Dondia Ray LeNoir Sr.'s Obituary
Dondia Ray LeNoir Sr. passed away on February 18, 2026, in his home in Tacoma, WA. He was born on February 23, 1962, to the late Jimmy Melvin Grady and the late Willie Bell LeNoir in Homerville, Georgia. As a young man, Donnie enjoyed running, taekwondo, jumping on the trampoline, and playing cards or chess. Although he lived in Florida, that did not stop him from becoming a lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan at an early age.
Donnie attended Columbia County public schools in Lake City, Florida, graduating in 1980 from Columbia Sr. High School. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, which brought him great pride in serving his country and allowed him to travel around the world, something he truly enjoyed. Donnie was stationed in Kentucky, Georgia, Greece, and Fort Lewis, WA. Following his PCS, he continued to serve in the Army Reserve until he was later discharged due to medical issues.
In June of 1985, Donnie and Twanda were married, combining their families into one, including their children, Dariole and Teneka. This union brought along two additional children, Dondia and Deme.
Following his discharge from the military, Donnie worked a multitude of careers. He, most notably, enjoyed his years as a warehouse supervisor at the Safeway distribution center in Auburn, WA, and his work at the United States Postal Service. Later in life, he also completed some college at the University of Phoenix.
Donnie's faith in God was his daily bread. He was baptized at Grace Chapel on North Fort Lewis, WA. He attended Grace Chapel for many years and was an active member in the Grace Men of the Chapel, as well as the Grace Male Chorus. In 2024, Donnie and Twanda found a loving faith community in Light of the Hill United Methodist Church. In 2026, Donnie and Twanda formally joined the United Methodist Church under their pastor, Austin Adkinson. Although a quiet man, Donnie enjoyed being a witness for God and always helping others. One of his passions was paying it forward to others in need with whatever he had to give. From OBB (Operation Bobbie’s Blessings), his family’s outreach ministry, to offering a listening ear to his family and friends, to praying over community members. Donnie kept his love for God at the forefront of his life’s journey.
As an adult, he enjoyed traveling and bringing his family together. Whether on road trips to Seaside, OR, or to Florida and Georgia. Donnie loved the open road. Most importantly, he loved taking his family on magical trips to Disneyland every chance he could. Donnie loved his family with his whole heart, especially being “Papa” to his grandchildren.
Donnie leaves to cherish his memory his wife of forty years, Twanda; four children, Dariole, Teneka, Dondia (Jasmyn), and Deme; and his grandchildren, Anayia, Khalil, Violet, Keyani, Joshua, Aviana and Taejah. A bonus daughter, Tammy (Josh). Two bonus grandchildren, Elijah and Amaya. He leaves behind his godchildren: Leandra Scott, Nicole Laguerre, Julian Chambers, Dalton Owens, and Marcus Scott. He also leaves behind his sisters: Helen Grady, Andreal Richardson (John), Sabrina King Taylor, Rosa Renee Owens, and Stayce Chambers (Rodney); and his brothers: Reginald Stewart (Elise), Darius Grady (Patricia), Lloyd King Jr., and Anthony King Duhart (Rita). He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Hattie Watson, two uncles, John Grady (Chris) and Enrique Aboites; two aunts, Louise LeNoir and Carolyn “Red” Grady; several loving cousins;
devoted nieces and nephews; and many dear friends.
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