Obituary of Donald Willis Fooks

Donald W. Fooks was born on Tuesday, September 2, 1930, in Baltimore, Maryland to Evelyn Thomas and Leroy Fooks. He departed this life on Saturday, June 6, 2020, at his home. He is the oldest of 4 sons born to Evelyn Thomas. His brothers Calvin Thomas, Ervin Thomas, and Levin Thomas all proceeded him in death. Donald moved to Boston, Massachusetts at the age of 8, where he attended Boston public schools until the age of 13. He then returned to Baltimore, Maryland where he attended Baltimore City public schools. He completed his education at Douglas High School where he graduated. After high school, Donald was hired to deliver ice and vegetables throughout West Baltimore. He also worked as a paper boy until he joined the US Army on November 2, 1950, at the age of 20. He was stationed at Fort Holabird, Baltimore, Maryland and was temporally stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. During the Korean War, Donald was deployed with the 505th Infantry Regiment of the 82nd Airborne Division, specializing in parachute assault operations into denied areas. Due to injuries he sustained in the Korean War, Donald received 2 Purple hearts and the National Defense Service Metal. After distinguished service to his country, Donald was honorably discharged on November 5, 1953. On November 11, 1953, Donald joined the Mass Transit Administration (MTA), where he worked until he retired after 40 years of service on May 1, 1994. In 1951, Donald met the love of his life, Claro, they later married on June 14, 1952 in Baltimore. At the time of his death Donald and Claro were one week away from celebrating their 68th year wedding anniversary. On October 25, 1952, Donald and Claro welcomed their daughter Sharon (Fooks) Hamm. In 1973, Donald became a member of the Masonic School of Instruction of the Hiram Grand Lodge. Donald was also a lifetime member of The American Legion and the National Rifle Association (NRA). He loved smoking pipes, making family movies, and taking pictures. He also enjoyed driving Cadillacs, working on cars, listening to music, and talking on CB radios. Donald leaves to mourn his wife, Claro Fooks; daughter, Sharon Hamm; son-in-law, Andre Hamm; grandchildren, Garnell Green, Cheneen Scott, Gregory Green Jr., and Stephanie Gordon. Their spouses Marlene Green, Rodney Scott, and Benjamin Gordon III. Great-grandchildren, Anthony, Jasmine, Jarryd, Jason, Justin, Mizell, Chloe, Kobie, and Kadyn. Great-great-grandchildren, Anthony Jr., and Logan; along with a host of family and friends. Donald will be deeply missed; his memory will be kept in the hearts of his family and friends.