RUSTBURG, Va. — John William Donaldson, 80, of 275 Clearview Circle, Rustburg, Virginia died Saturday, Sept. 4 at his home.

He was the husband of the late Pauline Marie Donaldson. He was born March 21, 1941 in Gillespie, Illinois, a son of the late William G. Donaldson and Gertrude Ella Keel Donaldson. He was a retired Professor at Liberty University.

He is survived by one son, John Donaldson II, and his wife, Jennifer of Apex, North Carolina; one daughter, Dawn Cowart and her husband, Steven of Chattanooga, Tennessee; one sister, Sharon Davis and her husband, Larry of Rochelle and five grandchildren, Jessica, Marissa, Jill, Caleb and Isabel. 

He was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Donaldson.

John enjoyed his time in fellowship and teaching with members of Yellow Branch Baptist Church and Lakewood Baptist Church. He was a passionate student of the Bible and enjoyed communicating what he learned with others. His desire for people to know God more led to his teaching time at Liberty University and his involvement with several mission organizations.

An immense library is a tribute to his love of reading, knowledge and bookstores. He was always ready to learn something new and discuss history, geography and culture with anyone that was willing.

Family remained a priority throughout his life, setting aside time to attend his children's and grandchildren's events and planning time to spend with them.

A memorial service will be conducted at 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 18 at Yellow Branch Baptist Church, Rustburg, Virginia.

Memorial contributions for Dr. Donaldson’s continued overseas ministry work can be sent to:  E. Glodfelter  C/O ABWE  (Association of Baptists for World Evangelism)  P.O. Box 8585, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8585. 

The family will receive friends at the residence.

Finch & Finch Funeral and Cremation Service, Altavista is in charge of arrangements.

Please visit the online tribute at www.finchandfinchfuneralservice.com to share a memory or send a condolence to the family.