Dennis Gary Durham

Published 9:06 am Friday, November 15, 2024

Dennis Gary Durham Sr, 81, of Tryon, NC died Monday, November 11, 2024, at home with family and friends present. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. He was born in Pueblo, Colorado, but moved to Arcadia, SC, where he graduated from Dorman High School and then later Clemson University.

Dennis served in the National Guard and had a successful and fulfilling career in textiles in the upstate of SC as a regional plant manager working for some of the most well-known and respected textile companies in the world. But it was in retirement that Dennis gave back so much to his community and his friends. He and a group of friends spearheaded the development of Rogers Park in Tryon, NC. Later, it would be at Rogers Park during the summer tracks concert series that Dennis was taken to the dance floor one last time and boogie to the music. His friends will hold this sweet memory in their hearts, seeing his joy for this last dance. He also served on the Tryon Town Council and ABC Board for his beloved town.

All who knew Dennis would be remiss if it wasn’t mentioned what a big Clemson Football fan he was. It could be said that Clemson Football might have been the next greatest love of his life next to his family. It would be a rare occasion not to see Dennis sporting a Clemson logo or have the game on watching with friends in his home. In the last days of his life, his hat on his head and orange blanket on his bed felt like a warm embrace as his friends and family watched one last game with him.

Dennis leaves behind a son, Hilton Bradley Durham, and a daughter, Disa Durham Burdette (Bobby) as well as a deceased son, Dennis Gary Durham II who was his life’s work. In addition, he had one grandson, Evan Burdette, who he adored. He leaves behind a beloved wife, Paula Poole Durham, who was his rock. And brothers Ted Durham and Larry Durham (Karen). Dennis also leaves behind Lily, his faithful dog, companion, and protector. 

Preceding Dennis in death were his son, Dennis Gary Durham II, his mother and father, Josie Ann Hilton Durham and Lawrence Bronson Durham Sr. A sister, Alice Durham Bailey and a nephew, Bronson Joseph Durham. 

He was able to spend the last moments with family and friends, so a celebration of life will be planned at a later date. 

The family will be at their respective homes.

Petty Funeral Home

Landrum