Donald West McElhannon

Donald West McElhannon, 75, passed away on July 3, 2026, after a lengthy battle with cancer. He is now free from pain and enjoying a joyful feast at the heavenly table of the Lord.

Don was born to Mary and Joe McElhannon on Thanksgiving Day, November 23, 1950, in Waco, Texas. He graduated from University High School in 1969 and went on to build a life centered on family, hard work, and faith. He and Carol Reed were high school sweethearts and were married beginning a beautiful journey of love, commitment, and partnership that spanned 57+ years.

 A dedicated provider, Don spent 34 years with Central Freight Lines, where his reliability, integrity, and strong work ethic earned the respect of his colleagues. Music was one of his greatest passions. For many years, he played guitar with the worship band at Highland Baptist Church, faithfully using his gift to lead others in worship and encourage his church family. 

After retiring, Don discovered a new passion for photography. He quickly became an accomplished photographer, and it grew into a hobby he and Carol enjoyed together. Their shared love of photography took them on many memorable trips and cruises, where they delighted in capturing God’s beautiful creation through the lens of a camera. Don also served his church family at First Woodway Baptist Church as one of its staff photographers, a role he thoroughly enjoyed.

 Family gatherings were filled with laughter, especially during the holidays, when Don and his sons delighted in quoting their favorite lines from The Princess Bride around the dinner table—a tradition that will remain a cherished family memory. 

Don is survived by his beloved wife, Carol Reed McElhannon; his three sons and their wives, Roger and Melissa McElhannon of Terrell, Andy and Tracy McElhannon of San Leon, and Jarrod and Sherry McElhannon of Arlington; his grandchildren, Angela Kiser, Skyler McElhannon, Connor McElhannon, Karis McElhannon, and Erin McElhannon; and his great-grandchildren, Ava Kiser, Olivia Kiser, Eli Kiser, and Asher McElhannon. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Joe McElhannon.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 9th at Pecan Grove Funeral Home with burial following at Waco Memorial Park. A visitation will take place from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 8th at Pecan Grove Funeral Home.