Donnie was born in Hopewell, Virginia, July 26, 1960. He now resides in Sandston, Virginia with his wife Kathy, his son Cameron 17, and his daughter Brandy 21.  His earliest recollection of old time Gospel Music was as a young boy at an old backwoods country church.  His grandfather was a Minister and the music for the congregation was usually provided with guitars, tambourines and whatever may have been available.  His love for Bluegrass and Bluegrass Gospel came when he was approximately 8 or so. He remembers riding along back country roads with his dad searching for lost hunting dogs and listening to the Stanley Brothers, Don Reno and Red Smiley, Flatt and Scruggs plus many others on an 8 track tape deck.  After learning a few chords on the guitar and a few licks on the banjo, he soon found the joy of just picking.  Donnie has had the pleasure of performing with many local groups including: "Southern Edition", "Virginia Bluegrass Band", plus "Heritage" with his father Donald Warthan. His Dad now plays with a popular local Bluegrass group called "Legacy."

   He enjoys spending time with his family who provides much support and share in his love for music. His family enjoys summer vacations in the Outer Banks, N.C., Disney World and just being together at a "good ole CYG concert". Donnie enjoys the outdoors. One of his favorite pastimes is hunting or just being in a quiet place with nature. His life is serving God and looking forward to wherever He may lead.