Don Edward Stevenson

Don Edward Stevenson, 87years, of Apopka Florida, joined his beloved ancestors on February 3rd, 2026. Suzanne Kidd, his loving wife of 44 years, and best friend, was right there by his side.

"Donnie", as he was affectionately known, was born in Saginaw Michigan October 13, 1938 to Roy and Aarah Stevenson. The youngest of eight children, he was predeceased by his sisters Toledo, Marion, Martina, Lovie, and Verna and his brothers Roy Jr and Cole Young.

In 1965 Don earned his Bachelor's Degree in History along with his Teaching Certification from Central State University in Ohio and began his 35 year teaching career in Detroit Public Schools. He shared his lifelong love of History with several thousands of his students as he taught Government, Economics, World and American History, and Social Studies. He earned his Master's of Education Degree in 1969.

Don was a master teacher, beloved by students, fellow staff, and parents alike. He further endeared himself to his school when, through tremendous personal effort, he convinced the U.S. Navy to install their Naval ROTC program at his high school, opening up pathways for inner city kids to qualify for the Naval Academy in Annapolis Maryland.

Having been a standout in Track during high school as a hurdler, Don gravitated naturally to coaching his school's Cross Country program. Through innovative training methods he developed, dedication, and ingenuity, Don built teams of committed and loyal runners who, under his coaching leadership, captured several State Championships, and the admiration of many of Detroit's other high school track coaches.

But in addition to teaching and coaching, Don possessed impressive artistic talents which he applied to building furniture, faux finishing, helping construct two homes, and building numerous large model ships of showcase quality.

Don's dedication to family, loving ways, wit and humor, and lifelong love of learning have left a deep and lasting imprint on all who knew him. He is lovingly remembered and cherished by his wife Suzanne, son Christian, daughter Victoria and her husband Willie Jiles, grandchildren Christian Donovan and Morgan Stevenson, and Kameron Jiles.

A gathering to celebrate Don's impactful life will be held later this year.

Lastly, Don's favorite quote, attributed to U.S. Navy Admiral William F. Halsey, was a personal guidepost for him. It says, "There are no great men. There are only great challenges which ordinary men are forced by circumstances to meet." It echoes Don's humble nature but misses the reality we all saw.....that Don E. Stevenson was indeed a Great Man!!