Home - Obits - Archived Obituaries - January 2006
Grace Lucille Williams Neatherly Back to Top
Grace Lucille Williams Neatherly, 83 of Morganton, NC died Sunday, January 1, 2006 at Autumn Care of Drexel. Born in Watauga County, NC on March 19, 1922, she was a daughter of the late Roy H. Williams, Sr. and Mattie Sue Isaacs Williams. Grace was a lifetime member of the Girl Scouts of America and was active in many leadership roles for the Catawba Valley Service Unit. She received the “Thanks Badge” from the Girl Scouts. Mrs. Neatherly was a member of the Glen Alpine Woman’s Club, the Morganton Garden Club, the Morganton Herb Club, and the Oak Hill Home Extension Club. She was actively involved with A.A.R.P. and was one of the original volunteer ushers with the City of Morganton Municipal Auditorium. She was a member of Mountain Grove United Methodist Church where she served on various committees and offices. She was an avid supporter of her husband’s work with Ruritan International at both the local and national level. Grace was a tireless gardener and herbalist, and a skilled craftswoman and artist who especially enjoyed flower arranging, painting, wreath making, and embroidery. She had volunteered for many years as a flower judge at the Burke County Fair and had herself won many blue ribbons at the fair for her baked goods. In 1998 she was recognized by the City of Morganton as Citizen of the Year. During her husband’s Air Force career, she was active in various N.C.O. wives clubs and service associations. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her infant son, Roy L. Neatherly, Jr.; a son, Phillip Wayne Neatherly; and brothers, James Williams, Robert Williams, and Roy H. Williams, Jr.
Surviving are her husband, U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt., Retired, Roy L. Neatherly; daughters, Constance Lee Neatherly Turner and her husband, Rev. Charles M. Turner, Jr. of Lewisville, NC, Dawn Neatherly Byrd and her husband, Gregory A. Byrd of Morganton; a daughter-in-law, Judy C. Neatherly of Ninevah, IN; grandchildren, Charles M. Turner, III, Christina M. Turner, Christopher L. Neatherly, Kerry N. Ritchie, and Daniel L. Neatherly; great granddaughters, Cassie and Lauren Ritchie; brothers, Paul Williams of Lancaster, VA and Johnny Williams of Richmond, VA; a sister, Elizabeth W. Walters of Morattico, VA; a number of nephews, nieces, and a tremendous family of the heart.
The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Friday, January 6, 2006 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Reverends Neal F. Brantley, Jr., Charles M. Turner, Jr. and W. F. McIntosh, Jr. officiating. Burial will follow in Mountain Grove United Methodist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Memorial gifts may be made to Mountain Grove United Methodist Church, 3624 Fish Hatchery Rd., Morganton, NC 28655, Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690, or to Girl Scouts of the Catawba Valley, 530 4th St., SW., Hickory, NC 28602.
Elvis Harold Vaughn, Sr. Back to Top
Elvis Harold Vaughn, Sr., 90, of Morganton, NC, died Tuesday, January 3, 2006 at Grace Hospital, Morganton following a brief illness. He was born August 9, 1915 in Banks Co., GA, and was a son of the late Coyle Vaughn and Matilda McGinnis Vaughn. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Gladys Irene Franklin Vaughn; a daughter, Rebecca Vaughn; four brothers and one sister. Mr. Vaughn was a member of North Morganton Baptist Church, and served in the US Army during World War II.
He is survived by a son, Elvis Harold Vaughn, Jr. and his wife, Sheryl, of Greer, SC; grandchildren, Jennifer Vaughn Beaver and husband, Brock, of Goose Creek, SC, and Stephen Vaughn of Greer, SC; and sisters-in-law, Ruby Propst, Rosalie Franklin, Betty Sue Allen and husband, George, and Martha Blanchard, all of Morganton.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, January 5, 2006 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Kenneth Baker officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park with military graveside rites by the Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends Thursday from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Meals on Wheels, c/o Burke County Department of Social Services, PO Drawer 549, Morganton, NC 28680-0549.
Josh Willis Back to Top
Josh Willis, 27, of 20th Ave. Dr., NE, Hickory, NC died Tuesday, January 3, 2006 at Rowan Memorial Hospital in Salisbury, NC. He was born March 21, 1978 in Sycamore, Illinois, and was the son of Judy Fruend Sims of Hickory and Randy Willis of Rockford, IL. Josh was the former bar manager of Thumpers in Morganton, and a waiter at Yanni’s Restaurant.
In addition to his mother and father, he is survived by sons, Bishop and Jeshua, both of Hickory; his step-father, Keith Kirby of Wisconsin; brothers, Ben “Bubba” Willis and wife Dani, and Joseph Jacob Sims, all of Hickory; grandparents, Raymond and Carol Beauxis of Morganton; uncles, Steve and Henry Thomas, both of Greenville, SC, Hank and Robbie Thomas, both of Dallas, TX, Michael Fruend and Rebecca, Berry George and wife, Peggy, all of Morganton; special friends, Lori Cuthbertson of Morganton, and Geinse Jackson of Marion, NC; and number of close friends and cousins.
Graveside services will be held at 4:00 pm, Saturday, January 7, 2006 at the Glen Alpine Cemetery with Rev. Jimmy Chase officiating. The family will receive friends Saturday from 2:00 until 3:30 pm at Sossoman Funeral home.
Hettie Waters Stillwell Back to Top
Hettie Waters Stillwell, 88, of Jamestown Rd, Morganton, NC died Wednesday, January 4, 2006 at College Pines Nursing Center in Valdese, NC. She was in born in Burke County on July 17, 1917, and was a daughter of the late Hayes Gunther Waters and Minnie Regina Duckworth Waters. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Carmie “Bud” Stillwell; brothers, John, Roy, Calvin, and Bill Waters; a sister, Helen Waters; and a grandson, Derrick Baldridge. Mrs. Stillwell was a faithful member of Gibbs Chapel Wesleyan Church.
