Donald Paisley Love

Donald Paisley Love, age 88, died peacefully in his home in Millersport. He was born on January 11th,1936, to the late Robert and Doris Love in New Athens, OH. He graduated Franklin HS in 1953 where he enjoyed all sports and aspired to become a high school coach. After attending Ohio University for two years he then enlisted in the Air Force at the Homestead Airforce base in southern Florida, and he used to boast that no enemy aircraft ever penetrated Florida airspace on his watch. While in the service, he and his Air Force buddies used to pick tomatoes for beer and tattoo money - the beer always won out - having never gotten a tattoo.

Don continued to take college courses while in the Air Force. In 1960, he graduated from Florida State with a degree in Political Science. After returning home to New Athens, he was offered a teaching and coaching job at his high school alma mater, which he accepted and, for three years, taught government, math, shop, was a guidance counselor and coached basketball.

In 1964, Don returned to Ohio University and received his masters in guidance counseling. That fall, he moved to Columbus and taught at Walnut Ridge High School. On January 30th, 1965, he met the love of his life, Gayle Walser, in a crowded, smoke-filled room. They were married in late August of the next year in Columbus. Two weeks later, Don entered Capital Law school and went on to receive his Juris Doctorate.

Don would practice family law for the next 50 years in the Columbus area. During his free time, Don restored antique furniture and was an avid runner- even running the Columbus marathon at age 48. He was a devoted grandfather, loving husband, and active member of his community, participating in many organizations including the Eastview Methodist Church and the South Side Optimist Club.

He is survived by his wife Gayle of 57 years, his sons Greg (Jennifer), Brandon (Susan), three grandchildren, Carrie, Don, Hailey and his first cousin Robert Schlemmer and many other beloved family and friends.

The family will receive guests on Saturday, June 22nd from 10am to noon at Hoskinson Funeral Home at 56 South Main Street Thornville, Ohio. The funeral service celebrating Don’s life will start at noon. Reverend Ron Sams will be officiating.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the New Athens Volunteer Fire Department, P.O Box 65 New Athens, OH 43981.

All are welcome to join the family after the memorial service from 1:30 to 3:30pm at the Alturas Masonic Lodge #537, 11360 Millersport Rd, Millersport, OH 43046.

Hoskinson Funeral Home is honored to care for Don and his family.