Donald Ray Hitchens

Donald Ray Hitchens, of Lorain, passed away November 5, 2025, following a lengthy illness in New Life Hospice surrounded by his loving family.

Donald was born January 30, 1955, in New Orleans, Louisiana, but had been a resident of Lorain for most of his life. He graduated from Clearview High School in Lorain where he was also inducted to the Sports Hall of Fame. During his high school career he was an outstanding football player in the position of a running back, set many records. He also was a standout athlete in track and field, where he set the long jump record.

Donald retired from the city of Lorain where he had worked for over 35 years in various departments. He was a renowned and sought after dog trainer and was known for training police dogs. He often worked with the prison program where the inmates had interaction with training dogs. He enjoyed riding on his Gold Wing motorcycle and riding in his Slingshot. He was a member of the Sophisticated Gents Motorcycle Club in Lorain.

Donald leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Mary Aldridge; his sons, Marvin Leon Taylor, Sr. and Donald Hitchens Jr.; 17 grandchildren: Christopher Donald Aldridge, Calvin Donald Lively, Corrie Donald Aldridge, China Aldridge, Serinity Rose Hitchens, Donald Ray Hitchens III, Brian Keith Hitchens, Marlana L Howard, Marvin L Taylor Jr, Christopher L Edwards, Marissa M Frazier, Marschelle L Taylor, Lynda Melendez, Arianna Edwards, and special grandchildren who held a special place in his heart, Michael President, Anthony President, and Brianna Young; 13 great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren; his mother, Mary Hitchens; two brothers, James (Maneera) Hitchens and Eddie Miller; a host of other loving relatives and dear friends; special friends, fiancé Dannetta Burnsworth, lifelong friend Laura Jones, and exceptional friend, Asa C. Knowles.

Donald was preceded into death by his daughter, Karen Young; his father, Calvin Hitchens; his sister, Denise Hitchens Miller, and Betty Rice; and his grandparents, Papa and Mama Hitchens.

Visitation will be Monday, November 17, 2025, from 10:00 AM until time of service at 11:00 AM at the Brown-Robinson Funeral Home and Celebration Center, 6075 Middle Ridge Rd., Lorain, OH 44053. The interment will be at Elmwood Cemetery, Lorain, Ohio.