Home - Obits - Archived Obituaries - December 2005
John Junior Chapman Back to Top
John Junior Chapman, 72, of the McDowell Assisted Living in Marion died Friday, December 2, 2005. A memorial service to celebrate the life of John Chapman will be held 7 PM Tuesday, December 6, 2005 at the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Reverend Mike Wakefield officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the memorial service.
Charlie A. Norman Back to Top
Charlie A. Norman, 89, of Mill Race Road, Morganton, NC died Saturday, December 3, 2005 at his residence after a lengthy illness. He was born October 11, 1916 in Burke County to the late Tommy Norman and Isabelle McDaniel Norman. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a daughter, Elsie Russell; granddaughters, Beverly Blankenship and Christy Blankenship; brothers, Frank Norman, William Norman, and Mack Norman; and a sister, Lucy Dale.
Mr. Norman was a member of Nowlings Chapel Freewill Baptist Church and had retired from Henredon Furniture Co. after thirty seven years of service.
A loving Husband , Father, and Paw Paw, he is survived by his wife of sixty five years, Ruby Buff Norman of the home; sons, Leonard Norman and his wife, Nell of Morganton, Rick Norman and his wife, Tammy of Hudson; daughters, Gladys Carswell, Hazel Davis and her husband, W.J. “Bill”, Rita Aldredge and her husband, James all of Morganton; brother, James E. Norman of Morganton; sisters, Gertie Duckworth, Pearlie Mae Copeland, and Rudell Burgin all of Morganton; nineteen grandchildren, thirty two great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 6, 2005 at Nowling’s Chapel Freewill Baptist Church with the Reverend Darvy Hensley officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Monday at Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorials gifts may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, 1721 Enon Road, Valdese NC 28690 or to Nowling’s Chapel Freewill Baptist Church, 5827 Fisher-Davis Rd., Morganton NC 28655.
Eva Jo Edge McKinney Back to Top
Mrs. Eva Jo Edge McKinney, 88, of Morganton, NC died Saturday, December 3, 2005 at Grace Hospital following a brief illness. She was born September 24, 1917 in Yancey Co., N.C., to the late John Edward Edge and Emma Robinson Edge. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Howard James McKinney and a daughter, Eva Louise Self. Mrs. McKinney had retired from Broughton Hospital in 1980 and was a member of Burkemont Baptist Church in Morganton.
She is survived by a son, Rodney McKinney and wife, Diane; a daughter, Marsha Saulman; a sister, Florence Geouge, all of Morganton; six grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, December 6, 2005 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Reverends Eddy Bunton and Michael Brown officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Monday from 6:00 until 8:00 pm at the funeral home
Memorial gifts may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.
Willard L. Webb, Sr.Back to Top
Willard L. Webb, Sr. 78, of Carolina St., Morganton died Sunday, December 4, 2005.
A service to celebrate the life of Willard Webb, Sr. will be held at 12:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 7, 2005 at the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Reverend Mike Wakefield officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.
Daniel Andrew Self Back to Top
Daniel Andrew Self, 18, of Harry Brittain Dr., Morganton, NC died Monday, December 5, 2005 as a result of an auto accident. He was born May 28, 1987 in Burke County, NC, and was a son of Edward E. “Junior” Self, and Melissa Suttles Benton and husband, Gary Benton, all of Morganton. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Evelyn Suttles; and a great grandmother, Ina Brittain. Daniel was a member of Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church. He was a 2005 graduate of Freedom High School, and was a student at Western Piedmont Community College. Daniel was a former employee of Lowes Foods, and presently employed at Lowes Hardware. He was an avid hunter and loved playing basketball with his church league.
In addition to his parents, Daniel is survived by a brother, David E. Self, sister, LaDonna Dale and husband, Jarrod, nephew, Colten Dale, grandparents, Edward and Peggy Self, and Bobby Suttles, great grandmother, Jennie Self, and his girlfriend, Amanda Hendrix, all of Morganton; and a number of uncles, aunts, and cousins.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, December 9, 2005 at Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Steve Sells and Rev. Paul Weaklend officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday from 6:00until 9:00 pm at the church. At other times, the family will be at the residence of his mother, 5199 Mt. Olive Church Rd., Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church Youth Department, PO Box 1159, Morganton, NC 28680. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Guy Aaron Tallent, 77, of Enola Road, Morganton, NC, died Tuesday, December 6, 2005 at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, NC. Born in Burke County on May 31, 1928, he was a son of the late Will and Texie Miller Tallent. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Edward and Leonard Tallent. Guy was a member of Cross Memorial Baptist Church and was a retired employee of J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center.
He is survived by his wife, Betty Leonard Tallent of the home; a son and his wife, Larry Tallent and wife, Pat, of Morganton; two daughters and their husbands, Jan Billings and husband, Brennan, of Morganton and Celeste Campbell and husband, Chuck, of Hildebran, NC; two sisters, Vangie Leatherman and Pansy Greenhill, both of Connelly Springs, NC; grandchildren, Charles Morris, Mitchell Tallent, Patrick Billings, Holly Tallent, and Chesley Merrill; great-granddaughters, Madison Tallent and Serena Morris: and a number of nieces and nephews.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, December 9, 2005 at Cross Memorial Baptist Church with the Reverends Jerry Campbell and Clyde Buckner officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the funeral at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering & Bus Fund of Cross Memorial Baptist Church, 650 Enola Road, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Mary Alice Ramsey Yoder Back to Top
Mary Alice Ramsey Yoder went to be with her heavenly father on December 7, 2005 after several years of declining health. Born on April 12, 1912, Mary Alice was one of twelve children born to the late John C. and Maggie McGalliard Ramsey. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Efird J. Yoder, and eight brothers and sisters. Until her retirement, Mary Alice was employed as a knitter for over forty years at Drexel Knitting Mills. She was a life-long member of Enon Baptist Church where she taught Sunday school for 42 years, and was a member of the WMU.
Mary Alice is survived by two sons and their wives, Jim and Patricia Yoder of Hampton, VA, and Jerry and Patsy Yoder of Valdese, NC; a daughter and her husband, Sherron and Gary Prewitt of Drexel; sisters, Louise Harris of Southern Pines, NC, and Dorothy Beam of Savannah, GA; a brother, Louis Ramsey and wife, Marjorie, of Rutherford College, NC; grandchildren, Jan Garris and husband, Rick, of Virginia Beach, VA, Terri Brady and husband, Mike, of Pensacola, FL, Laurie Yoder of Virginia Beach, VA, Brete Prewitt of Killeen, TX, Cameron Prewitt and wife, Margaret, of Tucson, AZ, Katie Yoder of Greensboro, NC, and Jeremy Yoder of Valdese; three great grandchildren, James and Richard Garris, and Shannon Brady; and a number of nieces and nephews.
Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, December 9, 2005 at Enon Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Ernie Richards officiating. A memorial service will be held at 1:30 pm in the church. The family will receive friends following the memorial service from 2:00 until 3:00 pm. At other times, the family will be at the residence of Sherron and Gary Prewitt, 2202 Drexel Heights St., Drexel, NC. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Enon Baptist Church Youth or Building Fund, 2059 Enon Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Curley Rich Epley, 93, of Kathy Road, Morganton, NC, died Wednesday, December 7, 2005 at her residence. Born in McDowell County, NC on November 9, 1912, she was a daughter of the late David Henry Rich and Callie Roxanna Lane Rich. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ernest “Dock” Epley, five brothers, and one great-grandchild. She was a member of Morganton Seventh day Adventist Church. Curley and Dock owned and operated Epley’s Grocery for many years.
Mrs. Epley is survived by her two daughters, Maxine Epley of Morganton, Doris Epley Brown and husband, Merlin, of Laurel, MD; sisters, Hazel Pritchard and Florence Williams of Morganton; grandchildren; Warren Brown of Laurel, MD, Linde Zimmer of Middletown, MD, and Muriel Nieto of Laurel, MD; and 12 great-grandchildren.
A funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, December 11, 2005 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Elder Tim Sheridan officiating. Burial will follow in the Seventh day Adventist Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. At other times the family will be at the residence on Kathy Road.
Gladys Lucille Robinson Epley Back to Top
Gladys Lucille Robinson Epley, 68, of Zion Rd., Morganton, NC went home to be with her Heavenly Father Wednesday, December 7, 2005 after a short period of declining health. She was born August 26, 1937 in Burke County, NC and was a daughter of the late Oscar M. Robinson and Zora Harris Robinson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Lee Roy Epley; sister, Elizabeth Robinson; and by an infant sister. Gladys graduated from Drexel High School in 1955. She worked for the Burke County School system and was a retired employee of Broughton Hospital with 30 years of service. Gladys was a member of Burkemont Baptist Church and an active member of her Sunday School class and Young at Hearts Senior Citizens Group at the church.
Mrs. Epley is survived by her children and their spouses, Dennis J. and Roxanne “Rocky” Epley of Drexel, Cynthia E. and Eric Jaynes of Morganton, Roy D. and Gena Epley of Jacksonville, NC, and Wanda E. and Keith Huffman of Connelly Springs; a sister, Pearl Rowell and her husband, Tyrone, of Wilmington, NC; grandchildren, Heather Epley, Jennifer Epley, Danielle Epley, Anna Epley, Zach Wood, Ashley Jaynes, Emily Jaynes, Alex Epley, Katrina Huffman, and Christopher Huffman; a great-granddaughter, Emma Osborne; and a number of nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, December 11, 2005 at Burkemont Baptist Church with Reverends David Mills and Eddy Bunton officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at Sossoman Funeral Home Saturday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the funeral hour. At other times, the family will be at the residence of Cynthia and Eric Jaynes, 4506 Burkemont Road, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Burkemont Baptist Church, 4668 Burkemont Road, Morganton, NC 28655 or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc. 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.
Robert James Dellinger Back to Top
Robert James Dellinger, 72, of High Peak Road, Valdese, NC, died Wednesday, December 7, 2005 at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center following a period of declining health. Born in Lincoln County, NC on April 20, 1933, he was a son of the late Lee Thurman Dellinger and Hattie Auton Dellinger. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Billy Dellinger, and sister, Edith Dellinger Canipe. Robert was a faithful member of High Peak Baptist Church where he was a deacon and usher. He was a retired employee of Henredon Furniture Company and Poteat Motor Lines Following his retirement, he drove for Gaines Motor Lines. Over the years, Robert enjoyed working with horses and cattle. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.
Robert is survived by his wife of 52 years, Hazel Swink Dellinger, of the home; sons, Rickey Dellinger and wife, Linda, of Valdese and Eddie J. Dellinger of Valdese; a daughter, Revonda D. Stillwell and husband, Terry, of Morganton; grandchildren, Brandy Walker, Cheyenne Dellinger, Amber Cox, Steve Dellinger, Jessica Kaiser and husband, Roland, Haley Shuping and husband, Jonathan, and Cara Stillwell; great-grandchildren, David Brittain, Nicole Brittain, Celia Dellinger, Sarah Rapan, Gavin Cox, Holly Cox; a sister, Bonnie Cook of Lawndale, NC; and a number of nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Robert’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, December 10, 2005 at High Peak Baptist Church with Rev. Ralph Gouge officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the funeral hour. At other times, the family will be at the residence, 2947 High Peak Rd., Valdese, NC. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690 or to High Peak Baptist Church, 3073 High Peak Road, Valdese, NC 28690.
Elizabeth Mahaffee Kanupp Back to Top
Elizabeth Mahaffee Kanupp, 79, of Camelot Manner on Sunset Road, Granite Falls, NC, died Wednesday, December 7, 2005 at Frye Regional Medical Center. Born in Rutherford County, NC on August 15, 1926, she was a daughter of the late Charles Berry Mahaffee, Sr. and Ethel B. Hutchins Mahaffee. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Wilbur F. Peyronel, Sr.; her second husband, Homer Leroy Kanupp; and brothers, C. B. Mahaffee, Jr. and Dewey Mahaffee. Elizabeth was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Valdese, NC and was retired from Alba-Waldensian after 30 years.
She is survived by her son, Wilbur Fred Peyronel, Jr.; her daughter, Margaret E. Peyronel; and brother, Joseph Mahaffee, all of Valdese; five grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.
A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, December 10, 2005 in Hillcrest Cemetery with Rev. Andrew Brown officiating. The family will receive friends on Saturday from 12:30 until 1:30 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, 217 St. Germain Ave. SE, Valdese, NC 28690.
Ossie Gettys Cline Back to Top
Ossie Gettys Cline, 91, died Thursday, December 8, 2005 at College Pines Nursing Center in Rutherford College, NC. She was born October 12, 1914 in Rutherford Co., NC, and was a daughter of the late Horace Gettys and Melissa Allen Gettys. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by husbands, Bud Carroll, Charlie Panther, and Dewey Cline; a son, Howard Dean Carroll; and brothers, Roscoe Gettys and Glenn Gettys. She was employed by Broughton Hospital in the Dietary Department for many years until her retirement. Ossie was a member of Central Baptist Church.
