Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

Maryland Veterans Cemetery- Crownsville

The Honorable Dennis Clifton Donaldson Sr., affectionately known as "Denny," passed away peacefully in Melbourne, Florida, on October 11, 2024, at the age of 86. Born on June 9, 1938, in Washington, D.C., Denny lived a life dedicated to service, family, and community.

Denny’s professional journey began as a mailer for the International Typographical Union, followed by U.S. Air Force 1960 – 1966.  In 1963, he joined the Metropolitan Police Department of Washington, D.C. until his retirement in 1973. His commitment to public service continued as he became Recreational Director for District Heights and later represented Prince George’s County in the Maryland House of Delegates from 1978 - 1990. His career further evolved as he held the position of Speaker Pro Tem under Speaker Clay Mitchell. He was later appointed Special Assistant to Governor William Donald Schaefer and as a political consultant and lobbyist, influencing policies and campaigns with Donaldson Consultants. 

He was a loving husband to his beloved wife, Geraldine (Gerri) Donaldson, with whom he shared 62 years of marriage. Together, they built a family rooted in love, raising three children: Patti Donaldson (Debbie), Dennis “Cliff” Donaldson (Danielle), and Pete Donaldson. His family continued to grow with the addition of seven grandchildren—Lynnette Melotti (Tony), Tiffany Cook (Christopher), Robby Blake, Taylor Donaldson, Kiersten Begin (Alec), Marcus Fogle, Jonah Fogle—and two great-grandchildren, Dylan King and Phoebe Begin.


Outside of his professional accomplishments, Denny held a steadfast passion for coaching, dedicating 42 years to mentoring young athletes in Maryland. His influence spanned across various sporting levels, from youth leagues to collegiate teams—including baseball at the University of Maryland, Prince George's County Community College, Chesapeake Community College, and Bowie University, as well as football at Salisbury University. He cherished the opportunity to coach all three of his children throughout their youth years, along with many of their friends, leaving a lasting impact on countless young athletes.

Denny’s life was framed by altruism, fostering community spirit through his tireless engagement in sports, public service, and beyond. Although preceded in death by his parents, Charles (Pete) and Margaret Donaldson, and his brother, Charles (Buddy) and Joyce Donaldson, Denny’s legacy of love, dedication, and perseverance endures in the hearts of his loved ones and all who were fortunate to know him.

A funeral service will be held at Davis Seawinds Funeral Home in Melbourne, Florida, on October 21, 2024 from 9:00 to 11:00 am. Friends and family are invited to gather and honor a monumental life enriched by love, leadership and an unwavering commitment to community service. The military burial and service will be in his home state of Maryland at the Maryland Veterans Cemetery in Crownsville, MD on Friday, October 25 at 1:00 pm.

Denny’s absence is deeply felt, yet his memory will forever serve as a beacon of kindness, strength, and dedication. His remarkable life remains an inspiration to all who knew him. His memory will live in all of us forever.
 
Condolences may be made by using the Memories link on this page.

Dennis C. Donaldson, Sr.

Dennis C. Donaldson, Sr.

Dennis Donaldson, Sr. Services

Interment