Donald Caleb Land

On March 18, 2025, Donald Caleb Land slipped peacefully from this world, his journey complete at the age of 74. He was a man of boundless energy, unwavering devotion, and a mischievous twinkle that warmed every room he entered. As we say goodbye, we find peace knowing that the God who welcomed him into this bright world has now called him home, where his light—and maybe a few good laughs—shines on forever.

A funeral service will be held at 1pm Saturday, March 29, 2025 at Fair Funeral Home Chapel in Eden. Burial will follow at Stoneville Municipal Cemetery. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service, from Noon to 1pm, at Fair Funeral Home Chapel.

On January 13, 1951, a burst of light entered the world as Donald Caleb Land opened his eyes, greeted by God’s grace and the promise of a vibrant new day. Born to his devoted parents, Caleb Joseph Land and Edna Leaonna Balser-Land, Donnie—as he was lovingly called—joined his big brother, Carlton Joseph Land, in filling their family with joy. From his earliest days, Donnie was a whirlwind of energy—lovable, mischievous, and brimming with a spirit that could brighten even the cloudiest sky.

Donnie grew up in the heart of a large, lively family, where cousins often piled onto the farm to lend a hand—or at least try to keep up with him. The land buzzed with activity, and at the center of it all was Donnie’s mom, Edna, whose kitchen was a haven of love and good food. She’d whip up hearty meals to feed the whole crew, her generous spirit ensuring no one left hungry, even if Donnie occasionally grumbled about the extra hands eating his share.

Growing up on a hardworking farm, Donnie learned the meaning of diligence—though he’d be the first to admit it came with a sly grin and a knack for dodging the tough stuff. The chores rolled downhill like an unwelcome guest, and he’d joke about doing whatever it took to wriggle out of them, much to the amusement of his family. Yet, amid fields of tobacco, roaming livestock, and the endless tasks that kept the family fed and the bills paid, Donnie always came through—muttering under his breath that the pigs had it out for him. He’d swipe cigarettes from the family store, sneaking puffs when he thought no one was looking, a little rebellion that made even the hardest days bearable.

After high school, Donnie’s thirst for growth led him to RCC for training programs, and then to the United States Air Force, where he served with pride and honor. When his military days drew to a close, he planted roots in Greensboro, North Carolina, where life took a beautiful turn. There, he met the love of his life, Martha Jane McDonald, and found a fulfilling career at Cone Mills. Together, Donnie and Martha built a life steeped in faith and friendship at Proximity United Methodist Church. Their bond with Christ deepened, and their circle of lifelong friends—like the Whaleys—grew, sharing countless memories on beach trips and community adventures. They lived simply, but richly, always striving to do right by those they loved.

In 2004, Donnie’s world dimmed when Martha fell ill and passed away, leaving an ache in his heart that never fully healed. Yet even in grief, he carried on with quiet strength, spending his days at home immersed in hobby work and the small joys that kept his hands busy and his spirit alive. His legacy endures in the son he leaves behind, Patrick Caleb Land, a testament to a life rooted in family, faith, and love.