She is survived by brothers, Hix Gettys and wife, Blanche, Kenneth Gettys and wife, Margaret, and James Gettys and wife, Dorothy, all of Cleveland County; and a number of nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm, Monday, December 12, 2005 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Clyde Buckner officiating. Burial will follow at Duncans Creek Presbyterian Church Cemetery in Rutherford County. The family will receive friends Monday one hour before the service at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.
Winfred B. Snipes of 4 Cahu Drive, Taylors, SC, passed away at his residence December 9, 2005. The son of the late Glen and Florence Snipes, Winfred was born and raised in Morganton, NC. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Winda Debra Snipes. He was a graduate of Morganton High School and Gardner-Webb University. He served as a Staff Sergeant in the US Air Force, during which he was stationed at Donaldson Air Force Base in Greenville, SC. Winfred was a retired executive of Canal Insurance Company in Greenville. He was a member of St. Francis Episcopal Church and the American Legion.
Mr. Snipes is survived by a loving family and a faithful brother, Max G. Snipes, of Columbia, SC.
A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, December 12, 2005 in Forest Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, Mid-Atlantic Affiliate, Memorials & Tributes Processing Center, P.O. Box 5216, Glen Allen, VA 23058-5216. Sossoman Funeral Home of Morganton is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Thelma Swink Hudson Back to Top
Thelma Swink Hudson, 77, of the Lutheran Home West, Hickory, NC, formerly of Old NC 18 South, Morganton, died Tuesday, December 13, 2005 at Frye Regional Medical Center in Hickory following a period of declining health. She was born December 25, 1927 in Gaston Co., NC, and was a daughter of the late William Lester Swink and Mabel Mayhew Swink. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, W.B. “Dick” Hudson; brothers, Phifer Swink and Robert Swink; sisters, Pearl Swink, Gladys Carswell, and Lattie Hunt; and a son-in-law, Charlie A. Lail. Thelma was a former employee of Morganton Hosiery Mill and Burke Mills. She was a member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church. The family wishes to express their appreciation to the staff of the Lutheran Home West for the wonderful care provided to Mrs. Hudson.
Thelma is survived by a son, Jerry Hudson and wife, Kathy, of Connelly Springs; a daughter, Shirley Lail of Connelly Springs; grandchildren, Mark Lail and wife, Cynthia, Curtis Lail and friend, Kim, Tammy Patton and husband, Richard, Blain Hudson and wife, Emily, Harold Hudson and wife, Jennifer; great grandchildren, Hayden Lail, Austin Sigmon, Derrick and Matthew Hicks, Melissa, David, and Anthony Patton, Dustin and Jacob Hudson, Katlin and Abbey Hudson; and a number of nieces and nephews.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, December 17, 2005 at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church with the Reverends Jerry Hudson, Blain Hudson, and Dustin Hudson officiating. Burial will follow at Shady Grove Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Douglas Price officiating. The family will receive friends Friday from 6:30 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes before the funeral hour. At other times, the family will be the residence of Shirley Lail, 8751 Wards Gap Rd., Connelly Springs. Memorial contributions may be made to Shady Grove Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, c/o Rev. Billy Mace, 6021 NC 18 S, Morganton, NC 28655, or to Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, 4754 Old NC 18, Morganton, NC 28655.
Joe Allen Smith, 65, of Enola Road, Morganton, NC, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, December 14, 2005 at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, NC. Born February 21, 1940, he was a son of the late Joe and Cordelia “Granny Bird” Shook Smith. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Joe Allen Smith, Jr.; a brother, James David Smith; and sisters, Lula Belle Clark, Rita Nelson, and Lillian Campbell. Joe worked for United Police and Security following his retirement from Burke County GDS. He was a member of Zion Hill Baptist Church in Lawndale, NC.
Joe is survived by his wife of 32 years, Geraldine Reece Smith of the home; four sons, Dwayne Lowman of Asteoria, OR, Robbie Alan Lowman and wife, Teresa, of Connelly Springs, NC, Jeffrey Craig Lowman and wife, Tonya, of Lenoir, NC, Charlie Nathan Smith of San Francisco, CA; three daughters, Dorothy Amanda Smith of Morganton, Nellie Joe Hudson and husband, Joe, of Mooresville, NC, Starr Elaine Smith of Mooresville; sister, Colleen Clark of Crossnore, NC and Arletta Dudley of Mt. Holly, NC; grandchildren, Joshua Lowman, Robbie Lowman, Jr., Miranda Lowman, Dean Chaney, Selita Dawn Lowman, Todd Kirby, Brandy Philyaw, Skyler Cole Smith, Joe Allen Smith, Joe Hudson, Heather Hudson; and a number of nieces and nephews.
The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, December 17, 2005 at Zion Hill Baptist Church in Lawndale, NC with Reverends Steve Parker and Darrin Hughes officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:30 until 8:30 p.m. Friday evening at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the funeral hour.
C. L. Banner, 49, of Dysartsville Road, Morganton, NC, died unexpectedly Wednesday, December 14, 2005 at his residence. Born in Avery County, NC on September 28, 1956, he was a son of the late Hobert William Banner and Ruby McKinney Banner. C. L. enjoyed playing his guitar and singing, and loved music. Mr. Banner was employed as an upholsterer at J & J Upholstery.
He is survived by his son, Adam Banner of Wallace, SC; brothers, Gary Banner and wife, Marilyn, Winfred James Banner and wife, Linda, Chris Banner and wife, Andrea, all of Morganton; sisters, Nadine McPeters and husband, Carol, of Morganton, Linda Norville and husband, Silas, of Morganton, Irma Smith and husband, Philip, of Connelly Springs, NC; girlfriend, Reba Carswell of Morganton and her children, Paul Lowman of Mooresville, Joshua Lowman of Morganton, Joseph Hardin of Mooresville; his former wife, Vickie Solesby of Morganton; his favorite nephew, Tim Banner of Morganton, and a number of other nieces and nephews.
The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, December 17, 2005 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Darvy Hensley officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 6:00 until 8:30 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the funeral hour. At other times, the family will be at the residence of Linda Norville, 2178 Propst Road, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Nowlings Chapel Freewill Baptist Church, 5827 Fisher-Davis Road, Morganton, NC 28655.
Annie Ruth Hoyle Walker Back to Top
Annie Ruth Hoyle Walker, 76, of Old NC 18, Connelly Springs, NC died Thursday, December 15, 2005, at Grace Heights following a lengthy illness. She was born in Cleveland County, NC on February 3, 1929 and was the daughter of the late P. A. and Mary Sue Brandle Hoyle. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Delbert Lee Walker, and by a brother, Durham Hoyle. Mrs. Walker was retired from Drexel-Heritage Furnishings and was a member of Mt. Gilead Baptist Church.
