Daniel Vernon Kinlaw

Daniel Vernon Kinlaw passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at his beloved home where he and his wife of 63 years, Kaye, enjoyed a quiet Saturday together. Dan was 81 years old, born July 10, 1943, to Vernon Bain and John Duncan Kinlaw.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents. He leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife, Kaye Edwards Kinlaw; children, Debbie (Ronnie) Kinlaw Tart, and Jennifer (Wes) Kinlaw Davis; grandchildren, Daniel Watson (Jackie) Brown, Sudie (Mark) Brown Gorges, Ellie (Scott) Brown Gilmore, Mattie Grace Davis, Patton Wesley Davis, and Kaye Emily Davis; great grandchildren, Emory Anne Brown, Daniel Hugh Gorges, and John Kinlaw Gilmore; brother, George Al (Lucy) Kinlaw, and his sister, Vivian McKeithan Kinlaw.

For over 40 years, Dan and Kaye enjoyed entertaining their family and friends at their Ocean Isle Beach home, Kinlaw Quarters. It was a place Dan loved. He loved having his family with him there, he loved hosting big cookouts and fish fries; he loved watching the spectacular sunsets over the water. Captain Dan, of the Lady Kaye, enjoyed offshore fishing with family and friends and participated in many tournaments in North and South Carolina. Dan was also active in the Southern Seniors Golf Association with dear friends.

From the beginning of his vast and successful work career, Dan Kinlaw had many diverse interests and opportunities. When Dan returned to Fayetteville in the 70’s, his business included Tarheel Vending and Kinlaw Development Company that eventually led to Fayetteville Moving and Storage Company. This company remains in operation after more than 40 years.

For his great contributions to the Fayetteville community, he received The Honor of the Long Leaf Pine Award, a prestigious award presented to individuals that have made a significant impact and strengthened North Carolina and its communities.

Dan graduated from Fayetteville High School. He was passionate about his Alma Mater, East Carolina University where he served on the Board of Trustees and was an active member of the Pirate Club. Dan was very instrumental in the advancement of the ECU Medical Programs. He received a Distinguished Service Award for his contributions to East Carolina in 2007.

Dan loved his Men’s Bible Group and was a member of Highland Presbyterian Church where he served as an elder.

“Dan Dan”, as he was affectionately known, was a friend and mentor to many of his children and grandchildren’s friends. He was loved for his sense of humor and sage advice.

A Celebration of Life for Dan Kinlaw will be Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 2:00pm at Highland Presbyterian Church with visitation following immediately in the church Fellowship Hall.

Memorials may be made to Highland Presbyterian Church, 111 Highland Avenue, Fayetteville, NC 28305 or to the charity of your choice.

To those who knew Dan Kinlaw, he may well be remembered best for his generosity and love of others.

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