Donald R. Bigley, Sr.

Age 88, of Shaler Township on Wednesday, July 27 2022.  Born March 2, 1934 in Pittsburgh PA.  Husband of the late Rita D. for 59 years;  father of Donald R. Jr (Denise), Daniel R. (Cheryl), Mary R. Munson (Joseph), John M. (Kimberly) and Ronald A. Bigley (Tanya); son of the late Sophie and Robert J. Bigley; grandfather of Kimberly, Jana, Allison, Derek, Bradley, Zachary, Anthony, Gwendolyn, Paige, Christian, Reese, Ben and Noah; also eleven great-grandchildren and numerous nieces/nephews; brother of John, Joseph and Christina Bigley.  Don was preceded in death by his siblings: Robert S., Henry and Richard.  Don attended Duquesne University where he was involved in the ROTC program.  He was able to recruit and educate commissioned officers.  This is where he earned his BS degree in Education.  He earned an MS degree in Education from the University of Pittsburgh where he taught undergraduate students as an Adjunct Professor.  Don was employed by the Pittsburgh Public Schools for nearly 50 years as a lead teacher.  He worked at both the Jr. High and Elementary levels.  Don also worked with the District Administration team and gifted students.  During his employment with the Pittsburgh Public Schools, Don also worked as a full time employee for the Trans America Trucking firm.  He was a member, and held office in the Teamster’s Union.  After retirement, Don worked for various local colleges and universities, as well as, for the Pittsburgh Job Corp where he served as a teacher and counselor for “At Risk” youths for over 20 years.  Don also worked diligently with persons having Intellectual Disabilities in group housing and  independent living settings.  Don enjoyed reading mysteries, true crimes and political history, walking his dog, spending time with his family, seeing children grow and learn, but most of all his main goal in life was to make people happy.  Don always looked on the positive side of situations and made every day a great day.  His spirit and his zest for life will live on through his children and grand-children.  He will truly be missed.  

Visitation Sunday 1-4 P.M. at Neely Funeral Home 2208 Mt. Royal Blvd. Glenshaw.  

Mass of Christian Burial Monday 10:00 A.M. Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish, St. Sebastian Church.  

EVERYONE PLEASE MEET AT CHURCH.

In lieu of flowers memorials suggested to the American Heart Association, 444 Liberty Ave #1300, Pittsburgh, PA 15222.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donald R. Bigley, Sr., please visit our floral store.