Mrs. Stillwell is survived by sons; Lee Ervin Stillwell and wife, Hanna, of Nebo, Jerry Dean Stillwell and wife, Mary, Donald Edwin Stillwell and wife, Cecilia, Larry R. Stillwell and wife, Brenda, all of Morganton, and Richard Hayes Stillwell and wife, Pat, of Connelly Springs, NC; a daughter; Linda Stillwell Duncan of Morganton; a brother; Hardy Waters and wife, Mary, of Morganton; ten grandchildren and ten great grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 7, 2006 at Gibbs Chapel Wesleyan Church with the Reverends Dean Lavender and Donald Lovelace officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday from 6:00 until 8:30 pm at Sossoman Funeral Home. At other times, the family will be at the residence of Larry Stillwell on Jamestown Rd. in Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to College Pines Nursing Center Activities Fund, Po Box 250, Valdese,NC 28690, or to Gibbs Chapel Wesleyan Church, Po Box 603, Glen Alpine, NC 28628.
Ralph Eugene "Gene Taylor Back to Top
Ralph Eugene “Gene” Taylor, 66, of Autumn Care, Drexel, NC, died Thursday, January 5, 2006 at Grace Hospital following an extended illness. Born in Burke County, NC on December 10, 1939, he was a son of the late Marcus Taylor and Hannie Elizabeth Whisenant Taylor. He was a retired employee of Henredon Furniture and a member of Praise Assembly of God. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters, Frances Saulman, Ruby Carswell and Annie Icard; and brothers, Joseph, Clyde, and Albert Taylor.
Surviving are his wife, Mary Beatrice Taylor of the home; a son, Michael Earl Taylor of Morganton; stepchildren, Joe Scott of Raleigh, Andrew Scott of Asheville, NC, Margie Weaver of Morganton; sisters; Mary Moon of Burlington, Dorothy Mae Ramsey of Rutherfordton, and Margaret Epley of Glen Alpine; and several nieces and nephews.
The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, January 8, 2006 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home for one hour before the service. At other times, the family will be at the home of Margaret Epley, 2795 Lail Road, Glen Alpine.
Mary Marie Dale Back to Top
Mary Marie Dale, 72, of Scott Road, Morganton, NC, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, January 6, 2006 at Grace Hospital. Born in Burke County on June 12, 1933, she was a daughter of the late Macrus R. Martin, Sr., and Velvia Naomi Denton Martin. Marie worked at Wells and Seals for a number of years and retired from Drexel Heritage where she had worked in the main office. She served as Secretary Treasurer at Brendletown Fire Department for thirty-five years. Marie loved to cook and travel.
She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Millard G. Dale, of the home; her children, Edward “Eddie” Dale and wife, Karen, of Morganton, Aweeta Ellen Avery and husband, David, of Morganton; brothers, Cecil H. Martin and wife, Doris, of Bostic, NC, Marcus R. Martin, Jr., and wife, Martha Ann, of Candler; sister, Dorothy Flavie McDaniel and husband, Luther, of Morganton, Beulah Trull and husband, Harley, of Morganton, a grandson, Blake E. Dale of Morganton; and a number of nieces and nephews.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, January 9, 2005 at Mt. Olive Baptist Church with Reverends Jack Moses and Alan Wilson officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday evening from 6:30 until 8:30 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 Millard Dale, Scott Road, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Olive Baptist Church Building Fund, 5388 Mt. Olive Church Road, Morganton, NC 28655.
Mildred Rector Conley Back to Top
Mildred Rector Conley, 94, of Bristol Street, Morganton, NC, died Saturday, January 7, 2006 at Britthaven following a brief period of declining health. Born in Burke County, NC on June 7, 1911, she was a daughter of the late Phifer Rector and Minnie Beulah Brittain Rector. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers.
Mildred is survived by her two grandchildren, Chris and Lisa Conley, and a number of nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 10, 2006 at Forest Hill Cemetery with Rev. Holly Adams officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to First United Methodist Church, 200 N. King Street, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Robert Henry Bailey Back to Top
Robert Henry Bailey, 57, of Valley Trails, Morganton, NC died unexpectedly Sunday, January 8, 2006 at Grace Hospital. He was born January 21, 1948 in Avery County, NC, and was the son of Virginia Hagga Bailey of Morganton, and the late James Clifton Bailey. Mr. Bailey was a US Army veteran of the Vietnam conflict. He was a former guard for the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and was a member of the White House guard for the late President Eisenhour. Robert worked for the Charlotte Observer as a newspaper carrier.
In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife, Virginia Lee Fisher Bailey of the home; a son, James Carroll Bailey and his wife, Renee, of Morganton; grandchildren, Daniel Bailey and Hannah Bailey; sisters, Carolyn Johnson of Claremont, NC, Ethel McNeely and Alice Bollinger, both of Morganton; seven nieces and nephews; and eleven great nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends Tuesday, January 10, 2006 from 6:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Bailey Family, PO Box 238, Glen Alpine, NC 28628.
Florence Jeanette Poteat Back to Top
Florence Jeanette Poteat, 84, of Reece Rd., Drexel, NC died Sunday, January 8, 2006 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. She was born April 11, 1921 in McDowell County, NC, and was a daughter of the late James Gilkey Moore and Sally Seagle Moore. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Terrance Miles Poteat; a son, Dennis M. Poteat; and brothers, Floyd, Ervin, Jay, and Clarence Moore; and sisters, Pearl Elliott Queen, Georgia Elliott, and Effie Hollifield. Florence was an artist who painted with oils.
She is survived by sons and daughters-in-law, Douglas and Linda Poteat, and Robert and Judy Poteat; a daughter, Nancy Holland, all of Valdese; nine grandchildren, twenty-four great grandchildren, and five great great grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 12:00 noon, Wednesday, January 11, 2006 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Dean Gurley officiating. Burial will follow in the Chapel Hill Cemetery, Marion, NC. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 11 until 12 noon at the funeral home.
