Charles Durham

In Loving Memory of Charles Leonard Durham Sr.

Charles Leonard Durham Sr., affectionately known as “Pa,” passed away on 10/13/2025, at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, and unwavering devotion to his family and community. He was born in Stokes County to the late Moses Leonard Durham and Versie Gammons Durham. 

Pa spent his life rooted in the values of hard work, generosity, and Christian love. He served as a deputy in Surry County during the early 1980s, also working as a distribution manager. In fact, Pa worked the same job in the same building for three different companies at some point, we weren’t sure if he was employed or just part of the foundation. Later Pa was a school bus driver. All of these roles he touched countless lives with quiet kindness and dependability.

A long-standing member of Gum Orchard Baptist Church, Pa served faithfully as Chairman of the Deacons, guiding others with humility and strength. He was also a charter member of the Zephyr Ruritan Club, committed to improving his community through service and fellowship.

Pa’s farm was a place of joy and adventure for his grandchildren. He’d drive them around on golf carts, let them ride ponies, and share Nehi’s and spicy peanuts, small traditions that became cherished memories. Sundays were sacred, not just for worship, but for gathering the entire family for lunch, where laughter and love were always on the menu. On other days, he’d treat family members to lunch outings, simply to spend time and show his care.

He was the living example of a Christian husband, father, and grandfather. He bent over backwards for his family, always making time to listen, support, and celebrate their lives. His devotion was most evident in the tender care he gave his beloved wife during her final years, embodying love in action.

Even into his 80s, Pa took pride in mowing his yard, a reflection of his enduring energy and attention to detail. His generosity was boundless, his faith unshakable, and his presence a source of comfort and strength to all who knew him.

Pa is survived by his son Chip (Becky) Durham of Elkin; brother Carl (Sue) Durham; sister-n-law Judy Melton of Elkin; two grandchildren, Jordan (Megan) Durham of Roaring River and Madison Durham (Ryan) Martin of Summerville Ga; seven great grandchildren, Oliver Martin, Willow Martin, Lucas Durham, Katelyn Kennedy, Natalie Martin, Erin Kennedy, and Ally Kennedy.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Kay Melton Durham; second wife, Bonita Hardy Durham; brother Jerry (Joan) Durham; brother-n-law Rex Melton; and sister-n-law Wanda (Ralph) Hanes.

A funeral service for Mr. Durham will be held Friday October 17, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Gum Orchard Baptist Church with Rev. William Shew officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 12pm–2pm on Friday prior to the service at the church.

His legacy lives on in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

The family would like to thank Chatham Nursing and Rehabilitation for the kindness and generosity they showed during his stay there.

Johnson Funeral Home of Elkin is respectfully serving the Durham family. Online condolences may be made at www.johnson-funeral.com