Donnell M. Grant III, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026. Born on April 20, 1951, Donnell lived a life marked by unwavering responsibility, hard work, kindness, and generosity. His enduring spirit and dedication to those he loved to leave a legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of all who knew him.

Donnell’s journey began with a solid foundation in education and service. A proud graduate of Booker T. Washington High School in 1969, he furthered his studies at Northern Virginia Community College, earning an associate degree in applied science with a major in air conditioning and refrigeration in August 1989. His commitment to discipline and leadership was further evidenced by his honorable service in the U.S. Marine Corps. Completing his basic training at Paris Island, South Carolina, he served at Fort Meade, Maryland, and Okinawa, Japan, rising through the ranks to staff sergeant. Football was a passion he carried with him, having played in the Marines and during his youth.

Professionally, Donnell dedicated many years to public service. He began his career at the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C., then moved on to the Norfolk Naval Base. It was there that his exceptional dedication was recognized on April 21, 1994, when he received an award from the Defense Logistics Agency for outstanding performance. After retiring from the naval base, he accepted a role with The City of Virginia Beach, where he served faithfully until his retirement in 2015.

At the heart of Donnell’s life was his family. He and his high school sweetheart, Laverne Frances Grier, whom he met in 1970, shared a remarkable 56 years of marriage filled with love, partnership, and joy. Together, they cultivated a family rich with love and laughter. Donnell’s legacy continues through his children, Nicole Grant-Sandusky and Sabrina Fletcher (Marcus), and his beloved grandchildren, Ariel Fletcher, Paris Fletcher, and Stephen Sandusky. He was also a beloved son, brother, and brother-in-law to Lisa and Warren Sims, Barbara White, Alma White, Jimmie Grant (Victoria), and Danny Grant. His parents, Gennie and Jeanette, along with sisters Veronica Taylor and Lynette Day, preceded him in death, leaving behind precious memories of Donnell’s love and devotion.

A beloved member of Piney Grove Baptist Church, Donnell accepted the right hand of fellowship, embracing a community of faith that mirrored his own values of fairness, honesty, kindness, and creativity. Outside of work and church, Donnell found immense joy in fishing, boating, gardening, and bowling. He cherished vacations with his wife, sister, and brothers-in-law, moments that reflected his outgoing and loving nature.

Donnell was more than just a hardworking innovator and fixer of things; he was a steadfast presence for others, always ready with a helping hand, a kind word, or a generous spirit. His smile, heartfelt laughter, and steady guidance will be dearly missed.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Donnell’s remarkable life at a Memorial Service on March 21, 2026. The service will be held at Pretlow & Sons Funeral Home located at 500 Liberty St, Chesapeake, VA 23324, beginning at 11:00 a.m.