Donnie Earl Faulk, beloved coach, father, son, brother, and friend, passed away on August 2, 2025, at the age of 53.
A proud native of Monroe County, Donnie graduated from Monroe County High School in 1990, where he was a standout baseball player. His talent and dedication on the mound earned the attention of numerous collegiate and professional programs.
He went on to pitch successfully for Patrick Henry Junior College (now Coastal Alabama Community College) before continuing his collegiate career at Livingston University (now the University of West Alabama). Though a professional pitching career was within reach, a career-ending injury cut his playing days short.
Donnie never ventured far from the game or the values it instilled in him. He dedicated more than 30 years to the Escambia County School System. Donnie was affectionately known as “Coach Faulk” to the many students and athletes he mentored.
He was widely known for his infectious humor and unwavering encouragement. Coach Faulk left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Donnie had a heart for God as it showed in his selfless demeanor toward others. He had his own unique way of sharing his faith in Jesus to most everyone he met. In his latter days his favorite times were calling out many names in prayer on their behalf and special needs.
Outside of the classroom and ballfield, Donnie was equally known for his incredible work ethic and skills in lawn care and tree trimming. His talents and dedication were well respected throughout Escambia County, where he worked tirelessly and humbly for many years.
Donnie was preceded in death by his father, Earnest Don Faulk and brother-in-law Jason Fountain.
He is survived by his two children: Mitchell Faulk (Mae) of Aztec, New Mexico and McKenzie Faulk of Jacksonville, Florida; his mother, Sue Whitten Faulk of Monroeville, Alabama; one brother, Terry Faulk of Excel, Alabama; one sister, Amy Faulk Fountain of Chelsea, Alabama; one niece Tollie (Joey) Folmar of Troy, AL; three nephews Henry (Brooke) Faulk of Opelika, AL, Will and Barrett Fountain of Chelsea, AL and one great nephew.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home in Atmore, Alabama.
Active pallbearers will be Will Fountain, Henry Faulk, Mike Jones, Billy Groves, Keith Nall and Layton Knight. Honorary pallbearer will be Webb Nall.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home Chapel, with interment immediately following at Baggett Chapel Cemetery in Lennox, Alabama.
Donnie will be remembered for his larger-than-life personality, his selfless devotion to others, and the countless lives he touched through his kindness, mentorship, and laughter. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of his family, friends, former students, and players.
Johnson-Quimby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
