David Lee Rayburn

David Lee Rayburn, 87, of Advance, NC went home to be with his beloved wife of 50 years, Sweet Pea, as the sun rose on her birthday, Friday, January 10, 2025 at Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home of Winston-Salem. He was born December 20, 1937 in Logan, WV to Charles “Bun” Edward Rayburn and Maude Gladys Hamilton Rayburn. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Darlene “Sweet Pea” Gregory Rayburn, a sister, Naomi Ruth Royse, a brother, Roger Rayburn, and son-in-law, Johannes Klein. David is survived by his two daughters, Angela Rayburn (Rob Barrington) of Mobile, AL, and Anita Klein of Advance, NC, and two granddaughters, Hannah Klein and Ava Klein.

Prior to relocating to Advance, NC, David and Darlene made their home in Mt. Sterling, KY, a community that they loved, where they owned and operated Rayburn’s Market, Dairy Mart, and Bait & Tackle for 32 years. David never knew a stranger and was a friend to all, ready to share a joke and lift a spirit. He also gave a fun nickname to many he encountered. David and Darlene cherished all the memories they had with the Gateway Twirlers, and the life-long friends that were made over the many years they danced. David had great loves in his life; his wife, his family, and his business, with another great love being obtaining his pilot’s license and flying, of which he did for many years. He was so happy when he was in the air. When David and Darlene retired and sold the store to Ronnie and Diane Brooks, a new life began to unfold, which included vast amounts of travel, ranging from 48 of the 50 states to multiple trips to Germany, where David always looked forward to a good plate of sauerbraten. 

When Darlene passed on in 2011, David continued their outstanding grandparent legacy by simply being the best grandfather to Hannah and Ava. He was their biggest cheerleader, rarely missed a game or performance, and loved being involved in all aspects of their lives. It brought him immense joy. He was actively involved in his community, where he volunteered for years with the Davie Medical Center, along with Hospice, and especially enjoyed the Silver Sneakers program at the YMCA and his golf leagues, where he adored the company of all of the buddies he made. Even though he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s many years back, he remained just as sweet, curious, humble, hilarious, and philosophical as before, and always loved a good, home-cooked meal. As the disease progressed, he was faced with more challenges, but with help and companionship, he handled things with grace, and with the same loving and giving heart that he was blessed with his whole life. 

David’s wishes were to not have a funeral, and instead wanted all those who knew him to remember him in their own special ways. The family wishes to thank Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home of Winston-Salem for the peace, comfort, and support they provided to David in his final days, and also pass along a hearty thank you to David’s special caregivers.

Hayworth-Miller Kinderton Chapel is assisting the Rayburn family.