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Mr. Claude “Cecil” McMahan Sr., 95, of Winston-Salem, died on Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021.

He was born Oct. 17, 1925 in Haywood County to Eula Gibson McMahan and Glenn Dills McMahan. Mr. McMahan served in the U.S. Navy during World War II  aboard the USS Randolph in the Pacific. He was a member of Memorial Reformed Church and retired from Hanes/Sara Lee Corp. after 39 years. Known as “Pappaw”, he loved his family. He enjoyed Saturday lunches at the farm with the Davie County crew,  eating at The Rancho and most recently during quarantine, eating at the home at “Dovie’s Diner”. He loved gardening and would bring his family and friends vegetables from his garden. He also loved rabbit hunting and to fish.

He was preceded in death by: his parents; his wife, Irene Whitt McMahan; 3 sisters, Pauline Crews, Marie Disher and Edna Essex; and 2 brothers, Otis McMahan and infant brother, Donald McMahan.

Surviving: his 2 sons, Steven W. McMahan (Becky) of Mocksville and Claude “Buster” Cecil McMahan Jr. of Winston-Salem; 3 grandchildren, Amy Vernon (Josh), Scott McMahan and Cassidy McMahan (Taylor); 3 great-grandchildren, Dovie Vernon, Peyton McMahan and Blake McMahan; and a sister on the way; a daughter-in-law, Peggy McMahan; and a special dog, Kia, who he loved to sneak food to.

Many years ago he helped start a scholarship fund for students in Wake Forest University’s Cardiac Rehab Program. This program was always special to him and has evolved into Wake Forest University’s HELPS Program (Healthy Exercise & Lifestyle Programs). In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Cecil’s memory to Wake Forest University HELPS, Attn: Ashlyn Swafford, Director, PO Box 7628, Winston-Salem, 27109.

Due to Covid restrictions, a private graveside service will be held for immediate family on Wednesday, Jan. 20 at Parklawn Memorial Park Chapel of Faith with the Rev. Christa Warise officiating.

Condolences: www.hayworth-miller.com.