Donald Gordon MBE, known for his dedication to Melrose and Trimontium Trust, is remembered after his passing.
The service began with piano music. Jim Letham composed and played Tempus Dolente. Next, a choir performed two pieces: The Long Day Closes and Sanctus. The choir included singers from various groups, and Jim Letham and the Youngs gave a tribute with a Gilbert and Sullivan musical piece.
Donald was born March 9, 1934, in Bellshill, North Lanarkshire. He excelled at Bellshill Primary School and won a scholarship to Hamilton Academy. He studied classics at Glasgow University, succeeding there.
Donald won the Cowan Blackstone medal and graduated in 1956. He then went to Jordanhill Teaching Training College. Donald became a classics teacher at his old school, driven by a desire to influence education.
In 1963, he became assistant director of education in West Lothian. A decade later, he became education director for Selkirkshire in Galashiels. With local government changes in 1975, he became depute director for the Borders. He modernized schools, supported teachers, and made lasting friendships during this time.
The Gordon family moved to Newstead in 1973. Donald was an elder in Melrose Parish Church, led Sunday school, and drove a minibus for elderly church members.
For 15 years, he led Melrose Community Council. He started Newstead’s first Burns Supper and actively participated in Burns Suppers elsewhere. Donald is known for starting the Trimontium Trust in 1988.
The Trust runs a museum, plus walks and talks. They publish the Trimontium Trumpet newsletter, which shares Roman archaeology knowledge. He also taught Latin and archaeology to kids.
In 2008, Donald received an MBE, honoring his work in Melrose and with Trimontium. Donald was enthusiastic and hard-working. He spoke at Melrose Festival in 2012, with his theme being “carpe diem,” or making the most of life.
He researched James Curle’s letters, Curle being a Melrose solicitor and archaeologist. He finished this project in his 80s. Curle excavated in Newstead, and Revealing Trimontium was published in 2023.
Donald married Ishbel in 1961. He was devoted to her and loved his children, Alison and George. He was proud of his six grandchildren, Jack to Molly, who honored him at his service.