James L. Donaldson “Les”, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 11th, 2026, with his family by his side.

Les was born on May 7th, 1948, in Decatur, Illinois to Jim and Thelma Donaldson. He married the love of his life, Linda, on August 22nd, 1981, and together they built a life centered around family, laughter, and unwavering devotion.

He was a proud retired railroader from Norfolk Southern, dedicating many years of hard work and commitment to the railroad. Trains weren’t just his career — they were something he truly loved. Les was a dedicated Freemason, belonging to Macon Lodge No. 8 and attaining the 32° in the Scottish Rite,
Valley of Springfield, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, in 1986. Les was also devoted to his community and served on CASA for Children, supporting and advocating for children in need.

If you knew Les, you knew he was a jokester. He loved to make people laugh and never missed a chance
to lighten the mood. He was rarely seen without one of his beloved Hawaiian shirts, and he was a loyal
St. Louis Cardinals fan through and through.

Above all, Les cherished his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Linda Donaldson; his daughter,
Ashley M. Higar, and her husband, Ashley S. Higar; and his beautiful grandchildren, Ashton, Sophia, and Olivia, who were the light of his life. He found his greatest joy in spending time with them and watching them live their very best lives.

He is also survived by his son, Andy Donaldson, and his grandchildren, Blake, Reice, and Doug. Though
life’s path created distance over the years, he carried them in his heart.

Les is further survived by his brother, Tom Donaldson, and his sister, Sandy Salazar; his nieces,
Stephanie Salazar, Jessica Salazar, and Tiffany Hernandez (Jose Hernandez); and many great nieces,
nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss him deeply.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Thelma Donaldson; father, Jim Donaldson; brother, Wes
Donaldson; brother-in-law, George Salazar; and his son, Doug Donaldson.

Les said, “If you see a cardinal, know it’s me.” May that bright red bird forever remind us that his love and spirit are still near.

Les lived a life full of hard work, humor, and love for his family. He will be greatly missed but never
forgotten.

A celebration of life will be held at Hickory Point Banquet Facility on Saturday, April 11th, 2026, at 2:00
p.m. Family and Friends are invited to gather and honor his memories together. Guests are welcome to
wear Hawaiian or St Louis Cardinals attire in his honor, but it is certainly not required. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made in memory of James “Les” Donaldson to Shriners Children’s Hospital (PO Box 947765 Atlanta, GA 30394) honoring his generous and caring spirit.