Harvey Clayton Rawl, Sr.

Harvey Clayton Rawl, Sr., passed away peacefully on November 10, 2023, at the age of 80. He was born on March 29, 1943, in Lexington, to the late Harvey Leslie Rawl and Mary Lucille Kaminer Rawl.

Clayton, as he was known, was a quick-witted and clever man, who possessed a strong will and a diligent work ethic. He was deeply devoted to his family, and his loved ones meant the world to him.

In his professional life, Clayton was a successful farmer and the retired owner of Clayton Rawl Farms, Inc. His dedication to his work was evident in the thriving business he built.

He graduated from Lexington High School in 1961; and went on to further his education with a degree in agriculture from North Carolina State University.

Outside of his career, Clayton had a passion for collecting antique cars. He found joy in driving anything with wheels, from 18-wheelers to the humble lawn mower. 

He was a lifetime member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Lexington, where he found solace and strength in his faith.

He is survived by his spouse of 59 years, Brenda Sturkie Rawl, and their children: Harvey Clayton “Spanky” Rawl, Jr., Chris Rawl (Anna), and Jonathan Rawl. “Papa” was a beloved grandfather to Emily, Abigail, Jacob, Benjamin, Isabella, Julia, Jamison, and Nolton Rawl. He is also survived by his brother, Douglas L. Rawl (Ruby), brother-in-law, James K. Sturkie, and many nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held at Barr-Price Funeral Home, Lexington Chapel, on Monday, November 13, 2023 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. The funeral service will take place at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church on Tuesday, November 14, 2023 at 2:00 p.m., with burial to follow in the church cemetery.

Memorials may be made to St. Peter’s Lutheran Church.

Harvey Clayton Rawl, Sr., will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. May his memory be a blessing; and as he always sang, “There will be peace in the valley.”

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