Donald Lee Camper

Donald L. Camper left us suddenly on Wednesday, March 26, 2026. He was born on January 21, 1942. He grew up in Rescue and spent his teenage years with friends and family water skiing and jumping off the Rescue Bridge. Donald graduated from Smithfield High School in 1960. His graduation was on a Friday, and that following Monday, he began work at the telephone company, where he stayed for 35 years. 

Donald was drafted into the Army in 1964 and was discharged in 1966. Donald went to basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina and then went to Fort Campbell, Kentucky to prepare for Vietnam. It was there that he got his Eagle tattoo. His fiancé was not fond of the tattoo, but in later years Donald loved showing it to his nieces and nephews and, after that, to his great-nieces and great-nephews. While in the service, he was recognized for a job well done as a senior wireman with the Battalion Communication Section of the 76th Engineer Battalion. 

When Donald came home from Vietnam in 1966, he married Lucia Cotten, and they remained married for 58 years until her passing. In addition to his wife, Lucia Cotten Camper, he is also preceded in death by his parents, Albert Braxton Camper and Delma Spady Camper; as well as his brother, James Braxton Camper; and his nephew, James Brian Camper. Left to treasure his memory are his sister-in-law, Helena "Dee" Camper; his sister, Carolyn Camper Fager (Wayne); and his brother, Dennis Spady Camper (Pam). He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, who all thought the world of Uncle Donald. 

A graveside service will be held on Monday, April 13, 2026 at 11:00am at Blandford Cemetery.

A celebration of life for family and friends will be held from 2:00pm to 4:00pm on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at Riverview United Methodist Church, 10696 Smiths Neck Road, Carrollton, VA 23314.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Isle of Wight Rescue Squad or the Rushmere Volunteer Fire Department.