Keith Cayton Obituary (1961 - 2026) - Ernul, North Carolina

Erwin Keith Cayton, known by most as Keith, completed his earthly journey on February 2, 2026, after much courage and endurance. He is remembered with gratitude for the life he lived and the love he gave. Born on February 3, 1961, in New Bern, NC, he spent most of his life in the Cayton community near Ernul. Keith was raised in rural North Carolina in humble circumstances and carried those roots with him throughout his life. He was old-school in the best way—a true “good ol’ boy”—free-spirited with a generous heart, who worked hard, lived simply, and knew how to enjoy a good time. He spent much of his life working in logging, a job that demanded grit and endurance. He was a true testament to the strength, resilience, and enduring spirit of those who live and breathe the essence of the forest. An avid hunter, he found peace in the woods and joy in the simple rhythms of country life. He was God-loving and kept his faith close to his heart. He had an open door and an open heart—his home was never locked, and he never met a stranger. He loved critters and people alike, always making sure anyone who crossed his path went away happy. Known for his easy conversation and warm spirit, he could talk to anyone and always tried to keep everybody laughing. Though money was often tight, his generosity never wavered. Every Christmas, he found a way—sometimes borrowing—to make sure his children had big gifts and even bigger memories, because their joy mattered more to him than his own comfort. He took pride in teaching his children how to be good woodsmen and how to respect and care for nature as it cared for them. Above all, he taught his children to remember God and Jesus, grounding their lives in faith, gratitude, and love. His memory lives on in the stories told, laughter shared, and love given. May he find rest in God’s presence, free from pain, and may his memory remain a blessing. He leaves behind his son, Bryan Keith Cayton (Alexia); his mother, Sybil Ipock; his brothers, Darren Cayton (Charity) and Tony Cayton (Bonnie); his beloved granddaughter, Izabella; and his niece and nephews, Macayla Cayton, Zachary Cayton, and Kalob Cayton. Keith joined his son, Jeremy Cayton, and his father, Ervin "Buddy" Cayton, in heaven. The family will gather privately to remember Keith. We invite all those who knew and loved Keith to share their memories, stories, and photos on his memorial page. Let us celebrate his life and remember him. Bennett Funeral & Cremation Care is honored to serve the family and friends of Erwin "Keith" Cayton.