James Donald "Don" McFalls, age 87, of Stem, NC, peacefully passed away at his home, surrounded by his family, on Sunday, July 13, 2025. Born on March 26, 1938, in Yancey County, NC, Don was the beloved son of the late Jeter Grayson McFalls and Effie Maude Autry McFalls. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Hazel McFalls and Mary Francis "Ann" McFalls; brothers, William "Wren" McFalls and Paul "Ray" McFalls; and his son, Timothy Donald "Tim" McFalls.
Don's life was richly blessed. He was a devoted and loving husband, father, Papa, brother, and friend. He shared 66 beautiful years of marriage with the love of his life, his "Honey," Barbara Ann Weaver McFalls. Together, they built a life rooted in strong family values, enduring love, and long-lasting bonds.
A man of Baptist faith, Don found comfort and joy in faithfully watching the late Rev. Jimmy Swaggart and his son, Donny, every Sunday. Professionally, he was a respected and hardworking logger who proudly co-owned McFalls Brothers Logging with his best friend and brother, Ray, dedicating many years to the family business.
He is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Barbara; his sister, Linda Self (Sonny); his brother, Tony "Tom" McFalls (Betsy); his daughters, Donna Englebright (Larry), Jodi Hanes, Jan Bowles and Terry Bullock (David); and his sons, Dennis McFalls (Grace) and Kenneth McFalls (Diane).
Though Terry was his niece by blood, Don loved her as his own. Their bond was that of a father and daughter, forever holding a special place in each other's hearts.
Don was a proud grandfather to Alex McFalls, Jennifer Nadeau (Mike), Stacy Outland (Chris), Connor McFalls (Caitlyn), Tiffany McFalls, Brandy Elliott, Amber Sarver, Josh Rochelle, Miles Hanes (Jess), and Lee Bowles (Jessie). He was also blessed with numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will continue to carry his memory in their hearts.
Don was larger than life in every way. He was the kind of man who made everyone feel welcome—always treating others with kindness, respect, and a gentle spirit. Though he could rule with an iron fist, he was truly a softy at heart. He never had a harsh word to say about anyone and was always thinking of others first. Fiercely devoted to his family, he took great joy in every visit, every story shared, and every meal eaten together.
He loved the simple things—sitting on the front porch with his precious dog, Penny Pincher, catching up with neighbors or keeping a close eye on who was coming and going. He enjoyed family trips to the mountains, his weekly catfish plate from TJ's, and biscuits and gravy from McDonald's. His favorite TV lineup included WWE (three nights a week, without fail), Westerns, The Price Is Right, Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy!, and the evening news—especially the weather.
He had a sharp mind that never dulled and a quiet wit that could catch you off guard. And though he was more of a teddy bear than a showman, let it be known that he once wrestled a real bear at a fair—and told the story proudly for the rest of his days.
He wasn't much for grand gestures, but he made sure everyone knew they mattered. He was the family's faithful "keeper of time," always making sure everyone stayed on track. And if you left his house, you could count on him to say: "Call when you get home."
Don loved deeply, lived humbly, and always put others first. His presence brought comfort, his stories brought joy, and his words—often mispronounced in the most endearing way— never failed to bring a chuckle. He had his own unique vocabulary that his family came to know and love. His memory will forever be cherished, and the love, wisdom, and gentle strength he so generously gave will live on through those who knew him best.

A funeral service will be held Thursday, July 17, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Sossamon Funeral Home in Oxford, conducted by Rev. Gideon "Jack" Sanders. Interment will immediately follow at Meadowview Memorial Park.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, from 1:00–2:00 p.m. at the funeral home. At all other times, they will meet at the home of Mr. McFalls.
Flowers may be accepted by the family.
Serving as pallbearers will be Lee Bowles, David Bullock, Miles Hanes, Alex McFalls, Connor McFalls, Mike Nadeau, and Chris Outland.

Arrangments are by Sossamon Funeral Home of Oxford. Online condolences may be made at www.sossamonfuneralhome.com.