Pat Sparkman Collins Back to Top
Pat Sparkman Collins, 49, of Valdese Ave., Morganton, NC, went home to be with Her Lord and Savior on Monday, January 9, 2006 at Grace Hospital following a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Whiteville, NC on June 7, 1956, she was a daughter of Doris Ann Smith Sparkman and the late Marion Howard Sparkman. In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her brother, Eddie Sparkman. Pat was a member of the first graduating class of Freedom High School, after which she obtained an associate degree in horticulture from Western Piedmont Community College. She worked at Foothills Correctional Center for eleven years, and was a member of Conley Road Pentecostal Holiness Church.
A loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, and grandmother, Pat is survived by her husband, Al Collins Jr. of the home; children, Tre Pritchard and wife, Kim, of Morganton, Travis Pritchard and wife, Melanie, of Valdese, NC; her mother, Doris Anne Sparkman of Morganton; a brother, Lemuel H. Sparkman and wife, Kathy, of Morganton; a grandson, Elijah Pritchard; a niece, Christine Neimier; mother and father-in-law, Pat and Al Collins Sr. of Connelly Springs and 2 beloved pets, Moe and Zoie.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, January 12, 2006 at Conley Road Pentecostal Holiness Church with Rev. Bill Rice officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Wednesday 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.
Clarence Vernon "C.V." LaFevers Back to Top
Clarence Vernon “C.V.” LaFevers, 75, of Power House Rd., Morganton, NC died Tuesday, December 10, 2006 at his residence following a period of declining health. He was born January 6, 1931 in Burke County, NC, and was a son of the late Marcus Virgil LaFevers and Iris Shull LaFevers. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, John Simpson “Simp” LaFevers. Clarence attended Lenoir Rhyne College in Hickory. He served with the US Marine Corps in the early 50’s and also with the US Air Force in the mid and late 50’s. Clarence was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 2813, Woodside, New York. Mr. LaFevers was a retired employee of Barclays Bank in New York City, and an avid traveler.
He is survived by his sister, Mildred LaFevers Richard of the home; and his faithful canine companion, Ben.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Thursday, January 12, 2006 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church with the Reverends John Fitzgerald and Al Zadig officiating. Burial will follow in the Glen Alpine Cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday from 2 until 3 pm in the parish hall. Memorial contributions may be made to the Happy Tuesday Club or the Memorial Fund of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, PO Box 1043, Glen Alpine, NC 28628. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Dr. William Albert Kirksey, Jr. Back to Top
On January 11, 2006 Dr. William Albert Kirksey, Jr. of Morganton, N.C., died at the age of 85 after a period of declining health. He, the son of the late Dr. William Albert Kirksey, Sr. and Kate Horner Kirksey, was born on December 17, 1920 in St. Louis, MO. where his father was attending medical school.
Dr. Kirksey grew up in Fayetteville, N.C., graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Washington University Medical School in St. Louis in 1944. After serving time in the military as an army doctor, he moved to Morganton in 1947 where he established a family medical practice and was affectionately known as “Dr. Bill’. For many years he served as school physician for the N.C. School for the Deaf. In 1987 he retired after forty-two years of service to the community.
In addition to his medical practice, Dr. Bill was widely known as a man of many interests and as a life-long learner. He was an avid reader, tennis player, golfer, hiker, carpenter, gardener, photographer, jokester and traveler. He had a profound love and appreciation for all of God’s creation and was an expert on plants and animals, most especially birds. He openly and enthusiastically shared his knowledge and he mentored many.
Dr. Kirksey was preceded in death by his son Robert Gresham Kirksey. He is loved, cherished and survived by: his sister Georgia Kirksey Pinkston of Ft. Myers, FL, by his daughter Marie Kirksey Riggs and husband David Riggs of Raleigh, N.C., their children Ashley Riggs, Kelly Sandberg, and Gresham Riggs, by his son William Albert Kirksey, III and wife Marcy of Midland , MI, by his daughter Kate Kirksey Johnson and husband Joe Johnson of Morganton, their children Michael Johnson and Laura Johnson, by his great grandchildren Aidan Johnson and Conner Sandberg , by his best friend and companion Kathleen Michelis, and by his former wife Barbara Ostenkamp Underwood of Asheville.
A celebration of life for Dr. Kirksey will be held at Grace Episcopal Church in Morganton, Saturday, January 14, 2006 at 2: pm with Rev. Bruce Walker and Mr. David Riggs officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. A graveside service will be Saturday, January 14, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. at Forest Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials for bird-watching benches on the Catawba River Greenway may be sent to Morganton Parks and Recreation, P.O. Box 3448, Morganton, N.C. 28680. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Frank Lee Bradshaw Back to Top
Frank Lee Bradshaw, 74, of Steakhouse Rd., Morganton, NC, died unexpectedly Wednesday, January 11, 2006 at his residence. Born in Avery County, NC on October 19, 1931, he was the son of the late John Wesley Bradshaw and Maggie Moody Bradshaw. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Paul Bradshaw. Frank was a retired employee of Drexel Furniture.
Surviving are his wife, Floye Isaacs Bradshaw, of the home; daughters, Patricia Phillips, of Plum Tree, NC, Sondra Pendley, and Barbara Huffman, both of Morganton; a brother, Bob Bradshaw, of Charlotte, NC; a sister, Virginia Decker, of Morganton; four grandchildren; and 5 great grandchildren.
The funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m., Saturday, January 14, 2006, in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Reverends James Bollinger and Eugene LeFevers officiating. Burial will be at 2:00 p.m., Saturday at Buck Hill Cemetery in Avery County. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at Sossoman Funeral Home.
Triston Nicholas Tallent Back to Top
Triston Nicholas Tallent, infant son of Larry Mitchell Tallent and Crystal Renee Braswell both of Morganton went to be with the angels on Thursday, January 12, 2006 just after being born at Grace Hospital. Surviving in addition to his parents are his grandparents, Larry and Patricia Tallent of Morganton and Ronald and Hazel Braswell of Connelly Springs, NC; great grandmothers, Betty Tallent and Ruhama Dale both of Morganton; Bertie Mae Chapman of Connelly Springs and Lula Braswell of Morganton.
