JACKSONVILLE  -  Donald "Don" Ray Autry, 73, of Jacksonville,  passed away Saturday, June 1, 2024 at Duke University Hospital. A Celebration of his Life will be held at 12:00 PM on Saturday, June 8, 2024 at Jones Funeral Home, Jacksonville Chapel.  Burial follow at Onslow Memorial Park

Don was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis on August 29, 2005 and received a double lung transplant at Duke University Hospital on March 28, 2008 that enabled to live 16 years. He faced many health challenges during those years, however, he never allowed them to stand in his way.

Don went to work as a locksmith at Base Maintenance on Camp Lejeune in March 1983 and retired in May 2005. In addition, he also ran a successful locksmith business "Autry Safe & Lock". Don believed in hard work and will always be remembered for his strong work ethic, his integrity in business and his common sense wisdom. His motto was: "You are only as good as your word!"

Don was born on June 5, 1950 in Onslow County to the late Clifton and Myrtle (Leary) Autry. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Clifton Jr. Jimmie, Delbert and sister, Shirley.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 48 years, Sondra Johnston Autry, sons, Roger (Kate) of Wilmington, NC; Todd (Heather) of Jacksonville, NC; grandchildren, Graeme, Keegan, and Hailey. He is also survived by his brothers, Charles, Robert, and Andy.

The family will receive friends Saturday, prior to the service, from 10:30 AM until 12:00 PM, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Brookwood Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, 903 Henderson Drive Jacksonville, NC 29540.