Donald Goolsby
May 20, 1932 ~ February 10, 2019
William Donald Goolsby, age 86, of Grapeland, was born on the 20th day of May, 1932 and passed away on the 10th day of February, 2019, at Christus Mother Frances Hospital in Tyler. A memorial service and celebration of his life is to be conducted at half past two o'clock in the afternoon, on Friday, the 15th day of February, 2019, at Felder's Chapel Assembly of God in Grapeland, officiated by Bro. Randy Shipman and Bro. Joe Paul Granberry. Friends are invited to greet and share memories with the family from one o'clock until half past two o'clock.
Mr. Goolsby was a United States Air Force Veteran, serving from 1951-1954. He served during the Korean War on a special undercover assignment. For a short time he was a truck driver, and then went into the oilfield, until his retirement in 1984. He was an avid horseman, wonderful father and grandfather, which was his favorite pastime. He loved his church family and his Lord, whom he served with all he had. Mr. Goolsby was a member of the Masonic Lodge for over 50 years and a member of Felder's Chapel for 25 years.
Mr. Goolsby is preceded in death by his parents, Ruby and Gail Goolsby; one son, Chad Goolsby; brother, William Gail Goolsby; Brother Bruce Goolsby and Sister Juanita Goolsby.
He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 64 years, Shirley Ann Owens Goolsby; daughter, Donna and husband Chris Bilsborough; son, Allen Gail and wife Carol Goolsby; daughter, Mona and husband Randy Granberry; daughter-in-law, Elana Cooper Goolsby; sisters, Kay Goolsby Reed, Maxie Nell Goolsby Teems;grandchildren, Memory Parker and Clint Flores, Josh Goolsby, Jennifer Hamilton, Jeremy Goolsby, Bobbie Jo Woody, Starla Luce, Dana Goolsby, Jessica Bridges, Julie Rhone; 20 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren.
Mr. Goolsby's ashes will be interred in Davis Cemetery at a later date.
Memorial and Cremation services for William Donald Goolsby are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas.





I did not know Mr. Goolsby, but i do know his granddaughter Dana and great grandson Gage. My deepest sympathies to his entire family and friends and may he rest in peace. I know he leaves sweet memories with many people. I appreciate his service to our country.
I loved Mr. Goolsby, he was so kind and just beamed with Love for his family, he will be missed a lot 💓 Rest in Peace Sir and thank you for your Service to our Country, Daryl & Lisa Magles
I’m so sorry for your loss. May your family find comfort in Gods word for he promises that the day is coming when no one will say , “I am sick”…”death will be no more”.. and the “righteous will inherit the earth and live forever upon it”. Isaiah 33:24; Revelation 21:4; Psalm 37:29
Sorry for your loss. Prayers for the family.
A Spathiphyllum was ordered on February 15, 2019
A Feathery Palm Plant was sent by Kellea, Shawn, Zoey & Charlotte Shirley on February 15, 2019
A Spathiphyllum was ordered on February 15, 2019
I have known Donald since was dating Shirley. They have had a wonderful marriage and family. My prayers and sympathy for all. He will be missed.
Mona, So sorry to find out that your dad has passed. The last time I saw him he was remembering how he had horses ready for us to ride after school. He was very thoughtful and a loving dad. I know u all will miss him.