Russell Jerry Draughn

Russell Jerry Draughn, 83, of Trinity, passed away peacefully on October 29, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born on July 5, 1942, in Davidson County, Thomasville, NC to the late Simon Peter Draughn and Grace Geneva Hardy Draughn.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Jeraldine "Jerri" Edwards, and his brother, Kenneth Dee Draughn.

On December 25, 1979, Russell married the love of his life, Betty Draughn, who survives of the home. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and community.

Also surviving are his daughters, Julie Mentel and husband Eric of Winnabow, NC, and Medissa Cox and husband Tony of Myrtle Beach, SC; his son, Johnnie Spivey and wife Carol of Myrtle Beach, SC; his brother, Roger Draughn of Thomasville, NC and his sister-in-law, Brenda Draughn of Thomasville, NC.

He is also survived by his grandchildren: Taylor Diane Spivey, Cole Spivey and wife Peyton, Anna Brice Cox, Blaine Spivey, Kaylee Jean Spivey, Cade Cox and Cowen Cox. His great-grandchildren include Jackson Spivey-Blair, Everleigh Jean Spivey, Kade Spivey and Brinley Spivey; and several nieces and nephews, which he loved dearly.

Russell proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1960 to 1965, where he was a member of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Eleven. Following his military service, he enjoyed a long and successful career with Senco in High Point, NC, before retiring.

A devoted man of faith, Russell was a dedicated member of Mt Gilead Church in Sophia, NC, for more than 45 years. During his time there, he served as leader of the Administrative Board for 25 years, taught Sunday School, and was honored as Layperson of the Year in 2001.

Outside of his service to church and community, Russell was an avid fisherman, hunter, and lifelong UNC Tar Heel fan. He will always be remembered as a faithful and devoted husband, father, uncle, friend and Pawpaw.

A funeral service to celebrate Russell's life will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 1:00 PM, at Mt Gilead Church, 4736 Mt Gilead Church Road, Sophia, NC 27350. The family will receive friends at the church prior to the service from 11:00 AM to 12:45 PM. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Mt Gilead Church, mailed to 4650 Hoover Hill Road, Trinity, NC 27370.