Donald James Breeding

Donald James Breeding, dedicated and loving husband, father, Donsir, mentor, and friend died on January 27, 2023, at the age of 88, surrounded by family. Graveside services with Military Honors by the Air Force Honor Guard will take place at 10:00 am, Tuesday, January 31, 2023, at Vaughan Cemetery, Vaughan, Texas.

Don was born January 15, 1935, in Pampa, Texas to Juanita and Tom Breeding. He had two older siblings, Edwin and Helen. The family moved to Aquilla, Texas in 1936. Don graduated from Aquilla High School. He had a fondness for his community, Aquilla Methodist Church, and for the wonderful teachers and excellent education provided by the Aquilla ISD.

From an early age, Don was fascinated with flight. He enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1954 and became a pilot. He married Julia (Judy) Beth Halford, his high school sweetheart, soul mate, and love of his life in June of 1957. They moved to Savannah, Georgia where Don flew for the Strategic Air Command for a number of years, eventually achieving the rank of Captain. Don and Judy returned to Texas where he graduated from The University of Texas in 1962.

Don began working in the airline industry with Texas International Airlines. He enjoyed a long and rewarding career with Continental Airlines, becoming an officer, and eventually retired in 1997 as President and CEO of Continental Micronesia in Guam. While living in Guam, Don and Judy met many lifelong friends and travelled extensively throughout Asia. Upon retirement, Don served on a number of non-profit and corporate boards.

Throughout his life, Don and Judy loved spending time and travelling with their friends, children, and grandchildren and had the opportunity to explore many exotic places and cultures.

Don is survived by his wife of 65 years, Julia Halford Breeding; his loyal companion Piper; his children Laurie (Larry) Oglesby, Amy Breeding, Jeff (Lauri) Breeding; nine grandchildren: Kelsey Oglesby, Meagan Oglesby, Taylor (Zach) Druce, Jake Oglesby, Payton Breeding, Katie Burrer, Sara Beth Breeding, Ashley Breeding, and Samantha Breeding; one great granddaughter, Julia Druce; and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express a deep appreciation for Don’s caregivers during the final days of his life: Brewster, Lovenah, Nonye, and Arlene.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Aquilla Scholarship Foundation.

Aquilla ISD

404 N Richards

Aquilla, Texas 76622

Attn: Anthony Espinosa