John "Whitie" David Epes

John David “Whitie” Epes, 93, of Rougemont  passed away peacefully July 3, 2024 at Hock Family Pavilion in Durham, NC. Born July 10, 1930 in Halifax Co., VA, he was the son of the late Thomas Algie Epes and the late Lily Whitlow Long. He was preceded in death by his sister Evelyn Vires, and brother George Thomas “Tooney” Epes. John is survived by his loving wife of 71 years Nellie Robinson Epes, three sons Michael Epes, Charles Epes both of Rougemont, NC, Steven Epes (Rhonda) of Roxboro, NC, three granddaughters Chelsea Epes, Taylor Adessa (David), Shannon Dixon as well as 6 great-grandchildren and his sweet pup Toby.

John served in the US Army, and was a veteran of the Korean War. He worked for Frito Lay until his retirement. He loved golf, spending time with his great-grandkids and granddaughters, his TV, anything his wife Nellie cooked, and anything cherry flavored.

John will be remembered for his dauntingly white hair and his unwavering love and warmth for his family, friends and dogs. He would often tell his loved ones “I love you a bushel and a peck, and a hug around the neck.”

Graveside services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 6, 2024 in the New Bethel Church Cemetery by Dr. M. David Chambers.  The family will receive friends and guests from 6:30 till 8:00 p.m. Friday, July 5, 2024 at Strickland and Jones Funeral Services.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to be made to New Bethel Church c/o Betty Compton, P.O. Box 261, Rougemont, NC 27572 or to Duke Hospice, 4023 North Roxboro Road, Durham, NC 27704.

Arrangements are by Strickland and Jones Memorial Funeral Services, 1810 Durham Road, Roxboro, NC 27573. Online condolences may be made at stricklandandjonesfs.com.

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