September 28, 2024, 99, Apex —

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Ruben Leo Daughtry on Saturday, September 28, 2024, in Apex, North Carolina. Leo was born on January 5, 1925, in Johnston County to the late Charlie Herman Daughtry and Aggie Lynch Daughtry. He was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Geraldine Wilson Daughtry.

He owned and operated Daughtry Jewelers for over 61 years in Berkeley Mall. Leo was a natural-born salesman, and with the “gift of talking” that he had, he gained many dear and devoted friends through the years as well as through his sales.

With an incomparable sense of patriotism, Leo proudly served his country in the United States Navy. His Navy Service began May 20, 1943, and was released from active duty May 4, 1946, with the rank of Photographer’s Mate Third Class. Decorations and citations included the Victory World War II medal.

One of Leo’s proudest moments was at 9:04 in the morning on September 2, 1945, while aboard the new 45,000-ton battleship U.S.S. Missouri and before representatives of nine Allied nations, he filmed the Japanese signing the official Instrument of Surrender, prepared by the War Department and approved by President Truman.

Leo is survived by his daughters, Wanda Jean Oelrich and husband, Michael of Niceville, Florida, and Terry Lynn Raynor of Raleigh; five grandchildren, one sister and one brother. He is also survived by his very special friend, Jayne Parker.

A service celebrating Leo’s life will be at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, October 4, 2024, in the mausoleum chapel at Wayne Memorial Park with Pastor Adam Street officiating. Following military honors, the family will greet friends at the cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Memorials may be given in Leo’s memory to Madison Avenue Baptist Church, 300 S. Madison Avenue, Goldsboro, NC 27530.

Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.