David Townsend Haynes, 80, of Shelby, passed away Thursday October 15, 2015 at the Wendover Hospice House. David was born May 29, 1935 in Gaston County, a son of the late Grady and Pearl Townsend Haynes.

David graduated from Gastonia High School and furthered his education at Belmont Abbey, Lenoir Rhyne, and UNCC. He worked with Blue Bell of Greensboro, State Capital Life Insurance Company, Gaston County Schools; Hunter Huss High School and Belmont Junior High School. He also taught at Cleveland County Community college and Gaston College. He was involved in many professional activities, among them were President NCVA Guidance Division, Board of Governors member of NC DECA, supervising teacher for Winthrop College, Southern Regional Vice President and President of National Association of Distributive Education Association. He was honored for his many accomplishments and was made a lifetime member of DECA, NC Vocational Association Board of Directors. David's honors were lengthy with these being a few; National Association of D.E. Education Teachers Hall of Fame, NC Marketing Educators Outstanding member, NC Marketing Educators Gold Link and Solid Gold Awards, and a member of Who's Who in American Education.

He served on many boards and projects in the community, with a cherished one being Executive Member of the American Legion World Series Board. He loved sports. He was a referee for years and never missed any of his son's games. He had just been elected to the Shelby Parks and Recreation Citizens Advisory Board. His involvement with sports continued throughout his life. He was a member of the York Rite of Gastonia, Oasis Shrine Club of Charlotte, and Piedmont Shine Club of Shelby. He received his 50 Year Pin.

David loved his God, family, church and friends. He had a caring way that reached out to many people. He was a long time member of Central United Methodist Church.

David is survived by his wife of 60 years, Billie Ann Roberts Haynes, a son, Dusty Haynes and his wife Kimberly of Kings Mountain, two grandchildren, Robert Townsend Haynes and his wife Jessica of Charlotte, Kimberly Blair Haynes of Kings Mountain, one great grandson, William.

Funeral services will be held 3:00pm Sunday October 18, 2015 at Central United Methodist Church with the Rev. Danny Leonard officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Cemetery with Masonic Rites by the Cleveland Shrine Club AF&AM #202. The family will receive friends Saturday October 17, 2015 from 6:00pm to 7:30pm at the Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home.

Memorials can be made to; Hospice Cleveland County, 951 Wendover Heights Drive, Shelby NC 28150

Cecil M Burton Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family of Mr. Haynes.

Guest Registry is available at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com