Ellsworth “Sonny” Daunce of Statesville, N.C., and formerly of Sanborn N.Y., took his last ride around the racetrack to the finish line at the age of 82 on April 12, 2022. For many years he raced at Ransomville Speedway in the #15 late model car. He was an avid Bingo and card player. He never met a stranger, and he left a lasting impression on everyone he came in contact with.

He leaves behind to cherish his memories his wife of 61 years, Sharon Daunce; daughter, Barbara Wooten (Steve); son, Thomas Daunce (Irene); and son Michael Daunce (Teresa). His brothers, Dave and Dale; and his sisters, Paula and Valerie, also survive.

He was a grandfather to Amanda Skilton, Matthew Heath (Courtney), Duane Daunce, Monica Bugyi (Brian), Deanna Seick, Dawn Murbarger (Chris), Stephen Wooten, Erica Wirth, and TJ Wirth (Melissa);
and a great grandfather to Shilah Mutton (Hailey), RaeLynn McKethan (David), Piper Beyer, Jordan Daunce, James and Gunner Bugyi, Gage and Nevaeh Carlisto, Eli Daugherty, Ava-Ethan-Kinsley and Connor Murbarger, Aly and Luca, Dakota and Teagan.

He was blessed with five generation two times with his great great grandbabies Winston Wooten and Milah McKethan. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Geneva and Harold; sister Donna Schultz; son, Dwayne; and great grandson, Teegan Beyer.

We would like to express our thank yous to the staff at Iredell Memorial Hospital’s ICU, Forsyth Medical Center’s ICU, and Hospice for their compassion and professionalism while taking care of our loved one during this most difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, donations will be accepted at Christ Church, 2172 Wilkesboro Highway, Statesville, NC 28625, or Ghana Mission, where a team will go to plant churches, help with medical needs, etc. or to the Foundry House of Hope, a transition home for men who are coming out of being incarcerated and getting their life back on track.

Nicholson Funeral Home is handling the arrangements. A Celebration of Life memorial service will be announced at a later date.