Donald Mitchell Barton, lovingly known as “Poppy,” passed away on April 16, 2026, at the age of 74.

Donald was born on November 16, 1951, in Tampa, Florida, to his late parents, Willie William Barton and Margaret Holoman. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Johnny Glenn Barton. 

He is survived by his devoted wife and soulmate, Marilyn Marie Barton; his son, Donald William Barton, and daughter-in-law, Jennifer Barton; and his six cherished grandchildren, Shelbie Barton (Bubba “D”), Sheldon Barton, Kolby Barton, Mason Barton, Mariah Barton, and Kadi Barton. He is also survived by his sister, Diane, and his nephew, Paul Barton, who he loved like a son.

Donald spent over 30 years working as a custom door maker at LLT Building Supply in Tampa, Florida, where he was highly respected for his skill, dedication, and strong work ethic. He was a man who believed in hard work and only stepped away from his career when he was forced to retire, not because he ever wanted to.

Above all else, Donald was a family man. He loved nothing more than spending time with those closest to him, especially during family dinners whenever everyone could gather. His other great passion was fishing. He spent countless hours at the lake, finding peace and joy in the water. Each year, he looked forward to his annual two-week fishing trip in February, carefully saving his time off just for that tradition.

In honoring Poppy’s wishes, there will be no formal service. Instead, his family asks that you remember him by doing what he loved most—spending time with loved ones and casting a line in the water. He would take comfort in knowing that somewhere, someone is fishing in his memory.