Dr. Donald G Gill, a devoted servant of Christ, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, educator, and public servant, passed peacefully on December 19, 2025, at the age of 98.

Donald lived a life firmly rooted in his faith in Jesus Christ. He believed deeply in the call to serve others, to lead with integrity, and to educate with purpose. His faith guided every chapter of his life - as a husband, father, teacher, administrator, and mentor - and was evident in the compassion, humility, and steadiness with which he walked through the world.

A lifelong educator, Donald dedicated his professional life to improving public education and shaping future generations. He served as a professor and educational leader at Eastern Illinois University, where he directed the EIU Laboratory School and helped prepare teachers for meaningful service. He later became superintendent of Volusia County Schools in Florida, providing thoughtful leadership during a time of growth and change. Donald went on to serve as Illinois State Superintendent of Education, where he worked to strengthen educational systems across the state with fairness, accountability, and care for students and educators alike. In the later years of his career, he returned to higher education as a Professor of Education at Stetson University, where he continued teaching and mending until his retirement, eventually being honored as Professor Emeritus.

Donald is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Betty Jo Gill, with whom he shared a deep and enduring love. He is survived by his children Bruce, Ann (Mark), and Gay (Joe); his cherished grandchildren Skip, Donnie, Kathleen, Betty, and Kelly Ann; and his great-grandchildren Olivia and Will, who brought him immense joy. He is also lovingly remembered by Sharon, his constant companion.

Above all, Donald will be remembered as a man of quiet strength, unwavering faith, and a generous spirit. He trusted fully in God's promises and often reflected that his life was not his own, but a gift meant to be shared in service. His legacy lives on in the lives he shaped, the family he loved, and the faith he modeled so faithfully.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." Matthew 25:23.

On December 26th, 2025, a Visitation will take place from 10 AM to 11 AM, followed by a Funeral Service at 11 AM at Lohman Funeral Home Ormond, 733 W Granada Blvd, Ormond Beach, FL 32174.