Dr. Donal William Bird passed away on November 2, 2017 in Brownwood, Texas at the age of 77. Donal and his wife Marjorie were married 56 years.
Donal was born on May 17, 1940 in Hylton, Texas to John and Lorenna Bird. He graduated from Divide High School and subsequently earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Sam Houston State Teachers College and his master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Missouri. Following graduation, he spent about 15 years in the poultry industry in a number of different capacities. Donal and Marge moved to Brownwood in 1981 and Donal began teaching at Howard Payne University in 1982. He eventually became the Dean of the School of Math and Science and stayed in that role until his retirement in 2005. Donal served as a deacon at First Baptist Church in Brownwood, including time as chairman of the deacons.
Donal enjoyed hunting and fishing, playing dominoes and bridge, and treasured spending time with his family.
Donal is survived by his spouse of 56 years, Marge of Brownwood; three children, E.J. (and wife Jill) of Landrum, SC, Erin (and wife Kim) of Salado, TX and Ren (and husband Edward) of Brownwood; six grandchildren, Zachary Bird, Mason Bird, Morgan Bird, Maggie Yantis, Kate Yantis and Drew Bird; a sister, Loretta McCain of Midland, TX; four brothers- and sisters-in-law; eight nieces and nephews, as well as numerous other relatives. He was preceded in death by his son Clifton, his parents, and his brother, Barron.
There will be a memorial service on Monday, November 6 at 2:30 pm at First Baptist Church, Brownwood.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Donal and Marjorie Bird Endowed Scholarship for Science and Math at Howard Payne University, PO Box 2369, Brownwood, 76804 or to the American Cancer Society.
Condolences can be offered to the family online at heartlandfuneralhome.net.
