Donald ‘Don’ J. Sallas, age 83, of Bonifay, Florida passed away September 18, 2023, at Vitas Healthcare in Panama City, Florida.
He was born July 17, 1940, in Holmes County to the late Bryant Clayton Sallas and Virginia Posey Sallas.
In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his two brothers, William ‘Bill’ Sallas and Samuel Ralph Sallas.
Don proudly served his country as a 100% disabled veteran of the US Army. His commitment to duty and honor during his military service will always be remembered.
For 34 dedicated years, Don served as a Volunteer Secretary with the Holmes County Fair Association, contributing his time and expertise to the success of the organization. His unwavering commitment to this cause made a lasting impact on the community.
Don was a man of diverse interests and talents. He had a passion for pottery, sharing his skills through demonstrations with students at Bonifay Elementary School. His nurturing spirit extended to raising rabbits, cows, exotic birds, and tending to bees and making honey.
In addition to his hobbies, Don possessed impressive computer skills and excelled in various crafts. He found solace in fishing and enjoyed friendly card games. However, his greatest joy was spending quality time with his family, especially his adored grandchildren, whom he cherished dearly.
Donald J. Sallas was not only a pillar of the community but also a devoted servant of faith. He was an ordained deacon, dedicating many years to the First Freewill Baptist Church of Bonifay and First Baptist Bonifay, where his spiritual guidance and kindness touched countless lives.
His devotion to family, and his service to his community will forever be remembered. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Don is survived by his loving family, who will carry forward his legacy of kindness, dedication, and love. Mr. Sallas is survived by his wife of 63 years, Fay Sallas; three sons, Frank Sallas and fiancée, Jennifer, James ‘Jim’ Sallas and wife, Brenda, and Greg Sallas and wife, Beverly; eight grandchildren, Alex Sallas, Breanna Booker and husband Bradly, Eli Sallas, Tyler Sallas, Ian Sallas and wife Kylie, Kylee Meachem, Anna Meachem, and Jylian Sallas; two great-grandchildren, Kai and Huxley; several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held 2:00 PM Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at First Baptist Bonifay with Dr. Shelly Chandler officiating. Interment will follow with military honors in the St. John Free Will Baptist Church Cemetery with Peel Funeral Home directing.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 1 to 2 PM at First Baptist Bonifay.
