Donald Lee Tinsley

Donald Lee Tinsley, age 79, of Asheville, NC, passed away on Monday, November 22, 2021, at Mission Hospital.

Donald was born on June 18, 1942, in Transylvania County to the late John Tinsley and Ruth Bates Tinsley. He worked for the Gerber Baby Food Company, and he retired when they closed their factory in Asheville.

He was a very funny guy who loved to talk and tell stories. He was one who you could say “never met a stranger”. His family says he was the most wonderful father and grandfather and a very caring man who would give you the shirt off his back. Donald will be missed dearly.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Smith Tinsley; and two sons, Kevin and Chris Tinsley.

Those left behind to cherish his memory are his daughter, Kelli Tinsley of Asheville; two brothers, Rick Tinsley of Asheville, and Doug (June) Tinsley of Edneyville, NC; two sisters, Mandy Bates of Fairview, and Cathy Tinsley of Asheville; a granddaughter, Sara Ballew of Arden; a niece, Lisa Ballew of Canton; and his favorite furry feline friend, “Ollie Boy”.

A Graveside service will be held on Friday, November 26, 2021, at 1:00 PM at Green Hills Cemetery, 25 New Leicester Hwy, Asheville, NC with Chaplain Garry Rogers officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Senior Opportunity Community Center, 36 Grove Street, Asheville, NC 28801.

Condolences may be left at: www.penlandfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Penland Family Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements.

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