Donald Gene Girod was born on April 7, 1944, to Loyd and Wanda (Talley) Girod. He passed from this life into the loving arms of his Savior on June 14, 2025, in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma, at the age of 81.
Don grew up in Midwest City and graduated from Midwest City High School in 1962. In 1969, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he completed basic training and leadership school. He was honorably discharged in 1970 following a tumor diagnosis on his mastoid bone.
That same year, on March 20, 1970, Don married the love of his life, Regina, in Oklahoma City. The two met in 1969 on a blind date and quickly knew they were meant for each other.
Don and Regina moved to Pauls Valley in 1978, where they would raise their family together. He was a devoted member of Christian Life Church in Pauls Valley for 47 years, where he formed many lifelong friendships and where the church remained a cornerstone of his life and faith.
Early in his professional life, Don worked as a life insurance agent. He later found his true calling in the oilfield industry, where he enjoyed a long and successful career as a salesman and chemical engineer. He retired in 2016.
Don had a lifelong passion for horses, and that showed when he became a member of the American Quarter Horse Association. He bred quarter horses and raised colts for many years, with a special love for his favorite horse, Princess Frosty—born on his own land and raised by Don until her passing at 18 years old. Even after his days of raising colts ended, he enjoyed spending time with his horses and going on trail rides with family and friends.
Don also loved the outdoors, especially spending time at the lake and out on his boat fishing. Don and Regina traveled all over the United States, but no matter where he went, his greatest joy was always time spent with his family—his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He loved grilling, laughing, and making memories with those he loved.
Don was saved at an early age and lived his life as a witness to others. He taught the value of hard work, integrity—"if you say you're going to do something, do it"—and above all, the importance of loving Jesus.
He leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, and friendship that will not be forgotten.
Don is survived by his wife of the home, Regina (Green) Girod; Son, Aaron Girod; Daughter, Heather McDade and husband Charles; Brother, Ron Girod and wife Barbara; Sister, Lawanda Lawrence and husband Larry; Grandchildren, Lindsay Johnson and husband Charlie, Britne Johnson and husband Marcus, Dustan Montgomery, Alex Montgomery, Gavin McDade; six great-grandchildren, and a host of other friends and family.
Don was preceded in death by his parents, Loyd Girod and Wanda (Talley) Girod; Son, Daron; and Daughter, Gina; Grandparents, Leonard Talley and wife Melvina and Albert Girod and wife Levi.