Donald Jamar Hales

In his early years, Donald always had a deep passion for cooking which showed early in his youth as he stood side by side with his mother and grandmother helping them cook and prepare dinner for his siblings.  He was an active child who loved playing sports, rather playing football at school, in his backyard, or playing baseball and basketball at the YMCA. He loved collecting shoes and Hats to match his clothes. Donnie was extraordinary, full of life, laughter, and a radiant spirit that effortlessly brightened every room he walked into. His kind heart, playful energy, and deep love for his family were evident from the start, leaving warm memories that everyone around him will cherish forever.

Donnie attended Withrow High School then later attended Cincinnati State where he received a Certificate in Culinary Arts in 2011, then later graduated in 2013 where he received an Associate of Applied Business Degree in culinary Arts Technology.

Donnie was employed at Hamilton County Community Action Agency (CCAA) where he was a Food Service Coordinator. He was also employed at Kroger. Donnie met many lifelong friends along the way like Celeste Small whom he shared an immediate bond with in which he considered her his Big Sis. He was always eager to feed someone and was very compassionate about how he represented his food. He always welcomes feedback on how his food tasted.

Above all else Donnie’s greatest joy was his three children Jamier, Destiny, and Don’Najah Hales, and his grandson Kayden Hales. They meant the world to him and he took immense pride in watching them grow into the accomplished young adults they are today.  Whether offering words of encouragement, sharing wise advice, or just simply sitting down to talk for hours.  Donnie was there for his kids. Surrounding them with endless love, unwavering support, and devotion that will stay with them forever.

Donnie had an extreme love, respect, and admiration for his mother Elaine Hales. He cared deeply about her well being. He did whatever to ensure she was completely taken care of. He shared a great relationship with his brother Ben Bess and Brandon Hales. Special Brothers/cousins; Gary Gibson and David Gibson.

Donnie met his wife, Yolanda Smith in 2007 and remained her sole companion until the very end. She was the love of his life, and their unwavering partnership was a true testament to loyalty, friendship, and enduring love.

He is preceded in death by his sister, Andrea Hales, grandmother Annie Hales, grandfather Elie Hales, uncles: Vernon Smiley, Frankie Smiley, Ellis Hales, Gary Gibson Sr., and stepdaughter Jayla Gazaway.

Donnie leaves to cherish his special memories: his devoted wife Yolanda Smith, his mother, Elaine Hales, his three children; Jamier, Destiny, and Don’Najah Hales, step-sons; Justin Smith and Javonte Gazaway, his only grandson, Kayden Hales, his favorite aunt Missy (Margaret) Hales, nieces; Breasia Bess and Brielle Bess, great nephew, Khalil Green (Light bright) special sisters/cousin: Candis, Shonda, Shenika, Keisha, and Erica Gibson, cousins: Ricardo and Rickia Cooper, Uncles Ricky and Eric Hales, and a host of friends.

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