A private graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, January 15, 2006 at Missionary Ridge Baptist Church Cemetery with the Rev. Donald Lovelace officiating. Memorial gifts may be made to the Building Fund of Missionary Ridge Baptist Church, 5612 John Watts Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.
James "Vonnie" Brackett Back to Top
James “Vonnie” Brackett, 82, of Williams Road in Drexel, NC, died Thursday, January 12, 2006 at Carolina Rehab Center of Burke in Connelly Springs, NC following a short period of declining health. He was born June 13, 1923 in Cleveland County, NC, and was a son of the late Joseph Cullen Brackett and Myrtle Walker Brackett. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Hazel Hodge Brackett, a brother, Glen Brackett; a sister, Irene Jeffries, and a son-in-law, John M. Cline. He was a former employee of Table Rock Furniture Plant #6, and retired after 35 years of service with Drexel-Heritage Furniture Company. “Vonnie” was an avid Blue Grass fan his entire life and spent many enjoyable hours listening to and playing music.
Mr. Brackett is survived by daughters, Yvonne Cline of Morganton, and Janice Faye Courtney and husband, Will, of Drexel, NC; sisters, Aileen McFarland of Casar, NC, and Wilma Brackett and Margie Shelton, both of Morganton; a grandson, Michael Dylan Cline; a niece and number of nephews; and a friend, Lily Buff of Morganton;.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Monday, January 16, 2006 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Michael Brackett officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 1:30 until 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home on Monday. At other times the family will be at the home of Yvonne Cline. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.
Alvin "Eddy" Berry Back to Top
Alvin “Eddy” Berry, 54, of High Peak Road, Valdese, NC, died Friday, January 13, 2006 at Frye Regional Medical Center following an extended period of declining health. Born in Burke County, NC on October 3, 1951, he was the son of the late J.D. and Edna Whisnant Berry. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Brenda Moore and two grandchildren, Robert Lee Cook and Rebecca Lynn Cook. Eddy volunteered with Triple Community Fire Department where he reached the rank of Captain, and he was a charter member of First Responders. He was a very active member at High Peak Baptist Church and drove the church bus for a number of years.
Eddy is survived by his wife of thirty-three years, Reba Wray Berry of the home; a son, Kevin Berry and wife, Wendy, of Valdese; a daughter, Janice Triplett and husband, Matt, of Valdese; four sisters, Carolyn Faye Mace, Rama Jean Maines, Judy Calhoun, all of Morganton, and Darlene Taylor of Glen Alpine, NC; three grandchildren, Richard Hice, Kimberly Berry, and Heather Berry; his mother-in-law, Lillie Wray; and two sisters-in-law, Rose Ann Carpenter and Rachel Cozort.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, January 15, 2006 at High Peak Baptist Church with Rev. Ralph Gouge officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Saturday 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 home, 2986 High Peak Road, Valdese. Memorial contributions may be made to High Peak Baptist Church Carpet Fund, 3073 High Peak Road, Valdese, NC 28690.
Fred Earl Setzer Back to Top
Fred Earl Setzer, 73, of England Way, Morganton, NC went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Friday, January 13, 2006 at Grace Hospital. He was born in Catawba County, April 23, 1932, to the late Fred Ernest Setzer and Mary Catherine Frazier Setzer. He was a 20 year veteran of the US Air Force, serving during the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War. After his retirement from the Air Force he went to work for Trendline Motors in Conover, NC. He was a member of Brookwood Baptist Church in Morganton.
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a sister, Minnie Alice Whitmire and a brother, Neal Setzer. A loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, he is survived by his wife of 30 years, Verona McReynolds Setzer, children; Terry Puckett, Sandy Hutchinson, Ginger Gunn, Linda Parker, James Puckett, Danny Setzer, Lynn Setzer, Roxie Colburn, Mae Rollins, Neal Blackwell and Shelia Hull, 20 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.
Funeral service for Mr. Setzer will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, January17, 2006 at the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home, with the Rev. Earl Cross officiating. Burial will follow in the Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Black Mountain, NC with military rites preformed by the Asheville Ceremonial Team. The family will receive friends from 7 until 8:30 pm Tuesday at Sossoman Funeral in Morganton. At other times the family will be at the home of Mr. Setzer on England Way. Memorial contributions may be made to the Brookwood Baptist Church, 210 Brookwood Road, Morganton, NC 28655.
Melvin C. Shuffler Back to Top
Melvin C. Shuffler, 62, of Bethel Rd., Morganton, NC passed away Saturday, January 14, 2006 at Catawba Valley Medical Center, Hickory, NC following a period of declining health. Born in Burke County on October 2, 1943, he was a son of the late Claude Christopher and Purvy Irene Mull Shuffler. Melvin was a retired employee of Drexel-Heritage Furnishings where he had worked for forty years. His hobbies included woodworking, fishing and playing pool. He was dearly loved by his family and host of friends. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a sister, Geneva Fleming Williams and a brother-in-law, Thomas B. Allen, II.
Surviving are sons, Jeremy Shuffler and his wife, Samantha of Morganton and Steven Mathew Shuffler and his wife, Jessica of Granite Falls, NC; a step-grandson, Dalton; brothers, Eugene Shuffler and Dewey Shuffler and his wife, Patsy all of Morganton; and a sister, Pansy Fleming Allen of Charlotte.
The family will receive friends at Sossoman Funeral Home on Monday, January 16, 2006 from 1:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. A cryptside service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Monday at Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum with the Rev. Allen King officiating.
