Dan Laverne Drury

He was born on July 16,1934 to Wesley Mathieu Drury and Isabelle Smith Drury in Carlsbad, New Mexico. He also had a sister, Nell Marie Drury Matthews. He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Paula Lawson Drury, daughter, Dana Drury Taylor of Altavista (Garry) and son, Paul Wesley Drury of Chicago; and four grandchildren Allison Maureen Drury, Lawson James Drury, Vivian Grace Drury and Travis Fox Taylor (Ashley).

Dan graduated from Carlsbad High School in 1952 followed by two years at New Mexico Military Institute and then graduated from Oklahoma University in 1956. Lt. Colonel Drury served in the United States Army over a 23-year honorable and decorated career including serving in Vietnam as the commander of a tank battalion in 1970. His military career afforded him and his family the opportunity to see many parts of the world together which was a blessing to Paula and their children. They share many memories of their adventures together.

Upon his retirement, he and Paula resided in Belton, Texas. There he enjoyed some acting in the community theater and singing with The Country Gentlemen (Men’s Barbershop). He also sang in the church choirs where he and Paula worshipped together. He and Paula were avid world travelers and particularly enjoyed their small river boat cruises.

To reside between their children’s families, they moved to the Cincinnati area in 2001 where they gathered annually to celebrate Thanksgiving all together. In 2014 they relocated to the Lynchburg area to be closer to their daughter.

Dan led a life rich with wonderful experiences and the love of family and many, many dear friends. He will be missed by all who knew him!

A funeral service will be held on Friday, August 22, 2025 at 2:00 pm at Virginia Veterans Cemetery in Amelia.

John 14:1-3

Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.

Psalm 23:4 (NIV)

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

“When peace like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say it is well, it is well, with my soul.”