Sylvester Darnell Hairston, Sr. passed away on Monday, April 17, 2023 at his residence.

He was born in Davidson County to Floyd and Ellen Ellis Hairston on October 2, 1950. He was a faithful and devoted member of New Zion Baptist Church where he served as a trustee.. He retired from Billing Freight Systems after 36 years. Mr. Hairston enjoyed fishing, taking care of the elderly, and spending time with his family. He volunteered with the Lexington Recreation Department as a football coach and mentor for over 25 years.

Mr. Darnell was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters: Naomi Hairston, Ida Hairston and Eloise Hairston and three brothers: Floyd Hairston, Thomas Hairston and James Hairston.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his loving and devoted wife of 52 years, Ernestine Peoples Hairston; two sons, James (Denee) Hairston and Sylvester D. Hairston, Jr.; three daughters: Sandra (Jim) Vaughters-McPhaul, Sylvia (Charles) Woodberry and Selena Hairston; 10 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; a sister, Virginia Hairston; his mother-in-law, Delores Peoples; a brother-in-law, Freddie (Rosalind) Peoples; four sisters-in-law: Lisa (Dale) Griffin, Alice Peoples, Becky Peoples and Carol Hairston; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Funeral service will be Sunday at New Zion Baptist at 2:00pm with family visitation at 1:30pm. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.