James Donald "Donnie" Sayles

James Donald "Donnie" Sayles, 85, of Paducah, Kentucky, passed away on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at his home, holding hands with his wife and daughter.

Donnie was born on February 21, 1941. He was a man of few words and instead expressed his emotions through perfect annual anniversary cards or playing country music for his beloved wife on their meandering weekend rides in his El Camino. Donnie had a passion for classic cars and hot rods. He found joy in restoring vehicles, especially his 1956 chopped Ford pickup truck. Donnie loved watching auto racing and attending car swap meets where he shared stories and made lasting friendships with fellow car enthusiasts. He owned and operated Sayles Construction, where he dedicated his life to the craftsmanship of building homes for others.  

He is survived by his wife of 46 and a half years, Deana Elizabeth Davis Sayles; his daughter, Julie Liebhard of New York, and his son, Todd Sayles of California. He was preceded in death by one son, Mark Sayles, and his parents, Leo Sayles and Mary Dignan Sayles.

Donnie touched people’s hearts everywhere he went. He was loved and will be deeply missed by friends and family alike. A graveside service will be held in Possom Trot, Kentucky, at Fooks Cemetery on Thursday, April 23rd, at 2:30pm. 

Collier Funeral Home is handling all arrangements.