Donald Sinclair Irvin

Donald Sinclair Irvin, 91, passed away on February 26, 2025, in Alexandria, Virginia.

Born on March 8, 1933, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Donald spent his early years moving around the country with his naval family.  His happiest childhood recollections were of his time in Key West and Arizona before settling in Alexandria, and attending Mount Vernon High School. A member of the class of 1951, he was actively involved in the Key Club, Newspaper Club, and student government while pursing athletics as part of the football and track teams. He continued his education at Georgetown University, graduating from the School of Foreign Service in 1955 as a member of Delta Phi Epsilon Professional Foreign Service Fraternity.

Following his studies, Donald served as a seaman in the U.S. Navy before transferring to the reserves and receiving an honorable discharge in 1962. His professional life was dedicated to A.S. Irvin and Sons, where he took pride in running the family paint and wallpaper business. After selling the business and retiring, he served as sexton at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, demonstrating his commitment to both faith and community.

A man of many interests, Donald had a passion for restoring antique cars, yardwork, boats, airplanes, astronomy, reading, and fishing, and was a devoted dog lover. He also enjoyed carving decoys, was a member of the Optimists Club and the Old Dominion Boat Club in Alexandria, and a prolific Red Cross blood donor. Baptized at Grace Episcopal Church in 1954, his faith played an important role throughout his life; he was a dedicated member of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church for many years and served for a time on its vestry.

Donald is survived by his wife of over 64 years, Joan Gerber Irvin; daughters Allison Shea and Jennifer Irvin; son-in-law Dennis Shea; and grandchildren Caroline Shea and Risha Shea. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Sinclair Irvin and Florence Richmire Irvin, as well as his brother Stanley Irvin.

Donald’s memory will live on through those who knew him and the many lives he touched.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cousteau Society, the Commemorative Air Force, or a charity of choice. Services will be planned for a later date.