Dale Baldwin

Dale Baldwin, age 93, of West Jefferson, passed away peacefully on December 3, 2024 surrounded by loved ones. Born, Jackie Dale Baldwin in West Jefferson on May 12, 1931, he was the son of the late Alonzo and Caroline Goodman Baldwin. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by an infant brother; five brothers, Ron, Rad, Dean, Hugh, and Winston Baldwin; three sisters, Wilma Leahey, Jessie Baldwin, and Dona Hardin Wilcox; and the love of his life, his wife, Ella Pennington Baldwin, who passed on March 4, 2024.

Dale’s life was defined by hard work, dedication, and service to his family and community. As a young boy, he left school to help provide for his younger siblings, a sacrifice that demonstrated his deep sense of responsibility and love for family. Later in life, Dale earned his GED, a testament to his commitment to personal growth and education.

Dale met Ella Pennington on a night out at the movies, and their meeting marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership. The two married and became pillars of the West Jefferson community, operating the Parkway Theatre for over 30 years until the late 1970s or early 1980s. In 1977, they opened Ella’s Hallmark Shop in downtown West Jefferson, continuing their tradition of enriching their town through business and personal connections.

Dale’s contributions to the community extended far beyond his entrepreneurial ventures. In 1967, he received the Founders Award from the American Heart Association for his impactful service. He was an active member of several boards and organizations, including the Social Services Board, the Red Cross Board of Directors (as Treasurer), the Blue Ridge Opportunity Commission (BROC) Board for over 24 years, and the Ashe County Historical Society Board. Additionally, he was a dedicated member of the West Jefferson Lions Club from 1953 until his passing, holding the distinction of being one of the longest-serving Lions in Ashe County.

Dale was a longtime member of Mt. Jefferson Presbyterian Church, where he served faithfully as a deacon, secretary, and treasurer. He also gave generously of his time to public service. He served the town of West Jefferson as Alderman from 1967 to 1977 and 1985 to 1989, and later as Mayor from 1997 to 2007 and 2011 to 2019.

Mr. Baldwin is survived by: son, Gregory Dale Baldwin and wife Jean, daughter, Barbara Lynn Baldwin, brother, Robert Charles Baldwin and wife Swansie, sister, Melba Sue Baldwin Jones and granddaughter, Dolores Miller all of West Jefferson. Two great-grandchildren, Caroline Richardson and husband Cody and Isaiah Miller, four great great-grandchildren, Ameryth, Ryia, Leyland and Atlas; also surviving are several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, December 8, 2024 at 2:00 pm at Mount Jefferson Presbyterian Church by Rev. Will Heyward and Rev. Lonnie Jones. Burial will follow in West Jefferson Municipal Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 4:00-6:00 pm Saturday, December 7, 2024 at Mount Jefferson Presbyterian Church in downtown West Jefferson.

The family respectfully request no flowers please. Memorial contributions may be made to: Medi Home Hospice, PO Box 421, Jefferson, NC 28640, Ashe County Historical Society, PO Box 1361 Jefferson, NC 28640, or to West Jefferson Lions Club, PO Box 1321, West Jefferson, NC 28694.

Dale Baldwin’s legacy is one of service, love, and devotion—to his family, his faith, and his community. His enduring contributions and kind spirit will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew him.