Donald L. Yost, 78, of Taylorville, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at Decatur Memorial Hospital in Decatur, Illinois. Donald was born on July 19, 1947, in Jacksonville, Illinois, the son of Harry Arsdele and Minnie Frances (Black) Yost. He married the love of his life, Sheila Sample, on June 2, 1968, in Jacksonville, Illinois. Together they shared nearly 58 years of marriage. Donald proudly served his country in the United States Army. Throughout his life, he wore many hats, working as a factory worker before pursuing a lifelong dream of becoming an educator. In his 50s, he returned to school and earned his bachelor’s degree in education. He began his teaching career as a History Teacher with the Morrisonville School District, where he also coached girls' basketball. Donald was deeply involved in youth athletics and spent 15 years coaching soccer at Taylorville High School and the Taylorville YMCA. He also served as an assistant coach for the Sangamon State University Prairie Stars Soccer Team. His dedication to mentoring young people left a lasting impact on countless students and athletes throughout the area. Outside of his professional life, Donald enjoyed hunting, fishing, collecting Native American antiques, and learning about history. He was an avid firearms enthusiast and found great joy in sharing his interests with family and friends. Alongside his wife, Sheila, he was a part owner of Cottage Rose. Many in the community also knew and loved Donald for his years portraying Santa Claus, bringing smiles and holiday cheer to children and families.
Donald is survived by his loving wife, Sheila Yost of Taylorville; daughter, Kimberly (John) Yost-Long of Taylorville; son, Jason (Laura) Yost of Austin, Texas, and second son: Todd Megginson of Pawnee; grandchildren, Trent Long of Washington, D.C., Kaylee Yost of Maroa, and Kylie Yost of Maroa; niece, BethAnne Krehel; cousin, Gary Yost; and Janet Yost-Brown and numerous extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Karen Krehel; his nephew, Timothy Krehel; and his cousin, Dianne Yost.
A visitation for Donald will be held on Thursday, June 4, 2026, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville. Military Honors will begin at 7:00 p.m. and the Memorial Service will be immediately following military honors with Pastor Chad Zueck officiating. Interment will be held at a later date.
Memorials in Donald's honor may be made to the American Heart Association or the American Lung Association.
Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, Illinois, is assisting the family with arrangements.
