David "Buddy" Lawrence Gryder

David "Buddy" Lawrence Gryder, age 77, of Statesville, passed away on Saturday, February 17, 2024, at his home.  Born on January 11, 1947, in Iredell County, NC, he was the son of Doris Aileen Snow Gryder and the late John Wesley Gryder.  

Buddy was a Veteran of the United States Marine Corps having served 2 tours of duty in Vietnam.  While serving in Vietnam, the Secretary of the Navy awarded the NINETH MARINE REGIMENT (-) (REINFORCED) with the Meritorious Unit Commendation.  Buddy loved his country and was a proud Veteran.

Buddy had a passion for guns and enjoyed going to gun shows.  He was an avid reader who loved animals; one could describe him as a "cat dad."  In his earlier years, he attended Chapel Him United Methodist Church.  

In addition to his father, John Wesley Gryder, he was preceded in death by his son, Christopher Ashley Brown; and his sister, Hazel Jeanette Gryder Crider.  Left to cherish his memory, include his wife of 52 years, Margarette "Maggie" McCoy Gryder; son, David Wesley Gryder and wife, Renee; grandchildren, William Brandon Brown and wife, Tiffany, Kendall Paige Gryder, and Madison Elizabeth Gryder; his mother, Doris Aileen Snow Gryder; sisters, Mary Wilson and husband, Johnny, Barbara Ann Millsaps and husband, Rick, and Doris Sams and husband, Charlie; brother-in-law, Hoke Crider; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held at 12:00 pm, Thursday, February 22, 2024, in the Chapel of Nicholson Funeral Home with Pastor Garrett Brown officiating.  The family will receive friends prior to the service at the funeral home from 11:00 am to 11:45 am.  Burial with Military Honors will follow at Iredell Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Purple Heart Homes, Inc., 755 Washington Ave., Statesville, NC 28677, www.purplehearthomesusa.org. or to Chapel Hill United Methodist Church, 109 Chapel Hill Lane, Statesville, NC 28677.  Nicholson Funeral Home has the honor of serving the family.