Donald Howard Hudiburg was born on November 17, 1945, in Stillwater, Oklahoma, to Christine (Moorhead) and Everett Hudiburg. He peacefully passed from this life at home on August 21, 2026, after a long battle with inclusion body myositis.

Donnie lived most of his life in Stillwater, where he was raised in a loving family alongside his older brother, Roger, his sister, Deanne, and his twin brother, Ronnie. He grew up in what now seems like a simpler, safer time, surrounded by a loving and protective family who gave their children the trusting freedom that today is sometimes called “free range.” Those early years helped shape the kind, independent, and genuine person he became.

Donnie attended Stillwater schools and graduated from Stillwater High School in 1964. He went on to attend Oklahoma State University and proudly served in the United States Navy from April 1969 through June 1970.

Following his military service, Donnie continued his education at Oklahoma State University and began a career as a science teacher and football and wrestling coach. He taught in Wagoner and Owasso before returning to Stillwater, where he continued teaching until his retirement in 1998.

Donnie was a talented and accomplished musician. He played guitar, banjo, and many other stringed instruments and had a remarkable ability to adapt his musical talents to many different styles. While he enjoyed all kinds of music, his favorite was always bluegrass. Music was an important part of his life and something he shared with those around him.

Donnie also had a wonderfully playful sense of humor. He loved a good pun, a clever joke, and finding just the right moment to make someone laugh. His humor could be quick, unexpected, and sometimes delightfully corny—but that was part of what made it so uniquely Donnie. He never seemed to take himself too seriously and had a way of bringing a little fun and lightness to everyday moments. Those who knew him well will remember not only the things he said, but the smile and laughter that so often followed.

Donnie and SueAnn were married in 1970 and built their life together in Stillwater. They raised two daughters, Rebecca and Mandy, and created a loving family whose roots remained firmly planted in the Stillwater community.

Donnie is survived by his beloved wife, SueAnn, daughter Rebecca Longan, daughter Mandy (Rusty) Laforge, granddaughters Taylor Grooms, Olivia Laforge, and Anna Laforge, sister Deanne Ketch, twin brother Ronnie (Jo Anne) Hudiburg, and cousin Johnny Pollock.

He is also survived by his “second family,” the Naff family, who held a very special place in his heart: Peter (Trude) Naff, Stephen (DeeDee) Naff, Tim (Diane) Naff, Adam Naff, and Emily (Steve) Ridgway, as well as other dear family members and close friends who were an important part of his life. Their love, friendship, and presence throughout the years were deeply meaningful to Donnie and his family.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Jeff Longan, Mychael Johnson, Kali, Emma, the Austin family, and the entire Elara hospice care team for the compassion, kindness, and support they provided to Donnie and his family during his final days.

Donnie will be deeply missed by his family, friends, former students, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His music, his laughter, his playful spirit, his kindness, and the memories he created with those he loved will remain with them always.