A heartfelt tribute to Donald Ross Gore of Raleigh NC, who went to be with Jesus on September 10th, 2024 at the age of 72. While many family and friends knew him as Don, those closest to him in his last 16 years of life knew him lovingly as 'Papa.' Though he lived a lot of life in those 72 years, nothing was more meaningful to him than loving his only son and daughter-in-law, Jason and Diana, and his three grandchildren, Addison, Aidan and Connor, who were the apple of his eye.

Don was born on August 22nd, 1952 to Spurgeon Forester Gore and Grace Inez Ferrell in Raleigh/Durham, NC. He graduated from Enloe High School, spent 4 years serving our country in the United States Coast Guard, and studied cabinet making at Pinellis Technical College in Clearwater, Florida.

In his working years, he ran his own cabinet business known as 'The Cabinet Maker,' where his creativity and attention to detail were on full display. He also spent many days and nights out on the tracks with CSX Railroad. Though he was a blue-collar guy and prided himself as a hard worker, music was his passion. Over his life, he spent countless hours singing and playing guitar in different bands, led a choir for his church and sang for numerous FCA and church events. In fact, rarely would you ever find him not singing ;)

His life was filled with experiences that made us laugh and taught us lessons. His storytelling, quick wit and jokes brought the life to any party, and his radiant smile and joyful personality could light up any room. He was a dreamer. He had a gift of inspiring belief in those around him, especially his son. He also had a servant's heart that was inspiring and modeled a picture of Jesus. Don was a God-fearing man and, while he would be the first to tell you he wasn't perfect, he deeply loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and trusted in His grace.

The gifts of love, joy and encouragement that he brought to his family and 'adopted family' are something few get to experience in this life. While words can't express how much we will miss him, we are thankful he is whole and healthy with Jesus. If there is singing going on in Glory, we are certain he has already grabbed his spot in the choir - right up front - belting at the top of his lungs.

We love you, Papa.

Don is survived by Jason and Diana Gore (son and daughter-in-law), Addison, Aidan, and Connor Gore (grandchildren). His surviving brothers and sisters are Randy Gore, Jackie Gore, Judy Heath, LaVonne Bukolt, and Mike Gore. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, including Terry LeMonds, who was especially close to him.

Friends and family are invited to attend a 12 PM memorial service on Saturday, September 21st at Hope Community Church, 821 Buck Jones Rd., Raleigh NC. We will host a time of connecting, sharing stories and enjoying some of Don's favorite foods immediately following the service at the church building.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Garner Trojan Club (football or wrestling) to support his grandkid's and their teammates' goals. We'd love to encourage your generosity to support this great organization.

Trojan Club Donation: Venmo

@TrojanClubTreasurer and specify football or wrestling on behalf of Donald Gore.