Arnold Wayne Brown, 63, of Roy McGalliard Ave., Morganton, NC died Monday, May 1, 2006 at his residence following a period of declining health. He was born February 27, 1943 in Burke County, NC, and was a son of Ethel Mae Arrowood Brown of Morganton and the late Julius Roy Brown, Sr. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Sarah Renee Brown; and a brother, James Ray Brown, Sr.

In addition to his mother, Arnold is survived by his wife, Shirley Hoke Brown of the home; daughters, Lisa Bissett and husband, Randall, of Falls Church, VA, and Laura Brown of Greensboro, NC; a grandson, Matthew Bissett of Falls Church, VA; brothers, Johnny E. Brown, Sr. of Valdese, NC, and Julius Roy Brown, Jr. of Concord, NC; a sister, Joan Powell and husband, Lloyd, Jr., of Drexel, NC; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, May 4, 2006 at Bridgewater Presbyterian Church with Rev. John Craven officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 6:00 until 7:30 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 the American Cancer Society, 4-A Oak Branch Dr., Greensboro, NC 27407, or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

Carrie Brackett Price, 94, of Conley Rd., Morganton, NC died Monday, May 1, 2006 at Valdese General Hospital following a period of declining health. She was born May 30, 1911 in Rutherford County, NC, and was a daughter of the late Abraham Lincoln Brackett and Nancy Rebecca McFarland Brackett. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, James Marshall Price; and a number of brothers and sisters. Carrie was a member of Calvary Baptist Church. She graduated in 1931 from Hollis High School in Rutherford County. Carrie was a loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother.

She is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Allen Lewis and Lori Ann Price of Etowah, NC; a daughter, Margaret Setzer Nelson of Valdese, NC; grandchildren, Monty Setzer and wife, Daniell, and Beth Morgan and husband, Jeremy; four great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and her faithful pet, Kitty.

Funeral services will be held at 11 am, Wednesday, May 3, 2006 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Reverends Larry Thompson, Darvy Hensley, and Don Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 6:00 until 7:30 pm at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Baptist Church, Laurel Lodge, 407 S Green St., Morganton, NC 28655.

Rev. Ero S. Moore, 78, of Drexel, NC, died Tuesday, May 2, 2006 at Frye Regional MedicalCenter in Hickory, NC. Born August 31, 1927 in Catawba County, NC, he was the son of the late Roy M. Moore and Carrie Crider Moore. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Edison Moore. Mr. Moore was a US Navy veteran and served in the Pacific during WWII. He was an ordained minister of the Church of God with General Offices in Anderson, IN. Ero was former pastor of Community Church of God at Lake Placid, FL and a former college administrator of Warner Southern College in Lake Wales, FL.

Mr. Moore is survived by his wife, Doris Sigmon Moore of the home; three brothers, Bill and J.C. Moore of Hickory, NC, and Ronnie Moore of Maiden, NC; and a number of nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, May 9, 2006 from 11:00 am until 12:00 pm at the First Church of God Drexel. The funeral service will follow at 12 Noon with Rev. Dr. Leroy Fulton and Rev. Tony Didway officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Warner Southern College, 13895 Hwy 27, Lake Wales, FL 33859.

Evelyn Cross Bowen, 87, of Grace Ridge, Morganton, NC and a former Haddonfield, NJ resident died Wednesday, May 3, 2006 at Grace Ridge Health Care Center following a brief illness. She was born November 26, 1918 in Camden County, NJ, and was a daughter of the late William Edmund Cross and Eva May Wood Cross. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of fifty-three years, J. Hartley Bowen, Jr. Mrs. Bowen was a graduate of Collingswood High School, Collingswood, NJ and completed a two year course of study at Temple University in Philadelphia. She was a lifelong member of Haddonfield United Methodist Church and had lived her entire life in Camden County, NJ until moving to Grace Ridge in July, 1999.

Surviving are a son, Dr. J. Hartley Bowen, III and his wife, Dorothy of Morganton; a granddaughter, Michelle C. Bowen of Washington, DC; and a grandson, J. Hartley Bowen, IV of Seattle, WA.

A private graveside service will be held at Harleigh Cemetery, Camden, NJ. A memorial service will be held at Grace Ridge at a later date. Memorial gifts may be made to the Blue Ridge Healthcare Foundation, 2201 S. Sterling St., Morganton, NC or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

Lillian Baker Cordell, 82, of Stevens Creek Rd., Augusta, GA, and formerly of Drexel, NC, died Tuesday, May 2, 2006 at the Doctor’s Hospital in Augusta following an extended period of declining health. She was born January 19, 1924 in Burke County, NC, and was a daughter of the late William Andrew Baker and Emma Elizabeth Aiken Baker. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Fredrick Howard Cordell; a daughter, Wanda Faye Cordell; brothers, John, Jess, William, and Robert Baker; and sisters, Ethel Mae Benfield, Bertha Branch, Blonnie McNeely, Margaret Hubbard, and Maude Baker Childres. Lillian was a lifetime member of the Drexel First Baptist Church and a US Navy veteran of World War II. She was devoted to her family, and enjoyed shopping and traveling. She was a retired employee of Drexel Knitting Mill.

