Hugh David "Dave" Aycock

Hugh David "Dave" Aycock, 94, of Florence, SC, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 7, 2025.

Born October 18, 1930, in Lilesville, NC, Dave was the son of the late Mary Fannie Maner Aycock and Collier Bennett Aycock. He graduated from Lilesville High School in 1950.

Following graduation, Dave proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War. In 1954, he began his career as a welder with Vulcraft/ Nucor. Over the years, his dedication and leadership led him through various roles and locations within the company. In 2001, he retired as CEO of Nucor in Charlotte, NC. Following retirement, he settled in Florence, SC.

In 1992, Dave founded Raldex Hospitality, a venture he remained deeply involved in as owner until his passing.

Dave was known for his contagious smile and striking blue eyes. He had a deep love for the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and riding through his farm and along country roads in search of wildlife—especially turkeys and deer.

He will be remembered for his warmth, hard work, and unwavering appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.

Surviving is his wife of over 70 years, Daphne Grooms Aycock; son, Hugh James (Sonia) Aycock; daughter, Daphne Gayle (John Fuller) Aycock; granddaughter and the light of his life, Lilliella Gayle Aycock-Fuller; and many nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to Northgate Baptist Church, 1217 N. Ebenezer Rd., Florence, SC 29501.

The family will receive friends 5:00 – 7:00 PM Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at Stoudenmire-Dowling Funeral Home. The funeral service will be 2:00 PM Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at Northgate Baptist Church with the entombment to follow in the family mausoleum at Florence Memorial Gardens.

Please sign the guestbook at www.stoudenmiredowling.com.