of Marion, AR
February 24, 1937 - January 9, 2026
Donald Emmit Britton passed away peacefully at his home in Marion, Arkansas, on January 9, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on February 24, 1937, in Colt, Arkansas, Don was one of seven children of Alice and Emmit Britton.
A proud graduate of Memphis State University, Don earned his degree in Chemistry and went on to establish Mid Continent Laboratories, providing engineering testing and chemical laboratory services. Even after selling his business in 2022, he continued to serve as a consultant, always upholding his belief in the value of a handshake and personal integrity.
Known for his quiet humility and intelligence, Don approached life with unwavering positivity, never worrying, never complaining, and working diligently almost until his final days. After his cancer diagnosis, he found comfort and purpose in continuing to visit the lab, a place that gave him meaning and routine.
As a respected member of the American Oil Chemists' Society, Don received numerous awards for his contributions. In 1992, he was honored as an honorary Mississippian by Governor Kirk Fordice, recognized for his distinguished achievements in the cotton seed testing industry. His leadership extended to operating two Mid Continent Laboratories in Mississippi, generating significant revenue for the state.
Outside of work, Don found joy in cultivating his garden and tending to his koi pond. He cherished time spent with family, often expressing that his happiest moments were when his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren gathered at his home. He was also an avid sports enthusiast, especially fond of football and baseball.
Family and Legacy
In addition to his parents, Don was predeceased by his first wife, Barabra Williams Britton, after nine years of marriage in 1965, and his second wife, Carolyn Shafer Britton, after 58 years together in 2025.
He is survived by his seven children:
Tammie Worsham of Benoit, MS
Debra Wakeman of Buena Vista, VA
Deena Scroggins of Collierville, TN
Mike Britton of West Memphis, AR
Dana Schuck of Marion, AR
Mendy Randall (Trevor) of Knoxville, TN
Scott Britton of Heafer, AR
He also leaves behind 13 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and his brothers Sam Britton and Greg Britton.
A visitation will be held at 1:00 pm, followed by the funeral service at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at Roller-Citizens Funeral Home in West Memphis, Arkansas.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
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13 Condolence(s)
Janice Boyd
Sunday, January 11, 2026
May the Lord bless 🙏 the entire family. Mr. Britton will be missed. My heart is very sad. My heart is heavy today. My only regret I wanted to have an opportunity to talk with him.
Terri
Sunday, January 11, 2026
Sending love and comfort to all who loved this incredible man. May your memories sustain you now and in the days and years to come.
Teresa Stevens Tiebel
Sunday, January 11, 2026
Prayers for all the Brittons. So many sweet memories in that old house. I remember Sycamore the squirrel, the rescue… Mr. Britton did physical therapy on their ironing board. I won't be able to attend his service, my husband will be having surgery that day. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. We don't grieve like those with no hope.
jeanie h, martz
Saturday, January 10, 2026
Don was a wonderful person and will be missed by his loving family.
Lulu Ferguson
Saturday, January 10, 2026
I'm so sorry for your loss. Sending love and prayers to your family. We love you.
Ronnie
Saturday, January 10, 2026
I wish I would have had the opportunity to meet you in person but I feel as if I had because of my many conversations with Mendy and because you reminded me of my father. You both worked hard and raised a beautiful family. And you will now be reunited with the love of your life. Rest in peace.
Franny (Fogleman) Irwin
Saturday, January 10, 2026
My deepest condolences to all the Brittons on the passing of your sweet dad. I think I spent more time at your house than I did at my home throughout high school! I have so many great memories of being there with Debbie, Tammy, Mindy, Mike, Deena, Dana, and Scotty (and a squirrel somewhere along the way! ☺️) Your dad was always kind and very funny - I can still see his dimples. I know he was so proud of all his kids and grandkids. May your memories of him bring you solace and hopefully even some smiles and laughter. Love to you all. ♥️
Franny
Allison (Cecil) Greenwood
Saturday, January 10, 2026
I'm so sorry for your loss. He was a precious man. Sending heartfelt prayers and condolences.
Nannette & OD Baker
Saturday, January 10, 2026
Tammie & family,
We are so sorry for the loss of your Father. I know how comforting it is that he is with Jesus and your sweet Mother.
I know your faith is strong & that you are leaving on the Ever Lasting Arms. Jesus will give you all strength in abundance.
Mary Dunlap
Saturday, January 10, 2026
Dear Britton Family, My thoughts and prayers are with you as you grieve the death of your beloved Dad. May you seek God in this time of need. Love, Mary Dunlap
Brenda Hall
Saturday, January 10, 2026
Praying for God's comfort, peace and endless love to surround your family during this time.
Douglas Britton
Saturday, January 10, 2026
Nelda & John Antonetti
Saturday, January 10, 2026
While not knowing Don personally, I know the man he was by the daughters he raised who worked for me during their teenage years. Our condolences to the Britton family