Corey, Donald Edward

Donald E. Corey, 65, of Terre Haute, was born on November 5, 1950 in St. Anthony Hospital, to Paul E. Corey & Norma R. (Stufflebean) Corey. He was wrapped in the arms of Jesus and carried home to Heaven on Friday, October 7th, 2016, after a short and sudden illness.

Don leaves his behind his companion of 35 years, Linda May; son Andrew Corey and wife Amber; granddaughters Ellie, and Norah, grandson Silas, Don’s special buddy Andrew Scot May Jr., sisters Paula Duggins and Nancy Gilbert (husband David Gilbert), brother Scott Corey (wife Beryl Corey), nieces Kelley Duggins and Denae Gilbert, nephew David Gilbert Jr. (wife Miranda Gilbert), great niece Summer Ramos, great nephews Zach Duggins, Aiden Gilbert, and Jaxson Gilbert, and special extended family Sue May and Lori May.

Don was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Paul Corey and Norma Corey; as well as a brother in law Jim Duggins.

Born in Terre Haute, Don graduated from Gerstmeyer high school where his love of athletics and desire for teaching originated. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1971, in company with his lifelong best friends Mike Lovelletteand Jimmy Smith. He was stationed in Germany, until his departure from the military. Don graduated from Indiana State University with a bachelors and masters degree in Education. He began his illustrious teaching career with the North Vermillion School Corporation, where he served as teacher, coach, athletic director, administrator, mentor, and friend for 32 years. Don was honored to serve as the Falcon’s varsity baseball coach for many years; as well as an assistant coach in football, head coach in cross country, and volunteer with the track and girls basketball teams.

Don began working with the Vigo County School Corporation in 2011, upon his retirement from the NVSC. After substitute teaching across the county, he washonored to accept a full time teaching position at Farrington Grove Elementary, where he remained until his death.

Don was also an Indiana High School Athletic Association official for more than 30 years. The highlight and proudest accomplishment of his officiating career was his work in four Girls Basketball State Championships. He served as referee for the Vigo County Youth Football Association, as well as numerous local men’s and co-ed softball leagues.

Don delighted in so many things in his lifetime, including his dearest church, Eighth Avenue Baptist, of which he was a lifetime member. He never wavered in his allegiance to the St. Louis Cardinals, and relished in traveling with family and friends, and volunteering for various organizations and events when requested. He thoroughly enjoyed visiting the local Baeslers Market, andadored his numerous adopted pets; including his beloved Sheepdog Whitney.

Long known for his witty sense of humor, positive outlook on life and infectious smile, Don interacted with each new person as though they were a longtime friend. His uncanny ability to lighten up a room with his encouraging words and open arms is something everyone will recount in years to come. How blessed are we to have had something so special, it makes saying goodbye impossible.

Visitation will be held at 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 13th, at Eighth Avenue Baptist Church, 2128 8th Ave. Terre Haute, IN 47804, with services immediately following at the church. Pastor Park will be officiating. American Legion Post 104 will conduct military honors following services.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to a Memorial Fund in Don’s name, c/o Old National Bank, 2429 Poplar Street. Terre Haute, IN 47803. Envelopes will be available at the church.

Arrangements were entrusted to Greiner Funeral Home, 2005 North 13th Street, Terre Haute, IN, 47804. Online condolences can be made at www.greinerfuneralhome.com