Donald Vance Chamblee Jr.

Our Heavenly Father welcomed our beloved Donald “Don” Chamblee Jr. into His eternal kingdom on Thursday, November 13, 2025, when he passed unexpectedly while on a work trip in New Albany, Ohio.

Donald Vance Chamblee, Jr. was born on March 12, 1966, in Charlotte, North Carolina, to Dr. Donald Sr. and Barbara Pickett Chamblee. He was welcomed as the youngest child by his three sisters—Karen, Diane, and Laura. After graduating from Myers Park High School, Don attended North Carolina State University, where he earned his degree in Civil Engineering with a construction concentration. During his time at NC State, he built his parents’ dream beach home at North Litchfield Beach, SC. This home reflects both his skill and his generous heart.

Don began an accomplished career after graduating in 1988. He served as an Office Engineer at Kissinger Campo & Associates, Corp. from March 1996 to December 1997. In January 1998, he became the Public Works Operations Manager for Lee County, a role he held until 2007. During his time in Lee County, Don met the love of his life, Dawn, and together they welcomed their first three children: Russell, Jade, and Norah.

The Chamblee family later moved to Anderson, SC, where Don served as the Public Works Director until July 2010. It was there that their family was completed with the birth of their fourth child, Stella. Don went on to serve as the Deputy Public Works Director–County Engineer for Richland County until April 2012, before returning to his home state of North Carolina, where the family has lived ever since. While in Denver, NC, Don served as Public Works Director for Lincoln County until August 2021. He then became the Utilities Director for the City of Rock Hill, SC, serving until April 2024, before beginning his most recent role as Senior Project Manager at CTL Engineering, Inc. in July 2024.

Don was the quintessential family man. He made it a priority to be at every swim meet, dance recital, celebration, or milestone. His dedication and love shaped the lives of his children in ways that will never fade. North Litchfield Beach held a special place in Don’s heart as he spent his favorite holidays, sunrises, and sunsets with the people he loved most. To his friends, coworkers, and even those meeting him for the first time, Don was a steady, warm, and uplifting presence. His kindness, humility, and gentle spirit touched everyone who knew him.

Don is survived by his loving wife, Dawn McGary Chamblee, and their four cherished children: Russell Vance, Jade Catherine, Norah Dawn, and Stella Patrice. He is also survived by his father, Dr. Donald Vance Chamblee, and his sisters Karen Altenpohl (Bill), Diane Gohsman, and Laura Chamblee (Tom), along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

 He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Barbara Pickett Chamblee.

The family will receive friends and family at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 25th, 2025, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church. The Family requests everyone be seated by 3:45 p.m. for eulogies to begin, prior to the Funeral Mass at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 537 N NC16 Business Hwy, Denver, NC 28037.

A gathering for food and fellowship will immediately follow at the Rescue Squad Park Pavilion, 7819 Galway Lane, Denver, NC 28037 — a special place to the Chamblee family, as Don helped design the pavilion while serving as the Public Works Director for Lincoln County.

Flowers may be delivered to Holy Spirit Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association in Don’s memory.