Donald Wayne Sherwood, a Marine veteran who built a life around family, service, travel and the outdoors, died peacefully Sept. 7, 2026, in Zephyr, Texas. He was 55.
Known to many as Don, Sherwood was born Nov. 18, 1970, in Georgetown. He and his wife, Charleen Carothers, later purchased a 103-acre ranch in Zephyr, about 12 miles east of Brownwood, fulfilling a shared dream connected to his love of ranching and outdoor life.
A life of service and work
Sherwood graduated from Georgetown High School in 1989 before enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. He served for nine years and was stationed in Okinawa, Japan. During his military service, he volunteered for a soccer club and was recognized for his contributions. He was also regarded by his peers as an exceptional marksman.
After leaving the Marines, Sherwood worked as a postal carrier for 10 years. He later worked in tile laying and electrical maintenance technology, remaining in that field for more than a decade before retiring.
His family said the influence of his grandmother, Louise Boutwell, was especially important. She served as a parental figure and role model, particularly during Sherwood’s high school years. Her husband, a Williamson County sheriff, also had a profound influence on him. Sherwood remained close to his grandmother until her death in 2023. He was preceded in death by his brother, Terry Wayne “TW” Sherwood, and his grandmother.
Family, travel and the outdoors
Sherwood enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping and was an accomplished pool player who competed in tournaments. Friends remembered him as a social person who brought joy and laughter to gatherings and made others smile.
Travel was another major part of Sherwood’s life. He and Charleen explored the Caribbean, Central America, Western and Southern Europe and destinations across the United States. He especially treasured trips to Mexico, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Portugal, France, Greece and Alaska.
He is survived by his wife, Charleen Carothers; daughters Jasmine Moore and Sara Barnes McNair; father Terry Wayne Sherwood; mother Charlette Warren; brother William Dean Sherwood; and sister Tonya Sherwood.
Memorial plans
A Celebration of Life is planned for mid to late October at an event center in Andice, Texas. The date had not been determined when the obituary was published. Those seeking more information may text Charleen Carothers at 512-966-8621.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be considered for Tunnel to Towers, a foundation supporting injured veterans, first responders and their families. Blaylock Funeral Home of Brownwood is handling arrangements.