Donald Arthur Huffman was born in Montgomery County on April 18, 1941 to Arthur Lee and Viola Lovern Huffman and died Dec. 13, 2023.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Joanne Barker Huffman and his former wife, Martha Oliver Huffman; two brothers, Audrey Lee Huffman and Danny Ray Huffman; and granddaughter, Cordelia Elizabeth Huffman. He is survived by two sons, Cory Stewart Huffman and Jon Michael Huffman and his wife Jennifer Sickles Huffman; his granddaughter, Kaylee Jayne Huffman; his daughter, Jennifer White and her husband George; two sisters, Linda Phillips and her husband Hoyt, and Wanda Wright and her husband Jimmy; and two sisters-in law, Sue Huffman and Kathy Huffman.
Don spent four years in the United States Air Force, stationed in Texas and Alaska. While serving at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Alaska, he witnessed the largest earthquake registered in the United States, known as the Great Alaska Earthquake and the Good Friday Earthquake. The quake measured 9.2 in magnitude on March 27, 1964. Don was recognized by the Air Force for his actions during the earthquake disaster period of March 27-29, 1964. Don volunteered to enter the Anchorage Alaska Communication System Toll Building, which had been declared unsafe and perform the emergency duties of telephone operator. He remained on duty day and night to provide essential communications during a period of great need.
Don and Joanne were avid Hokie Football fans. They had season tickets and never missed a home game. They also traveled to many away and bowl games. Even after they could not go to the stadium, they watched all televised games.
Michael Hill, his nephew, will officiate the funeral at noon on Wednesday, Dec. 20 at Horne Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Gardens.
