Donnie (Don) Baggett, of Brooklyn, Michigan, passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025, with family by his side. He was born on January 7, 1944, in Newark, New Jersey.

Don lived life to the fullest, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He loved working on his lake home in Brooklyn and his winter home in Florida. His yards were always the envy of the neighborhoods. His Brooklyn neighbors affectionately called him "The Mayor," as he always knew what was happening in the area and was quick to lend a helping hand or offer advice.

When he wasn't working around his house or cruising the lake, there was always a car or two (or three) to wash, projects to tackle, get-togethers to plan with the Wednesday night group, or W&S retirees to round up for breakfast. Weekends were reserved for cheering on his Michigan Wolverines or his favorite NASCAR drivers.

Don was a 1962 graduate of Ypsilanti High School. He worked for several years at Ford Motor Company in Ypsilanti before becoming a licensed life insurance agent with Western & Southern Life Insurance. He served in their Dearborn and Jackson offices before retiring in 1999.

Don is remembered with love by his children—Amanda Schelling; Darren Baggett and his partner, LiAnne; and Phillip (Kira) Baggett—along with his grandchildren, McLaren and Addison Baggett; his wife, Merrily; and her children and grandchildren. He also leaves behind countless cousins and friends whose lives were brighter for having known him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Nelson Baggett and Marie (Cordle) Castleberry; his stepfather, James Castleberry; and his son-in-law, John Schelling, along with many friends and family members who passed before him.

The family will welcome visitors on Thursday, January 8, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Stark Funeral Professionals. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, January 9, 2026, with visitation one hour prior. Burial will follow at Highland Cemetery.

Special thanks to his wonderful neighbors, Mark I, Mark II, and Ty, who helped maintain his yard while he was away.