Carl Gray Denton

Carl Gray Denton, of Bailey, NC passed away peacefully on March 15, 2026, surrounded by his family and friends.

Carl was a sweet and humble soul. He was a devoted husband, son, brother, father, loyal friend, and cherished family member, Carl battled Acute Myeloid Leukemia and Lou Gehrig’s Disease with courage and dignity. He deeply loved his late wife, Linda Manning Denton, his late parents, Cora Dell, and Jack Denton, and his daughter Carla Denton Howell (husband Greg), grandson Grayson Keith (fiancé Rachel), brother, James Denton (wife Robin), nephew, Kevin Denton (wife Shannon), nieces Hailey and Ashlyn, his beloved and loyal girlfriend, Deloris Wells, his stepchildren Lisa Hopkins (husband Rodney), and Larry Whitley (wife Jennifer) and his church family.

Carl proudly served in the Vietnam War from March 11, 1970, to May 6, 1971, achieving the rank of Specialist and courageously fighting along the lines separating North and South Vietnam. He would often share his experiences in the Vietnam War.

A wonderful athlete in his younger years, Carl loved playing, coaching and watching baseball and basketball.  He remained an avid fan throughout his life, especially of the Duke Blue Devils and New York Yankees. He cherished sharing stories of his days in Vietnam, talking sports, and living simply.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Manning Denton, his parents, Cora Dell and Jack Denton, and his brother, Ray Denton.

A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, March 19, 2026, starting at 2:00 PM at Shingleton Funeral Home, 2413 Nash Street NW, Wilson, NC 27894, with Pastor Billy Hall officiating. Burial will follow the service at Bailey Town Cemetery, 11499 S. 581, Bailey. A visitation with the family will be from 1 PM until 1:45PM prior to the service in the chapel of Shingleton Funeral Home.

Family and friends are welcome to Carl’s home after burial services at Bailey.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Leukemia Foundation or ALS Foundation at www.als.org.

Arrangements entrusted to Shingleton Funeral Home, 2413 Nash Street NW, Wilson, NC 27894. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.shingletonfh.com.

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