Surviving are a daughter and her husband, Dell and Mike Evans, and a grandson, David Evans, all of Bostic, NC.
The funeral will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, December 17, 2005, at Mt. Gilead Baptist Church with the Reverend Keith Fulbright and Rev. Bill Hall officiating. Burial will follow at Corinth Baptist Church Cemetery, Casar, NC. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Friday at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church 30 minutes before the funeral hour.
Memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Gilead Baptist Church, 4262 Mt. Gilead Baptist Church Rd., Connelly Springs, NC 28612 or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.
J. Arthur Patton, 87, of Lenoir Rd., Morganton, NC, died Thursday, December 15, 2005 at the Grace Ridge Health Care Unit following a period of declining health. He was born Aug. 12, 1918 in Burke County, NC, and was a son of the late David A. Patton and Cora Seagle Patton. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Johnnie, Delbert, and Allen Patton; and a sister, Ruth Baker. Mr. Patton was of the Presbyterian faith. He was a US Army veteran of World War II, and served in the European Theatre.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Jean Lonon Patton of the home; sisters, Winnie Mangum, Ellia Puckett, Naomi Watson, Ruby Farris, Faye Jaynes, and Jean Jackson, all of Morganton; and a special nephew, Clint Patton of Morganton.
Graveside services were held at 3:00 p.m., Friday, December 16, 2005 at Burke Memorial Park with Chaplain Ted Swann officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home assisted the family with the arrangements.
Louise Caudle Beck Back to Top
Louise Caudle Beck, 91, of Autumn Care of Drexel, NC, formerly of Conley Road, died Friday, December 16, 2005 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. Born in Wake County on June 11, 1914, she was a daughter of the late Thomas Jefferson Caudle and Emma Rebecca Hale Caudle. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Henry Odell Beck; a daughter, Annette Beck; granddaughter, Jo Louise Darden; five brothers, and four sisters. She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother who loved to cook and was an avid quilter. She was a member of First Baptist Church.
She is survived by her daughter, Sallie B. Griffin and husband, Herbert, of Drexel; a son, Henry O. Beck, Jr., and wife, Reta, of Greensboro, NC; grandchildren, Henry Darden and wife, Michaela, of Drexel, Ann Pritchard of Valdese, and Adam Beck of Chapel Hill, NC; great-grandchildren, Joshua Darden, Zachary Darden, Jacob Darden, and Sarah Pritchard.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, December 19, 2005 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr. officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour before the service. Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, P.O. Drawer 459, Morganton, NC 28680.
Ruby Davis Mode, 68, of Leonard Street, Glen Alpine, NC, died Saturday, December 17, 2005 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. Born June 24, 1937 in Burke County, she was a daughter of the late Victor Columbus Davis and Annie Mae Harris Davis. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Andrew Jackson Mode; two sons, George Andrew and Thomas Victor Mode;a brother, Jackson Daniel Davis; and a step-brother, Steve Saulmon. Ruby was a member of Grandview Baptist Church.
Mrs. Mode is survived by two sons, Charles Edward Mode and wife, Louise, of Glen Alpine, Franklin Lee Mode of Morganton; a daughter, Jacqueline Graham and husband, Richard, of Morganton; three brothers, James Victor Davis, Paul Edd Davis, and Charles Ned Davis, all of Morganton; two sisters, Mrs. Johnny (Louise) Smith and Mrs. Steve (Linda) Perry, both of Morganton; six grandchildren, six great-grandchildren; a number of nieces and nephews, a companion, Jimmy Blankenship; two step--brothers, Robert Saulmon of Marion and Larry Saulmon of Morganton; a step-sister, Ann Branch of Marion.
The funeral will be held at 1:30 p.m., Tuesday, December 20, 2005 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Reverends Charles Sisk and Tony Land officiating. Burial will follow in Grandview Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour before the service at the funeral home. At other times, the family will be at the residence, 103 Leonard Street, Glen Alpine. Memorial contributions may be made to Grandview Baptist Church, 2828 NC 126, Morganton, NC 28655.
William Edward Carswell Back to Top
William Edward Carswell, 70, of Watershed Road, Morganton, NC, died unexpectedly Sunday, December 18, 2005 at his residence. Born August 8, 1935 in Burke County, he was a son of the late Charlie Montgomery Carswell and Carrie Chapman Carswell. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Bertie Causby. After retiring from truck driving, William worked as a timber-man. He loved working in the outdoors. Mr. Carswell was a member of Bethlehem Baptist Church and attended Friendly Freewill Baptist Church. William is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Willeskie H. Carswell of the home; children, Charles William Carswell and wife, Levonda, of Morganton, Joyce C. Short and husband, Gayle, of Morganton, Reba Carswell of Morganton; two brothers, Claude Carswell and Ellis Carswell, both of Morganton; sisters, Lula Green of Morganton, Sue Penland of Morganton, Beatrice Shephard of Hildebran, Florence Carswell of Morganton; grandchildren, Charles Matthew Carswell, Kyle W. Carswell, Seth Tyler Carswell, Calvin Daniel Metcalf, Brianna Nicole Metcalf, Paul Lowman, Joshua Lowman, Joseph Hardin; and great-grandchildren, Hannah Carswell and Logan Charles Lowman. The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, December 21, 2005 at Friendly Freewill Baptist Church with Rev. Daniel Hensley officiating. Burial will follow in Carswell Family Cemetery. The family will receive friends Tuesday evening from 6:30- until 8:30 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. At other times, the family will be at the home of Mr. William Carswell on Watershed Road.
Clydia Hawkins Bright Alverson Anderson Back to Top
Clydia Hawkins Bright Alverson Anderson, 94, of Grace Heights, Morganton, NC, and formerly of Ramsey Street, died Sunday, December 18, 2005 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. Born in Burke County on November 27, 1911, she was a daughter of the late Joseph William Hawkins and Lula Mitchell Hawkins. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands, Clyde Vernon Bright, James D. Alverson, and Henry Anderson, and a number of brothers and sisters. Clydia was a member of First Advent Christian Church.
She is survived by her daughter, Peggy Bright Poole and husband, Louis Edward, of Morganton; granddaughter, Loretta Poole Moses and husband, Keith, of Morganton; great-granddaughters, Kay Moses Ferris and husband, Tim, of Woodbridge, VA and Stacy Moses of Morganton; great-great-grandchildren, Sean Ferris, Conor Ferris, Mike Ferris, and Tim Ferris, Jr.
