Jimmy Onasis Donaldson, 77, passed away May 16, 2025, at Candler County Hospital.

He was the son of Rawleigh and Pauline Lanier Donaldson. Jimmy worked with Cartee Construction for 42 years before retiring.

His garden was his pride and joy, as well as taking care of his goats. He loved fishing and hunting and was always piddling around the house or yard.

Jimmy married the love of his life, Helen, and together they raised their four children as well as many children of the community where they were known as Poppa and Hannie.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by brothers, Wayne Donaldson and John Kennedy; sister, Brenda Cobb; and a son-in-law, Wyman Rigdon.

Surviving is his wife of 58 years, Helen Nesmith Donaldson; son, Jim Donaldson (Jamie); daughters, Samantha Rigdon (Jimmy Beagle), Christy Coursey (Michael) and Paula Carter (PeeWee); eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, brothers, Wade Donaldson and Thomas Kennedy; sister, Ann Bargeron (Charles); and several nieces and nephews.

A visitation was held Sunday, May 18, 2025, from 3–5 p.m. at Kennedy Funeral Homes, Hooks Chapel.

The funeral service was held May 19, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Rosemary Primitive Baptist Church. Internment was at the Rosemary Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery.

Kennedy Funeral Home, Hooks Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.

Statesboro Herald, May 20, 2025

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