Donnie Richard Love's Obituary
Donnie Richard Love, 77, of Stanfield, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, August 23, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. A private family gathering to honor his life will be held at a later date.
Born on January 11, 1948, in Stanly County, Donnie was the son of the late Richard C. Love and Atha Fink Love. He spent his career with Southern Mechanical Services and retired after years of hard work and dedication.
Donnie shared his life with his devoted wife, Ruby Pickler Love, and together they built a home filled with love, care, and countless cherished memories. A man of many talents, Donnie was known for his love of hunting and fishing, his passion for drag racing, and his incredible ability to fix just about anything. His family remembers him as loyal and dependable—a man who always kept his word. He loved going to races with his stepchildren and often reminded his family that they could accomplish anything they set their minds to.
Donnie’s legacy of love, strength, and determination lives on through his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Ruby; two children, Lisa Simpson (Kenny) of Monroe and Michael Love of Kannapolis; four stepchildren, Savannah Burris of Albemarle, Darrin Pankey of Albemarle, Tammy Pankey of Albemarle, and Johnny Pankey (Sandy) of Monroe; and three brothers, Ronnie Love of Salisbury, Clifford Love of Stanfield, and Rick Love of Albemarle.
He was a proud grandfather to thirteen grandchildren: Jessica Haigler, Matthew Simpson, Coleton Simpson, Johnny Adams, Jaimie Adams, Heather Chastain, Dakota Wade, McKinsie Fesperman, Hunter Fesperman, Trevor Pankey, Sarah Pankey, Miranda Pankey, and Dylan Love; and a loving great-grandfather to twenty great-grandchildren who brought him endless joy.
Donnie will be deeply missed by his family and friends, but his memory will continue to inspire those who knew and loved him.
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