Donnie Ray Trent

Donnie Ray Trent, 73, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, July 8, 2026.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at Wilkerson Funeral Home with interment to follow at Mount Carmel Global Methodist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at the funeral home.

Born on April 19, 1953, in Rockingham County, Donnie was a man whose life was rooted in faith, family, and a love for the outdoors. As a charter member of Bible Baptist Church, his relationship with the Lord was an important part of his life and guided the way he cared for others. He was a hardworking man with the ability to do just about anything he set his mind to. Whether fixing, building, or lending a helping hand, Donnie was truly a man of all trades, and family and friends knew they could always count on him.

Donnie found great joy in the simple things in life. He loved hunting in the fall, fishing whenever he had the chance, and spending as much time on the golf course as his body would let him. As a longtime member of the Rockingham Fishing Club and Wolf Creek Golf Course, he formed many lasting friendships while enjoying the hobbies he loved most. Around the lake, Donnie was affectionately known as the "boat captain," always eager to get everyone out on the water for a day filled with laughter and memories. Whether cheering on the Carolina Tar Heels, listening to bluegrass music, or enjoying the outdoors, Donnie embraced every moment with enthusiasm and a smile.

Above all else, Donnie treasured his family. He never missed an opportunity to spend time with those he loved, whether it was a family gathering, a fishing trip, or simply sitting together sharing stories. His greatest pride was watching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow, and the love he had for each of them was evident in everything he did.

Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife, Patricia; his children, Scott Trent (Donna), Steven Trent (Crystal), and Jennifer Daves (James); his grandchildren, Ryan Trent (Samantha), Isaac Trent, Ashley Surles (Jamie), Ethan Busick, Hannah Daves, Emma Trent, Eli Trent, Ally Daves, and Kenzie Daves; his great-grandchildren, Raylan Trent, Wyatt Trent, Weston Surles, and Magnolia Surles; and his brothers, James Trent (Polly), Larry Trent (Delores), and Clyde Trent (Jean).

He was preceded in death by his father, Marvin B. Trent; his mother, Doris Walker Carter; his sister, Judy Welch; and Ed.

Donnie will be remembered for his unwavering faith, generous heart, and willingness to help anyone in need. He lived a life marked by hard work, humility, and love for his family. His steady presence, quiet strength, and kind spirit will be deeply missed but forever treasured by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.