EDGAR CHARLES DONAGHEY JR.

Memorial services for Edgar Charles Donaghey, Jr., 59, of Lufkin will be held Tuesday, December 12, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Cross Timbers Cowboy Church with Pastor Ford Adkins officiating. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Carroway Funeral Home.

Edgar was born December 1, 1958 in Alexandria, Louisiana to Melba (Danos) and the late Edgar Charles Donaghey, Sr., and went to be with the Lord Thursday, December 7, 2017.

Edgar grew up in the Dekalb/Avery area of Bowie County. He was a high school track star, left-handed quarterback, and bullrider. He began working with horses at a young age to help support his siblings. He led a lifetime career as an accomplished rider. In 1977 he moved to Bossier City, Louisiana where he started his family and was named Leading Jockey at Louisiana Downs. He remained so for several years in the mid-late ‘70’s and early ‘80’s.

During his 40+ years he traveled across the country and was named Lead Rider at race tracks including Evangeline Downs, Oaklawn Park, Delta Downs, Rockingham Park, Beulah Park, and Churchill Downs.

He was a devoted Christian who attended and graduated from Gloryland Bible College. He loved to fish and watch his favorite football teams, the Cowboys, Saints, and LSU.

Edgar felt his greatest accomplishments were his children, Ashley and Ryan, along with his six beautiful grandchildren. He loved every moment spent with them.

Survivors include his daughter, Ashley Whittington and husband Brad of Shreveport, Louisiana; son, Ryan Donaghey and wife Jillian of Alexandria, Louisiana; grandchildren, Colby, Alyssa, Addison, Kamdyn, Saylor, and Riggley; mother, Melba Donaghey of Lufkin; brothers, Sandres Autin of Illinois, Johnny Donaghey and wife Belinda, Rhoney Donaghey and wife Carrie, and Jimmy Donaghey and wife Tanya; sister, Mary Balmain and husband Jerry; several nieces, nephews, and cousins; special friends, Sherrie Perren and George and Jackie Wing, all of Lufkin; and numerous cousins, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father and brother, Dave Autin.

The family would like to express special thanks to all the physicians and staff who cared for him, especially Hospice of the Pines.

The family will welcome friends and loved ones from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Tuesday morning prior to the service at the church.

Memories and condolences may be added at www. carrowayfuneralhome.com.

Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.