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Donald Henry Fincher, age 84, of Jonesboro GA passed away peacefully, November 3, 2026, at home surrounded by family.
Born September 30, 1942 at Fort McPherson in Atlanta, to the late Henry Manson Fincher Jr. and the late Eula McIntosh Fincher Mincey. He was also preceded in death by his sister Jean Patterson and two nieces.
Donald is survived by his wife of 59 years Wanda Petriello Fincher; children: Alan (Cheryl) Fincher, Brad Fincher, Alicia (Greg) Scraggs, Alana (Brian) Rochester, Ashley (Micah) Hall; grandchildren: Ansley (Jesse) Dollar, Rachel (Michael) Shoaf, Kevin (Macy) Rochester, Natalie and Preston Hall; great grandson: “Mac” Shoaf; sister: Jeanette Emerson; Sister-in-law: Jo Lynne (Lamar) McEwen; and many nieces and nephews; step-granddaughter: Kim (Clif) Williams and children: Gage and Miranda.
Donald “Don”, Graduated from Forest Park High School in 1960. After graduation, he went on to enroll and complete the electrical apprenticeship program with IBEW local 613.
In 1964, he married Wanda Petriello of Lake City and settled in Morrow, GA, where they raised their five children.
In 1973, he opened Tara Electric Company where he worked the remainder of his career. He was active in his community, where in his early years he was a member of the Morrow Volunteer Fire Department and later reserve police officer in Lake City for 25 years. Donald was raised as a Master Mason in Riverdale Lodge #709, later becoming a charter member of Morrow Masonic Lodge #734. In his later years, he affiliated with Jonesboro Lodge #87. He served as Master of both Morrow and Jonesboro lodges, completing 57.39 years as a Mason. Donald grew up as a member of First Baptist Church of Forest Park, later moving his residence to Jonesboro and church membership to Jonesboro First Baptist. There, he became a proud member of the James Gang, using his skills to help others in need.
Affectionately known as “Poppie” by his family and grandchildren. He enjoyed roller skating, many sports, and golf. He learned scuba diving and enjoyed riding his Honda Gold Wing motorcycle. Woodworking, playing card games, and trips to the “Bon-Aire” were just more of the pleasures of his life. He will be remembered for the toys, stools for the small ones, and birdhouses he made and shared. Always remembered for his Peanut Butter Fudge, loved by many.
With special thanks to his niece, Lauren McEwen, nurse extraordinaire and to Southern Grace Hospice.
A visitation will be held from 1:30 to 3:00 pm on Sunday, November 15, at the chapel of Jonesboro First Baptist Church, with a Memorial Service to follow immediately after. Reverend Allen Davis officiating.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the James Gang of Jonesboro First Baptist, to Shriner’s Childrens Hospital, or the Masonic Home of Georgia.
Helen DuBiner says
Thinking of you all with deepest sympathy and hugs.
Ron and Katherine Dodson says
Love and prayers to all of this sweet family. May God give you His peace and comfort.
Linda Rutledge Robinson says
It is sad to hear of Donald’s death. He was such a great guy to be around and good friend to those who knew him. Very smart and easy going. He will certainly be missed by his fellow classmates and certainly his beautiful wife, Wanda, and children. God will help you get through this rough time. Praying for all.
Chief C. E. Cato, Jonesboro PD says
So sad to hear of Mr. Fincher’s passing. He was not only a great electrician but also a genuinely good person. His kindness, hard work, and friendship will be remembered by many. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.