Donald Sexton  84, of Sun City West, AZ, passed away Sunday, Aug. 2, 2009 at Hospice of the Valley's Surprise Palliative Care Unit. He grew up in Glendale, AZ, and went to Glendale High School. He served in the Army Air Force during World War II and graduated from the University of Arizona.

For 24 years, he was a dedicated chemistry and biology teacher at Washington High School in Phoenix helping students understand the wonders of science. He had a background in construction and was a skilled craftsman. He could shape simple pieces of wood into treasured creations for friends and family. His gardens were splendid and objects of beauty. Genealogy and reading were among some of his other varied interests.

Survivors include his wife, Joan; sons Jim (Nancy), Steve (Connie) and Mike; sisters Ann Daly and Norma Holmesley; grandchildren, Amy, Patrick and Emily; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Ellis; mother, Anna Mae; and brother, Robert.

A celebration of life will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, at Best Funeral Home, 9380 W. Peoria Ave., Peoria, AZ.