Thurman Bernard Daye

And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while,

will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.

~ I Peter 5: 10

   Thurman Bernard Daye was born on Monday, February 21st, 1949, in Seaboard, North Carolina, to the late Thomas and Addie Cornelia Foriest Daye. The second oldest of eight children, Thurman was affectionately known as a gentle giant whose kind heart and warm spirit touched everyone around him. After a courageous battle with various health challenges, he peacefully answered the Master’s call to eternal rest on Saturday, November 1st, 2025, while under the compassionate care of ECU Home Health and Hospice in Greenville, North Carolina.

Thurman received his early education through the Northampton County School System and graduated from Northampton High School in 1969. Soon after, he proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1969 to 1986, at which time he was honorably discharged. Never one to sit still, Thurman pursued a new path as a long-distance truck driver after obtaining his Commercial Driver’s License. From 1986 through the early 2000s, he traveled the highways, visiting countless cities and embracing the freedom of the open road.

After spending several years living in Macon, Georgia, Thurman returned home to North Carolina in 2010. Upon his return, he made a promise to live life to the fullest—doing whatever brought him joy. He could often be found enjoying a hearty country meal at Golden Corral, Ralph’s BBQ, or the Heritage House. Thurman had a passion for technology and loved exploring the latest gadgets, whether computers or cell phones. Known for his signature phrase, “I got a question,” Thurman often sparked some of the most interesting and thought-provoking conversations. His wisdom, humor, and generosity of spirit left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Thurman was preceded in death by his loving parents, Thomas and Addie Daye; his brothers, Leonard Daye and Llewelleyn Daye; and two nephews, Jeffery Harris and Aubrey Stephenson. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of his devoted wife, Essie Mae Daye of Macon, Georgia, and his three children at heart whom he dearly loved—Larry Clark, Sam Clark, and Kimberly Clark, all of Macon, Georgia. One of Thurman’s greatest joys was his granddaughter, Lataycia Grimes (Jeremy), and his four beloved great-grandchildren, all of Georgia.

He also leaves to cherish his memory his devoted siblings: Garland Stephenson (Rev. Gloria) of Graysburg, North Carolina; Theodore Daye (Sandra) of Como, North Carolina; Rev. Ronald Daye (Annie) of Pendleton, North Carolina; Carlton Daye (Juliette) of Franklin, Virginia; and his cherished sister, Sylvia Tann (Ronald) of Pendleton, North Carolina—the sister he lovingly teased by putting three pigtails in her hair. Thurman will also be fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews: Teonaka Daye, Ronderick Daye, Latina Daye, Sherita Clark, Carond Daye, Steve Titus, LaVar Mizelle, Shayvonna Woodley, and Veronica Harris, along with a host of great-nieces and nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends. Among those who held a special place in Thurman’s heart was his dear cousin, Webster “Peter” Robinson, whose companionship and conversation meant the world to him.

Thurman’s life was a testament to love, kindness, and resilience. His gentle spirit, infectious smile, and unwavering care for others will forever be remembered. Though he is no longer with us, the love he shared and the memories he created will remain in our hearts always. We love you, Thurman, and we will miss you dearly.

Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit Mr. Daye's tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family. 

The Caring Team of T. L. Faison's Funeral Care, LLC is privileged to provide

"Professional Care, With Dignity & Integrity" 

to the family of Mr. Thurman Bernard Daye.

We ask that you unite with us in remembering the family in both thought and prayer. 

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