Donald L. Stire

Donald Lee Stire of Cadiz passed away peacefully on Sunday May 10, 2026 in the Gables Care Center. He was born May 11, 1935 in Shinnston, WV to the late Alexander and Ruth Alcinda Stire. Donald was preceded in death by his loving wife of 68 years Shirley Mae “Toby” Stire and his siblings Ray Webb, Alta Mae Hire, Mary Lou Martin, Alexander Gene Stire and his twin brother Ronald Leon Stire.

Growing up Don seemed destined to a career in mining. In high school he showed an aptitude in mechanics by developing a hydraulic arbor press while attending Shinnston Vocational School. It was entered into a national contest put on by the Ford Motor Company. Don was awarded second place in the Nationals among over 5,000 entries from 48 states. Out of high school he would serve in the US Navy where he received training as an electrician. He and his wife Shirley were married August 3rd, 1955. Don began work as an electrician for Fairmont Machinery in 1956 and while working for Industrial Engineering he arrived in Hopedale in 1958 to assist in the installation of a rotary dump system for a new mining operation called Y&O Coal. In 1960, Don accepted a permanent job as an electrician with Y&O and moved to Ohio permanently. Though the mines changed owners many times, he remained there until his retirement in 2018 at the age of 83 after over 55 years working underground. He is remembered as a skilled coworker with a strong work ethic and a witty sense of humor.

In addition to mining Donald would also serve concurrently for over 17 years in local ministry. He and his wife Shirley were youth pastors at Jewett United Methodist Church from 1969 to 1973. He then moved on to the ministry of pastor, first with the eight churches of Asbury United Methodist Parish (1973-1979) and then with New Rumley United Methodist Church (1979-1990). Don's life and ministry left a resounding impact upon many. He cherished being part of these congregations.

While it is true that working, ministry and his family were his biggest hobbies, he did enjoy an occasional fishing excursion, shooting guns and rooting for the Mountaineers. From all your family and friends, thank you for inspiring us with your kindness, teaching us resolve with your work ethic, encouraging us to give with your generosity and bringing us joy with your humor. To quote Billy Graham, “The greatest legacy you can leave to your heirs is not found in money or other material things but rather a legacy of character and faith.”

Donald is survived by his three children Sherri (Pat) Sliva , Donna Mattern and David (Carrie) Stire. Grandchildren Amber Rusciano, Kristy (John) Visser, Brittany (Bryan) Esarey, Bethany Passmore, Matt Guthrie, Benjamin Stire and Claire (Jeff) Woodruff. Great grandchildren Roderick Cowans, Isaiah Cowans, Jakob Cowans, Emma Rusciano, Toby Rusciano, Peyton Visser, JB Visser, Bryson Mattern, Caydence DeGarmo, Adelynn DeGarmo, Bryan Esarey, Cobe Passmore, Cameron Passmore, Presley Guthrie, Owen Guthrie and two great great grandchildren Raya Cowans and Ni’Zaiah Cowans with two more on the way.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday May 19, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Clark-Kirkland-Barr Funeral Home, Cadiz, Ohio. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at New Rumley Global Methodist Church, 41395 Scio New Rumley Road, Scio, Ohio (New Rumley) with Rev. Mick Foster officiating. Burial will follow in Rumley Township Methodist Cemetery.

While flowers are appreciated you can also make a donation to the New Rumley Global Methodist Church.

The memorial guestbook may be signed at www.clark-kirkland-barr.com.