly (Joey) Phillips; daughter-in-law, Angela Durbin; and three grandchildren whom he adored: Hattie Phillips, Jacob Phillips, and Hope (Eli) Davis; and his siblings, Judy Strange, Doris Brown, and Debbie (Sammy) Fulkerson. His family was his pride and joy. Though Donald was never a large man in stature, the hole his passing leaves behind is immeasurable. His love, humor, stubbornness, stories, and unforgettable personality will be missed more than words can express.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made payable to Hospice of Western Kentucky, at 3419 Wathen’s Crossing, Owensboro, KY 42301, whose compassionate care and support meant so much during his brief stay.
Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, June 19, 2026, at Haley McGinnis Funeral Home & Crematory, with Brian Tilman officiating. Visitation will be held on Friday, June 19, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Nickel Ridge Cemetery.
Haley McGinnis Funeral Home & Crematory is honored and privileged to be entrusted with the care of Donald “Papaw” English. Please leave condolence messages for the family of Mr. English and sign the virtual guestbook at www.haleymcginnis.com.