Donald Wayne Rierson
1938 - 2025
Donald Wayne Rierson, 87, a dedicated funeral director, musician, and beloved member of his community, passed away peacefully on December 3, 2025. He was born April 28, 1938, in Stokes County, to the late Dallas McKinley and Treva Merritt Rierson. Wayne lived a life marked by service, passion, and devotion to others.
Wayne was a proud member of the first graduating class of Northwest High School in 1956. Following his education, he embarked on a remarkable 61 -year career as a funeral director and embalmer, beginning at Burchette and Huff Funeral Home, later working with Kent Huff in East Bend, North Carolina, and serving 25 years at Slate Funeral Home in King, NC. Even after retirement, he continued to help families through Howell-Nelson for nine years, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to supporting his community.
Beyond his professional life, Wayne was a talented musician, performing with Sam Kirk McGee at the Grand Ole Opry during his years living in Nashville. His love of music, joy for life, and kindness left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
Wayne is survived by his cousin, Bobby Howell; and his special friend, Peggy Martin; along with many friends, colleagues, and loved ones whose lives he touched. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dallas and Treva Merritt Rierson.
A memorial service honoring Wayne’s life will be held at 6:00 PM, Friday, December 19, 2025 at Willis Gap Community Center, 144 The Hollow Road, Ararat, VA, Willis Gap, Virginia, where family and friends will gather to celebrate his remarkable legacy.