Arthur Lee Steward, Sr. Back to Top
Arthur Lee Stewart, Sr., 93, of Arthur Stewart Dr., Morganton, NC passed away Saturday, January 14, 2006, at Burke Hospice & Palliative Care Center, Valdese, NC. Born October 17, 1912 in Gaston County, NC, he was a son of the late James S. and Lilly Barker Stewart. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Thelma Capps Stewart and his second wife, Monnie Waters Brackett Stewart; also his son, David Allen Stewart and his brother, Nally C. Stewart.
Mr. Stewart was retired from the N. C. School for the Deaf, Morganton having worked in the Maintenance Dept. He was a master carpenter and a member of Local Union # 312, Lexington, NC. He was a member of the “greater generation” who contributed greatly to the war effort of WWII. Although he did not serve in the military, he worked on U. S. Navy Construction Projects in Baltimore, MD and Norfolk, VA, and he was working at Oak Ridge, TN when the war ended in 1945. He never talked about his experiences in Tennessee other than to say many times “what we did there, saw there, stayed there." He was a long-time member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church. In his earlier years he served in many positions in his church including Chairman of the Building and Grounds, Chairman of the Finance Committee, and always serving his Lord.
He is survived by a daughter, Theola Stewart Hall and her husband, Bobby Lee Hall of Morganton; sons, James Kenneth Stewart and his wife, Edna, of Savannah, GA, Jerry Doyle Stewart, Lee Stewart, Jr. and his wife, Barbara, all of Morganton NC; a daughter-in-law, Carol Stewart, of Fayetteville, NC; brothers, Raleigh L. Stewart, Henry V. Stewart, and Wayne Stewart all of Morganton, and William “Bill” Stewart of Sevierville, TN; step-children, Mitchell Brackett and wife, Kathryn, of Morganton, and Carol Brackett Bottoms and husband, Larry, of Casar, NC; also grandchildren, Dwayne Stewart of Hickory, Jeffrey Stewart of San Diego, CA, Mark Stewart and wife, Kimberly, of Raleigh, NC, Scott Stewart of Charlotte, NC, Krista Stewart Heavner and husband, Brett of Ypsilanti, MI, Kasey M. Stewart of Concord, NC, Taylor Jay Stewart and Brittany Davis of Morganton; five great-grandchildren; nine step-grandchildren, five great step-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Mrs. Louise Buchanan and her husband, Harold, are recognized for many years of care and friendship provided to Mr. Stewart and his family.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 17, 2006 at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church with the Rev. Dr. Larry W. Cline officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Monday 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 at the residence on Arthur Stewart Dr. Memorial gifts may be made to Burke Hospice & Palliative Care, 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690. Mr. Stewart was a devoted husband and a loving Christian father and gave unselfishly of himself, his wisdom and his love to his family and friends. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Lorene T. Parker Back to Top
Lorene T. Parker, 82, of Burkemont Rd., Morganton, NC died Monday, January 16, 2006 at Grace Hospital following an extended illness. She was born June 1, 1923 in Burke County, NC, and was the daughter of the late Myrtle Taylor Berry. In addition to her mother, she was preceded in death by her husband, James Buford Parker; and a brother, Jeff Taylor. Lorene worked for 30 years at Salem School, and also was an owner and operator of Parker and Sons Apple Orchard. She was a lifelong member of Burkemont Baptist Church.
Lorene is survived by sons, James Larry Parker and Paul Jeffery Parker, both of Morganton.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, January 19, 2006 at Burkemont Baptist Church with the Reverends David Mills and Eddy Bunton officiating. Mrs. Parker will be placed in Burkemont Baptist Church thirty minutes before the funeral hour. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a personal charity of choice. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Rev. Robert A. White Back to Top
Preacher Robert A. White, 81, of 1628 New Eastwood Circle, Morganton, NC went home to be with his Lord on Monday, January 16, 2006 at his residence after a courageous battle with cancer. His sweet wife, Stella, and his children were by his side. Born April 13, 1924 in Chase City, VA, he was a son of the late Walter and Mary Hoyle White. He served in the U.S. Navy during WWII on the USS Callisto and the DE-169, USSAtherton. Preacher White pastored several churches in VA, NC, and SC. He came to Buncombe County in 1961 as pastor of Sunrise Baptist Church and went on to organize Good News Baptist Church and the W.N.C. Baptist Camp Meeting in Candler. He was a faithful preacher on the radio for over fifty years with the Good Tidings and the Glad Tidings broadcasts. After leaving Buncombe County, he pastored Midway Baptist in Brevard, Cove Creek Baptist in Pickens, SC, and his last pastorate was at Bright Light Baptist in Bessemer City, NC. After his retirement, he moved to Morganton and joined Trinity Baptist Church in Valdese. He had an earned doctorate from Southern States Academy and two honorary doctorates.
Surviving are his wife of sixty-three years, Stella Shelton White of the home; daughters, Terry Newton and her husband, Andy of Morganton, Kathy White of Asheville, and Joan White of Spartanburg, SC; sons, David White and his wife, Lynn of Easley, SC and Paul White of Greenville, SC; grandchildren, Chris Brockmeier and his wife, Angie, Jonathan Brigman, Angela Holland and her husband, Glen, Lesley Williams and her husband, Brad, Josh Grant, Morgan White, and Victoria White; great grandchildren, Ashley, Shaina, Heather, and Dillan; and a sister, Beulah Simmons of Petersburg, VA.
A Celebration of his life will be held at his home church, Trinity Baptist in Valdese at 1:00 p.m. Friday, January 20, 2006 at Trinity Baptist Church with Pastor Scott Moneyham, Rev. Rayton Puckett, and Rev. Ray Aiken officiating. Special singing will be by Preacher White’s children and grandchildren and also by Preacher Charlie Bishop. Pallbearers will be Rev. Allen Aiken, Rev. Don Burchette, Rev. Jake Fender, Rev. Tony Lambert, Rev. Tony Land, Rev. Wayne Ownby, Rev. David Plemmons, Rev. Ricky Rackley, Rev. Larry Sprouse, and Rev. Barry Wall. Honorary pallbearers will be all of Rev. White’s preacher friends. Burial will be in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 9:00 p.m. Thursday at the church where the body will remain until the service. At other times the family will be at the residence on New Eastwood Circle. For the kindness shown by Hospice during Preacher White’s illness, memorial gifts may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Gordon "Bohand" Stamps Back to Top
Gordon “Bohand” Stamps, 53, of Pax Hill Rd., Morganton, NC, died Saturday January 14, 2006 at Memorial Mission Hospital in Asheville, NC. He was born in Burke County, NC on January 19, 1952 and was a son of the late William Plummer Stamps and Florence Elizabeth Bristol Stamps. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, James and William Stamps. Mr. Stamps worked for Causby Buick for a number of years and was presently a self-employed car detailer. He was a member of Logan Memorial Baptist Church.
