Rev. Donald B. Lovelace, 79, of Morganton, NC passed away, on Friday, May 24, 2024. He was born on March 5, 1945 in Rutherford County to the late Bonnie and Minnie Buff Lovelace. Donald was a graduate of Salem High School where he played football, basketball, and baseball. It is there that he met the love of his life and wife of 55 years, Patsy. He graduated from Appalachian State Teacher’s College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and Master’s Degree in School Administration. Donald served the children of his community through his 28 years of employment with Burke County Public Schools including Mt. View, Chesterfield and Mull Elementary, Central Office, The Alternative School and Table Rock Middle School. However, his true calling was serving his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was ordained into ministry in 1977 and was the pastor of Missionary Ridge Baptist Church for 32 years. He also served the Cowboy Church and several interims after his retirement. Donald always enjoyed being with his family and especially watching his grandkids play sports and supporting their school activities. In his free time, he enjoyed traveling and watching his Carolina Tarheels. Donald was always sharing the love of Jesus Christ to all he met.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters, Joye L. Propst, Minnie L. Poteat, and Frances L. Barnwell; brother, George Lovelace (Donna), brother-in-law, Sexton Dale.
He is survived by his wife, Patsy Saunders Lovelace; daughter, Joy L. Buff (Brad); grandchildren, Brayson, Brenlyn and Jolann Buff; sister, Edith Dale; brother, Louis Lovelace (LaUna); and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends from 1:30-3pm Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at Missionary Ridge Baptist Church. The funeral will begin at 3pm in the church with Rev. Darren Browning officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
The family would like for him to continue to share about his Jesus through memorial contributions made to Annie Armstrong Love Offering or Lottie Moon Christmas Offering.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Pastor Donald was an Absolutely Wonderful Man of God!!!!!Many Wonderful memories of 5th Sunday Night Singings shared with Missionary Ridge and the other community churches!!!Patsy,you and the family are in my prayers!!Love and hugs and prayers!Lonna
Prayers going up for everyone ❤️Donald Lovelace was such a wonderful person and a wonderful pastor. My mother and I both were baptized by Donald on the same day. He will always hold a special place in my heart.Godspeed❤️
Heaven is rejoicing.
Mr. Lovelace was at Chesterfield Elementary as my principal many years ago. I have fond memories of Mr. Lovelace. Please accept my sincere condolences .
We love you Donald! We will meet again.
Patsy and family, I was so sad to read of Donald's passing. He was always so special to me and I loved him and his enthusiasm for students and his Lord. I know you will miss him but you have great memories to help carry you through. I love you and will keep you in my prayers. Debbie
Such a wonderful person. He will be missed!! Until again Donald tell David Johnson hello for me!! Love always Josh
I just saw on facebook Donald passed. I can't believe Donald is gone. Though I know he is with Jesus, my heart is broken. He was a great pastor, person and friend. My love, thoughts and prayers are with you Patsy and family. RIP Donald.
may you rest in peace. he was a good man and leader
Praying for Patsy and your family Don is a true friend who I respected very much