Harold Randolph “Top” Kinnion | Eastern NC Now

    Harold Randolph "Top" Kinnion left this earthly life of 92 years on January 29th, 2025. He was born on July 30th, 1932 to Willard Harold and Mary Lyle Kinnion of Blounts Creek, NC. In the wake of his Pamlico River fishing boat, he leaves behind his beloved wife, Ellen; three ex-wives-Frances, Ruth (deceased), and Linda; and a legacy of seven children: Hal, Gregory, Sonny Bell, Edward, Matthew, Sandra (deceased), and Christy. He also helped raise Dillan and David. He was blessed with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Billy, Blonnie, and Cleon (aka Jim).

    Top graduated from Aurora High School in the early 1950s, where he was a standout baseball pitcher, playing "ball" in leagues all over the area. He played against Gaylord Perry and once pitched a no-hitter and was featured in the Washington Daily News, something he never stopped being proud of. He started his career as an apprentice at the Newport News Shipyard, where he trained as a welder and fitter, working on ships and submarines. He was employed for many years at Texas Gulf and PCS before retiring in the '90s. When he wasn't welding, he was doing the serious business of setting nets and pulling crab pots.

    A man who loved adventure, Top traveled from the mountains of South America to the tip of Grand Banks, Canada. But his favorite spot was much closer to home-the Crossroads Mini Mart-where he spent countless hours swapping stories with his great friends, GA Rowe, Hallet Buck, John Cotton, and "Yankee through and through" Chuck Milliken (all now deceased, with Top being the last of the crew). Even in his later years, he still made his way to the store to catch up with his early-morning buddies, Paris and Dana.

    Top always said the funeral industry was a scam, so in lieu of a service, those who wish to honor his memory may contribute to the Methuselah Fund, c/o Ellen's church, First Presbyterian in Washington, NC.

    Condolences may be addressed to the family online by visiting www.paulfuneralhome.com

    Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington is honored to serve the Kinnion family.