Harold Edwin Drummond

Harold Edwin Drummond, 87, peacefully passed away at Wilson Medical Center on Monday, July 22, 2013. He was born on September 13, 1925 in Rocky Mount, NC to Grover Cleveland (G.C.) Drummond and Willie Merritt Drummond, and was one of ten children. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his six sisters and three brothers; Elma Dove, Margaret Drummond, Helen Drummond, Ruby Drummond Gardner, Louise Drummond, Mary (Mickie) Drummond Turner, William (Buck) Drummond, James D. (J.D.) Drummond, and Clyde Drummond.
Harold graduated from the Rocky Mount school system, and entered the U.S. Army in Sept. 1944. He was a paratrooper with the 101st Airborne Division, and was in Bastogne, Belgium during the German siege of that town. Upon discharge from the Army, he returned home and began his work career, ultimately employed by Imperial Tobacco Company in Wilson and retiring after many years of service. Eventually he moved back to Nash County, close to the Sims community, where he resided for over 20 years. Harold's life dedication was: country, family, friends, integrity, and always a willingness to help others. For several years, he had longed to join two of his brothers who had moved to Florida, but about 12 years ago, health issues involving two of his sisters led to a decision to stay in the Nash County area in order to see to their needs and handle their associated financial matters. This was a decision he said "he never regretted for a single second". He spent over 10 years in this role, until the passing of his last sister, to the great admiration and appreciation of his entire family. Last year he moved to Wilson, NC, still able to drive, and attend to almost all of his needs. He was very determined to live as independently as possible, desiring above all, to not be a burden on anyone...and in truth, he never was!
He is survived by two daughters, Amy Drummond Halvorson (Dan) and Catherine Drummond, both of Wilmington, NC, and a grandchild, Carter Halvorson. He is also survived by two sister-in-laws, Peggy Drummond and Norma Drummond, both living in Florida, whom he loved as much as "full sisters". Additionally, he leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, with Mike Turner being local and very close to him. Harold enjoyed the friendship of many during a long life, and leaves behind several special friends, including Russell Boykin and wife, C.D. Batten, and Faye Batten. He will always have our heartfelt appreciation for the sacrifices he made in life for his family, as well as our love!
His final gift in this life was to donate his body to the East Carolina University Medical School to further medial research and student training. Because of this, and his stated wishes, no memorial service is planned at this time. He wouldn't have minded however, if one desires to make a donation to their favorite medical research charity. The family wishes to thank Dr. Will Bynum and staff, as well as the staff at Wilson Medical Center for their attentive care to Harold during his final illness, and also to thank his friends and neighbors at Briarcliff Apts. for their assistance when he needed it.