Don Lewis Haupt, Sr., 77, of Isle of Hope, Georgia, passed away on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, following a tragic accident.

A lifelong native of Isle of Hope, Don was born in Savannah, Georgia, on August 21, 1948. He attended Isle of Hope Elementary School and graduated from Jenkins High School, where he met the love of his life, Shirley. Together they shared 57 years of marriage, building a life centered on love, family, and unwavering devotion to one another.

Don proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps for four years as a Vietnam Veteran. His courage and sacrifice were recognized with three Purple Hearts, a testament to his extraordinary bravery and commitment to his fellow Marines and his nation.

Following his military service, Don built a respected career as a welder and pipefitter and was a proud member of Local 188. He was known for his strong work ethic, integrity, and willingness to lend a helping hand whenever someone was in need.

To know Don was to know kindness. He truly never met a stranger. Whether he was riding his golf cart through the streets of Isle of Hope with his favorite music playing, waving and calling out to neighbors, or stopping to help someone without being asked, he made people feel seen and valued. His generous spirit, warm smile, and genuine love for others left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Rain or shine, Don loved spending time on the golf course. He was also a devoted Alabama Crimson Tide fan, proudly cheering “Roll Tide!” every chance he got. His faithful beagle, Bama Girl, was never far from his side and brought him countless moments of companionship and joy.

Don was also an active and cherished member of the Band of Brothers and a faithful member of Isle of Hope Baptist Church. He looked forward to gathering with the Band of Brothers every Tuesday and Friday, where he enjoyed cooking, sharing fellowship, and always lending a helping hand to those around him. His generous spirit and servant’s heart were a true reflection of the man he was.

Above all, Don’s greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose love and guidance will continue to live on in the lives of those he cherished.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lewis and Geraldine Haupt.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Shirley Haupt; his son, Don Lewis Haupt, Jr. and wife, Allison; his daughter, Tammy Ahlers; his brother, John Haupt his sister, Mary McGrath; his grandchildren, Abigail Chapman and husband, Chandler, Logan Ahlers and fiancée, Lizelle, Caitlin Ahlers, Paxton Haupt, and Ashton Haupt; his treasured great-grandsons, Louis and Levi; his beloved beagle, Bama Girl; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, dear friends, and neighbors.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at Isle of Hope Baptist Church. The family will receive friends beginning at 10:00 a.m., with the service to follow at 11:00 a.m. A reception will immediately follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to The Wounded Warrior Project.

Don’s life was a beautiful example of service, humility, generosity, and unconditional love. He leaves behind a legacy of courage, kindness, and countless memories that will forever live in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched. Roll Tide!