Delbert Herschel McNally

Delbert "Red" McNally, 88, passed away peacefully on December 15, 2025, in Rockingham, North Carolina. Born on July 14, 1937, in Island Falls, Maine, Red lived a life marked by hard work, adventure, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

Red began his professional journey with Davey Tree Service Company, where he developed a strong foundation in arboriculture. His passion and expertise led him to establish his own tree service company, offering specialized services such as diagnosing diseased trees, tree removal, and storm debris cleanup. His dedication to his craft and entrepreneurial spirit left a lasting mark on the communities he served.

Never one to stop learning or challenging himself, Red later attended Richmond Community College (RCC) to become a certified welder. This pursuit reflected his lifelong commitment to growth and hands-on craftsmanship.

Red proudly served his country in the U.S. Army with the elite 82nd Airborne Division. His time in service included memorable experiences in Panama and culminated with a final qualifying jump completed while wearing a cast on a broken leg-an enduring testament to his grit and determination. He often shared stories from his military days with friends and family, keeping alive the camaraderie and pride he felt during those years.

A man of many passions, Red was an avid hunter and fisherman who found solace and excitement in nature. He was a proud member of the Over the Hill Gang hunt club and cherished the bonds formed during countless hunting trips. Whether tracking game through the woods or casting a line into quiet waters, Red embraced every opportunity to be outdoors.

His love for exploration extended beyond hunting and fishing-he enjoyed traveling and rock hunting, always eager to discover something new. After retiring, he poured his creativity into woodworking. With patience and skill, he crafted beautiful wooden lamps, walking sticks, and candle holders that reflected both his artistry and love for natural materials.

Red was known for being an early riser who treasured quiet mornings spent sipping coffee at local spots around town. These simple rituals became cherished moments of connection with friends and acquaintances who appreciated his stories, humor, and warm presence.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 65 years, Mevis Johnson McNally; his son, Terry D. McNally; his parents, Elva Spaulding McNally and William "Bill" McNally; and his brothers, Junior McNally and Herbert McNally.

He is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Diana Driggers (Chris), son, Billy McNally, and daughter, Andrea Dawn Brasher (John)

Grandchildren, Dana Diaz, Dustin Paul, Natalie Driggers, Patrick Ferguson, Ruth Lylte, Terry Dean McNally, and Ashley McNally.

Step-grandchildren: Matthew Driggers, Brooklyn Driggers, Jackie Brasher, Ashton Brasher, and John Brasher.

Numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Siblings: Shirley Glidden (Harvey), as well as several nieces and nephews residing in Maine.

Red's legacy lives on through the many lives he touched-with each story told over morning coffee or passed down around a campfire-and through the handcrafted treasures he left behind. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to those who follow in his footsteps.

A Memorial Service will be held on December 21, 2025, from 02:00 PM to 03:00 PM at Watson-King Funeral Home, 100 Cheraw Road, Hamlet, NC 28345.

Memorial Donations can be made to your choice of the following nonprofit organizations:

The American Heart Association at www.heart.org,

The Veteran's Affairs at https://www.cdceportal.va.gov/donate_online/

Disabled American Veterans at www.help.dav.org.

Online Condolences can be made at www.watson-kingfuneralhome.com. Watson-King Funeral Home in Hamlet is assisting the McNally Family.