Donald H. ‘Sarge’ Fegley

FILLMORE  — Donald H. “Sarge” Fegley, of Fillmore, died Friday, Oct. 31, 2025, in Eastside Nursing Home, Warsaw, after a lengthy illness. He was 93.

Don was born July 12, 1932, in Galeton, Pa., the son of the late Harold and Elaine Olson Fegley. On July 10, 1954, he married his high school sweetheart, Betty C. Pickett, of Addison.

Donald served his nation honorably in the U.S. Navy from 1951 to 1955 as a radio operator on an LSM, during the Korean War.

He graduated from Mansfield State Teachers College in Mansfield, Pa., and continued his education at Colgate University, St. Bonaventure University and University of Buffalo.

Mr. Fegley “Sarge” taught history and social studies at Rushford Central School for 30 years and enjoyed the many visits to his home from former students. His students called him “Sarge” because he stressed the importance of understanding civic responsibility, staying informed, voting and serving their country through military service. Several students saw duty in Vietnam and after. All three of his children are military veterans.

In this rural, poor county, Donald had a pioneering role in working for the improvement of teachers’ pay and benefits (health insurance, sick time). He was a member of the American Federation of Teachers, NYSUT, and was past president of the Cattaraugus-Allegany Counties Central Labor Council AFL-CIO.

Don was a lifelong member of the American Legion, was a Freemason and a proud Shriner who worked on behalf of the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital. He was also a member of Friends in Christ UMC of Fillmore and served on the church board for many years.

Surviving in addition to his wife of 71 years, Betty, are their children, James N. Fegley of Fillmore, Kathleen M. Fegley of Fillmore and John T. (Virginia) Fegley of Hornell.

Per his wishes, there will be no funeral services. A graveside service in Pine Grove cemetery will be held in the spring, with military honors.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Kopler-Williams Funeral Home, 21 N. Genesee St., Fillmore.

Online condolences may be made at www.koplerwilliamsfuneralhome.com.