Donald "Don" R. Stamper, age 66, Unicoi, passed away quietly at his residence on Wednesday, October 16, 2019 after a lengthy illness. He was a lifelong resident of Unicoi County and a son of the late Willard Gaither Stamper and Jessie Lucille Harris Stamper. Don was a United States Army Veteran. He was awarded a National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal and Marksman Badge M-16. Don served his country for three years, including a tour in Germany. He was an Aviation and Wheel Vehicle Mechanic and earned the rank of Sergeant before his discharge. All Veterans are special and Don was a special Veteran. He served his country honorably, his family and his community as a long time, hard working small business owner. Don owned and operated C & S Floor Sweep for over forty years. He also owned and operated Creekside Mulch and More. He was of the Christian Faith. Don was an active member of the Erwin Elks Club BPOE 1985. Don was a devoted father, brother, son, uncle, grandfather, neighbor and friend to many. He looked out for people less fortunate. He was tough and gruff but had a heart of gold who would give someone the shirt off his back if they needed it. Don Stamper's laugh was infectious and one of a kind. He had a gift for telling tales that would make everyone else laugh along with him. Don adored his mom Lucille and his beloved wife Connie, who both left this world too early and he felt the pain of their loss. He hosted many a gathering of family and friends and was even known to show up in green tights as the grumpy Christmas Elf to help Santa distribute gifts to his grandchildren and his mom. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Connie Bennett Stamper on February 8, 2011 and one sister, Madelyn Cleveland. He leaves behind to cherish his memory, one daughter, Shannon Stamper, Chattanooga; three brothers: Kyle Stamper, Auburn, CA, twin brother, Tom Stamper, High Point, NC and Johnny Stamper, Indianapolis, IN; two sisters: Brenda Tinker (Bud), Erwin and Peggy Bradley (Rick), Isle of Palm, SC; three grandchildren: Sergeant Don Tyler Neblett, Shiana Neblett and Abigail Neblett; mother-in-law, Wanda Webb; several nieces and nephews also survive. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Stara Brackins for the love and care she gave Don over the past few years. The family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 P.M. on Sunday, October 20, 2019 at the Unicoi Funeral Home Chapel. Pastor Todd McLaughlin will officiate at 7:00 P.M. service. Committal will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Monday in the Evergreen Cemetery. Military Honors will be rendered. Pallbearers will be Rick Bradley, Boo Ambrose, Carl Jones, David Rogers, Roger Harris, Ralph Marlowe and Craig Masters. Honorary pallbearers will be Mike Padgett, Daniel “Big Daddy” Bailey and Spud Sears. Everyone is asked to meet at the Unicoi Funeral Home by 10:30 A.M. on Monday to go in procession to the cemetery. Flowers will be accepted however the family would like to request that those wishing make memorial contributions to: Erwin Elks Club BPOE, Children's Christmas Shopping Fund, 401 Elks Club Road, Erwin, TN 37650. Don enjoyed participating in this event over the years. Rest gently Don, you earned it and enjoy your reunion with Connie. Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the Stamper family through our complimentary, interactive Book of Memories at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com Unicoi Funeral Home, 4428 Unicoi Drive, Unicoi is privileged to serve the Stamper family. (423) 743-1380.