Don Isbell

He was the eldest son of Rev. Paul Penick and Margaret (Roper) Isbell and was a former resident of this area.
Born in Obion County, he farmed here for more than 30 years, and was also employed for 10 years with ABF Freight of Jackson. Aside from a short stint in Texas, his education was mostly spent in West Tennessee schools, including Northside High in Jackson, where he met and married his sweetheart, the former Patricia Osborne of Huntersville.
Their 58-year marriage birthed four children. These children and their spouses include Connie S. and Danny Stone of Robards, Ky., Randy D. and Lynn Isbell of Jackson, Crystie F. and Ray Gaskey of Marietta, Ga., and Don Gene Isbell Jr. of Jackson; four grandchildren and the spouse of one, Crystal L. Stone, Chad W. and Dianna Stone, Ashlynn P. Isbell and Aydon P. Isbell; and two great-grandchildren, Avery Stone and Elise Stone.
Mr. Isbell was of the Christian faith, serving as a deacon and primary Sunday school teacher for several years. His life reflected his belief in integrity and good will. In his youth, he enjoyed sports of basketball, baseball and football. As a father, he left happy memories of fishing trips to Reelfoot Lake and many other personal endeavors with the family.
He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Ted Roper Isbell and Jerry Paul Isbell.
He is also survived by two sisters and his brother-in-law, Margaret Jeanette Roach of Memphis and Debra and Kenny Ferrell of Danville, Va., in addition to many nephews and nieces.
Arrington Funeral Directors at 148 West University Pkwy. in Jackson was in charge of arrangements.