07/01/2026
Words cannot express the gratitude that those of us at the Water District have for the years Donnie gave us, nor can they sum up the milestones he achieved as Chairman of the Board of Commissioners. He was a great man, amazing friend, and his wonderful reputation preceded him. He will be missed greatly by everyone who spent time around him.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of Donnie Robertson.
Charles Donald Robertson “Don”, 79, of Kuttawa, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026, at Vanderbilt Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, community leader, and friend, Don dedicated his life to serving others. Whether through his decades of public service, his commitment to improving life in Lyon County, or the quiet kindness he extended to neighbors and friends, he leaves behind a legacy of generosity, integrity, and compassion.
Don was of Baptist faith. In his later years, he faithfully listened to Sunday services from Mt. Zion Baptist Church, finding comfort and strength in his faith.
Professionally, Don devoted 31 years to the healthcare industry, serving as a Public Health Director. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Middle Tennessee State University, a master's degree from Murray State University and was also a licensed real estate broker.
Don believed deeply in giving back to his community. He served for more than 30 years on the PACS(Pennyrile Allied Community Services Board and was a longtime member of the Board of Directors of the Lyon County Water District, where he also served as Chairman. He was an integral part of the effort to bring public water to every home in Lyon County, helping make Lyon County the first county in Kentucky to achieve that milestone. His leadership and vision improved the lives of generations of families throughout the county. Early on, he was also a member of the Purchase Area Health Education Center Advisory Board.
His dedication to community service extended well beyond his professional career. Don was a Charter Member of the Master Gardeners of Lyon County, served on the Board of Directors of Bright Life Farms, was a member of Joppa Masonic Lodge #167, a member of Rizpah Shriners Temple, and was honored as a Kentucky Colonel.
While Don's accomplishments were many, those who knew him best will remember him most for the way he loved people. He cherished spending time with family and friends, especially hosting an annual deer hunt that brought generations together. One of his greatest joys was sitting on his porch in the afternoon, listening to the birds and visiting with friends. He never met a stranger and was always willing to lend a helping hand or offer words of encouragement.
Above all else, Don's family was the center of his life. He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Roberta "Knoth" Robertson; his daughters, Stacey Froehlich (Joe) and Sarah Robertson; his stepson, John Michael Herring (Jessica); his stepdaughters, Amanda Peacock, Jamie Travis, and Carrie Herring; ten grandchildren, Sarah, Joseph, Olivia, and Evelyn Froehlich; Allison Hooks; Richmond and Connor Herring; Maddeline Travis(Matt); Alexander Peacock and Zachery Peacock; great grandson: Noah
He was preceded in death by his parents, Sarah "Dycus" Robertson and Charles O. Robertson; his brother, Bill Robertson; and his sisters, Mary Savage, Ruby Copple, and Dorothy Quertermous.
Don's life was defined not by titles or positions, but by the countless lives he touched. His unwavering dedication to his family, his neighbors, and the people of Lyon County leaves a lasting legacy that will continue to benefit the community he loved for generations to come. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
A celebration of life will be held on Friday, July 3, 2026, at Dunn's Funeral Home in Eddyville, Kentucky. Family visitation will be from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by public visitation from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. Funeral services will begin at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, Don requested that memorial contributions be made to Bright Life Farms, 6773 US Highway 62W, Kuttawa, KY 42055.