Surviving are his children, Todd Hardy, Taleshia Stamps, and Tereka Stamps all of Morganton, and Timothy Hardy of San Diego, CA; his former wife, Lebbie Hardy of Morganton; a brother, Donald Stamps, and a sister, Janice Scott, both of Morganton; step-children, Raven Patterson and Gary Patterson, Jr. both of Asheville; 4 grandchildren; and 1 niece and 1 nephew.
The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, January 22, 2006 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Reverends Herbert Carter and Eddie Johnson officiating. The family will receive friends Sunday from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home. At other times the family will be at the home of Janice Scott. on Pax Hill Road in Morganton.
Mary Setzer Kirby Burgin Back to Top
Mary Setzer Kirby Burgin, 81, of Highline Ave., Morganton, NC, died suddenly on Thursday, January 19, 2006 at Grace Hospital. Born in Caldwell County, NC on January 1, 1925, she was a daughter of the late Ralph Newton Setzer and Martha Benfield Setzer. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, David W. Kirby, a son, Dr. Kenneth David Kirby, and ten brothers and sisters. Mary was a member of Pleasant View Baptist Church where she was a former choir member, Sunday School teacher, and WMU officer. Mrs. Burgin loved gardening.
Mary is survived by her husband, Weldon “Pete” Burgin of the home; Patricia and Robert Branch of Clayton, NC; grandchildren, Steven and Caroline Branch, Sara and James Keagen; a great-granddaughter, Virginia Grace Branch; a sister, Thelma Coffey of Morganton; and a brother, Fred Setzer of Drexel, NC.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, January 21, 2006 at Pleasant View Baptist Church with Rev. Burt Wilbur and Dr. John Mason officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 6:00 until 7:30 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 Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690 or to Pleasant View Baptist Church, 1834 US 70 East, Morganton, NC 28655.
Heide Inge Schulz Back to Top
Heide Inge Schulz, 64, of Oakdale Dr., Morganton, NC died Monday, January 23, 2006, at her residence. She was born on January 4, 1942 in Germany and was a daughter of the late Walter Greiner and Irmegard Steele. Heide came to the United States with her mother in 1962. She was a member of New Apostolic Church of Morganton.
Surviving are her husband, Heinrich A. Schulz, of the home; a son, Robert Sipkin, of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; and her step-father and his wife, Robert and Thelma Steele, of Rocky Ford, GA.
A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 28, 2006, in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Priest Tou Lee officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Inurnment will be held at a later date in Rocky Ford Cemetery in GA. Memorial contributions may be made to the Hope Cancer Center, PO Box 16948, Asheville, NC 28816.
Vickie Johnson Back to Top
Vickie Johnson, 50, of Bethel Rd., Morganton, NC died Sunday, January 22, 2006 at her residence following a period of declining health. She was born May 14, 1955 in Burke County, NC, and was a daughter of Ethel Fox Pritchard of Morganton, and the late Jack Pritchard. She was a member of Bible Baptist Church.
In addition to her mother, she is survived by her husband, Patrick Lee Johnson of Morganton; daughters, Tonya Johnson Gentry and husband, Jimmy Wayne of Connelly Springs, NC, and Angie Dawn Johnson Burgess and husband, Christopher of Morganton; grandchildren, Zackkery Christopher Burgess and Isaac Chandler Burgess; brothers, Ronnie Pritchard, C. L. Pritchard, and Keith Pritchard, all of Morganton; and a sister, Carolyn Denton of Morganton.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 pm, Saturday, January 28, 2006 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Douglas St. John officiating. The family will receive friends Saturday from 1:00 until 3:00 pm at the funeral home.
Donald Ray Ellis Back to Top
Donald Ray Ellis, 71, of the Jonas Ridge Rest Home, Jonas Ridge, NC died Sunday, January 23, 2006 at Cannon Memorial Hospital following a period of declining health. He was born June 19, 1934 in Boyle County, KY, and was a son of the late George Ellis and Vera Dickinson Ellis. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Ethel Ellis. He was a member of Table Rock Seventh Day Adventist Church.
Donald is survived by a brother, John A. Ellis of Harrison, OH; a nephew, Timothy Ellis of Harrison, OH; cousins, Flonnie Anderson of Morganton, and Jean Eze of Fairfield, OH.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, January 26, 2006 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Pastor Roy Robinson officiating. Burial will follow in the Seventh Day Adventist Cemetery. The family will receive friends for thirty minutes before the funeral hour. Memorial contributions may be made to Table Rock Seventh Day Adventist Church, 2625 Adventist Circle, Morganton, NC 28655.
Annie Epley Back to Top
Annie Estelle Page Epley, 99, of Zion Rd., Morganton, went home to be with her Lord on January 24, 2006 at Autumn Care of Drexel following a period of declining health. She was born in Burke County on Tuesday, December 4, 1906 and was the daughter of Arthur and Emma Whisenant Page. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence Arthur Epley; an infant daughter, Mary Elizabeth; a son, Lee Roy Epley and his wife, Gladys. She retired from Alba-Waldesian Hosiery Mill after 44 years. Mrs. Epley was a member of Drexel First Church of God.
