Donald Ray Krites

April 14, 2023, Donald Ray Krites, 85, of Reidsville, NC transitioned into his eternal home with Jesus Christ, after a short battle with pancreatic cancer. Although the fight was lost, his strength, faith and perseverance continued into his last days. Donald will forever be remembered as a devoted family man, strong in faith and character, treating anyone he met, fairly and equally.

Originally, a Forsyth County native, he was born August 5, 1937, to the late Paul McKinley and Dossie Crabb Krites. After moving to Rockingham County, he would attend Reidsville High School graduating in 1956, then continuing to Rockingham Community College, obtaining a certification as a Machinist while serving his Country as a sharpshooter for the National Guard. He led a successful 33-year career, retiring from ZARN as a lead supervisor in 2003. While he enjoyed his work, he had a passion for firearms that established him as a well-known gunsmith in Rockingham County. Donald both appreciated the craftsmanship of his firearm as well as the sport of trap shooting. As one of the founding members of the Rockingham County Gun Club, he helped pave the way for future generations to have a place to enjoy the same sportsmanship and comradery as he had.

For the last 63 years, Donald dedicated his life loving one woman who survives, Betty Krites and together raised three surviving children, Barbara Ray Krites (Michael), Dale Ray Krites, and Donna Krites Rodgers (Don) as well as enjoying two grandchildren, Vanessa Ashley (David), and Hunter Rodgers.  The family will cherish fond memories of camping in the mountains, beach vacations, porch perching and the “Oh Boy’s” that came from an excited, yet quiet man.  And although he was a man of few words, Donald will always be remembered for his kindness, strength, knowledge and for centering his life around his family and faith for God.

In addition to his parents, Donald is proceeded in death by his brothers; Richard and Azlee Krites; Sisters Geraldine Krites, Shirley Matkins, Zephyr Southard, Hazel Binkley and Naomi Powers. He is Survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren as well as numerous extended family members. A funeral service will be conducted at 2 p.m.  April 18, at Citty Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Gordon Fisher officiating. Burial will follow at Evergreen Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends and family from 1 p.m.- 2 p.m. April 18 at Citty Funeral Home.

The family would like to express appreciation for the wonderful staff and care facilitated by Hospice of Rockingham County as well as the Annie Penn Cancer Center.

The family ask if any donations or in lieu of flowers, that contributions be made in Donald’s Honor to Reidsville Pentecostal Holiness Church at 160 Bride Drive, Reidsville NC 27320.

Citty Funeral Home is assisting the Krites family. Online condolences may be sent to: www.cittyfh.com.

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