In Loving Memory
Sandy Lee Draughn
May 26, 1946 — March 19, 2026
Winston-Salem, North Carolina – Sandy Lee Draughn, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2026, at the age of 79, after a courageous battle with Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS). Sandy was born on May 26, 1946, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, to Buford Columbus Draughn and Romanthie Nelson Draughn. He was predeceased by his parents and his dear sister, Mickey, and is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, LaDeea Byrd Draughn, and his cherished sons, Darren Shane Draughn (Mary), Brandon Scott Draughn (Tasha), Logan Matthew Draughn, and Dawson Andrew Draughn. Sandy was a proud grandfather to four grandchildren: Mariah Draughn, Jacob Draughn, Abby Draughn Rhoades (Andrew), and Brandon Draughn.
Sandy and LaDeea's love story began on December 4, 1999, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and beautiful memories. Sandy took immense pride in raising his four sons, each of whom carries forward his legacy of warmth, humor, and passion for the great outdoors. A graduate of Gray High School and Forsyth Tech, Sandy completed his education in 1964 with an associate's degree. He dedicated 42 years to the printing industry as a film stripper, a career that showcased his meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence. Alongside his professional endeavors, Sandy's skillful hands found joy in woodworking and construction work. Sandy built classical guitars and took pride in the beautiful guitars he crafted The people he shared his guitars were impressed with the beautiful sound when being played. He was never short of projects as he was often crafting special projects for his beloved wife. One of his most treasured creations was a curly maple hutch, designed to perfection to meet LaDeea's vision.
Sandy's love for the outdoors was infectious. He often recounted humorous tales of groundhog hunting in the mountains and found peace fishing along the serene shores of Ocracoke Island. His enthusiasm for shooting and guns was a passion shared and passed down to his sons. A man of gentle spirit, Sandy's heart was as generous as his humor was quick. He adored animals, especially his birds and fur babies, and delighted in sharing jokes and playful comebacks with LaDeea.
A man of faith, Sandy was a devoted member of The Crossing, where he attended services with LaDeea and participated in The Young and the Rest of Us Sunday School class. His presence was a source of joy and inspiration to all who knew him. His faith in being saved and knowing where he was going was shown as he sent a message to his dying mother in law “We are both going through those pearly gates soon and I’ll see you on the other side. The messaged was delivered and she quietly passed 22 hours later.
Sandy's family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Trellis Support and Kate B Reynolds Hospice House for their compassionate care during his final days. Johnson Funeral Services is handling the details.
Sandy requested no service but ask his ashes be spread at two of his favorite places, Mount Mitchell and Ocracoke Island.
In memory, !
donations may be made to the Young and the Rest of us Sunday School class at The Crossing in Kernersville or potted plants delivered to the home.
Sandy Lee Draughn's life was a testament to love, family, and unwavering strength. The remarkable legacy he leaves behind-a legacy of love, laughter and indelible memories that will reside forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His memory will be cherished and his spirit remembered by all whose lives he touched.