Donald Ray Stokes

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Donald Ray Stokes, who left us peacefully on May 20, 2026, at the age of 85. Born on September 21, 1940, in Portales, New Mexico, Donald was the beloved son of Raymond Fletcher Stokes and Aleen Eloise Stokes. His legacy is defined by the laughter, love, and unforgettable memories he created for those fortunate enough to know him. He was a gentle soul that loved people and brought many to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ our Savior throughout his life.

Donald is survived by his two sons, Derik Stokes (Kristen) of Houston, Texas, and Dustin Stokes (Courtney) of Spring, Texas. He cherished his role as a grandfather to four grandsons: Hunter Stokes of Austin, Texas, Austin Stokes of Kyle, Texas, Colton Stokes of Kingwood, Texas, and Jaxson Stokes of Spring, Texas, along with his granddaughter, Savannah Raab of Kingwood, Texas. In addition, he is mourned by his loving sisters: Peggy Usrey, Nadine McAfee, Carolyn Hayhurst (Don), and Barbara Harper (Gary), and a multitude of nieces and nephews who adored him.

A proud graduate of Portales High School, class of 1958, Donald served honorably in the New Mexico Army National Guard from 1964 to 1968. He devoted his life to the family farm, Stokes Farms, where he cultivated wheat, Milo, peanuts, corn, and raised commercial cattle. His industrious spirit led him to various vocations; he excelled as a mechanic, welder, HVAC technician, facility maintenance technician, real-estate appraiser, realtor, and even a semi-truck driver. Moreover, his contributions to the community were recognized through his involvement in several clubs, including as a Foundation Member of the Texas Boll Weevil Eradication and as a member of both the Sodbusters Classic Car Club and the Allsick Car Club in Portales, New Mexico.

Donald possessed an undeniable passion for classic cars, particularly his beloved 1955 Chevy. He spent countless hours working on vehicles alongside his sons and brother Howard, attending drag races and car shows that showcased his extensive knowledge of automobiles. His remarkable ability to identify cars by their year and model was a testament to the love he had for this craft.

Funeral services for Donald will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2025, at Eiland Cemetery in Arch, New Mexico, beginning at 10:00 AM. We invite family and friends to join us as we celebrate the life of a truly remarkable man who brought joy to all who knew him. His spirit will reside eternally in our hearts, and we will carry his love with us always.

Pallbearers will be Dustin Stokes, Derik Stokes, Hunter Stokes, Austin Stokes, Colton Stokes, Jaxson Stokes, Michael Bukovitz, and Nathan Bukovitz. Honorary Pallbearers will be Howard Stokes, Kirby Talley, Bob Stokes, Jerry Frank Stokes, Lance Hayhurst, Roy Lee Stokes, Mark Stokes, David Ohaver, "Bear" Floyd Tipton, Jerry Frank, and Jimmy Caywood.

As we gather to remember Donald, we find comfort in the countless stories, laughter, and love he shared throughout his life. May he rest in peace, knowing he was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.

Throughout his life, Donald openly shared his love of Christ, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, humility, and encouragement that will continue to inspire all of those who knew and loved him.