Donald Twiford

Donald J. Twiford KITTY HAWK - Donald Jay Twiford, 64, died with family by his side Thursday, Nov. 19, 2009. Jay was a Dare County native and was born Dec. 24, 1944. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jackson Sanderlin Twiford and Josephine Partridge Twiford. Jay was a graduate of Frederick Military Academy in Portsmouth. He then attended East Carolina University in Greenville before entering the military. Jay went on to serve his country proudly in the United States Army in the Vietnam War. After his military service, Jay returned home and became self employed in commercial fishing. Jay will be fondly remembered for his humor and compassion. Surviving are one sister, Jackie Twiford Smith and husband Sammy of the Kitty Hawk residence; four nieces, Mincie Coder and husband Mike, Michelle Smith, Melissa Smith-Ambrose and husband Roy of all Kitty Hawk and Monique Martin and husband Barry of Southport, N.C.; six great-nephews; two great-nieces; and a host of extended family members and treasured friends. A graveside service will be held Saturday, Nov. 21, at Austin Cemetery in Kitty Hawk at 11 a.m. The Rev. Bob Pitsch will officiate. The family suggests that any memorial contributions in Jay's memory be forwarded to Dare County Home Health and Hospice, P.O. Box 1000 Manteo, NC 27954. Gallop Funeral Services Inc. was entrusted to assist the family. Condolences to the family can be sent via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com.