Kitty Hawk- Donald Jay Twiford, 64, died with family by his side Thursday November 19, 2009. Jay was a Dare County native and was born December 24, 1944. He was preceded in death by his parents the late Jackson Sanderlin Twiford and Josephine Partridge Twiford.

Jay was a graduate of Frederick Military Academy in Portsmouth, Virginia. He then attended East Carolina University in Greenville before entering the military. Jay went on to serve his country proudly in the United States Army in the Vietnam War. After his military service, Jay returned home and became self-employed in commercial fishing. Jay will be fondly remembered for his humor and compassion.

Surviving are one sister Jackie Twiford Smith and husband Sammy of the Kitty Hawk residence; four nieces Mincie Coder and husband Mike; Michelle Smith; Melissa Smith-Ambrose and husband Roy of all Kitty Hawk; Monique Martin and husband Barry of Southport, NC; six great-nephews; two great nieces; and a host of extended family members and treasured friends.

A graveside service will be held Saturday November 21, 2009 at Austin Cemetery in Kitty Hawk at 11 O’Clock in the morning. The Reverend Bob Pitsch will officiate.