Donald Price Atherton

Mr. Donald Price (Don) Atherton of LaFollette, TN formerly of Vandalia, OH passed away on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at the age of 77. He was a member of Demory Baptist Church where he reverently served as a Deacon and Sunday School Teacher. Don was an accomplished athlete who excelled in both basketball and baseball while attending Cedarville University in Ohio. At the completion of his collegiate athletic career, Don played 2 years of professional basketball in Australia, and was awarded the opportunity to travel the world while playing with the famed Harlem Globetrotters.

Affectionately known by his former players and students as “Coach A”, Don dedicated 37 years as an Educator, and over 20 years as a High School and College Basketball Coach, most recently assisting with the CCHS Boys Basketball Team. Don enjoyed Civil War history, watching sports, landscaping, and had a passion for collecting New York Yankees memorabilia.

Most importantly, Don will be remembered as a true Man of faith that always placed the Lord above all things.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Noel Pierce Atherton and Dorothy (Price) Atherton, and brother, Howie Atherton.

Don is survived by his wife of 37 years, Marilyn (Williams) Atherton; son, Donald Stefan Piercy and wife, Danna Marie; daughter, Tosha Marie Hansen; grandchildren, Olivia Anne Piercy, Allison LeeAnn Piercy, Mason Sharp Piercy, Parker Adam Atherton, Gabriel Isaac Jackson, Carson Lee Hansen; brothers, Bill “Goat” Atherton and wife, Deb, Greg Atherton, and Mike Atherton; He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, August 15, 2026 from 12:00 – 2:00 PM at Demory Baptist Church (3175 Demory Road, LaFollette, TN 37766). A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2:00 PM with Rev. Danny Wilson and Rev. Kevin Dagley officiating.

In memory of Don, flowers may be received or memorial contributions may be made to: Demory Baptist Church, 212 Wheeler Lane, LaFollette, TN 37766.

Walters Funeral Home of LaFollette, TN is honored to be serving the family of Mr. Donald Price (Don) Atherton.