J.D. Rountree

   James Dallas Rountree, USN (Ret), 70, of 549 Taylor Mill Road, Eure, NC, passed away on Monday, March 12, 2018, in his home.

   Mr. Rountree was born in Norfolk, VA, on June 17, 1947, and was the son of the late Walter Dallas and Thelma Greene Rountree. Retired from the United States Navy after 23 years of service, he wished to be remembered as a Patriot who loved his country. A Chief Petty Officer, he served in Vietnam, Operation Desert Storm, and in Cuba. During his Naval career, he landed in every continent except Antarctica, sailed every ocean, and in the Panama and Suez Canals four times. He was a “Shellback”, for crossing the Equator four times; a “Bluenose”, for crossing the Arctic Circle twice; and a member of The Realm of the Golden Dragon, for crossing the International Date Line.

   A member of Eure Christian Church, he also enjoyed his membership as a 32nd Degree Mason in Gatesville Masonic Lodge #126, and in the Sudan Temple of the Shrine.

   Surviving are his wife of nearly 43 years, Rita Eure Rountree; his son, Aaron Rountree and wife Tori of Manteo; his brother, Alvin Rountree of Currituck; and four grandchildren, C.J., Vicky, Rileigh, and James.

   Funeral services will be held Thursday at 2:00 p.m. in Eure Christian Church and will be conducted by Pastors Wade Bennett and Wayne Gardner. Burial in the church cemetery will include Masonic and Military rites. Friends may join the family Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. in Miller Funeral Home, 304 Main Street, Gatesville, in the church social hall immediately following the service, and all other times at the residence.

   Memorial contributions may be made to Eure Christian Church, 872 NC 137, Eure, NC 27935; or to the Gates County Rescue Squad, 016 US Hwy 158 E, Gatesville, NC 27938; or the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675-8517 (or by phone 877-832-6997).

   Online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.