The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 20, 2005 at First Advent Christian Church with Rev. James Taber officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Monday evening at Sossoman Funeral Home from 6:00 until 7:30 p.m. where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the funeral hour. At other times, the family will be at the residence of Peggy and Louis Poole, 306 Ramsey Street, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to First Advent Christian Church Building Fund, 211 Lenoir Road, Morganton, NC 28655.
Florence Edge Sisk Geouge Back to Top
Florence Edge Sisk Geouge, 93, of Brown Ave., Morganton, NC died Sunday, December 18, 2005 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. She was born June 6, 1912 in Yancey Co., NC, and was a daughter of the late John Edward and Emma Eliza Robinson Edge. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands, Robert Patton Sisk and Paul D. Geouge, Sr.; a son, Bobby Sisk; a brother, Lewis Edge; and a sister, Eva McKinney. Florence was a faithful member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, and member of the Morganton Senior Citizens Club. She retired in 1977 with 26 years of service from Grace Hospital where Florence worked in Labor and Delivery, and the Nursery.
Florence is survived by her step-children, Paul Dee Geouge, Jr. and Ben Geouge of Burnsville, NC, Tom and Dean Geouge of Kooskia, ID, Edward Geouge of Buck Horn, NM, and Barbara Killian of Alexandria, VA; nieces and nephews, Adalene and Buck Ransone of Greensboro, NC; Maurice and Rose Ann Edge, Charles and Doris Jean Edge, Marsha Saulman, and Rodney and Diane McKinney, all of Morganton; special friends, Loree Wilson, Edna Russ, and Mary Oxford; and many other relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, December 20, 2005 at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Larry Cline officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church Tuesday one hour before the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, 2396 Enola Rd., Morganton, NC 28655, or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Mark Edward Donovan Back to Top
Mark Edward Donovan, 50 of Zero Mull Road, Morganton, NC, died Sunday, December 18, 2005 at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, NC. Born in Salem, MA, he was the son of Robert Edward Donovan and Barbara King Donovan of Morganton, NC. He worked as a forklift operator for the Digital Equipment Company. His hobbies included fishing, playing pool, and restoring automobiles. He loved his daughters and grandchildren very much.
In addition to his parents, he is survived by his daughters, Marsha Donovan of Monponsett, MA, Kelly Donovan of Taunton, MA; grandchildren, Anya Donovan and Erik Donovan, both of Monponsett, MA; sister, Donna L. Baker of Bellingham, MA, Roberta L. Betts of Morganton, NC, Karen L. Kelley of Plainville, MA, Kim A. Gauthier of North Sutton, NH; a number of nieces, nephews, and cousins; his companion of thirteen years, Barbara Cook; and his aunt and uncle, Janet & Bryan Beetlestone of Franklin, MA.
A memorial service will be held at Federated Church in Franklin, MA at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Kidney Fund, 6110 Executive Boulevard, Suite 1010, Rockville, MD 20852-9813.
James "Bud" Swafford, Sr. Back to Top
James “Bud” Swafford, Sr., 68, of Ned McGimsey Road, Nebo, NC, died unexpectedly Monday, December 19, 2005 at his residence. Born in McDowell County on November 2, 1937, he was a son of the late George P. and Maggie Swafford Bailey. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by James D. Swafford, Jr. Bud was owner and operator of the Seafood Inlet for twenty-five years and was a member of Nebo Baptist Church. He was a US Army veteran.
Mr. Swafford is survived by his wife of 18 years, Evelyn Simpson Swafford of the home; sisters, Virginia Sisk and husband, Ralph, of Nebo, Louise Church and husband, Harold, of Marion, NC; grandchildren, Katie and Lindsey Swafford of Kings Mountain, NC, and Tyler and Serenity Swafford of Morganton, NC; step-children, Lisa Morgan of Morganton, Douglas Morgan of Lenoir, NC, and Morgan Wilson of the home; step-grandchildren, Summer Abee of Morganton, Heather Morgan of Lenoir; and a number of nieces and nephews.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, December 22, 2005 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral with Rev. Randy Clark officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Wednesday evening from 6:30 until 8:30 p.m. at the funeral home. At other times, the family will be at the residence, 287 Ned McGimsey Road, Nebo.
Trenton "Tator" Elijah Gene Rogers Back to Top
Trenton “Tator” Elijah Gene Rogers, four months of age, of Sawmills, died unexpectedly Sunday, December 18, 2005 at Frye Regional Medical Center in Hickory, NC. Born August 20, 2005, he was a son of Michael Ryan Rogers of Lenoir, NC and Jami Dawn Smith of Morganton.
In addition to his parents, he is survived by his sister, Kaitlyn Nicole Rogers of Lenoir, NC; grandparents, James and Lisa Smith of Morganton; great-grandmothers, Linda Blankenship and Evelyn Jordan, both of Morganton; great-great-grandmothers, Hazel Dula and Blanche Smith, both of Morganton; an uncle, Matthew Smith of Morganton; and a number of great-aunts, great-uncles, and friends.
The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, December 23, 2005 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Pastor Mikeal Minton officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour before the service at the funeral home.
John Howard Elliot Back to Top
John Howard Elliot, 85, of Gold Mine Road, Morganton, NC, died Monday, December 19, 2005 at the NC State Veterans Home in Salisbury, NC following a period of declining health. He was born on September 2, 1920 in Celo, NC and was a son of the late Oscar G. and Martha Georganna Hollifield Elliott. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Annie Jane Denton Elliott and by a sister, Judy Arnett. Mr. Elliott was a U. S. Army veteran of World War II and was a retired employee of Operating Engineers Local 673. He was a life-time member of the Masonic Lodge in Barnwell, SC.
Surviving are a son and his wife, Ronnie and Jeanna Elliott, of Morganton; a daughter and her husband, Cherri and Kenneth Wright of Kenansville, FL; a brother, Wallace D. Elliott, of Puyallup, WA; sisters, Arthena D. Ellis of Hollywood, FL and Harriet Tyac, of Hollywood, CA; 5 grandchildren; and 3 great-grandchildren.
The funeral will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, December 23, 2005, in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Ed Lawing officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church Cemetery. Mason rites will be conducted by Catawba Valley Lodge #217. The family will receive friends from 7:00 until 8:30 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home.
Dean A. Scott Back to Top
Dean A. Scott, 52, of Lackey Street, Morganton, NC, died Tuesday, December 20, 2005 at his residence. Born January 15, 1953, he was a son of Mary Wortman Scott of Morganton and the late Charlie Winfred Scott. Dean was a member of First United Methodist Church and loved to hike in the NC mountains.
In addition to his mother, he is survived by his daughter, Angie Dawn Scott of Morganton; a brother, David Scott and his wife, Wanda, of Morganton; and a nephew, D. J. Scott of Salt Lake City, UT.
