George Washington High School Alumni Association, Inc.

Fallen President, Donnie Strother, Class of 1959

Donald Edwin Strother Obituary
Donald Edwin Strother, lovingly known as Donnie or “Da Brush,” spent his final moments surrounded by the love of his family and his lifelong best friend, Charles “Tooty” Huppman, while some of his favorite music played softly in the background.

Music was one of Donnie’s greatest joys — especially the oldies — and nothing brought him more happiness than dancing with the love of his life, his beloved wife of 64 years, Wanda Strother.
Every Sunday, Donnie and Wanda shared a cherished tradition of date nights at Dockside in Colonial Beach, where they spent evenings dancing together to the sounds of local bands, often staying until the sun began to set. Their deep love and devotion to one another was evident to all who knew them.

Each year, Donnie also looked forward to attending Artie’s Party in Syracuse, where many of the nation’s finest pinstripers gathered to create artwork that would later be auctioned to benefit the Ronald McDonald House. Donnie was widely admired as an extraordinarily talented artist and pinstriper whose work touched countless people throughout the community. His craftsmanship could be seen on motorcycles, boats, classic cars, golf carts, and custom panel art, leaving a lasting impression nearly everywhere he went. Much of his artwork proudly hangs at Dockside in Colonial Beach — a place that held a special place in his heart.

For more than 40 years, Donnie dedicated himself to his career with Heishman BMW and Porsche Audi. Following his retirement, he devoted his time to the passion he loved most — pinstriping and creating art whenever he could, continuing until illness began to weaken him.

To know Donnie was to know a true friend. He never met a stranger and formed lasting friendships everywhere he went. He especially enjoyed attending classic car shows, where he could share stories, laughter, and his lifelong passion for cars and art with those around him.

While Donnie was greatly admired for his remarkable artistic talent, he was loved even more for the man he was — a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and treasured great-grandfather. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Wanda Strother; his son, Donald “Donnie” Strother; his daughter, Tifany Strother White (Fredrick); six cherished grandchildren Steven (preceded in death), Amanda, Shelby, Brianne, Stormy, and Alexis; and nine cherished great-grandchildren Saylor, London, Aviana, Carson, Cullen, Nevaeh, Connor, Mackenzie, and Dylan.

Family meant everything to Donnie. Even while courageously battling cancer, he remained focused on making sure those he loved were cared for and okay. Although his family’s hearts are heavy with grief, they find comfort in knowing he is now free from pain, reunited with loved ones he missed dearly, and resting peacefully in the presence of God.

On GW!

Fallen President

..from the family of Susie Kennedy, Class of 1969..

"We will be celebrating her life on Thursday, June 4th at 11AM at Everly-Wheatley Funeral Home located at 1500 West Braddock Road. in Alexandria. There will be a visitation prior to the service from 10-11 for those that wish to attend.

Your prayers and support have meant the world to Katie and I over the last seven months. Please direct message my sister or I if you would like to share any photos or happy memories of mom.

With love,
Missy and Katie"

On GW!

I hope that GWHS faculty was appreciated as much during 1966 as the present staff is during 2026... ;)

Fallen President.

From Debby Winnie:

“Glen Van Reuth, GW Class of 1971, passed away on April 17, 2026.
Glen Van Reuth. March 19, 1953 - April 17, 2026.

The Obituary will be in the Northern Virginia Daily tomorrow.”

Fallen President

Connie Cox Musser has advised that her mother Susan O'Driscoll Cox, a President from Class of 55 (?) died on April 11, 2026. Susan was married to John C. Cox, Class of 55, who predeceased her. No further details at this time.

On GW!

Fallen President notice from Linda Manvell Bradshaw .

"I'm trying to notify y'all that Beryl Lorraine Dill, from the class of 1950, passed away last week. She was 94."

On GW !

Relayed from Charles Dennis

"Mr. Grimm's arrangements are next Thursday at Everly Wheatley funeral Home four to seven and Friday memorial service and St. Michael's Catholic Church Annandale at 10:00 a.m. "

Fallen President.

We regret to inform that Norman Grimm passed away February 10th at nearly 94.

No further details.

On GW!

Happy New Year Presidents
On GW!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays Presidents. On GW!

Send a message to learn more