Biography: Donald "Footie" Anderson was born in Savannah, Ga to Shelly Anderson Jr (who preceded him in death) and Rivania Anderson on September 10, 1958. His parents moved to NYC in 1959 where they settled in Harlem. The Anderson family was one of the first families in Drew Hamilton Houses, where Donald was raised. He graduated from DeWitt Clinton H.S. in the Bronx, NY. in 1976 where he was a standout football player.

Donald met and married Gail Peterson where two children were born of this union; Erica

Rivania Anderson (whom preceded him in death), and Donald Anderson Jr. After the untimely passing of his wife Gail Peterson, he later met and married Felecia Lesane and they were joined in marriage in 1998 and two children were born of this union; Jordan Petrell and Demery Isiah Anderson.

Donald served in the Air Force Reserves from 1980 until 1988. Donald worked for The City of New York DDC for 16 years until his injuries in the 9/11 tragedy. He was a 9/11 first responder and captured many photos of the 9/11 tragedy during the first seven days. Many of his photos are now displayed at the New York Historical Society, The City of New York Museum, and the 9/11 Memorial Museum. He hoped that the photographs might one day communicate to 9/11 family members the dedication and caring that characterized the rescue and recovery efforts. He also wanted to make sure that children too young to understand what had occurred, including his own, as well those not yet born, would understand what had happened that tragic day.

Donald gave his life to Christ where he was baptized at and later joined Tabernacle of Glory under the leadership of Pastor Robert Earl.

Donald enjoyed spending time with his family, playing video games and working on cars. His smile and loud personality lit up the room whenever he was around.

Footie, as he was affectionately known will surely be missed. He leaves to cherish his sons Donald, Jordan, and Demery Anderson of Harlem, NY his mother Rivania Scott of New York City; sisters Linda Curate of Long Island, NY, Jackie Osborne of Savannah, GA, Patricia Downey (Lamont) of Bronx, NY, Toni Hales (Jerry) of Savannah, GA, Tanya Smith of Savannah, GA, Tameka Williams of Savannah, GA; brothers Shelly Anderson lII (Holly) of  Harlem, NY, Darryl Anderson (Octavia) of Harlem, NY, Darius Anderson (Martha) of Savannah, GA.

His closest friends Michael Byrd, Michael Chappel, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins.