Grayden Warren, 95, a devoted husband, proud veteran, and faithful servant of God, passed away peacefully on April 2, 2025. A native of Iredell County, he was the son of the late Espie Warren and Vela Warren Isenhour. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Betty Jean Warren; his stepfather, Newell Isenhour; and his brothers, David Isenhour, Clay Warren, and Bobby Joe Warren.

Grayden was married to the love of his life, Betty Jean Warren, for over 68 years until her passing in January 2020. The two were inseparable, always seen side by side wherever they went—whether at church, family gatherings, serving in the community, or simply running errands together. Their love was a beautiful example of faith, devotion, and true partnership, and those who knew them will always remember them as a pair, bound by unwavering love and companionship. Grayden had a passion for the outdoors and spent much of his free time raising rabbits and beagles for hunting. He also enjoyed working in the yard, finding peace and satisfaction in spending time outside.

A devout Christian, Grayden was a dedicated member of New Bethany Baptist Church, where he worshipped for over 70 years and served as a deacon and a member of the church choir. His faith was the cornerstone of his life, and he lived each day with a servant’s heart, always willing to lend a helping hand or offer words of encouragement.

A proud patriot, Grayden honorably served in the United States Navy for four years during the Korean War from 1948-1952. During his service, he was deployed on the USS Little Rock and carried out his duties with dedication and honor. His military service instilled in him a deep respect for his fellow veterans, which he carried throughout his life. In October 1996, he joined the Disabled American Veterans and was honored to serve on the Iredell Veterans Burial Detail, where he carried and fired rifles at more than 2,200 veteran funerals. He also became a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) in 1999, continuing his lifelong support of his fellow servicemen and women.

After his military service, Grayden dedicated over 40 years of hard work to Hunt-Bienfang, where he spent most of his career serving as plant manager before retiring. True to their inseparable nature, Grayden and Betty worked together at Hunt-Bienfang for many years, supporting each other both at home and in the workplace. Their shared dedication to their work reflected their commitment to one another, and they had the joy of retiring together—a milestone that allowed them to spend even more time side by side, cherishing the life they built together.

Grayden was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his son, Mike Warren (Janet); his daughter, Carolyn Stutts (Ricky); five grandchildren, Ryan Stutts (Dena), Nick Stutts (Erin), Bradley Warren (Lorrie), Wendy Sherrill (Doug), and Tammy Pope (Robbie); twelve great-grandchildren, Brett Pope (Natalie), Brady Pope (MacKenzie), Kaylee Sherrill, Leanna Fulbright (Grant), Matt Sherrill, Josh Sherrill, Makayla Warren, Brice Warren, Savannah Sells (Phillip), Megan Stutts, Graham Stutts, and Emmie Stutts; and three great-great-grandchildren: Macy Sells, Waylon Sells, and Collins Pope. He is also survived by his beloved sisters, Modean Burgess and Alice Sherrill.

Grayden Warren will be remembered as a man of faith, honor, and devotion. His love for his family, his country, and his church defined his life, and his legacy will live on through those who were blessed to know him.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, April 8, at New Bethany Baptist Church with Rev. Bill Mason officiating. A Graveside Service will follow with burial at Iredell Memorial Gardens Cemetery with full Military Honors. The family will receive friends on Monday, April 7, at Troutman Funeral Home from 6 until 8 p.m. Active pallbearers will be Brett Pope, Brady Pope, Matt Sherrill, Josh Sherrill, Brice Warren, and Graham Stutts. Honorary pallbearers will be Ryan Stutts, Nick Stutts, and Brad Warren.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hospice of Iredell County, DAV 68, VFW Post 2031 or New Bethany Baptist Church in his honor.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23

Troutman Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mr. Grayden Warren.