We remember brother. We remember.

Today is Monday, June 18, 2012. One year ago we were at the bedside of my brother as he breathed his last breath. It was my special privilege to officiate at his memorial service. In his honor, I reprint his obituary and ask that prayers be offered up on behalf of our mom, Donald's children and their families, and the rest of our clan.

Donald Richard Abbott, 62, United States Marine Corps, retired, of Webster, Texas, was born  on Friday, September 3, 1948 in Many. He passed away after a lengthy illness at his residence on Saturday, June 18, 2011. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, June 22, 2011, at the Hixson Funeral Home Chapel, Leesville, with burial to follow at Beckom Cemetery, Hornbeck. A viewing is planned for one hour prior to the service.

After graduation from high school in Hornbeck, Donald proudly served his country as a United States Marine and retired as a sergeant first class after 20 years of distinguished service. After retirement he held a number of positions in education as well as in the transportation industry. Donald was predeceased by his dad, Cecil Abbott; all grandparents; one brother, Jimmy Don Abbott; and one sister, Kayla Jean Moore. Donald is survived by those left to cherish his memory: Dotty Hunt, Webster, Texas, his companion and care giver; his mother and dad, Lena and Jose Chavez of Hornbeck; his sons, Donald Abbott Jr. (wife Blanca), of Yuma, Ariz., Phillip Abbott, (fiancee, Rennie), of Houston, Texas; daughters Deanna Velez, (husband, Rick), of San Diego, Calif., Jolena Abbott, (boyfriend, Michael), of League City, Texas; sisters, Frances Jones, Hornbeck; JoAnn Abbott, Plano, Texas, Miriam Kay, (husband, Tommy), Leesville; brothers, Al Abbott, (wife, Marilyn), Spring, Texas, Victor Chavez, (wife, Maria), Bellaire, Texas, Richard Chavez, (wife, Stephanie), DeRidder; seven grandchildren; one great grandson; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Donald's nephews and other family members. The family wishes to express appreciation to all those who contributed to Donald's care during his extended illness, and for the prayers and support from so many friends and loved ones. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice, perhaps a Veteran's support charity would be an appropriate tribute.

Published in the Leesville Daily Leader on June 20, 2011