Mr. Ray "Popcorn " Stanley Hairston

Danville, Va.- Mr. Ray "Popcorn" Stanley Hairston of Danville, Va. formerly of Cascade, Va., passed away Wednesday, March 18, 2026, in the Stratford Health Care Nursing Facility in Danville, Va.

With heartfelt love and remembrance, we celebrate the life and legacy of Mr. Ray Stanley Hairston, affectionately known as “Popcorn,” who was born on July 15, 1950, in Eden, North Carolina, to the late Mr. Curnel P. Hairston and Mrs. Mary Gravely Hairston. He was one of eight children and was raised in a family rooted in strength, faith, and togetherness.

Ray was a proud 1968 graduate of Southside High School, where he laid the foundation for a life defined by hard work, resilience, and service.

Let all that you do be done in love.” — 1 Corinthians 16:14

Ray lived a life marked by dedication, service, and a generous spirit. He was a hardworking man who committed himself to several professions over the years, including employment with Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, serving as a Patrolman with the Danville Police Department, and later as a Deputy Sheriff with the Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Department. Through each role, he exemplified integrity, diligence, and a desire to serve his community.

A man of faith, Ray was a member of Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, where he found spiritual grounding and fellowship.

Known for his vibrant personality, Ray found joy in the simple yet meaningful things in life. He had a passion for working and recycling—especially batteries and tires—and loved exploring flea markets. A natural comedian at heart, he delighted in telling jokes and making others laugh. His humor was a gift he shared freely, brightening the lives of those around him. Ray also had a remarkable ability to fix and repair nearly anything. His creativity and resourcefulness allowed him to improve and reimagine the world around him, always striving to “make things work better.”

Above all, Ray had a heart for people. He found great joy in helping others, and he especially cherished giving gifts to children—small acts of kindness that reflected his big heart and loving nature.

Ray was united in marriage to Mrs. Dottie Williams Hairston, from this union, they were blessed with one daughter, Shameka Renee Hairston. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, and his cherished daughter; four brothers, Bishop Major L. Hairston, Sr., Curnell G. Hairston, Sr., Bishop Charlie W. Hairston, and Essic H. Hairston; and one sister, Lucy L. Hairston.

He leaves to cherish his memory two brothers, John Thomas Hairston and Edward Hairston (Vernetta)  both of Cascade, Va.;  two  sisters-in-law, Helen Hairston of  Cascade, Virginia, and Shirley A. Hairston of Danville, Va.; nieces; nephews; former wife, Darlene W. Hairston of Danville, Va.; stepdaughter, Dashia (Derrick); grandchildren, Arielle, Aaliyah, and Derrian; two great grandchildren; and a host of extended family, friends, and all who were touched by his kindness, humor, and generosity.

Ray’s life is a testament to service, gratitude, and joy. Though he is no longer with us in presence, the love, laughter, and light he shared will forever remain in our hearts. His life was a blessing, his memory a treasure.

Public viewing for Mr. Ray "Popcorn" Stanley Hairston will be on Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 2 pm to 7 pm in the John and Juanita S. Fulton Memorial Chapel of Fulton-Walton Funeral Home 219 Dillard School Dr. Yanceyville, NC.

Funeral service for Mr. Ray "Popcorn" Stanley Hairston will be conducted at 2:00 pm Friday, March 27, 2026, with family arriving at 1:30 pm at New Hope Apostolic Church on New Street in Danville, Virginia.

Interment will follow in the Hairston Family Cemetery 3153 Cascade Rd Cascade, Va.

You are invited to attend services for Mr. Ray Stanley Hairston virtually by clicking on the following link:

Mr. Ray Stanley Hairston - Funeral Services

Should Live Streaming not be available due to certain conditions resulting from rural location with little to no Broadband connection, no WIFI signal and or little to no cellular coverage, we will record the services of your loved one in its entirety and post a link where you will be able to partake in the services within 48 hours.

Fulton-Walton Funeral Home 219 Dillard School Dr. Yanceyville, NC.

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