The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, December 22, 2005 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Holly Adams officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour before the service at the funeral home. At other times, the family will be at the residence, 103 Lackey Street, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc, 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.
Jean Pierce Dixon Back to Top
Jean Pierce Dixon, 67, of Raintree Lane, Morganton, died Tuesday, December 20, 2005 at her residence following a period of declining health. Born in Abingdon, VA on April 24, 1938, she was the daughter of the late Monroe Dixon and Sara Counts Dixon. Jean was a member of Morganton Seventh Day Adventist Church.
She is survived by a son, Michael M. Glass, of Morganton; daughters, Lynn Glass, of Morganton, Dana and her husband, Bryan Sain, of Valdese, Julie and her husband, Gregory Berry, and Jill Miller, all of Morganton; grandchildren, Michael Austin, Trey Glass, Brandy Poole, Carla Surratt, Ashley Poole; great grandchildren, Sara Flack, Cherish Sain; brother, Roger Pierce, of Texas; and her long time companion, Chuck Dutton of the home.
The funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Friday, December 23, 2005 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Pastor Tim Sheridan and Elder Ted Brackett officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Friday from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home. At other times the family will be at Mrs. Dixon’s home, 105 Raintree Lane, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Morganton Seventh Day Adventist Church Building Fund, 2187 Jamestown Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.
Wiley "Ben" Morrison Back to Top
Wiley Benjamin (Ben) Morrison, 76, of Mt. Olive Church Road, Morganton, NC passed away Tuesday, December 20, 2005 at the Veteran’s Hospital in Asheville following an extended illness. He was born on March 22, 1929 in Burke County and was a son of the late Gus and Essie Neill Morrison. He was also preceded in death by a daughter, Lori Morrison Rayfield and by a sister, Faye Morrison McKinney. He was a U. S. Army veteran of the Korean War. As a faithful member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church, he served as a deacon, Sunday School director, and teacher. He was a plumber and retired from Swanson Plumbing.
He is survived by his loving and caring wife, Frances Duckworth Morrison, of the home; a daughter, Gayle Morrison Rostan, of Hickory; grandchildren, Amanda Houk and Lindsay Rayfield both of Morganton, Benjamin, Sara, Andrew, and Hannah Rostan, all of Hickory; and a great-grandson, Tyler, of Morganton. Also surviving are his brother, Neill Morrison; his mother-in-law, Irene Duckworth; a son-in-law, Terry Rayfield; brother-in-law, Ray Duckworth; and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 23, 2005 at Mt. Olive Baptist Church with Reverends Robert Ferguson and Jerry Gamble officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends immediately following the graveside in the church fellowship hall. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Mt. Olive Baptist Church Building Fund, 5388 Mt. Olive Church Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Anna Barnes Millner Back to Top
Anna Barnes Millner, 90, of Butler St., Morganton, NC died Wednesday, December 21, 2005, at Grace Hospital. She was born in Mt. Carmel, PA on April 18, 1915 and was a daughter of the late Joseph and Sadie Beaver Barnes. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, H. H. “Ted” Millner; brothers, Joseph Barnes, Jr., Thomas Barnes, and Charles Barnes, and a sister, Geneve Barnes. Anna was a member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church. She moved to Morganton 3 years ago to be close to her son and his family and to be with her grandchildren.
Surviving are her son and his wife, Joe and Angie Millner, her 3 grandchildren, Mathew, Sarah, and Samuel Millner, all of Morganton; a sister, Betty Barnes Burge, of Kulpmont, PA; and a sister-in-law, Frances Harmon, of Floyd, VA.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Friday, December 23, 2005, at Sossoman Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held at a later date in Leesburg, FL. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 728 W. Union St., Morganton, NC 28655.
Conrad Ezell Champion Back to Top
Conrad Ezell Champion, 70, of Childers Drive, Morganton, NC, died Thursday, December 22, 2005 at his residence following a lengthy illness. Born in Cleveland County, NC on September 29, 1935, he was a son of the late Furman Ezell Champion and Lucy Morrison Champion. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Jack and Frank Champion. Conrad was a member of Friendly Freewill Baptist Church. He graduated from Piedmont High School in Lawndale, NC, served in the US Air Force during the Korean Conflict, and was a member of the Morganton American Legion Post #221. He retired from Drexel Furniture after thirty-two years.
Conrad is survived by his wife of thirty-nine years, Brenda Crotts Champion of the home; a son, Ronnie Champion of Morganton; a daughter, Reba Yancey and husband, Travis, of Connelly Springs, NC; a brother, Harold Fred Champion and wife, Deloris, of Lawndale, NC; two grandchildren, Ethan Champion and Zachary Brown; and a step-grandchild, Holden Yancey.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, December 24, 2005 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Ben Davis officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park with graveside rites to be performed by the Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 7:00 until 9:00 p.m. at the funeral home. At other times, the family will be at the residence, 4891 Childers Drive, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.
D. J. Mulweed Back to Top
D. J. Mulwee, 75, of Elm St., Morganton, NC died unexpectedly Thursday, December 22, 2005, at his residence. He was born in Caldwell County, NC on August 17, 1930 and was a son of the late Bertie Mulwee Whisenant. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Bessie Franklin Mulwee; and infant daughter, Carol Jean Mulwee; and infant, grandson, Terry Lee Jr.; brothers, Coy and Howard Mulwee; and a sister, Hazel Cable. Mr. Mulwee was a U. S. Army veteran of the Korean conflict and was a member of Glen Alpine United Methodist Church.
Surviving are his daughter and son-in-law, Kathy and Rick Finley; a brother, Albert Mulwee; a grandson, Gregory Dale; and a very special friend, Mary Clark, all of Morganton.
The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 24, 2005 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Ted Swann officiating. The family will receive friends one hour before the service. Entombment will follow at Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum. At other times the family will be at the home of Kathy and Rick Finley, 132 Elm St., Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.
Roy "Sat" Roper Back to Top
Roy “Sat” Roper, 79, of Rhoney Road, Morganton, NC, died unexpectedly Sunday, December 25, 2005 at his residence. Born January 1, 1926 in Burke County, NC, he was a son of the late Stanley Roscoe Roper and Mattie Saunders Roper. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his former wife, Louise Smith Roper, a brother; Charles Roper; and a sister, Pearl Saunders. Sat worked at Great Lakes Carbon, and retired from Valdese General Hospital’s maintenance department. During his later years, he worked part-time at Parker Industries. He was a U.S. Navy veteran of WWII, and a member of the Valdese American Legion Post #234.
