Donnie Lee Redd
Mr. Donnie Lee Redd, Sr., of Bassett, Virginia peacefully transitioned from this life at Franklin Health & Rehabilitation Center in Rocky Mount, Virginia on Monday, September 29, 2025.
He was born on October 30, 1953, to the late Robert Redd and Alleane Stanley Redd. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by two brothers, Eddie Redd and Edward Redd; one sister, Sharon Redd Taylor, and his former wife, Theresa Lagrethian Stewart.
Donnie grew up in Henry County, Virginia, and was educated in the Henry County Public Schools system. He graduated from George Washington Carver High School with the Class of 1972. Soon after, he answered the call to serve his country in the United States Army, completing a tour of duty in South Korea and later serving faithfully in the U.S. Army Reserves, achieving the rank of Specialist E-4.
Building on the foundation and strong work ethic he gained from his military service, Donnie went on to work with the United States Postal Service in the Maryland and Washington, D.C. areas. In 1989, he returned home to be closer to his family and continued his career in the textile industry with Fieldcrest and later Sara Lee/Hanes Brand.
Donnie was a proud member of the Prince Hall Free Masons and lived a life marked by brotherhood, service, and commitment. Above all, he held a steadfast trust in Jesus Christ. He was a faithful member of Oak Level Primitive Baptist Church, where he served diligently as Head Deacon. With his passing, Donnie leaves a lasting spiritual legacy as the last surviving member of his beloved church.
Donnie’s joy in life was evident in the simple pleasures—cheering for his favorite football team, the Washington Commanders, enjoying a good game of backgammon, chinese checkers, bingo, and most of all, spending time with loved ones. He especially loved talking and connecting with family and friends, whether in person or over the phone—what he fondly referred to as “modulating.”
He is survived by his son, Donnie Lee Redd, Jr. of Bennington, Vermont; his daughter, Christy King of Reidsville, North Carolina; two brothers, Mark Redd, Sr. of Marshall, Texas, and Timothy Redd of Bassett, Virginia; three sisters, Darlene Callaway of Collinsville, Virginia, Brenda Johnson of Martinsville, Virginia, and Nina Finney of Fieldale, Virginia; and four cherished grandchildren, Jordan Seay, Rejani King, Rashad King, and Xavier King. He is also remembered by his former wives, Gwendolyn Denise Taylor Everett and Belinda “Peggy” Vernon; his devoted longtime friend, Sabina Akridge; and a host of uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will forever treasure his memory.
Though Donnie has departed this earthly life, his laughter, conversations, and enduring love for his family and friends will remain etched in the hearts of all who knew him. His journey reminds us of a life well-lived, a faith well-kept, and a spirit now at rest.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Bassett Funeral Service Chapel with Elder Fredericka Taylor, officiating. A visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at The Redd Family Cemetery.
