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Donald Crawford Holton, 91, of New Bern, died, Tuesday, August 3, 2021, at Carolina East Medical Center, New Bern.

Don was born in Beaufort County on February 28, 1930, to the late Augustus Latham and Mamie Potter Holton. He was married to Barbara Daykin Holton, who preceded him in death, and later married Frances Klass Forbes Holton who also preceded in death.

He was a 1948 graduate of James Monroe High School in Virginia and later obtained a bachelor and master’s degree of the arts in education from San Diego State College where he was a member of Phi Delta Kappa.

Following his high school graduation, Don enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served his country as a submarine sonar operator on the USS ASPRO (SS-309). During his military career, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the United Nations Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Korean Service Medal. He was honorably discharged from service on June 29, 1954.

He was the principal of Oceanside High School from 1958 until his retirement in 1989. He was loved and respected by countless former high school students. He was dedicated to making sure he knew every one of his students by their name. He was remembered as one of the most influential principals ever, and always tried to be fair and understanding to every student’s needs.

Don always had this infectious smile that everyone loved. He was always happy no matter what and up for just about any adventure. He loved his fried chicken and chocolate milkshakes (the two favorite food groups) and loved spending his spare time reading, watching westerns on tv, and playing with his dog Lucky. He was a longtime member of the Ponzer Ruritan Club where he served as club treasurer.

Surviving are two daughters-in-law, Marye Holton and Anne Marie Ryan Holton, his cousins, Robert Glenn Waters (Cheryl), Ray Waters, Mary Lou O’Neal (Max), and Frankie Hill (Chris).

In addition to his wives, he was preceded in death by two sons Donald A. “Gus” Holton and Eric Holton.

A graveside memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, September 11, 2021 at the Holton Family Cemetery, Bridgeton, NC.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Wounded Warriors Project, Colonial Capital Humane Society, New Bern or CCHC Journey of Hope.

Arrangements are by Bryan Funeral Service, Swan Quarter.