Malinda Jane Day

Malinda Jane Day, a vibrant spirit known for her boundless curiosity, love of conversation, and deep devotion to community, passed away on September 22, 2024, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. A beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, Malinda brought light and laughter wherever she went.

Born in 1954 and raised in Winston-Salem, NC, Malinda developed a lifelong love for her hometown and the Moravian traditions that enriched it. She was a member of New Philadelphia Moravian Church and was particularly passionate about Moravian music and crafts, which she not only enjoyed but proudly shared with others. She grew up attending Ardmore Moravian Church and played clarinet in their band. For a decade, she volunteered as treasurer of the Mary Ann Fogle Service League of Home Moravian Church. All that she did was a reflection of her faith, heart for service, and commitment to her faith in God and to her heritage.

Malinda was a proud alumna of Elon College, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration. She went on to receive a Master of Science in International Management from High Point University. Her career took her through a range of respected organizations, including Philip Morris USA, Johnson & Johnson, and Planters Lifesavers Company (RJR Nabisco), where she made many lasting memories.

Malinda’s love of travel took her across the globe, but she never met a stranger. Whether she was striking up a conversation on a distant train or chatting with neighbors in Old Salem, her gift for connection that she inherited from her father was undeniable. She also drew pleasure from Oprah’s wisdom and the music of Josh Groban and Russell Watson brought her great comfort and joy.

To her niece Heather and nephew Neal, she was more than an aunt—she was a confidante, a cheerleader, and fierce competitor in International Rummy and jigsaw puzzles. Her legacy will live on in the stories they tell and the love she instilled in them.

Malinda is survived by her brother, Henry Neal Day and his wife, Martha Bonsal Day; her niece, Heather Jean Day and Heather’s husband, Ethan William Shirk; and her nephew, Neal Bonsal Day, Neal’s wife, Brittney Anne Day, and their children, Caven and Elton Aria. She now joins her beloved parents Rebecca Jane Day and William Henry Day in heaven, where we imagine she’s already sharing stories, humming a Moravian tune, and lighting up the room with her presence. Malinda’s life was a celebration of love, laughter, and joy. She will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever loved.

A memorial service for Malinda will be held at 11:00AM on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at New Philadelphia Moravian Church. Inurnment will take place in the New Philadelphia Church Graveyard - God’s Acre, immediately following the service. The family invites all to join them in the Banquet Room at the church following inurnment.

The family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers memorial contributions be made in Malinda’s memory to New Philadelphia Moravian Church, 4440 Country Club Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27104. 

Online condolences may be made at www.hayworth-miller.com

Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel is assisting the Day family.