Donnell 'Don' Tyson, 71, passed away Sunday, November 12, 2017 at Moses Cone Hospital in Greensboro, NC following a prolonged illness and massive stroke. A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 18, 2017 at 11:30 a.m. at the Perry Brown Funeral Home memorial chapel, 909 E. Market St., Greensboro. Born in High Point, NC, the son of Edward and Minerva (Lowry) Tyson, Don spent his formative years in Huntington, PA and Brooklyn, NY before returning to NC. As a young man, Don enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and served his country honorably during the Vietnam War. Once home, Don studied business at NC A&T State University and later embarked on a career in sales, working at Gate City Motors and Green Ford, where he routinely attained top sales performance. Don took pride in his work and relished helping others, acquiring many repeat customers over the years. He married Vivienne Harris and a son, Stefan, was conceived of that union; he was also entrusted with a daughter, Sonya. Don was an ardent advocate for animals. Over the years, his home served as refuge to any stray, abused or unwanted animal he came into contact with. He showered all with love, care and devotion. Don leaves his son Stefan (Millie) Tyson of Wake Forest, NC; daughter Sonya (Michael) Conway of Brooklyn, NY; grandchildren Mia, Zachary, Hans and Adriana; former wife Vivienne (Clifford) Mays; brothers David Tyson of GA, Edward 'June' Tyson of SC and Roger 'Kevin' Newman of MD and many extended family members and friends, including long-time companion Jackie Richardson, who faithfully cared for him through his declining health. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to the SPCA of the Triad.A service honoring his life will be held at the Cassie Coote-Brown Memorial Chapel; 909 East Market Street, Greensboro, NC 27401 on Saturday, November 18, 2017 beginning at 11:30 am.