Obituaries

Auty B. Grainger, 73, of King William, Va., passed away on October 11, 2026. His family finds comfort in knowing that he is now with the Lord, restored to health and reunited with his beloved wife, Linda.

Born in Newport News, Va., in 1953 to Ira and June Grainger, Buck was the third of five children. He often shared fond stories of growing up in a lively household with his siblings. He attended Bethel High School before entering the workforce.

A lifelong resident of Hampton and Newport News, Buck met the love of his life, Linda Jordan, there. They married in 1970 and built a family together. Their children—Rodney, Susan, and Ryan meant the world to them.

Buck enjoyed cars, fishing, and NASCAR, but being a grandparent was his greatest joy. He treasured time with his grandchildren, who lovingly knew him as “DeDe” and “Grandad.”

Buck spent most of his career in retail, serving as a store manager for Food Lion and Walmart. Along the way, he formed many lasting friendships.

Buck will be remembered for the stories he told about Tabor City, N.C., and the cherished time he spent there with his extended family. Whenever possible, he enjoyed returning to the Myrtle Beach area. We will miss Buck every day, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

Buck was preceded in death by his wife of 36 years, Linda Grainger; his parents, Ira and June Grainger; and his brother, Rodney Grainger.
He is survived by his son, Rodney Grainger (Crystal); daughter, Susan Grainger (Joseph); son, Ryan Grainger (Leah); and his grandchildren, Erica, Madalyn, Kennedy, Blake, Cameron, Harper, and Lily. He also leaves behind his brothers, Bobby Grainger (Phyllis) and Harold Grainger (Phyllis); his sister, Donna Suits (Donald); and a host of great-grandchildren, aunts, uncles, in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, October 20, at 10:30 a.m. at Peninsula Funeral Home. The funeral service will begin at noon, with interment to follow at Peninsula Memorial Park.