Don Avery; Obituary, Death: It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Don Avery, the beloved CEO of Fairview Park Hospital, who passed away on Thursday, January 23, 2025. Don’s passing has left a void not only within his family but within the entire community of Dublin, Georgia, where he was a cherished leader, mentor, and friend. He was 63 years old.
Don was a dedicated professional whose vision, leadership, and compassion transformed Fairview Park Hospital over the course of his 17 years as CEO. Under his guidance, the hospital flourished, growing in both capacity and reputation, all while staying true to its core mission of providing quality, compassionate care to every patient. Don’s leadership extended far beyond the walls of the hospital, as he became a trusted voice in the Dublin community, always striving to make his town a better place for everyone.
Born and raised in Georgia, Don’s journey into healthcare leadership began with a deep commitment to service and an unwavering belief in the power of community. He started his career in healthcare as a young man, quickly rising through the ranks thanks to his work ethic, intelligence, and compassionate nature. After years of experience in various healthcare roles, Don became the CEO of Fairview Park Hospital in 2008. From the moment he assumed the role, Don was determined to create an environment that was patient-centered, innovative, and forward-thinking.
During his time as CEO, Don worked tirelessly to ensure that Fairview Park Hospital was equipped to meet the ever-evolving needs of the community. Under his leadership, the hospital expanded its services, improved patient outcomes, and attracted top medical professionals to the area. He was instrumental in securing key partnerships and resources that helped build a stronger healthcare infrastructure for Dublin and the surrounding areas.
However, it wasn’t just his business acumen that set Don apart—it was his heartfelt commitment to the people he served. He believed that healthcare was about more than just treating illness; it was about creating a nurturing, compassionate environment where every person felt valued and cared for. Don’s leadership was grounded in his deep sense of integrity, honesty, and dedication.
He was known for his unwavering belief in the importance of teamwork, often saying that the success of Fairview Park Hospital was a direct result of the collective efforts of the staff, physicians, and administrators who worked together every day to deliver the best care possible. His ability to foster an environment of trust and collaboration made him not just a leader, but a mentor to many within the organization. Those who worked with Don often speak of his approachability, his calm demeanor in the face of challenges, and his relentless pursuit of excellence.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Don was a beloved figure in the Dublin community. He was a strong advocate for local causes, always seeking ways to improve the lives of the people around him. Whether it was through philanthropic efforts, supporting local education, or lending his expertise to local initiatives, Don’s influence reached far beyond his work at the hospital. His impact was felt in every corner of Dublin, and he will be remembered as a person who always put others first.
Don’s commitment to service was not limited to his professional life; he was deeply involved in various civic and charitable organizations and dedicated much of his time to supporting causes that improved the quality of life for all residents of the area. Don’s family was his greatest source of joy and pride. He was a loving husband to his wife, Linda, and a devoted father to their two children, Emily and James.
Don was deeply committed to his family, and they were always his priority, even amidst the demands of his professional life. Linda, who was by his side for nearly 40 years, shared in his dreams and aspirations, and together they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and shared experiences. Emily and James were the light of Don’s life, and his pride in their accomplishments and well-being was evident to all who knew him. His family was always his first thought, and it was in their presence that Don felt most at peace.
Though Don’s passing was unexpected, those who knew him take solace in the knowledge that his legacy is one of profound impact. His leadership, kindness, and vision have shaped Fairview Park Hospital and the greater Dublin community in ways that will continue to be felt for many years to come. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, hard work, and dedication to improving the lives of others. While Don will be deeply missed, his contributions will endure, and his memory will live on in the lives of all those he touched.
A public memorial service to honor Don’s life and legacy will be held on Monday, January 27, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the Dublin First United Methodist Church. The service will be followed by a private family burial. The family encourages all those who knew Don to attend the service and join them in celebrating the life of an extraordinary man who gave so much of himself to the people around him.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Fairview Park Hospital Foundation, an organization that supports the ongoing work of the hospital Don led so proudly. Contributions can be made through the hospital’s website or at the memorial service. These donations will help continue the mission of providing exceptional healthcare to the community Don cared so deeply about.
The family also asks for your prayers and thoughts during this difficult time. They are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support and love they have already received, and they take comfort in knowing that Don’s legacy will live on through the work he did and the lives he touched.
Don Avery was more than just a hospital CEO—he was a leader, a mentor, a community advocate, and above all, a devoted family man. His passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the lives of all who knew him. May his memory inspire us to continue the work he began and to live our lives with the same dedication, kindness, and service to others that he embodied every day. Rest in peace, Don. You will be deeply missed, but your legacy will live on in all of us. Thank you for everything you did for Dublin, for Fairview Park Hospital, and for the many lives you touched.
