James Donal Alderson

James Donal Alderson, lovingly known as "Buck," passed away peacefully at home on July 18, 2025, surrounded by the deep love of his family under the care of St. Anthony's Hospice. He was 82 years old. Born on July 4, 1943, he was the first-born son of the late Bill and Lucille Alderson, which was a fitting birthdate for a man who lived with bold independence and unmistakable fire.

In his early years, Buck served as the foreman at the Hosiery Mill in Henderson, Kentucky. Later, he worked at UTA and Gibbs Die Casting also in Henderson. Known by co-workers as "Buck" or "Don," he built a reputation for his unwavering standards, tireless work ethic, and a disposition that could best be described as blunt. Though rough around the edges, those closest to him knew his bark was worse than his bite.

Don had a knack for working with his hands. He proudly referred to himself as a "jack of many, master of none," though most would argue he mastered plenty. There was little he couldn't accomplish with the right tool and a little time to think on it, unless, of course, it turned out to be a "Made in China Deals," which in his book meant it was hopelessly useless.

Retirement brought long, joy-filled summers in the Shawneetown bottoms, where Don spent countless hours fishing with his grandsons. Those outings were marked by laughter, stubborn lessons, and quiet wisdom passed down between baited hooks and tangled lines. When his grandchildren moved away, Don found renewed purpose as an associate at Tomblinson Funeral Home. With quiet dignity and sincere compassion, he took pride in parking cars for funeral processions, driving the funeral coach and family limousine, welcoming guests at the front door, and serving grieving families with tenderness and respect. His steady presence and servant's heart left a lasting impact on all who crossed his path.

Don's family takes great comfort in knowing he is now in the presence of the Lord. He committed his life to following the teachings of Jesus, whom he accepted as his personal Lord and Savior on December 12, 2010, at the age of 67. He publicly professed his faith through believer's baptism the following January. Together with his wife, Marie, Don faithfully read through the entire Bible 13 times.

To his beloved wife of 63 years, he was "Mr. D" ...her constant, her partner, her best friend. To his daughter, he was "Dad," the one who taught her the value of persistence and how to hold her ground. And to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he was "Papa," the man who could fix anything, catch anything, and say anything (sometimes all in the same breath).

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Nancy Dailey and Catherine Blake.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Carolyn Marie (Skaggs) Alderson; his daughter, Pamela Moyes (Brad); grandchildren, Scott Moyes (Blair), Nicole Moyes, and Heath Moyes (Taylor); and great-grandchildren, Reed, Oliver, Avery, Thea, Kimber, Morgan, and Everson. Also surviving is his sister, Jenny Clark, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members who loved him deeply.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 24, 2025, at Tomblinson Funeral Home Henderson Chapel with burial to follow in Corydon Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from Wednesday 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. and Thursday 9:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.

Pallbearers will be Scott Moyes, Nicole Moyes, Heath Moyes, Glen Cowin, Ron Cowin, Joe Bean and Gary Walker.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to St. Jude's Children's Hospital or St. Anthony's Hospice.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to St. Anthony's Hospice, with special appreciation to nurses Stephany Wright and Alyssa McGuire for the exceptional care and compassion they provided.

Don was one of a kind... rough, loyal, resourceful, and real. He lived life on his own terms and left behind a family made stronger by his steady hands, loud voice, and quiet love.