Alan Anderson Bunting

Alan Anderson Bunting
March 12, 1971 – August 6, 2026

Alan Anderson Bunting passed peacefully on August 6, 2026, at the age of 55. He was born in Troy, NC, on March 12, 1971. He is survived by his father, Duane Ray Bunting, mother, Beth Browne Coleman, stepfather Steve Coleman, brother Wes Calvin Bunting, sister-in-law Heather Landis Bunting and his beloved nieces, Landis Elizabeth and Blythe Dorsett. He is also survived by his stepbrother Michael Coleman. Alan was preceded in death by his grandparents William Ray Bunting (Lois Dorsett) and Ernest Talmadge Browne (Marguriette Stutts).

Alan was blessed with an aunt, Lauren Bunting Hardin (Chris and stepson Matt), seven years his senior, who spoiled him his entire life. In his early years, they were more siblings than aunt and nephew. He cherished close relationships with two Bunting uncles who preceded him, Clark Dorsett (Randi McWhirter) and Gregg Jeffrey. He treasured memories with his Bunting cousins Clark II (Daniella Nievinski) and Jennifer (John Hughes). He was very proud of his younger cousins, Jacob and Joshua, and their accomplishments.

Alan was equally blessed by his Browne family. He cherished his uncle, Charles Talmadge Browne, and his aunt, Della Ernestine Browne Newsom. He shared his love of Ocracoke Island with his cousins Adam Deane Browne (Kelly Harding) and William Taylor Browne (Kady McKenzie), and he had a soft spot for his cousin Emily “Betsy” Browne Morris (Daniel Morris). To all three he was an older cousin worth looking up to, quick with a tease, and quicker still to take pride in whatever they went on to achieve.

Alan was also blessed by his Newsom cousins Mark Falon Newsom (Tonya), Elisa Jo "E J" Martin, (Wade), Della Newsom Davis, Eric Alan Newsom (Susan Gibson), Alex Ernest Newsom (Marticia "Tish”), Julia Newsom Broseman (Michael). The Newsom cousins considered Alan and Wes as brothers. Alan loved playing board games together, playing ball of any kind, riding bikes and getting into mischief as kids will do. He always looked forward to his visits with them, as they were always full of laughter and love.

Alan was gifted athletically, lettering in cross country, wrestling, and baseball at Asheboro High School, where he graduated in 1989. He continued his education at UNC Wilmington, graduating with a degree in Criminal Justice in 1993. He remained close to his love of baseball by umpiring and mentoring youth leagues throughout his college years. Alan most enjoyed his participation and camaraderie with his UNCW rugby teammates.

Alan’s professional career spanned 29 years at the NC Department of Adult Correction, where he served as a Sergeant. Upon retirement, he continued to serve as a security officer at Randolph Hospital under the supervision of Tommy Key. We learned that the ICU nurses, “Alan’s Angels,” relished his nightly visits. Special thanks to his “A Team” brethren: Aaron and Andrew.

Alan treasured his yearly camping trips to Ocracoke Island with his father, friends and family. He was an avid and successful fisherman during annual family vacations to the Outer Banks and Holden Beach. Alan enjoyed throwing darts, playing pool, and dominating “squelch” with EJ & Wade at countless family gatherings and beach trips.

Alan projected a tough exterior, but his interior presented a heart of gold to those closest to him. He gave the shirt off his back to those in need, though his own might be tattered.

The family would like to recognize Mark Harris for his loyal friendship, assistance and support. We would be remiss without acknowledging the care Alan received from the ICU and Palliative Care teams at Moses Cone Hospital. We were also comforted by the amazing staff at Randolph Hospice House.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, August 15, 2026 from 12:00 PM to 1:45 PM at First United Methodist Church, 224 N. Fayetteville St., Asheboro, NC 27203. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2:00 PM. A private burial will take place later.

Memorials may be made in Alan’s honor to Asheboro High School Athletic Booster Club, 1221 South Park St., Asheboro, NC 27203, Hospice of Randolph, 416 Vision Drive, Asheboro, NC 27203, or to the organization of the donor’s choice.