Sat is survived by his son, Michael Roper, of Morganton; daughters, Susan Propst and husband, Johnny, and Dawn Roper, all of Morganton; a sister, Inez Kirby and husband, Herschel, of Gamewell, NC; a grandson, P.F.C. Jeffrey Kendall Powell and wife, Brittney, of Fort Riley, KS; a great-granddaughter, Bayleigh Powell; a special friend, Johanna O’Brien; and a number of nieces and a nephew.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 28, 2005 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Randy Huffman officiating. Burial will follow in Gibb’s Chapel Wesleyan Church Cemetery with graveside rites to be performed by Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends one hour before the service at the funeral home. At other times the family will be at the residence of the son, Michael Roper, on Causby Road, Morganton.
Marvin William Propst Back to Top
Marvin William Propst, 83, of Morganton died Monday, December 26, 2005 at Grace Hospital. He was born November 30, 1922 in Burke Co., NC, and was a son of the late Cullen and Emma Young Propst. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister and three brothers. He served in the US Air Force during World War II, and was a member of Hopewell Baptist Church. Marvin was a retired employee of Shadowline where he worked as the Director of Purchasing.
He is survived by his wife, Virginia Fisher Propst of the home; son, Donald Propst; daughter, Tamara Propst; granddaughter, Laura Propst; sister and brother-in-law, Cleo and Will Watts; brother and sister-in-law, John and Jan Propst; and a number of nieces and nephews.
Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, December 29, 2005 at Burke Memorial Park with Rev. Donald Lovelace officiating. The family will receive friends Wednesday from7:00 until 8:30 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of personal choice.
Larry "Stump" Scott Back to Top
Larry “Stump” Scott, 68 of Camelot Manor, Granite Falls, NC and formerly of Morganton died Tuesday, December 27, 2005 at Frye Regional Medical Center, Hickory, NC. Born in Burke County, NC on July 11, 1937, he was a son of the late Paul Hampton Scott and Louise Stacy Scott. Larry was a retired employee of the recreation department of Western Carolina Center and was a former employee of the Collett Street Recreation Center Pool. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Morganton. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Paul S. Scott and Ben Scott; and by sisters, Virginia “Sis” Hyatt and Lucy Guimond.
Surviving are his sons, Keith Scott and his wife, Lisa of Morganton and Rick Scott of Lenoir; sisters, Laura McCloskey of Venice, FL, Cliffie Thomson of Front Royal, VA, Rosemary Renstrom of Virginia Beach, VA, and Anna Ruth Wilson of Glen Alpine; and grandchildren, Michael Scott, Virginia Scott, and James Ross Scott.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, December 29, 2005 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Rev. Carl Lindquist officiating. Inurnment in the First United Methodist Church Columbarium will be a later date. The family will receive friends at the funeral home following the service. Memorial gifts may be made to the First United Methodist Church, 200 N. King St., Morganton, NC 28655.
Mike E. Shell Back to Top
Mike E. Shell, 54, of Duckworth Circle, Morganton, NC, died unexpectedly Tuesday, December 27, 2005 at Grace Hospital. Born in Burke County, NC on June 17, 1951, he was a son of the late Nellis R. Shell and Alvera Nessel Shell. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by several aunts and uncles. Mike was a long time employee of Burke County Emergency Services. He was a member of Catawba Valley Masonic Lodge #217 and enjoyed woodworking. Mike was a loving husband, brother, uncle, and friend and was devoted to his beloved pet “Punkin.”
He is survived by his wife, Margaret Arndt Shell, of the home, two brothers, Richard Shell and wife, Vickie, and Jim Shell, all of Morganton; two aunts, Marie Haley of Lake Charles, LA, Wilma Denton of Morganton; three nieces, Dawn, Tonya, and Miriam; four nephews, Chris, Mike, Mark, and Andrew; and several great-nephews.
The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, December 30, 2005 at Burkemont Baptist Church with Reverends Bill Holland and other special friends officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with Masonic rites to be performed by Catawba Valley Masonic Lodge #217. The family will receive friends Thursday evening from 6:30 until 8:30 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the funeral hour. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of personal choice.
Paul James Gainer Back to Top
Paul James Gainer, 93, of 500 Lenoir Rd., Grace Ridge, Morganton, NC died Tuesday, December 27, 2005 at Grace Ridge Health Care Center. Born in Berea, WV on March 31, 1912, he was the son of the late O.K. Gainer and Lillie Yoke Gainer. Paul was a member of the Morganton Church of Christ and was a member of the Morganton Rotary Club. He was a veteran of the US Coast Guard. Paul was employed as the District Manager of the Prudential Life Insurance Company in Coral Gables, FL until his retirement. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Bea Kellar Gainer and twin sister, Gail Stull.
Surviving are his daughter and son-in-law, Jeanie and Sherrod Salsbury of Morganton; granddaughters, Kelly Salsbury Gessner and her husband, Dr. Martin Gessner, and Anne Salsbury Biggers and her husband, Brantley Biggers; two great grandsons, William Sherrod Gessner and Charles Martin Gessner; a great granddaughter, Elizabeth Brantley Biggers; a sister, Rue Lee King; and many nieces and nephews.
A cryptside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, December 29, 2005 at Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum with Hospice Chaplin Ted Swann officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Morganton Church of Christ, 404 Lenoir Rd., Morganton, NC 28655, or Grace Ridge Health Care Skilled Nursing Unit, 500 Lenoir Rd., Morganton, NC 28655, or Burke Hospice and Pallative Care, Inc, 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.
Nellie Bolick Justice Back to Top
Nellie Bolick Justice of Icard, NC, passed away peacefully and went to her Lord on Wednesday, December 28, 2005. Born in Burke County, NC on July 3, 1917, she was the daughter of the late John B. and Minnie Brindle Bolick.
Nellie was a devout Christian who loved her church. When she was no longer able to attend Sunday School, she envisioned every member and said a prayer for each of them. She was a humble woman who placed others before herself. She laughed a lot, and it was often self-directed. She also loved youngsters and sent congratulatory notes to many when they reached milestones in their lives or made special achievements. That love was returned and was gratefully received.
In addition to her parents, Nellie was preceded in death by her husband, Edward F. Justice; a son, Zane; and three brothers, Clyde, Willie and Eugene Bolick.
Nellie is survived by a daughter, Barbara Lail, and husband, Charles “Bud” of Connelly Springs; a son, Alan Justice and wife, Linda, of Chapel Hill; grandsons, Ron Lail and wife, Mary, of Hickory, NC, Mark Lail and wife, Kim, of Hickory, Brian Justice of Raleigh, NC, David Justice of Albuquerque, NM; and three great-grandchildren, Moriah, Zane, and Ivey Rebekah Lail. A favorite quote of Nellie’s came from one of her grandsons: “I love you, Grandma, I really do.” This was often restated by her family members who really loved her and were really loved in return.
