Resident Spotlight

If you sit down with Don Orton at Legacy Village of Jacksonville, you’ll soon find yourself drawn into stories that stretch from the baseball fields of Mississippi to the classrooms and school halls of Alabama—each chapter marked by dedication, kindness, and a steadfast love for his family.

Don was born on February 27, 1936, in Addison, Alabama, to Kate and Pearce Orton. As the middle child between his older brother Glenn and younger brother Denzel, Don learned early on how to find his place, whether on the playground or around the family table.

After graduating from Glenn High School in Birmingham in 1954, Don took his talents to Northeast Mississippi Community College, where he played first base on a partial baseball scholarship. His time there brought another stroke of good fortune: meeting Shirley, who would become his partner in life and adventure. The two married and raised two daughters, Janice and Sherry, building a legacy of love and support that continues today.

Don earned both his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Industrial Technology from Mississippi State University, and later completed a graduate degree at the University of Alabama. But before he could put those degrees to use, duty called. In 1959, Don was drafted into the Army. He began with basic training at Fort Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina, moved on to infantry training at Fort Gordon in Augusta, Georgia, and then completed advanced infantry training at Fort Benning in Columbus, Georgia. Don served in the United States Army for four years, building on the discipline and leadership that would serve him throughout his life.

Returning home in 1964, Don began his professional life at U.S. Steel in Birmingham, working in the Safety Department. His attention to detail and commitment soon led to a teaching opportunity in Mechanical Drawing—a pivotal moment that sparked his passion for education. Inspired, Don pursued further studies at the University of Alabama, earning his graduate degree and setting out on a new path.

For over a decade, Don taught at West End, guiding students with patience and a steady hand. He later became Principal at Fairview Middle School, where he served for twenty years. Don’s leadership left a lasting impact on countless students, teachers, and families, shaping a school community that still remembers him fondly.

In 2003, Don and Shirley made the move to Jacksonville to be closer to their daughters—a decision rooted in the same family-first mindset that’s guided Don throughout his life.



Now, as a valued member of Legacy Village of Jacksonville, Don’s warmth and wisdom enrich our community every day. Whether he’s sharing a story from his baseball days, reminiscing about his years in the classroom, or simply enjoying time with friends and family, Don Orton’s life reminds us all of the power of dedication, love, and lifelong learning.