Donald H. Birkhead, 91, of Mt. Vernon, passed away at 11:01 a.m. Tuesday, March 24, 2009, in Mt. Vernon.

He was born in Jefferson County on Feb. 16, 1918, a son of Harry and Vera (Brown) Birkhead. He was raised by his aunt and uncle, James and Flora Birkhead.

He first married Pauline Hayes from Joy, Ill., in 1939.

Later, he married Leona M. Williams from Mt. Vernon in 1946, and she died in 1962.

He later married Joan White.

He was a retired farmer.

Graveside services will be held 10 a.m. Friday at Hope Cemetery in Ina with Chaplain Ernie Collins officiating. Military rites will be conducted by the Mt. Vernon American Legion Post 141. Burial will follow. There will be no visitation. Those attending the service are asked to meet at the cemetery.

Mr. Birkhead is survived by two granddaughters, Tina Birkhead of Mt. Vernon and Toni Bailey of Bluford; a brother, Richard H. Birkhead of Anderson, Ind.; two sisters, Helen Hernandez of Purcellville, Va., and Hazel Monroe of Purcellville, Va.; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; foster parents; and two sons, Harry Birkhead of Mt. Vernon and Donald B. Birkhead of New Baston.

Mr. Birkhead was a veteran of World War II from February 1942 until July 1945.

Johnston Funeral Home in Mt. Vernon is in charge of arrangements.

Source: Mt. Vernon Register News
Date: March 26, 2009