Keith Reginald Lunsford Sr. ("Duck")

Keith Reginald Lunsford Sr. (“Duck”), age 70, of Buncombe County, unexpectedly went to be with his Lord and Savior peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at Mission Hospital.

Born on October 15, 1955, in Asheville, North Carolina, Keith was the son of the late Lee Roy Lunsford, Sr. and Ann Shope Lunsford.

Keith was a lifelong resident of Buncombe County and a hardworking businessman. He was the co-owner of Parkway Paving and Landscaping, a business he proudly helped build beginning in 1975, and was also the owner of Lunsford’s Trucking. Through decades of dedication and hard work, he earned the respect of countless people in his community.

More than anything, Keith was a devoted family man. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend. He never met a stranger and was always willing to lend a helping hand. If someone was in need, Keith was there without hesitation, often giving the shirt off his back to help others.

Keith shared 45 wonderful years of marriage with the love of his life, his wife, Cathy Crowe Lunsford (“Rosebud”). Together, they built a beautiful life centered around faith, love, and family.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, Cathy Crowe Lunsford; his son, Reggie Lunsford; his daughter, Ashley Lunsford Trantham (Josh); and the absolute joys of his life, his granddaughters, Kylee and Ava Trantham, and grandson, Hayden Trantham. His grandbabies were his world, and there was nothing he wouldn’t do for them. Keith loved spending time with Kylee and Ava, making memories with them, and watching them grow. He was so proud of them and loved them deeply. Their smiles, laughter, and hugs brought him endless joy, and they held a very special place in his heart.

He is also survived by his brother, LeRoy Lunsford, Jr. (LouAnn); his sisters, Teresa Lunsford and Tammy Pressley (Blaine) aka (Wayneo); his sisters-in-law, Joylyne Lunsford and Gail Hipshire; his brothers-in-law, Donny Crowe, Clement Crowe (Lisa), and Harvey Fuller; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, Keith was preceded in death by his brother, Tim Lunsford, and his niece, Elisha Lunsford.

Keith found joy in the simple things in life. He loved working outdoors, painting, tending to projects around the house, burning brush, and spending Sundays watching NASCAR. He had a strong work ethic, a generous heart, and an unforgettable sense of humor that could brighten anyone’s day.

Although his passing leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who loved him, his legacy of kindness, hard work, generosity, and unconditional love will live on through his family and everyone whose life he touched.

Keith was our hero, our protector, and our greatest example of what it means to love unconditionally. We will forever cherish every memory, every laugh, and every lesson he shared with us. Until we meet again, you will always be deeply loved, forever missed, and never forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, donations made to Keith’s family to help with funeral expenses would be deeply appreciated. Your love, prayers and support during this difficult time mean more than words can express.

Funeral services will be held at Grassy Branch Baptist Church on Monday, July 27, at 3:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Sky View Memorial Park.

The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service, beginning at 2:00 p.m.

Groce Funeral Home on Patton Avenue is assisting the family.