Goff – Affectionately known as “Duck” to his family and friends, Donald Tinch, 85, of Cookeville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at Cookeville Regional Medical Center with his family by his side. Born in Rickman, Tennessee, on January 1, 1940, Donald’s family was his greatest treasure.

Funeral services will be held at 12 p.m. on Monday, May 19, 2025, at the chapel of Goff Funeral Home in Monterey, Tennessee. Randy Tosh and Rev. Keith Tosh will officiate. A family graveside service will follow at Welch Memorial Cemetery, Monterey, Tennessee.

His family will receive friends on Sunday, May 18, from 4–7 p.m. at the chapel of Goff Funeral Home and again Monday from 10 a.m. until the time of services.

For 60 blessed years, Donald cherished his marriage with his wife, Gail Welch Tinch. They shared a Christian home with their daughters, Tammy (Mark) Green and Connie McCormick. He adored his grandchildren, which include grandsons Grant (Lisa) McCormick and Spencer (Eva Maffett) Green, and granddaughters Grace (Luke) Perryman and Gaylin (Matthew) Bickel. Donald’s loving siblings: Gerald Tinch and Jonnie Key; brother-in-law, Gary (Monta) Welch; sister-in-law, Susan Welch.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Lula Tinch of Rickman, TN; brothers, Jim, Harce, and Tom Tinch; sisters, Katherine Cates and Sue Tosh; In-laws, Rev. Talmadge and Sallie Welch; sisters-in-law, Patty Henry, Joyce Walker; and brother-in-law, Steve Welch.

Pallbearers: Bryson Welch, Noah Phillips, DeWayne Tinch, Kevin Tinch, Aaron Henry, Lee Flatt, Billy Hammons, and Tony Houston.

A devoted husband, beloved father, and cherished “Pa Duck” to his grandchildren, Donald was a man who lived with purpose and deep affection for those closest to him. He was a skilled brick mason and later a successful residential contractor. For several years, he owned and operated Tinch’s BP, where his work ethic and helpful spirit were well known. Never one to sit idle, Donald always had a project going—his hands and mind constantly creating, fixing, or improving something. This past Christmas, he built birdhouses for each of his grandchildren, gifts they will forever cherish.

A true “MacGyver,” he could fix anything and often found new, ingenious ways to solve problems. He loved being outdoors, whether on his tractor, tending his garden, or simply enjoying nature. He was an avid gardener, canner, and cook, known especially for his famous chicken and dumplings that brought his family together around the table, especially at the Tinch annual Easter event.

Donald had a quiet, gentle spirit, but his presence was powerful. He was a man of few words, but his actions spoke volumes. He carried a strength rooted in love—steadfast, dependable, and always giving. His smile had a way of making everything seem okay, no matter the challenge. He loved deeply, lived humbly, and was a blessing to all who knew him.

He enjoyed playing cards and games, laughing with family, and living simply but fully. His greatest treasure on earth was his family, and he gave them the very best of himself every single day.

Though he will be deeply missed here, we rejoice in knowing he is at home with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ in heaven. His favorite verse was Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Donald’s faith has become sight, and he dwells in the house of the Lord with our Jesus. What a glad reunion that will be one day…

Arrangements and Care provided by D.M. Goff Funeral Home, Inc., 205 East Cleveland Avenue, Monterey, Tennessee 38574, Phone, 931.839.2311.