Donald Sean "Don/Donnie" O'Hara

Don O’Hara, 80, of Danburg GA, passed away peacefully into the arms of his heavenly Father on Jan. 27, 2026, at Pruitt-Health in Washington GA.

He was born Donald Marshall Smith on Dec. 1, 1945, in Augusta GA, to the late Elizabeth “Betty Lee” O’Hara (Smith, Standard) and the late Edison M. Smith. Don was raised in Danburg by his mother and his uncle Carroll L. Smith.

Don was the oldest of his siblings: Cheryl “Sherry” McCain (deceased); Richard Smith, Martinez GA; Douglas Smith, Waxhaw NC; Georgia Zalatan, Hoschton GA; Joyce Miller, Hoschton GA; and Valerie Fleischmann, Braselton GA. He is also survived by several dear cousins, nieces, nephews, and many other valued friends and family.

While growing up in Danburg, Don worked tirelessly on their family farm tending to each aspect required of his family’s large poultry business. Don was a hard worker and continually helped to successfully maintain the business, the chickens, and collect, process, grade, and deliver the eggs produced there.

After attending Washington-Wilkes High School, Don enlisted in the United States Air Force in Oct. 1963 during the Vietnam War. Under the “buddy plan”, he and his cousin Jack “Benny” O’Hara enlisted together and were stationed at Moody Air Force Base near Valdosta GA. Don received training there and became a successful jet engine mechanic. He remained stationed there and served in that capacity until being honorably discharged Oct. 1967 at the rank of Staff Sargeant.

After serving his country, Don applied for a career opportunity at Delta Airlines. When he scored top grades on all the tests, Delta immediately offered him the job. However, he turned down that incredible opportunity when his uncle strongly urged him to return to Danburg to help save the family business. Don dutifully returned and did whatever was needed.

Following those years, Don worked for several different companies in several different capacities, including traveling and sales. Don enjoyed his work as well as meeting many diverse people in the process.

In Sept. 2025, Don put his faith in Jesus Christ and became a Christian. As he learned more about Jesus, he began to experience peace in spite of his circumstances. He will be truly missed by all those who loved him.

Visitation will be Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, 1:00pm—2:00pm at Hopkins Funeral Home Chapel. Services will immediately follow at 2:00pm. Interment will be at Danburg Baptist Church Cemetery at a later date.