Donald R. Collette

Donald R. “Don” Collette, of McMinnville, age 84, died on November 29, 2020. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles M. Collette and Maredia R. Collette Bales. Mr. Collette is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Mary Cameron Collette, who cared for him throughout his illness; children, Dr. David Collette (Debbie) Huntsville, AL and Dr. Ann Collette, Murfreesboro, TN (Jack Campbell); grandchildren, Emily Collette (Bartlee Linton), Olivia Collette, and Lauren Durham; sister-in-law, Carolyn Cameron Jones (Tom); and brother-in law, Joe Cameron (Ann). He served as General Manager/CEO of McMinnville Electric System for 26 years and was a Certified Power Executive. He was active throughout his life in many business and trade associations, serving as President of national, regional and state power organizations. He was a member of the Rotary Club of McMinnville and served as Rotary District Governor in 1993-1994. He was proud of his service as a Director of Security Federal Savings Bank for 27 years, beginning in 1993 and enjoyed his role as a Director of Accu-Router, Inc., in McMinnville. His long-time involvement in economic development in Warren County was a most satisfying accomplishment. After his retirement in 1999, he spent fifteen years as a contractor to the Federal Emergency Management Agency working in disasters. Don was a veteran of the U.S. Army and a Scottish Rite Mason. He was an active member of both First Christian Church (Rockwood, TN) and St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church (McMinnville, TN). A memorial service will be held at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church on Wednesday, December 2, 2020 at 11:00 am for family members. The service will be live-streamed on YouTube and information regarding a link to the service can be found at the church’s website, www.saintmatthewschurch.net. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, Kastaway Kitties (KKRS), or Magness Memorial Library. Arrangements are by High Funeral Home, McMinnville, TN. Online condolences may be made at www.highfuneralhome.com