She is survived by a daughter, Janice C. Martin and husband, John T., of Evans, GA; grandsons, Michael C. Martin and wife, Christy, and Stephen P. Martin, all of Indian Trail, NC, and Eric C. Martin of Evans, GA; a great granddaughter, Elyzabeth Marie Martin of Indian Trail; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, May 6, 2006 at the Drexel First Baptist Church with Rev. Tito Madrazo officiating. Burial will follow at Drexel Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Saturday from 10 until 11 am at the church. At other times, the family will be at the residence of Winona Childres, 102 Mountain View St., Drexel. Memorial contributions may be made to the Senior Adult Fund, Drexel First Baptist Church, PO Box 308, Drexel, NC 28619.

James Bascom “J.B.” Powell, 89, of Main Street, Drexel, NC, died Saturday, May 6, 2006 at the Brian Center in Hickory, NC, following an extended illness. Born March 13, 1917 in Burke County, NC, he was the son of the late Owen Bascom Powell and Nannie Cooper Powell. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Annie Margaret Turner Powell; a brother, Charles Powell; and a sister, Myrtle Williams. J.B. retired from Drexel Furniture Company’s Table Rock Plant in May of 1977 after 27 years of employment. He was a former employee of the Drexel Knitting Mill and worked briefly as a building contractor. Mr. Powell was a talented clock maker. He was a charter member of Christ United Methodist Church where he was very active in all areas of church life.

J.B. is survived by his daughter, Mahala P. Cannon and husband, Wayne, of Drexel; two granddaughters, Tamara Biddix and husband, Darrell, of Hildebran, NC, and Natalie Cannon of Charlotte, NC; three great-grandchildren, Brittany, Austin, and Madison; two brothers, Thompson Powell and John H. Powell, both of Valdese, NC; and four sisters, Odessa Clark of Valdese, Anita Fowler of Connelly Springs, NC, Ermine Abee, formerly of Morganton, and Rebecca Dalmas of Valdese.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, May 9, 2006 at Christ United Methodist Church with Rev. Marion G. Moore, Jr. officiating. Burial will follow in the Drexel Memorial Park with military graveside rites to be performed by Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends from 6:30 until 8:00 p.m. Monday evening 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 the daughter, Mahala Cannon, 3529 Trinity Church Road, Valdese. Memorial contributions may be made to Christ United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 38, Drexel, NC 28619 or to the Alzheimer’s Association, Western NC Chapter, 31 College Place, Suite D-320, Asheville, NC 28801.

James “Jimmy” Hillman Bowman, II, 38, of Shuffler Road, Morganton, NC, died Saturday, May 6, 2006 as the result of an automobile accident. Born in Burke County, NC, on April 12, 1968, he was a son of James Hillman Bowman, Sr. and Jeanne Fontillas Bowman.

In addition to his parents, Jimmy is survived by three sons, Richard Bowman, Casey Bowman, and Dusty Harmon, all of Morganton; a daughter, Heather Glazebrook of Redding, CA; his former wife, Rhonda Bowman of Morganton; two sisters, Kay Bowman of Shelby, NC and Misty Benfield of Morganton; and two brothers, Christopher Bowman and Edwin Morrison, both of Morganton.

A memorial service will be held at 6:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 9, 2006 at Snow Hill United Methodist Church with Rev. Gary Leonard officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Snow Hill United Methodist Church, 5425 Snow Hill Church Road, Morganton, NC 28655.

Elsie Lou Burns Rostan, 92, of Robinwood Rd., Gastonia, NC, formerly of Valdese, NC died Monday, May 08, 2006, at Century Care of Gastonia following a period of declining health. She was born in Cleveland County, NC on May 30, 1913 and was a daughter of the late Charlie E. and Maggie Absher Burns. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Guido Rostan, and one precious infant daughter. Mrs. Rostan was a devoted mother and grandmother who was beloved by all who met her. She enjoyed life and was always happy. Her hobbies were gardening and being with her family. She was a member of Waldensian Presbyterian Church and read her Bible faithfully.

Surviving are her son, Ned Howard Rostan, of Marion, NC; grandchildren, Robyn Hoover and her husband, Chris, of Lake Wylie, SC, Luke Wingate and his wife, Lisa, of Hildebran, NC and Matt Wingate and his wife, Christina, of Matthews, NC; and great-grandchildren, Madison and Wyatt Hoover and Carter and Gabby Wingate.

The funeral will be held at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 9, 2006, in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Tom Latimer officiating. Burial will follow in the Waldensian Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Waldensian Museum, PO Box 216, Valdese, NC 29690.

