Joseph Donald

King Sr.

Joseph Donald "JD" King Sr. lived a life full of family, faith, service, and plenty of laughter. He was a proud firefighter, a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, great grandfather, and someone who always had a story to tell or a joke to share. If you knew JD, you knew his sense of humor and his ability to keep everyone entertained. He will be remembered for the memories he made and the many lives he touched along the way.

JD proudly served as a firefighter with Birmingham Fire, retiring in 1989. His love for the fire service didn't end when he retired. It remained a lifelong passion. He served as president of the Saginaw Volunteer Fire Department, was an active member of SPAAMFAA, and even founded his own chapter. JD also served on several boards, including the National Center for Fire and Life Safety.

Over the years, he collected an impressive amount of firefighting memorabilia, including several fire trucks, which he always referred to as his "toys." He took great pride in his collection and remained dedicated to the fire community long after retirement. JD was also a mentor to many, sharing his knowledge and experience and always willing to help others along the way.

More than anything, JD loved his family. He and his wife, Bobbie, shared 59 years of marriage, building a life and family together. They were both people who were always willing to help others, and throughout the years, they touched many lives through their kindness and generosity. JD and Bobbie were the kind of people others could count on, and they made a difference in more lives than they probably ever knew. Bobbie passed away in May, and although JD's time without her was short, we find comfort in knowing they are together again. As he was a man of faith, we take peace in knowing they have been reunited in eternity.

JD was preceded in death by his wife, Bobbie; his father, Joe David King; and his mother, Martha Rachel Lovelace.

He is survived by his sisters, Dottie Smith and Susan (Raymond) Yeager; his children, Joseph Donald King Jr. (Kim), Charles Randall King, Regina Lynne Stamps, and Timothy David King; his grandchildren, Joseph, Zachary, Tracy, Randy, Samantha, Savannah, Scarlett, and Lauren; four great-grandchildren; and many other beloved family members and friends.

JD leaves behind a family who will miss him dearly, friends who will remember him fondly, and a fire community that will always be a part of his legacy. His stories will continue to be told, his jokes will continue to bring smiles, and his love for firefighting and his family will never be forgotten.

We are grateful for the time we had with him, the lessons he taught us, and the memories we will carry with us. Most of all, we find comfort knowing he and Bobbie are together again.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.