Donald L. Flood

Donald Leslie Flood, 63, was born in Freeport, Maine on May 17th, 1962. He died suddenly in Jacksonville, Florida on July 5th, 2025.

Don was a loving father, a local folk artist, and an incorrigible free spirit with a deep love of experiencing life to the fullest. He was a trailblazer who couldn't be stopped once he found something he was passionate about; even if his health and finances crashed, he'd find a way to create art on his boat. He could've been fresh out of surgery and within the week, he would have been offering to help a friend paint their new boat.

Don was a stalwart protector with surprising gentleness--not just for people, but for wherever he considered to be home. He was proud of his fragile orchids and his gourds when they thrived a harsh summer and would often surprise his child during their mutual battles of insomnia by offering eggs and candied sausages and a fresh baked chocolate cake at 3 a.m. since they both "can't sleep anyways, so we might as well have a damn good breakfast".

His biggest love was the ocean. Sailing was difficult for him, but he would find a way regardless and offer to anyone even slightly interested in boats to come sail with him. At the beaches, he used to dig trenches and sand pools for children to play in as a safer alternative to the open waters while he set up a grill to cook for his family and friends.

We know he was cared for even in his final moments. He was found at his marina and anyone involved from that fateful moment tried nothing but their best to help him. His neighbor carefully cared for his things while the hospital staff tried their hardest to save him.

Donald's family are all thankful to everyone who has helped us during this sudden, tragic upheaval. 

His memory will live on in the influences of everyone who knew him--a reminder to stop, and appreciate the artistry of life, and the grace to understand when to just leave things out of your hands.

Services are in the care of Naugle Funeral Home and Cremation Services located at 1203 Hendricks Avenue, Jacksonville, Florida 32207.