James Darrell East

Mr. James Darrell East of Clemmons passed away Sunday, August 4, 2013. He was born October 15, 1939 in Gretna, Virginia as the only child of the late Clara Hines and Jesse Willard East. He is survived by his wife of 49 years Sallie East; his son James (Jay) East and wife Jessica and son Lawson; and his daughter Jackie Campbell and son Connor.

James spent his childhood helping his parents on their tobacco and cattle farm. His family donated the land and founded the Sheva Church of Christ in Chatham, VA where he spent his youth. He had fond memories of sitting on the front pew next to the pot-bellied stove with his grandpa and uncles. James was a proud graduate of Gretna High School class of 1958 where those close bonds of love and friendship have lasted his lifetime. He retired from a career at RJ Reynolds Tobacco Company in 1989 after working in Danville, VA, Lexington, KY, Winston-Salem and Advance, NC. He resided in Advance, NC for 20 years before moving to Salem Glen Country Club in Clemmons, NC where he spent the last decade and a half forming new and lasting friendships. He loved to travel and visited many places including Singapore, Hong Kong, Philippines, China, Alaska, Panama Canal, Greece, The Pyramids, Baltic Sea area, and many other places. The most memorable trip was given to him and his wife for their 40th wedding anniversary by his loving children to Machu Pichu, Peru. He lived life fully and enjoyed his many friends and family. He enjoyed being around people and never met a stranger. He loved to socialize and tell tales with his buddies – even if they were the same ones over and over. He laughed just as hard each time he told them.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00pm Saturday, August 10th in the Chapel of Vogler Funeral Home in Clemmons, NC with Minister Vernon McDaniel officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in his memory be made to Alzheimer’s Association 3800 Shamrock Drive, Branscomb #10, Charlotte, NC 28215 or to Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home, 101 Hospice Lane, Winston-Salem, NC, 27103 or to the charity of one’s choice.