Donald E. Nourse, 81, of Lucasville, passed away on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the SOMC Hospice Center. He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald H. and Thelma Nourse; a son, Scott Nourse; and a sister, Gerry Wilson.
Don is survived by his wife, Gerri, whom he married in 1972; two sons, Matt (Laura) of Lucasville and Chris (Kerry) of Gallipolis; and the joy of his life, his grandchildren, Grace, Owen, Riley, and Landon. He is also survived by a sister, Tammy Nourse; a brother-in-law, Bob Wilson; a sister-in-law, Debbie Pennington; and many nieces and nephews.
He retired with 35 years of experience from teaching elementary students in 2001. He was an assistant basketball coach at Portsmouth High School, a Little League coach, a Junior High basketball coach at Valley, and head soccer coach at Valley High School. He was also a football and basketball referee and baseball umpire. Carrying on his family’s tradition, he was also a brick and block mason whose work still stands throughout the community – with the help of many of his “apprentices.”
Don was a 1962 graduate of Minford High School, earned an elementary teaching degree from Ohio University, and obtained a Master’s Degree from Marshall University. He was a charter member of the Kiwanis Circle K at Ohio University-Portsmouth and he served as a Cub Scout Leader. A very active member of All Saints Episcopal Church, he was a choir member, vestry member, and helped serve meals (Loaves & Fishes) for community dinners.
Above all, Don was known for his good deeds, great humor, and unconditional love of others. He never met a stranger and left everyone he encountered with a smile, good laugh, or an encouraging word. He lived life to the fullest and made the world a better place.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11 A.M. on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at All Saints Episcopal Church with Rev. Gene Hallahan officiating. Inurnment will be in the St. Thomas Columbarium at the church.
The family will receive friends on Friday from 5 to 8 P.M. at All Saints Church and one hour prior to services at the church on Saturday. Arrangements are under the direction of the Ralph F. Scott Funeral Home in Portsmouth.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to the All Saints Memorial Fund, 610-4th St. Portsmouth, OH 45662 and SOMC Hospice, 2201-25th St., Portsmouth, OH 45662.