Surviving are children, Ernest A. Epley and wife Margaret, Annie Sue Gragg and husband Darwin, Linda Bryant and husband Olen, all of Morganton, and Larry Dean Epley and wife Diann, of Drexel. She had 13 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, and 2 great great grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by 3 sisters and 2 brothers.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 pm, Friday, January 27, 2006 at Drexel First Church of God. Officiating will be Rev. Tony Didway. Interment will follow in Burke Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday from 7:00 until 8:30 pm at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes before the funeral hour. Memorial contributions may be made to Drexel First Church of God Building Fund, PO Box 218, Drexel, NC 28619.
Paul Fox, Jr. Back to Top
Paul Fox, Jr., 75, of Kimberly Drive, Morganton, NC, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, January 24, 2006 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. Born in Burke County, NC on July 14, 1930, he was a son of Myrtle Wilson Fox of Morganton and the late Paul Edgar Fox, Sr. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his brother, Bobby Fox and sister, Marie Langille. Paul was a U.S. Army Paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division. He worked at Great Lakes Carbon Plant for 20 years and retired in 1990 from the Morganton Post Office after 24 years as a city mail carrier. Mr. Fox was a lifelong member of Catawba Valley Baptist Church where he was a deacon and taught the Adult Men’s Sunday School Class for over thirty years.
A loving son, husband, father and grandfather he is survived by; his mother his wife of 58 years, Dolly Dean Fox of the home; children, Paul Fox, III and wife, Martha, of Asheville, NC, and Kimberly Banner and husband, Eddie, of Morganton; a sister, Nancy Gauldin of Martinsville, VA; grandchildren, Jason Banner and Ashley Penley; and great-grandchildren, Katlin Wolfe, Austin Wolfe, Nicholas Banner, and Madison Banner.
The funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, January 27, 2006 at Catawba Valley Baptist Church with Rev. Clyde Buckner officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park with graveside rites to be performed by Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends Thursday evening from 7:00 until 8:30 p.m. at Catawba Valley Baptist Church. Memorial contributions may be made to the Catawba Valley Baptist Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 1580, Morganton, NC 28680-1580. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Ellen Farmer Beach Back to Top
Ellen Farmer Beach, 58, of C. E. Berry Rd., Morganton, NC, the Chesterfield Community, died Wednesday, January 25, 2006 at Burke Hospice and Palliative Care in Valdese following an extended illness. She was born July 31, 1947 in Burke County, NC, and was a daughter of Marie Griffin Biggs of Drexel, and the late Clyde Harrison Farmer. Ellen was a published “poet” and a singer. She was a member of the Community Baptist Church of Drexel. Ellen was loved by and inspired all that she met.
In addition to her mother, she is survived by her husband,, Edward Beach of the home; a daughter and son-in-law, Jennifer and Steve Huffman of Valdese; a grandson, Ryan Huffman of Valdese; step-sons, Eric Wade Beach of Sherrills Ford, NC, and Edward Allen Beach and wife, Christie of Saw Mills, NC; 4 step grandchildren; brothers, Neil Pitts, Sr., and wife, Elaine of Drexel, Kenneth Canipe and wife, Reba of Valdese; sisters, Rita Nichols and husband, Buck of Drexel, and Carolyn Clark of Drexel; a step-sister, Edna Cook and husband, Allen of San Antonio, TX; numerous nieces and nephews; and several aunts and uncles.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2:00 pm, Friday, January 27, 2006 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. David Orders officiating. 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 Marie Biggs on Seitz Rd. in Drexel. Memorial contributions may be made to the Community Baptist Church of Drexel, PO Box 1867, Drexel, NC 28619, or Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690, or to the Susan B. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, 5005 LBJ Freeway #370, Dallas, TX 75240.
Issac Alexander Avery Back to Top
Issac Alexander Avery, 5 month old infant, of Walker Rd., Morganton, died Wednesday, January 25, 2006 at Duke University Medical Center. He was born in Buncombe County on August 12, 2005 and was the son of Christopher Eugene Avery and Kimberly Ann Bivens Avery of Morganton. Issac was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Charlene S. Avery.
Surviving in addition to his parents are; maternal grandparents, Roger and Linda Bivens, Connie Cable; paternal grandfather, Curtis E. Avery; aunts, Wendy Bivens, Sharon Hughes and her husband Ricky Hughes; maternal great grandfather, Hubert Cable, all of Morganton.
Graveside services will be held at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, January 28, 2006 at Burke Memorial Park with Reverend Ernie Cable officiating. The family will receive friends Saturday from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the Sossoman Funeral Home.
Mary K. Faucher Back to Top
Mary K. Faucher, 90, of Fiddler’s Court, Morganton, NC, died Thursday, January 26, 2006 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. Born in Scranton, PA on November 19, 1915, she was a daughter of the late Louis and Mary Bohan Kohut. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Norman P. Faucher. Mary was a member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church.
Mary is survived by a special friend, Katherine Holland of Morganton; and several nieces and nephews.
A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, January 30, 2006 at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church with Rev. Kenneth Whittington officiating. Burial will be at 2:30 p.m., Monday in Belmont Abby Cemetery, Belmont, NC. Mrs. Faucher will lie in state at the church thirty minutes before the service. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 728 W. Union St., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting with the arrangements.
Sarah Lane Walker Back to Top
Sarah Lane Walker, 77, of Burkemont Road, Morganton, NC, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, January 27, 2006 at her residence. Born May 13, 1928, she was the daughter of Shufford and Sue Propst Lane. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ervin McLean Walker, 2 brothers and 2 sisters. Sarah loved to cook and quilt.
She is survived by her son, Mack Ervin Walker and wife, Elaine, of Morganton; a grandson, Scott Walker of Morganton; and a brother, Luther Lane.
A graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, January 29, 2006 at Burkemont Baptist Church Cemetery with Reverends David Mills, Eddy Bunton, and Bill Holland officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Burkemont Baptist Church Building Fund, 4668 Burkemont Road, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Thelma Y. Yelton Williams Back to Top
Mrs. Thelma L. Yelton Williams went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, January 29, 2006 at her home, after an extended illness. Thelma was born March 14, 1925 in Rutherford County, NC, to the late Cletus and Estelle Towery Yelton.