Nellie’s funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, December 31, 2005 at the First Baptist Church of Hildebran with Rev. Ron Arndt officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour before the funeral in the Bethany Hall of the church. At other times the family will be at the home of her daughter, Barbara, 2577 Lindsey Road, Connelly Springs. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the First Baptist Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 220, Hildebran, NC 28637. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Roby Deward Burgess, Sr. Back to Top
Roby Deward Burgess, Sr., 73, of Canoe Dr., Morganton, NC died Wednesday, December 28, 2005, at his residence following a brief illness. He was born in Burke County, NC on December 24, 1932 and was a son of the late Roby William Burgess and Roena Curtis Burgess. Mr. Burgess was a graduate of WPCC with a degree in engineering and was a licensed contractor. He was a retired employee of Morganton Dye and Finishing. He was a member of Catawba Valley Baptist Church.
Surviving are his wife, Faye Burgess, of the home; sons, Roby D. Burgess, Jr. and Phillip Burgess, both of the home; a daughter and her husband, Lorrine and Charles Leavitt, Jr. of Lenoir; sisters, Verna Dean Shuping and her husband, Leon, Elizabeth Burns, all of Morganton, and Emily Nester and her husband, Steve, of Vale; 5 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren.
The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 30, 2005, in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Mr. Mark Silvey officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends 1 hour before the service. At other times, the family will be at the residence, 113 Canoe Dr., Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.
Janet Rattray Howerton Back to Top
Janet Rattray Howerton, 71, of W. Park Dr., Morganton, NC died Wednesday, December 28, 2005, at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. She was born in Wilson County, NC on July 25, 1934 and was the daughter of the late Melvin Henderson Rattray and Virginia Griffith Rattray. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her brother, Melvin Rattray, Jr. Janet graduated from St. Mary’s Junior College in 1954 and then attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She was well known as a wonderful confidant of her friends and many of her children’s friends. She visited her friends, the sick, and the infirm. She was always interested in her family and corresponded frequently. We have enjoyed recounting memories by rereading her letters that were saved. Janet was an excellent bridge player who competed avidly. She loved dogs and was seldom seen without one in the front seat of her car. Janet radiated a tremendous sense of humor.
Surviving are her husband, Philip Thomas Howerton, Sr., of the home; her son, Philip Thomas Howerton, Jr., of Morganton; her daughters, Ginny Howerton of Boynton Beach, FL and Mary Todd Peters and her husband, Mark, of Chapel Hill, NC; and grandchildren, Kayley Peters (age 9), Rachel and Melissa Peters (age 5), all of Chapel Hill.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, December 30, 2005, at the First Presbyterian Church with Rev. Michael R. Bailey officiating. The family will receive friends Friday from 1 until 2 pm in the church parlor. Memorial contributions may be made to Save the Children, 54 Wilton Rd., West Port, CT 06880, or to the American Red Cross, Burke County Chapter, 305-A W. Union St., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Rev. James Garland Early Back to Top
Rev. James Garland Early, 69, of Pineburr Rd., Lenoir, NC died Thursday evening, December 29, 2005 at his residence following a lengthy illness. He was born November 8, 1936 in Rutherford County, NC, and was a son of the late Robert and Effie Marie Hyder Early. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers and seven sisters. Rev. Early was a minister for 50 years, and retired from the Laurel Springs Baptist Church in Boone, NC. He was a member of Mt. Home Baptist Church where he served as the Sunday school teacher for the 60 and over class.
He is survived by his wife, Anne Sain Early of the home; a son and daughter-in-law, Eric and Judy Early of Maiden, NC; a daughter and son-in-law, Amy and Eddie Townsend of Deep Gap, NC; brothers, Robert Early, Dennis Arrowood, and Bobby Arrowood, all of Morganton; sisters, Grace Dehetre, Vivian Alderman, Joyce Cordell and Juanita Elmore, all of Morganton; and grandchildren, Melissa Early, Will Early, and Brahm Townsend.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, January 1, 2006 at Mt. Home Baptist Church with the Reverends Jerry Gamble and David Orders officiating. The family would like to invite other ministers to serve as honorary pallbearers. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Sunday from 1:30 until 3:00 p.m. at the church. At other times, family will be at the residence, Pineburr Rd. in Gamewell, NC. Memorial contributions may be made to Blowing Rock Hospital, PO Box 148, Blowing Rock, NC 28605, or to Mt. Home Baptist Church Building Fund, 2272 Mt. Home Church Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.
Mildred Davis Greene Back to Top
Mildred Davis Greene, 98, of 500 Lenoir Road, Grace Ridge, Morganton, NC, died Saturday, December 31, 2005 at Grace Ridge Health Care Center. Born in Freemont, NC on May 23, 1907, she was the daughter of the late John Daniel Davis and Mary Elizabeth Dexter Davis.
Mildred grew up in Zebulon, NC and graduated from Woman’s College in Greensboro, NC in 1928. Following graduation, she spent a year working for the Department of Social Services in Pittsburg, PA. She then worked as a public school teacher in Tennessee and North Carolina, serving as librarian at Morganton High School until 1942.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ben F. Greene; brothers, Paul Davis and Robert Davis; sisters, Isla Davis Bryan, Mary Davis Faison, Alice Davis Hinton, and Justine Davis Daughridge.
Mildred was a member of First United Methodist Church for seventy years where she was active with United Methodist Women and sang in the choir. She had hundreds of hours as a volunteer with Grace Hospital Guild. She was a member of Mimosa Hills Golf & Country Club where she enjoyed playing golf until age 80.
She is survived by a son, John D. Greene, Sr. and wife, Jane, of Morganton; grandchildren, Teresa Greene Norman and husband, Dan, of Blowing Rock, NC, John D. Greene, Jr. and wife, Connie, of Morganton; great-grandchildren, Ashley Norman Smith and husband, Jeff, of Lexington Park, MD, Lydia Norman of Raleigh, NC, James R. Norman of Boone, NC, Ben Norman of Blowing Rock, Haley and Kerri Greene of Morganton; and a great-great-grandson, Jacob Ryan Smith of Lexington Park, MD.
Interment will take place at 1:00 p.m., Monday, January 2, 2005 in Forest Hill Cemetery. The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church with Reverends Robert Roach and Holly Adams officiating. The family will receive friends in the church fellowship hall following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, 200 N. King Street, Morganton, NC 28655, Burke Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc, 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690, or to the Burke County Public Library, 204 S. King Street, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Created by Brandon Koontz