Dr. Donald C. Barton, M.D.

Dr. Donald C. Barton, M.D. of Corbin, was born March 23, 1935, to the late Clyde T. and Lula (Brown) Barton in Salem, KY and departed this life April 7, 2018.

He graduated from Williamsburg High School, in 1952. He then attended the University of Louisville for eight years, earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree and later his M.D.

Dr. Don entered military service in June 1966, and received basic training at Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, TX. He was assigned to the 1st Air Calvary and became the company commander for a medical battalion. In 1966, he was assigned to Fort Campbell, before transferring to Vietnam in 1967.

He participated in numerous engagements, including: AN KHE, LZ Baldy, LZ Evans, LZ Stud to support the liberation of Khe Sand, Au Shau Valley, and LZ Sharon at Quang Tri. He received the Air Medal (1968) and Bronze Star (1968). Dr. Don was discharged in Seattle, WA in June 1968, with the rank of Captain.

In civilian life, he was a family practice physician, retiring in June 2000. Dr. Don served from 1980-1988 as one of only 10 physicians from across the U.S. for the Reagan-Bush National Advisory Committee. He was named to the GOP Hall of Fame in 1997, was president of the Kentucky Medical Association from 1987-1988, and received the Community Service Award in 1995. He served on the KEMPAC Board from 1972-2000.

He was a delegate to the American Medical Association for 20 years and was named Doctor of the Year in 1991. Dr. Don also served as City Commissioner and Mayor Pro-Tem of Corbin, Kentucky from 1969-1976. A member of Hugh Harris Lodge #938, a Shriner and member of Tri- County Elks Lodge #2826 and a member of Shiner Christian Church in Williamsburg. In retirement, he enjoyed golf, hunting and travel.

Besides his parents, Dr. Don is preceded in death by three brothers: Dr. Bill Barton and wife Lucy, Dr. Harold Barton and wife Nelda and Henry “Babe” Barton.

He married Joan Much, April 19, 1954, and together they have four children: Donna Vance, Becky Myers, Toni Alton and David Barton. nine grandchildren: Amber Wilson, Kari Moore, Heather Tyree, Tanner Myers, John David Alton, Kelly Kamperman, Tia Alton, Donnie Barton and Nikki Barton; 13 great grandchildren; one brother: Dr. Bruce Barton and wife Arlene; one sister-in-law, Jennie Lou Barton; and a host of other family and friends who mourn his passing.

Dr. Don supported several charities during his lifetime. In lieu of flowers, the family requests you donate to your favorite charity.

Funeral services for Dr. Donald C. Barton, M.D., will be held on Thursday, April 12, at 7 p.m. at Grace on the Hill in Corbin, with Mike Anderson officiating. Burial will be private.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 12, from 3 p.m. until the funeral hour of 7 p.m., also at Grace on the Hill.

O’Neil – Lawson Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements.