07/29/2025
Graveside funeral services for Donald Kent Edwards, 80, of Zanoni, will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, Aug. 1, 2025, in the Smith Chapel Cemetery near Zanoni with Matthew Dusenberry officiating.
He died July 27. He was born in Garden City, Kansas, on May 20, 1945. Donald was lovingly known as Donnie, DK and Do Dad.
He married the love of his life, Ruth Ann, on June 14, 1968. The two shared a deep and lasting love until Ruth Ann's death on July 5, 2013. Their legacy lives on through the family they built together.
Donnie loved each of his kids, grandkids and great-grandkids deeply. Nothing lit up his face more than hearing about “how the kids were doin’." He made it a point in every conversation to check in on them.
DK was a true all-around athlete. He had a passion for football, basketball and baseball/softball, which he eagerly passed on to his children and many young athletes in the community. Whether it was one-on-one lessons or coaching a team, he gave his all. He beamed with pride, watching Kendric’s wrestling and Brianna’s rowing careers flourish at the collegiate level.
College sports were a favorite pastime, and if KU was playing—no matter the sport—you could count on Donnie to be tuned in and cheering them on. He especially loved watching the OU women’s softball team, following their success with great enthusiasm. And if you happened to be rooting for the other team, you were in for some good-natured banter!
Donnie was a loyal friend to many—known for being selfless with his time, always ready to lend a hand and generous in spirit. Whether it was helping with a project, offering encouragement or simply showing up when someone needed support, DK was the kind of friend you could always count on.
He was also a favorite among his doctors and nurses, winning them over with his quick wit and good humor. Even in challenging moments, Donnie found ways to make people smile. He had a gift for making friends wherever he went—whether in a waiting room, on the sidelines, or just in daily life.
And let’s not forget—if you ever asked, Dad was always 6'4" and 240 pounds. No need to check the records—he said it, so it must be true.
Donnie is survived by his three children and their spouses: Rae Ann Flickinger (Corey) of Burrton, Kansas, Rowdy Kelly (Julie) of Mountain Home, Arkansas and Starla Maple (Jeff) of Grandview. He was a proud and loving grandfather to 10 grandchildren and their spouses:�Brianna Layton (Jake), Torell Stewart (Jim), Colten Flickinger (Devin), Quincie Schlick (Skylar), Macie Kelly, Shelbie Clemons (Bryce), Josie Kelly, Jaci Maple, Lynsey Maple and Kendric Maple (Jordin). Donnie was also blessed with 11 great-grandchildren: Aniah Martin, Hackston Flickinger, Easton Flickinger, Hailyn Flickinger, Lahni Ruth Layton, Rohlan Layton, Eloise Stewart, Jack Stewart, Sterling Schlick, Quailin Schlick and Shaylin Schlick (born July 21), Kyro Maple and Kiner Maple.
Memorial contributions may be made to St Jude Children’s Hospital. Arrangements are under the direction of Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville.
This obituary will be published in the Aug. 6, 2025, edition of the Ozark County Times.