Don was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, nephew, son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. Known for his smile, good nature, warmth, integrity, and quiet kindness, he leaves behind a life marked by deep family ties, enduring friendships, and a genuine interest in the lives of those around him.

Don, 87, was born and raised in Rosemont, PA. He spent much of his time “Down Home”, with his grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. The memories and stories of those years remained especially meaningful to him throughout his life, and he continued to speak fondly of the people and traditions that shaped his childhood. 

His academic and athletic years at Villanova University were among the most formative of his life. As a member of the Villanova basketball community, Don developed friendships that endured for decades, particularly with his treasured teammates. His love for Villanova basketball never faded, and throughout the years he found great joy in games, gatherings, and road trips shared with family and friends in support of the Wildcats.

Don’s career brought him and his family to Abington, where he served for 38 years as a teacher and respected administrator at Abington High School. Education was more than a profession to Don; it was something he valued deeply. He took pride in the education and accomplishments of his children, grandchildren and delighted in following their studies, interests, and paths in life.

Above all, Don cherished his family. He was a devoted father and family man. Don treasured the simple pleasure of being with the people he loved. 

After retirement, Don and Gail made their home in Lower Gwynedd for over 20 years.

During the final 18 months of his life, he lived at the 501 Mattison Estates in Ambler, where he continued to enjoy the companionship of family, friends, and those around him. 

He will be remembered not only for what he accomplished, but for the way he lived: with grace, loyalty, humor, humility, and integrity. His gentle presence, generosity, warm smile, and steady devotion to family and friends will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

He is survived by his wife Gail (Fitzgerald) Children Jacqueline (Donna), G. Donnon, Jr. (Regina) Stephanie Leighton (Paul), Michael (Victoria) his beloved sister Patricia “Patty”, 8 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren and his brother-in-law Gary Fitzgerald. 

He was preceded in death by his father Thomas McGinley, mother Helen, his stepfather Frederick Adams, his brother Thomas and his children’s mother Henrietta. 

Family and Friends are invited to a visitation on Wednesday September 23, 2026, 9:30am at St Anthony of Padua Catholic Church on 259 Forest Ave, Ambler PA

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30am 

St. Anthony of Padua

259 Forest ave

Ambler PA 19002

Interment will follow immediately 

Calvary Cemetery, Montgomery County

In lieu of flowers, donations can be to Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary or The Monsignor Bonner High School Baseball Team.