D. Buren High ’51

D. Buren High ’51, 80, of Whiteville, N.C., passed away June 13 at Columbus Regional Healthcare. He was born Dec.3, 1929, at Gray’s Creek, to David Van High and Ruby Bramble High. He traveled widely for both work and pleasure, but returned to his boyhood home at Welch’s Creek to enjoy his later years. He attended Davidson, but was extensively self-educated, challenging himself with new knowledge and skills throughout his life. He taught school at Williams Township and served in the U.S. Air Force in Japan, where he learned electronics and radar systems. Upon his return from Japan, he began a career with International Business Machines. His work took him to Cocoa Beach, Fla.; Puerto Rico; Washington, D.C.; Poughkeepsie and Hartsdale, N.Y.; and finally to Durham, N.C. In Durham he met Avis Hernwall, the joy of his life. In their 29 years of marriage, they enjoyed traveling, gardening, and learning together. After retiring from their professional lives in the Triangle area, they moved to the farm at Welch’s Creek, where they assisted his mother in her declining years, as well as other relatives and neighbors. He also volunteered in the community by helping low-income individuals with income tax preparation and by documenting Columbus County cemeteries. High used his problem-solving skills to improve the lives of many. He mastered woodworking, gardening, astronomy, photography, model building, and other challenging pursuits. Throughout his life, he exhibited a keen and inquisitive intellect, and was a member of Mensa. He was a supporter and defender of the natural environment, through his own practices and his philanthropy. He is survived by his wife, Avis Hernwall High, Route 2, Whiteville, NC 28472; nephews, James Forrest Riggs (Elaine) and Brett High Riggs (Pandora); and a host of relatives and friends.