Mrs. Williams retired from Shadowline, Inc. in 1990 after 42 years; during which time, Thelma made many beloved, life-long friends. In her retirement, she enjoyed gardening, bird watching and visiting with friends and family. She was a loving Mother, Grandmother, Great-Grandmother, Sister and Friend.
Along with her parents, Thelma was preceded in death by her sister, Marie Y. Nichols, brothers, Gerald and Bobby Yelton, and former husband, Charles “Cotton” Williams.
Thelma is survived by her sons, Charles E. Williams of Burlington, NC, and Rex A. Williams and wife, Patti, of Morganton, NC; her sister, Joyce Y. Isaacs and husband, Earnest, of Morganton; and brothers, Boyd J. Yelton of the home, Donald M. Yelton and wife, Frances, of Indian Trail, NC, Wayne A. Yelton and wife, Irene, of Morganton. Lovingly known as “Nanny”, she is survived by five grandchildren, Scott Williams and wife, Robyn, of NJ, Shannon Williams of NJ, Jason Williams and wife, Kendra, of Taylorsville, NC, Rusty Williams and wife, Tammy, of Morganton, and Jaime Williams of Morganton; five great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
The memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, February2, 2006 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Rod Randolph officiating. Visitation will follow the service at the funeral home. At other times, the family will be at her home.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.
Avna Whisenant Barnette Back to Top
Avna Whisenant Barnette, 86, of Hixson, TN, formerly of Valdese, NC, died Sunday, January 29, 2006 at Erlanger Medical Center in Chattanooga, TN following a period of declining health. Born in Burke County, NC on March 29, 1919, she was a daughter of the late F. E. Whisenant and Maude Short Whisenant. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Millard E. Smith, and second husband, Curtis Lee Barnette. She was a member of United Baptist Church.
Avna is survived by her sons, Michael Curtis Barnette of Valdese, NC; and Jack Taylor of Vale, NC; sisters, Mrs. Juanita Pearson and Greta Garrison, both of Valdese; a special niece, Detra Hall of Morganton; her special nephew, Grant Eugene Pearson and wife, Sandra, of Hixson, TN; and a number of nieces and nephews.
The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 1, 2006 at United Baptist Church with Mr. Richard Berry and Rev. Jim Lee officiating. Burial will follow in High Peak Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. At other times the family will be at the residence of Juanita Pearson, 2901 Powell Drive Ext., Valdese, NC, 28690. Memorial contributions may be made to United Baptist Church, 2638 Messer Road, Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Frances M. Bolick Back to Top
Frances M. Bolick, 79, of Willow Run Drive, Morganton, NC, died Monday, January 30, 2006 at Kindred Hospital in Greensboro, NC following a period of declining health. Born August 10, 1926, she was a daughter of the late Lawrence and Amy Spry McCulloch. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Glenn Bolick, a sister, Peggy Hillard, and a brother, John McCulloch. A loving mother and grandmother, she attended Bethel Methodist church and loved trips to the beach.
Frances is survived by her son, Steve Bolick and wife, Ann, of Grand Rapids, MI; a daughter, Cindy Brenneman and husband, Norman, of Hillsborough, NC; seven grandchildren, Amy and Alan Brenneman of Raleigh, NC, Matt Bolick, Kellie Kettner, Allison Bolick, Kevin and Jon Bolick, all of Grand Rapids; and a sister, Lucille Fisher of Hickory, NC.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, February 2, 2006 at Bethel United Methodist Church with Reverends Roderick Randolph and Mike Riley officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends at Sossoman Funeral Home Wednesday evening 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. Memorial contributions may be made to the Chaplain’s Discretionary Fund, Valdese Hospital Pastoral Care Department, P.O. Box 700, Valdese, NC 28690.
Lounette Cook Parlier Bollinger Back to Top
Lounette Cook Parlier Bollinger, 82, of Fiddlers Ct., Morganton, NC died Tuesday, January 31, 2006 at Mission Memorial Hospital, Asheville, NC following a period of declining health. She was born in Avery Co., NC on November 19, 1923 and was the daughter of the late Reetha Gladys Cook Jones. In addition to her mother, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Virgil Herbert Parlier; sisters, Margaret Jones and Esther Trivette; and great-grandchild, Braelynn Parlier. Mrs. Bollinger was a member of Community Baptist Church.
Surviving are her husband, George Walter Bollinger of the home; sons and their wives, Allen and Linda Parlier, Wendell and Dot Parlier, Tommy and Cathy Parlier, Charles and Doris Parlier, Chuckie and Claudi Parlier, and Billy and Sharon Bollinger, all of Morganton; a sister, Maxine Holden, of Avery County; 12 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, February 3, 2006 at Community Baptist Church on St. Mary’s Church Rd. with the Reverends Luther Carver and Billy Bollinger officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Thursday at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church 30 minutes before the funeral hour. At other times the family will be at the home of Billy and Sharon Bollinger, 2221 Arthur Stewart Dr., Morganton.
Barbara Kaye Carter Back to Top
Mrs. Barbara Kaye Carter, 64, of Lake Wales, FL died Tuesday, January 31, 2006 at her residence after a battle with cancer. Born in Morganton on June 21, 1941, she was a daughter of the late Alston B. and Verna Turner Eaker. She moved to Lake Wales in 1981 from Oviedo, FL. She was an accountant for the County Commission, an artist and member of the Bartow Art Guild.
Mrs. Carter is survived by her husband, Vince Carter of Lake Wales; son, Vincent V. Carter, and his wife, “Sid”, of Asheville, NC; sister, Gayle Eaker of Atlanta, GA, and two grandchildren.
The funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, February 6, 2006 at the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Drexel Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 6000 Fairview Rd., Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28210.
Created by Brandon Koontz