Donald Wayne Master

Donald Wayne Master, 75, of Manila, walked into Heaven Nov. 21, 2023, healed after a 17-year battle with Parkinsons. Born in Leachville to the late Walter Lee and Bessie Meeker Master, he was a 1967 graduate of Leachville High School, then went on to serve his country in the United States Army and served in Korea. Then, in came the catch of a lifetime, his wife Vickie of 52 years. He was a hard worker, and worked for Southworth Products for many years and worked his way up to being a supervisor. He served five years on the Manila School Board. Donald was a faithful member at Manila First Baptist Church, and served the community through his involvement with church. After retiring, he lived in “paradise” where he spent his days being called Papa Donald by the children at S&K daycare. Due to his knowledge and passion for fishing, he earned the nickname “Bass Master.” He found peace being out on Big Lake, Mallard, and other fishing spots, admiring God’s beautiful creation and making lifelong friends who shared a love for fishing too. Donald’s love for his family was his greatest joy, and he cherished every moment spent living life together with them.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers (RC, Norman, and Kenneth Master) and one sister (Carolyn Reynolds).

He is survived by his beloved wife, who he often called sweetheart (Vickie Master); three children and their spouses, Aaron and Angie Master, Sarah and Matthew Robinson, Katie and Jared Graddy; five grandchildren (Aidan Master, Isaac and Hazel Joy Robinson, Benjamin and Olivia Graddy); one sister and brother-in-law, Barbara (Sis) and W.D. Newsom. Donald left behind many neices and nephews also.

Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at the First Baptist Church in Manila with Dr. Matt Pryor and Reverend Jared Russell officiating. Burial with military honors will follow in the Manila Cemetery. The family will receive visitors from 6-8 p.m. Friday evening at the church. Family prefers any memorials be made to the First Baptist Church in Manila. Friends may sign the online guest register at www.HowardFuneralService.com.