Donald Eugene Tully, affectionately known as Don to his friends and family, passed away Wednesday, October 29, 2025, in Ft. Scott, Kansas. Born on August 22, 1951, Don’s life was marked by his kindheartedness, friendly demeanor, and generous spirit. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Don was raised by his mother and maternal grandfather, R.C. Smith. Don was a proud graduate of Ft. Scott High School, class of 1969.
Don’s professional life was rooted in the food industry, beginning with a position at Pizza Hut in Ft. Scott while still in high school. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to own and operate several establishments, including Spanky’s Bar & Grill and the Silver Spur both in Ft. Scott. Don’s journey took him to Dallas, Texas, where he contributed over two decades of service at Judge Roy Beans Restaurant. While in Dallas, Don took up tennis and even restrung rackets as a side job. Eventually, he returned to Ft. Scott to own and operate the Bombay Bicycle Club and later shared his culinary talents at the Nu Grille.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Don was always ready to lend a helping hand, often putting others before himself. He enjoyed playing the guitar and sharing his passion for music by giving guitar lessons to his granddaughter during her visits to Ft. Scott.
Don’s legacy is carried on by his daughter, Valarie Ward of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; his granddaughters, Samantha Garnecky, Kimberley Parkinson (Jacob), and Izzabella Ward; and his great-grandchildren, Freya, Daemon, Weston, and Keagan. Also surviving is his sister, Jane Clements (Terry) of Galena, Kansas. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Tom Tully and Maxine Tully McMichaels.
Don’s life was a testament to the power of kindness, friendship, and generosity. His warm smile and willingness to help others have left a mark on the community of Ft. Scott and beyond. His departure from this world is not the end of his story, as those who loved him will continue to honor his memory through acts of kindness and the sharing of fond memories.
A celebration of Don’s life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.