DON B. HEARD "DONNIE B."

December 30, 1954  -  July 29, 2025

In Loving Memory of Don Bernard Heard

December 30, 1954 – July 29, 2025

With deep sorrow and abiding love, we announce the passing of Don Bernard Heard, affectionately known as “Donny B,” of Westerville, Ohio. Don departed this life on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at the age of 70, after a long illness, upheld by the love of his devoted wife and family.

Born in Dayton, Ohio, to Wilson Dennis Heard and Mamie Dee (Williams) Heard, Don moved with his family to Cleveland in 1966, where he later graduated from Cleveland Heights High School in 1972. At Cleveland Heights High School, Don was an outstanding basketball player, admired for his skill, sportsmanship, and leadership on the court. He earned his degree in Health and Physical Education from the University of Findlay in 1976, where he met his first wife, Judy Reynolds. Their marriage in 1979 was the beginning of a beautiful chapter, during which they welcomed two beloved sons, Don II and Marcus. Don’s life as a father was one of unwavering love and commitment—a role he continued with quiet strength and deep grace after Judy’s passing from cancer in 2003.

Don’s story found a vibrant new chapter with Dawn Sharp, who became his best friend, spiritual partner, and wife in 2010. Together, they built a marriage grounded in faith, mutual respect, laughter, and care. They cherished life’s joys—traveling, laughing, worshiping, and sharing simple pleasures—and in unison, they faced life’s challenges with courage and unity. They were, by definition, a winning pair. During Don’s episodes of illness, Dawn walked beside him with unyielding energy and compassion, providing constant care, advocacy, and companionship. Her steadfast presence was a profound testament to their bond, and to the depth of her love.

Don's professional journey included early work in the food industry—at Wendy’s International, Sister’s Chicken & Biscuits, and as a franchise owner of Charley’s Steakery in Northland Mall—before he found his true calling in service. As Executive Director of the Juvenile Justice Program at the YMCA of Central Ohio, Don dedicated more than 25 years to transforming lives, and amplifying marginalized voices. He helped countless young people navigate hardship, return to school, and envision a brighter future. His calm leadership, generous heart, and belief in second chances left a lasting mark on all who knew him.

Don was a man of humility and principle—an encourager, a protector, and a quiet force for good. Whether mentoring youth, guiding his family, or simply offering a word of wisdom, he modeled a life of integrity and compassion.He is survived by his beloved wife, Dawn (Sharp) Heard; sons Don Heard II and Marcus Heard; daughters Sommer Hall and Micaela Coleman; granddaughters Maleigha Heard and Amaia Heard; grandson Aiden Johnson; brothers Rufus Heard and Everett (Minyon) Heard; mother-in-law Betty Abbott; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and close friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Judy Reynolds Heard; parents Wilson and Mamie Heard; stepmother Phyllis Heard; and brothers Ralph Heard and Gary Heard.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to carry Don’s spirit forward—by uplifting someone who needs a second chance, by listening with compassion, and by living with the same quiet dignity he exemplified every day.

https://www.calimanfuneralservices.com/obituaries/DON-BERNARD-HEARD?obId=43813357&fbclid=IwY2xjawMEITdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHl6T4AYX7hL7geo-N1CumLAYZsRXmbN