Donnie Vern Sauls, age 77, of Beckley, West Virginia,  passed away suddenly on Saturday, March 28, 2026 surrounded by his loved ones. 

Donnie was born December 1, 1948 in Stover, West Virginia, a son of Levi and Elsie Sauls.   

After graduating high school, Donnie served his country honorably during the Vietnam War. He served in the Army in 1st Calvary Division (Airmobile) as an helicopter mechanic. Donnie fought honorably, surviving a battle that occurred on his base. His defense of the base and fellow Soldiers earned him a Bronze Star with a V device awarded for valor. Donnie was very proud of his military service. This pride in his military service motivated him to be an active member in many of military groups. Donnie volunteered often at the museum, helping with many community events. His devotion and support of the museum helped create its reputation as an honorable establishment it in its early years. The medals Donnie earned have been displayed at the Raleigh County Veteran's Museum for decades.

Donnie returned home to America and began to build his life with his family.  Donnie met Patricia Alford and, together, they built a beautiful life. They built their love off the strongest foundation: friendship. Their love and friendship made every day filled with funny moments and happy memories. They loved all the unique things they discovered about each other throughout the years. Donnie and Patricia had a happy 37 years together before his passing. Patricia loved him with all her heart and holds on to all the happy memories he left her. 

Donnie had a love for the outdoors. His family fondly remembers him out on the porch with his binoculars searching for deer. This love motivated Donnie to take a yearlong course in Animal Husbandry at Concord College. 

Donnie is preceded in death by his parents and nephews, Eddie Cyrus and Eric Sauls. 

He is survived by his other half, Patricia Alford; son, David (Heather) Sauls; adopted son, Tommy (Kristen) Alford; grandchildren, Aaron Sauls, Aaliyah Alford, Eli Alford, Grace Grogan, Ayden Topping, Isaiah Topping, Grace Topping, and Alyssa (Nick) Robinson; great-grandchildren, Lincoln Noah and Eeleanor Grace; brother, Lowell "Poogie" Sauls; sisters, Meryle Cyrus and Jewel Johnson; and many nieces, nephews, family, and friends who loved him dearly. 

A Funeral Service honoring Donnie will be held at 2 pm on Wednesday, April 1st at Melton Mortuary with Pastor and Best Friend Mike Keeney officiating. The family will receive visitors starting 2 hours prior to the service. All those who wish to show their love and support for Donnie and his family are invited to attend. 

Melton Mortuary has the honor of serving the family. Messages of support and condolences can be left on Donnie's obituary page located on the Melton Mortuary website.