David J. Autrey

David J. Autrey, age 83, of the South Toe Community, went Home to be with the Lord, surrounded by his loving family, at Mission Hospital on Sunday, April 6th, 2025. He was a son of the late Jasper and Bonnie Gouge Autrey. David was also preceded in death by his brothers: Leland Autrey, Ranis Autrey, Randy Autrey and Lewis Autrey; and two sisters: Augusta Branch and Sadie Autrey.
David was a district manager for the Asheville Citizen-Times. In later years, he was a successful business owner and was a licensed landscaping contractor. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany. He was a member of South Estatoe Baptist Church. He enjoyed coon hunting and fishing, but most of all spending time with his family and friends, as well as traveling.
Surviving are his loving wife of 62 years, Martha Dale Autrey; sons: David Autrey (Sherri) of Burnsville, NC, Chris Autrey (Kristie) of Green Mountain, NC, Jeff Autrey (Linda) of Unicoi, TN, Steve Autrey (Marcy) of Mooresville, NC, and Charlie Autrey (Becky) of Burnsville, NC; twelve grandchildren; fourteen great- grandchildren; sister-in-law, Margaret Autrey; brother-in-law, Dean Branch: and close friend, Mitchell (Mickey) Westall. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
Funeral services will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 12th at South Estatoe Baptist Church. Pastor Greg Alderman and Pastor Jeff Reecer will officiate. Graveside services will follow in the South Estatoe Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Ethan Stafford, Aaron Autrey, Andrew Autrey, Patrick Stafford, Jake Autrey and Jeremy Hoilman. The family will receive friends from 3:30 until 5:30 p.m. prior to the funeral services at the church.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to South Estatoe Baptist Church Missions Fund, 32 South Estatoe Baptist Church Road, Burnsville, NC 28714.