Obituary for Donald M. Medley
Donald M. Medley, age 92, of Harrisburg, Illinois, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service, generosity, and unwavering faith.
Born in Madison, Tennessee, Don lived a life that truly mattered. A man of many talents and deep convictions, he served his country with pride as a Sergeant Major in the United States Army. His leadership didn’t end with his military service—he went on to lead in every area of his life, from business and faith to family and community.
Don’s entrepreneurial spirit was as bold as it was inspiring. He built a diverse and successful career in banking, motels, oil and gas, and real estate. But his favorite endeavor, and the one closest to his heart, was The Gold Mine Pizza Restaurant in Carbondale. There, he didn’t just run a business—he created opportunity. He mentored generations of Southern Illinois University students, teaching them the values of hard work, integrity, and self-reliance. Many walked away with more than a paycheck—they left with purpose.
Faith was Don’s compass. A 32° Master Mason and longtime deacon at the First Baptist Church of Harrisburg, he poured his heart into serving others. Whether he was lending a hand or offering quiet encouragement, Don made a lasting impact through his steady kindness and strength.
At the center of Don’s world was his family—his greatest source of pride and joy. He is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley Karnes Medley; his daughter, Patti (Robert) Wilson; his son, Jay (Kathy) Medley; and his sister, Patricia (Carl) Prentice. He was a loving grandfather to Madison Medley, Chase (Graham) Jones, Medley (Clay) Ford, and Taylor (Jared) Abney, and a joyful great-grandfather to fifteen great-grandchildren: Graham and Pearce Jones, Wilson, Karnes, and Maxine Ford, Cale, Crawford, and Boyd Abney, Kylar and Lennon Medley, Melissa and Bill Forrest, Sloane Forrest, Josh, Gavin, Jude Gulledge and his caregiver Lori Creamer. Each of them carries forward a piece of his wisdom, his laughter, and his love.
Don’s life was a testament to the power of faith, the joy of hard work, and the impact one person can have on the world around them. He will be remembered not with sorrow, but with gratitude—for the life he lived, the people he lifted, and the legacy he leaves behind.
Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at First Baptist Church of Harrisburg. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 p.m., led by Rev. Chris Winkleman. Burial will take place at Sunset Lawn Cemetery immediately following the service. For those who wish, memorials may be made to the Shriner’s Childrens Hospital. The J. M. Weirauch Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
To plant a tree in memory of Donald M. Medley, visit the Tribute Store.
Previous Events
Visitation
Saturday
9
Aug
11:00 AM
Harrisburg First Baptist Church
200 N. Main St
Harrisburg, IL 62946
Service
Saturday
9
Aug
1:00 PM
Harrisburg First Baptist Church
200 N. Main St
Harrisburg, IL 62946
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