Donald “Don” Gordon McDuffie, 78, of Fayetteville, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 1, 2026, at his residence.

Don was born on August 18, 1948, in Cumberland County to the late Daniel Franklin McDuffie and Nettie Gordon McDuffie.

Don retired from the Fayetteville Observer after 25 years of dedicated service. Following his retirement, he worked alongside his brother, Mike, with McDuffie Electric.

Don was a generous and caring man who never met a stranger. He had a special gift for making people feel welcome and was a father figure to many young people throughout his life. His kindness, friendship, and willingness to help others will be remembered by all who knew him.

Don had a deep love for animals, especially dogs and horses. He often rescued and adopted animals, and whenever possible, helped them find loving forever homes. He also had a remarkable green thumb and could grow just about anything. He especially enjoyed growing rare varieties of flowers. His love of gardening extended to his lemon and orange trees, and he was always happy to share the fruit of his labor. His niece especially treasured the lemons he would give her to make pies.

In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his son, Neill Franks; and his siblings, Charles McDuffie, Dorothy Coates, Leonard McDuffie, Sarah Couliette, and Katie Ruth Cowart Altman.

Don leaves behind to cherish his memory his beloved wife of 29 years, Debbie Bill McDuffie; his siblings, Mary Dixon, Edna Matterson (Mark), Auley McDuffie (Carol), Mike McDuffie (Darlene), and Larry McDuffie (Pam); as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who loved him dearly.

The family will receive friends from 12:00 noon until 1:20 p.m. on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life service will follow at 1:30 p.m. in the chapel. Burial will follow at Lafayette Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to FAPS, 3927 Bragg Blvd, Fayetteville, N.C. 28303 or to the charity of one’s choice in memory of Don.

Online condolences may be made at www.jerniganwarren.com

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, 545 Ramsey St., Fayetteville, N.C. 28301.