The Rochester, New York, Catholic community is remembering Donald David Eggleston, a Permanent Deacon whose life was shaped by faith, family, professional service and his commitment to helping others.
Eggleston died on September 25, 2026, at the age of 69.
His passing has brought reflection among relatives, friends and members of the faith community who knew him through his years of ministry.
Who Was Donald David Eggleston?
Donald Eggleston was a longtime Rochester-area resident whose life included both professional and religious service.
He was known particularly for his role as a Permanent Deacon within the Diocese of Rochester.
Permanent deacons serve their faith communities through liturgical responsibilities, pastoral care, outreach and other forms of ministry.
For Eggleston, that calling became an important part of the legacy he leaves behind.
Career With Eastman Kodak
Before retirement, Eggleston also had a professional connection with Eastman Kodak, one of Rochester’s most historically important companies.
His career placed him within a workforce that played a major role in the economic and industrial life of the region.
After leaving professional employment, his service through the church remained an important part of his life.
Donald Eggleston Cause of Death
Eggleston’s obituary does not identify one specific medical cause of death.
It does, however, acknowledge several medical providers who supported him during a period of serious health challenges.
Those included professionals connected with dialysis treatment, the Wilmot Cancer Institute and hospice services.
Those acknowledgments indicate significant health difficulties but should not be used to conclude that any single illness caused his death unless his family explicitly confirms it.
Remembered Through His Faith
For people who knew Eggleston through the Catholic community, his work as a deacon placed him alongside families during some of the most significant moments of their lives.
Religious ministry often involves celebrating joyful occasions while also offering support during illness, grief and personal difficulty.
That type of service creates relationships that can extend far beyond weekly church services.
Family at the Center of His Life
While Eggleston’s religious and professional accomplishments form part of his public story, his obituary also reflects the importance of family.
Those closest to him are left with memories built over decades rather than simply the final period of illness preceding his death.
A Legacy of Service
Donald David Eggleston’s life connected faith, work and community.
His years with Eastman Kodak were part of his professional story, while his ministry as a Permanent Deacon became an enduring expression of his beliefs.
For Rochester-area Catholics and those closest to him, his legacy will continue through the people he served and the relationships he built.