09/10/2025
Donnie Draper
December 22, 1948 — September 9, 2025
Donnie Draper, 76, of Colquitt passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 8, 2025. A lifelong resident of Colquitt, Donnie was born and raised in the community he loved.
Family was always at the center of Donnie’s world. He is survived by his three children, Jody Hodges and husband David Hodges of Patmos, Brandon Draper of Colquitt, and Samantha “Sam” Ard and husband Steve Ard of Colquitt. He was the proud grandfather of five – Kiley Harden, Chloe Ard, Jaden Hodges, Sophie Ard, and grandson Hank Harden, who lived with him and was a valued caregiver to his Grandpa. He is also survived by his sister, Rita Hendrix and husband James Hendrix of Cairo.
Donnie was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 35 years, Jakie L. Draper. He was a devoted and passionate caregiver, remaining faithfully by her side throughout her battle with cancer. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Willie and Jesse Mae Draper, and two sisters, Jennifer Mock and Wanda Jean Whitaker.
Known as a gifted storyteller, Donnie could spin a tale that would leave friends and family laughing for hours. He was such a character himself that nearly everyone who knew him has their own “Donnie story.” Quick-witted and lighthearted, he often laughed hardest at his own jokes and stories. He had a way of making every gathering brighter.
Donnie was also a man of many talents, and his craftsmanship as a woodworker was admired by all. He enjoyed a good game of poker and pool evenings, competing in pool tournaments in Las Vegas. By trade, Donnie was an electrician and the owner of Draper Electronics on the square for many years, and later retired from Georgia Pacific. He and Jakie were active members of Jaycee’s Georgia Chapter of the US Jr. Chamber. Few people know that Donnie once turned down a job offer from NASA, choosing instead the simple joys of small-town life in Colquitt so his family could grow up close to one another and their community.
He had a deep love of the outdoors. Some of his happiest times were spent camping with his family and hunting or casting a line while fishing with his buddies – pastimes that gave him peace, adventure, and countless stories to share.
Those who knew Donnie will remember his devotion to family, his deep roots in Colquitt, and his remarkable ability to turn everyday moments into lasting memories. Donnie often said he believed we are all energy, and that energy never dies – it only changes form. He was right, because a small piece of him now lives on in each of us, carried forward in our hearts, our laughter, and stories.
Visitation will be at Colquitt Funeral Home on Friday, September 12, from 1:00-2:00, with a memorial service immediately following. Honorary Pallbearers are: Dan Scott, Brandon Draper, Hank Harden, David Hodges, and Steve Ard.
