May 12, 2026, 77, Kinston – Donald Drew Humphrey, 77, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at the family home. He leaves behind his wife Jan Spence Humphrey of 53 years, his daughters Farrah Humphrey, Heather Carson (Mark) and Hermia Grimes (Chad); his sister Emma Lou Smith; brothers-in-law Herman Spence III (Marilyn) and Scott Spence (Michele) and other family members. He was preceded in death by his parents Oscar “Jake” Humphrey Jr and Marie Farmer Humphrey; Kenton Craig Smith (brother-in-law); Herman Spence Jr and Louise Mewborn Spence (father-in-law and mother-in-law).
Born in Kinston and raised in Deep Run, he grew up on the family farm and loved sports such as basketball, baseball and fishing. He graduated from South Lenoir High and later received his Associate of Arts in Agriculture from Lenoir Community College.
After graduation, he married the love of his life Jan Humphrey and raised three daughters who were known for their sports prowess. Donald was an avid farmer who always put in hard work. Loving his family, Donald prioritized him and Jan being at their ballgames. This love later was evident when Donald and Jan made supporting their five grandchildren Drew, Rylie, Tyler, Kenzie and Colt at their sporting events.
Donald loved reminiscing about sports at South Lenoir. He could detail any sporting event and relive it like it was yesterday. He later enjoyed cooking for the family. More than anything, Donald will be remembered for the pride he carried—pride in his roots and pride in his family.
A memorial service will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026 at Rouse Funeral Home with Pastor Ray Brown officiating. The family will receive friends following the service.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to North Lenoir Softball (Attention: Heather Carson), 2400 Institute Road, La Grange, NC 28551 or Riley’s Army (P.O. Box 720, Winterville, NC 28590).
