James Allen Donaldson, 78, of Lexington, Kentucky died peacefully on July 20, 2021 at St. Joseph’s Bluegrass Hospice Care after a long arduous battle with health issues. A man of solid conviction and personal integrity, Jim was indeed the pilot of his life. With eternal optimism and sheer determination (and a wee touch of stubbornness), he stayed true to his course until the end.
Jim was born on December 31, 1942 in Indianapolis, Indiana to Inez Eloise (Dody) and James Lester Donaldson. He spent his boyhood years on the Dody farm hunting, raising livestock and competing in 4-H, and developing interests in radio and electronics. He found his life passion at Miami University when he began flight lessons. He earned his private pilot license at 21, and his commercial pilot license at 23. His career as an aviator spanned 56 years and, in that time, his proudest moments were owning and operating his air charter company, AirLexCo, and mentoring students as a flight instructor.
Grandpa Jim is survived by his children, Dana (Charlie) Millard and Brad Showalter, grandchildren, Rachel (Sean), Maggie, Becca, Amanda, Nick, and Ryan, and his treasured great-grands, Eliza, Levi, Farren, and Theo. He is preceded in death by his parents, Inez and James, sister, Betty, and uncles, Harry and Verle.
Visitation will be held 5-7 pm Sat., July 24 at Kerr Brothers Funeral Home, 3421 Harrodsburg Rd., Lexington, KY 40513. An additional visitation will be held 5-7 pm Sun., July 25 at Brater- Winter Funeral Home, 201 S. Vine St., Harrison, OH 45030. A graveside service and burial will take place 10:30 am Mon., July 26 at Glen Haven Cemetery in Harrison, OH.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Jim’s church family at Fayette Church of Christ and his friends, Dale and Kelli Gillispie, for the love and support they’ve given him.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to the AOPA Foundation.
(Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association)
foundation.aopa.org
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