Tommy Franklin Haynes

Tommy Franklin Haynes, age 75, of State Road passed away peacefully on January 12, 2026 at the home. He was born on August 15, 1950 to Clarence Leo Haynes and Zetta Snow Haynes, who have preceded him in death. Also preceding him in death was his father-in-law, Ralph Fuller Stanley, and brother- in-law, Ralph Brent Stanley, both from Dobson.

He is survived by his high school sweetheart and loving wife of 54 years, Karen Stanley Haynes. Among the others left to cherish his memory are his children: Meredith Haynes Koran and husband Steven of Southern Pines and Amanda Haynes McGovern and husband Matt of Pinehurst. His grandchildren brought endless hours of joy and laughter: Hayden McGovern, William McGovern, Isabella (Bella) Koran and McKenzie Koran. Tommy’s favorite name for Hayden and William was always Buddy Ro #1 and Buddy Ro #2. As a result of this, the boys would refer to Tommy as Buddy Ro #3, although he was lovingly known as Papa or Papa T. Tommy also leaves behind his mother- in-law, Maxine Dockery Stanley of Dobson and brother- in- law, Chris Stanley and wife Cindy F Stanley of Boonville. He is survived by two sisters; Yvonne Hodges of Elkin and Charlene Price of Asheville, as well as several nieces and nephews. His brothers- in- law, Vernon Hodges and Charlie Price preceded him in death.

Tommy had an unquenchable zest for life, which included golf, snow skiing,water skiing, hiking, biking, and traveling. He loved to play in the snow with his children, as well as with the neighborhood children, and he especially loved endless hours of time spent at the beach with his family and friends. He was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Elkin where he served as a deacon, and a member of the Baptist Men, as well as serving on many committees and projects. Tommy’s career life was spent in Elkin where he was an agent/owner of Nationwide Insurance for 48 years. He started the agency with no customers and he worked hard to build it into a growing, thriving agency. His customers often said that “he was always honest to a fault” and “didn’t sell them anything they did not need”. Tommy would say, “he wanted to treat his customers the way he would want to be treated”. He ran the agency as he lived his life, with honesty and integrity. His passing has left a hole in our hearts and we will never be the same. “Death is not extinguishing the light; it is only putting out the lamp because the dawn has come”. Today his light is shining brightly, and we praise God for the privilege to honor, love, and care for him.

The family would like to thank Mountain Valley Hospice, and a special thank you to Ramona, Mandi, and Greg. Tommy would always respond to them with smiles of recognition. His care-giver, Paula Miller, was loving and attentive to him, often praying with him, and playing his favorite oldies music. This journey was made easier by their attention, kindness, advice, and love. We are forever grateful!

A celebration of life will be held at First Baptist Church of Elkin on Saturday, January 17, 2026. The family will receive friends from 12:30 to 2:00 PM and the service will begin at 2:00 PM. There will be a private burial at Hollywood Cemetery in Elkin, following the Celebration of Life.

In lieu of flowers a donation may be made to Mountain Valley Hospice; P. O. Box 325, Dobson NC 27017, Western Carolina Chapter of The Alzheimer’s Association; 4615 Dundas Dr. Suite 103 Greensboro, NC 27407, First Baptist Elkin, 110 Gwyn Ave. Elkin, NC 28621.

The family extends many thanks to Elkin Funeral Service for their caring and support during this difficult time.