Donald C. Maggs

Donald C. Maggs, 58, of Union Township—formerly of Brookline—passed away suddenly on Saturday, May 24, 2025. Loving son of Rita (Wess) Smith and the late Donald J. Maggs; Cherished father of Chalcea Murray (Alex), Dominick Maggs, stepson Cody; dear brother to Lisa Hayes (James) and the late Scott Maggs (Dana); proud grandfather of Liam, Caleb (CJ), Jack and Marcus; adoring uncle to Katie and Nicholas Newhouse; treasured cousin and friend of many.

 Known to many as "Donny," he was the kind of man you always wanted on your team: loyal, dependable, and full of heart. He was respected by all who knew him and deeply loved by those fortunate enough to call him family or friend.

Born in Savannah, Georgia, Donald proudly called the South Side of Pittsburgh home. He graduated from the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics before beginning a distinguished military career that spanned 24 honorable years. He first served in the U.S. Army and later transferred to the U.S. Air Force, where he served as a Crew Chief on the C-130 aircraft. A proud combat veteran, Donald completed multiple tours in Iraq and Southwest Asia and retired with honor and pride.

His deep dedication to service left a lasting impression on those around him, especially his children. Inspired by their father’s courage, commitment, and sense of duty, Chalcea, Dominick & Cody proudly chose to follow in his footsteps, carrying forward his legacy of strength and service.

After his military service, Donald continued his commitment to service and leadership as a light rail transit supervisor for 10 years, helping keep Pittsburgh’s “T” system moving. He also ran his own contracting business and was never one to shy away from a project—especially around the home.

Donald had a boundless, golden heart and a smile that lit up every room. He was the guy who’d give you the shirt off his back without hesitation. Whether taking care of business, looking out for his crew, or lighting up a backyard gathering with laughter, Donny made sure everyone around him felt taken care of and had a good time.

Donny had a deep love for his camp, “A Walk in the Clouds,” where he found peace and joy in nature’s embrace. Some of his fondest memories were made in Tionesta—hunting, fishing, and swimming at the rock with the guys and their families. Those days were filled with laughter, stories, and the simple happiness of being together in a place he cherished so deeply.

More than anything, he was proudest of his family and his role as a father. His love for his children was unmatched, and his presence will be deeply missed.

Friends and loved ones are invited to remember Donald not with sorrow, but with laughter and love—the way he would have wanted, on Friday, May 30, 2025 from noon until the 2pm service at Ball Funeral Chapel, Inc., 600 Dunster St., Pittsburgh, PA 15226. 412-343-1506 or Ballfc.com

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