Donovan "Don" Joe Cash, age 84, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2026, just two weeks after the passing of his beloved life partner of 61 years, Jim Parker. Don was ready to go, and there is no doubt that "James" has taken him home one last time.

Don was born on June 23, 1941, in Western Grove, Arkansas, to John M. Cash and Ruthie Gayle Cash (Robertson). He grew up with a sharp mind and an entrepreneurial spirit. In his early years in Springfield, Missouri, Don worked delivering glass and driving a taxi. He genuinely loved meeting new people in his cab and frequently bragged that, at the time, he knew every single street in Springfield like the back of his hand.

Don eventually found his true calling after attending cosmetology school. Alongside his partner Jim, he became one of the most prominent and respected hair stylists in the region. Together, they founded The Harem, a landmark Springfield hair salon, gift boutique, and high-end fashion store that remains a thriving testament to their vision today. Throughout his career, Don mentored countless promising young stylists, guiding them toward long, successful careers of their own.

Don possessed the eye and soul of a designer. Over his lifetime, he designed and contracted the construction of multiple homes he lived in, taking total control of the interior decorating, painting, and meticulous landscaping. His properties were local masterpieces, often featuring extensive water features, grand fountains, and peaceful outdoor sitting areas.

Though sports were never his passion, he and Jim proudly coached his son Jeff’s summer baseball team, "Cash’s Crusaders," leading them all the way to a local championship. Even Mike received a trophy for Bat Boy. He also shared a love of craftsmanship with Jeff, spending hours in the garage collaborating on multiple woodworking projects.

Don loved motorcycles, off-roading in his Jeep, and traveling. He successfully visited all 48 contiguous states. In his retirement years, he and Jim loved exploring the Missouri and Arkansas countryside. Don was happily willing to go anywhere Jim wanted to go—provided they were back in their own bed by nightfall.

A man of distinct tastes, Don knew exactly what he liked and exactly what he didn't. He was famously authentic and unapologetically direct; you always knew precisely what he thought about you and your choices. At family gatherings, true to his style, he never wanted to overstay his welcome. The moment he decided it was time to go, he would declare his famous catchphrase: "Take me home, James!"

Don was preceded in death by his life partner, Jim Parker; his wife of 20 years, Amy Willadean West; his parents; his brothers, James Garland Cash and Kenneth Dale Cash; and his brothers-in-heart of 61 years, Jack, Jay, and George Parker.

He is survived by his devoted sons, Jeff Cash and his wife Sheri (Kansas City, MO), and Michael Cash and his wife Kim (Nixa, MO). He also leaves behind his sisters-in-heart of 61 years, Jerri Finley (Forks, WA), June Lenger (Ashland, MO), Joanne Arnett (TN), and Vicky Gates (Springfield, MO); four granddaughters, Sara Meeks, Jessica Parrott, Kristin Sneed, and Raegan Cash; and six great-grandchildren, along with numerous nephews, nieces, and a community of friends, colleagues, and mentorees whose lives he forever changed.

At Don’s explicit request, no formal ceremony will be held. He has been cremated, and his and Jim’s ashes will be placed together in their absolute favorite town, Eureka Springs, Arkansas, where they can rest side-by-side forever.

He touched so many lives in so many ways. He will be deeply missed, but his family takes comfort in knowing he and Jim are reunited, completely at peace.