Don E. Whitesides, age 84, of Gainesville, FL died at his home on Monday, November 19, 2018. Don was a 15+ year resident of Gainesville, coming from his native Columbia, MO. Don was born on August 10, 1934, to the late Nelson Whitesides (Pete Mcbaine) & Lorene (Barnes) Whitesides . As a youth, Don received his education in MO, and became a General Contractor and specialized in building homes. When Don retired and moved to Gainesville, he worked for the University of Florida in the building maintenance department, doing building repairs painting, and renovations. Don was a Christian by faith. He was preceded in death by his parents. Don is lovingly survived by his wife of 15 years, Shirley S. Whitesides, of Gainesville, (three sons) Sthephen Whitesides of MO, Darly Whitesides of MO, Bruce Whitesides son, Brian Demps of MD. and daughter, Mesha Demps, of Jacksonville, FL. Granddaughters; Sydnie Demps of MD, and Lauren Mack of Jacksonville, FL. Dons Siblings also are surviving, Maryanne Murray of MO, Joyce Tekotte of MO, and Jerry Whitesides of MO. Don’s final care is entrusted to Forest Meadows Funeral Home, 725 NW 23rd Ave. Gainesville, FL 32609. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations maybe made to the American Heart Association / American Stroke Association PO BOX 841125 Dallas, TX 75284-1125.
