Leonard Mcdonald Styron

Leonard McDonald Styron, affectionaly known as Donald, 95, of Otway, passed away peacefully on on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at home.

There will be a visitation at 1 p.m. on Sunday, May 26, 2024, at Noe-Brooks Funeral Home. His graveside will follow at Amariah Garner Cemetery in Newport.

Born on August 2, 1928, in Beaufort, North Carolina, Donald was a man whose life was defined by hard work, a love for the land, and a warm, generous spirit that touched everyone he met.

Donald dedicated 40 years of service to the Department of Transportation (D.O.T.), where he became an expert in running heavy machinery, specifically motor graders. His skill and dedication to his work earned him multiple awards and the respect of his colleagues. His contributions to the infrastructure of his community left a lasting legacy that will be utilized by many generations to come.

Outside of his professional life, Donald was a man who cherished the outdoors. He found solace and joy in gardening, growing a variety of crops that not only beautified his surroundings but also provided sustenance. His love for horses was more than a hobby; it was a passion. He raised and trained these noble creatures, developing a bond with them that was a testament to his patience and nurturing nature.

When Donald was not tending to his garden or his horses, he could be found in the comfort of his home in Otway, North Carolina, indulging in his favorite television shows. He had a particular fondness for Westerns, with Gene Autry and Roy Rogers being among his beloved screen heroes. The drama of wrestling also captured his attention, and he enjoyed the excitement and spectacle of the sport.

Donald's love for music, especially country, was another facet of his rich and varied life. In his early years, he played in a band, sharing his musical talents and bringing joy to those who listened. His music was an extension of his personality—full of life, warmth, and an invitation to come together.

Family was the cornerstone of Donald's life. He was a pillar of support, always willing to lend a hand or share his wealth of knowledge. His lessons, often delivered with a story or a smile, were eagerly absorbed by those who looked up to him. Donald believed in the power of teaching, in the sharing of experience, and in the strength of family bonds.

Those who knew Donald will remember him as friendly, thoughtful, and generous. These words truly encapsulate the essence of a man who gave so much of himself to others. He had the ability to make everyone feel welcome, to turn acquaintances into friends, and to leave a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of crossing his path.

Donald was preceded in death by his wife, Rachel G. Styron; his children, Donald W. Styron, Michael D. Styron, and Tabitha I. Styron; his mother, Nellie Styron, father, Leonard J. Styron, siblings: Violet Styron, Everette Styron, Hilda Pollock, Ramona Bacon.

He is survived by his sons, Michael Styron and wife, Kathleen Styron of Newport, Alston Styron and wife, Tabitha Styron of Newport; daughters, Opel Mason and husband John Mason Sr. of Otway, Mona Turks and husband Idorthus Turks of Las Vegas NV and Tammie Riggs of Beaufort;grandchildren, Keeley Styron of Newport, Ayden Styron of Newport, Aleena Styron of Newport, Araya Styron of Newport, Taven Styron of Newport, Joseph Goldston of Otway, John Mason Jr of Otway, Jesse Mason of Otway, Damien Styron of Newport, Angles Styron of Newport, Dalton Styron of Newport, Kristina Styron of New York, Morgan Bowman of Henderson NC, Raymond Riggs of New Bern, Alex Riggs of Otway, Quincy Murray of Beaufort, Alyssa Murry of Beaufort and Antonio Martinez of Arizona; in addition to grandchildren, Donald had ten great grandkids and two great great grandkids.

Donald is survived by a loving family who will continue to honor his legacy by embodying the values he held dear. His memory will live on in the hearts of those he loved, and his spirit will be felt in the gentle breeze across the fields he tended, in the quiet nicker of the horses he cared for, and in the melodies of the country songs he once played.

It is with both sadness and a deep sense of gratitude that we say goodbye to Leonard McDonald Styron. He was a man of the earth, a nurturer of life, and a true gentleman. His story is one of a life well-lived, and he will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

Condolences and life tributes may be sent to the family at www.noebrooks.net.

Arrangements by Noe-Brooks Funeral Home, Morehead City, NC.