Don Arlee Tubbs was born November 17, 1946 to Arlee and Gladys Tubbs in Dallas, TX. He attended L.G. Pinkston High School, where he participated in ROTC and was a member of the first graduating class of 1965. Being the first son of 11 children, he had big shoes to fill and took over the upbringing of his siblings.

He accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Canada Drive Christian Church. He later joined St. John Missionary Baptist Church under the pastorage of Reverend Barry Lyons. He met and married Jo Thompson, and to this union there were two children.

Mr. Tubbs was a jack of all trades, often holding multiple positions at once, with companies including Skillmans, Prime Rebuilders, Speedy Car Wash, St. Joes Paper Company and the University of Texas at Dallas. He retired from a 25-year career with the Dallas Independent School District as a craftsman and supervisor in mechanics service.

He had a huge heart and an even bigger smile, earning the nickname of Smiley, and he was a light in the life of all of those he met.

Mr. Tubbs was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Victor Tubbs; grandson, LeCorion Tubbs; and son-in-law, Albert Mitchell. He leaves to cherish his memories: daughter, LaSheila Tubbs-Mitchell; son, Milecester Tubbs (Tamika), grandchildren, Miles Blake Tubbs and Leah Tubbs; great-grandchildren, Kennedi Tubbs and Laila Tubbs; sisters, Brenda Gray, Pearlene Nelson, Johnnie Marsh (Joseph), Cynthia Johnson, Volla Tubbs and Detra Tubbs; brothers, Calvin Tubbs, Michael Tubbs, Anthony Tubbs, and Vincent Tubbs; an aunt (Helen X) ; best friend, Manuel Gomez; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.