Evelyn Virginia Hill, 89, formerly of Helen, MacArthur, and Princeton, WV, died Monday, May 8, 2006, at home in Morganton, NC where she resided with her granddaughter, Sharon Bollinger, and family. Mrs. Hill was born in Monticello, GA to the late William Speir and Ruby Speir Burroughs. She was a retired LPN and an honorary member of Community Baptist Church. Mrs. Hill was preceded in death by her daughter, Dreama Norris, and grandson, Richard Norris.

She is survived by a son, Fred Earl Hill, and wife, Patsy, of Jumping Branch, WV; three daughters, Pauline Boyle and husband, Ed, of Fairfax, VA, Emma Carrera and husband, George, of Dover, FL, and Cecelia Feeley of Clearwater, FL; 10 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, May 13, 2006, at Community Baptist Church on St. Mary’s Church Road, Morganton, NC with the Reverend Billy Bollinger officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m. at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Community Baptist Church, PO Box 835, Morganton, NC 28680 or Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.

Buna Rollins Hitt, 94, Morganton, NC died Monday, May 8, 2006 at Britthaven of Morganton following a period of declining health. She was born March 13, 1912 in Cleveland County, NC, and was a daughter of the late John Harve Rollins and Docia Hughes Rollins. In addition to her parents, Buna was preceded in death by her husband, Wayne Wade Hitt; three brothers and five sisters. She was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Morganton, and a member of the Women’s Club of Morganton. Buna enjoyed boating and water skiing.

She is survived by her son, Wayne Weaver Hitt of Morganton; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Thursday, May 11, 2006 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr. officiating. Entombment will follow at Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum. The family will receive friends Thursday one hour before the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church, PO Drawer 459, Morganton, NC 28680-0459.

Thomas D. “Tom” Hancock, Jr., 62, of Sandcastle Dr., Nebo, NC died Thursday, May 11, 2006 at Valdese General Hospital following a brief illness. He was born August 27, 1943 in Gaffney, SC, and was a son of the late Thomas DeCosta Hancock, Sr. and Sarah Branton Hancock. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved grandmother, Myra “Ah Mom” Branton. Tom was a graduate of Glen Alpine High School, and then attended NC State University. He was employed with Mallonee Surveying for many years. Tom continued working with Mallonee’s successor company, TGS Surveying and Abernathy Associates. Tom worked closely with construction companies and loved handling the details of planning and layout of large construction projects. He was a founding member of the Dysartsville Volunteer Fire Department, and also served with the NC National Guard Morganton unit. He was a member of Glen Alpine United Methodist Church. Tom was an avid outdoorsman and naturalist. He loved woodworking including making furniture and other crafts.

He is survived by his wife, Janice Stewart Hancock of the home; sisters, Sharon Mull and husband, Dewey, of Glen Alpine, and Myra Brown and her dear friend, Dr. George Krebs, of Morganton; a niece, Teresa Shackleford, her husband, Bob, and their son, Will, of Greensboro, NC; a nephew, Branton Brown of Morganton; his aunt, Pearl Hancock of Gaffney, SC; cousins, Jerry and Brenda; sisters-in-law, Kaye Stewart Irvin of Nebo, and Brenda Simmons and husband, Sidney, of Morganton, and their daughters, Kimberly Baker, her husband, Scott, and their son, Elliot, and Kristy Price, her husband, Mike, and their daughter, Emma.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, May 13, 2006 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Sid Houk officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Saturday one hour before the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Dysartsville Volunteer Fire Department, 9184 NC 226 South, Nebo, NC 28761.

Corine Self Willis, 87, Burlington, NC died Wednesday, May 10, 2006 at The Village of Brookwood following an extended illness. She was born November 1, 1918 in Lincoln Co., NC, and was the daughter of the late Erastus Garland Self and Elizabeth Grindstaff Self. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin Edward Willis; a son, Gene Osborne Willis; and a brother, Charles Self. Corine was a member of St. Peters United Methodist Church in Lawndale, NC.

She is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Bruce and Karen Willis of Burlington; a daughter and son-in-law, Mary and Lou Shores of Greensboro, NC; a grandchild; two step-grandchildren; and a brother, Harold Self of Redondo Beach, CA.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, May 13, 2006 at St. Peters United Methodist Church Cemetery with Rev. Robert Parsons officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Peters United Methodist Church, 108 Saint Peters Church Road, Lawndale, NC 28090. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Nina Kathleen Stewart, 92, of Harper Ave., Lenoir, NC, formerly of Morganton, died Thursday, May 11, 2006 at Caldwell Memorial Hospital following a period of declining health. She was born May 12, 1913 in Catawba County, NC, and was a daughter of the late E. Wilson Drum and Bertha Drum Drum. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Major H. Stewart. She was a member of the First Assembly of God in Morganton, and a retired employee of the F. W. Woolworth Company.

Nina is survived by sons, Bobby Stewart of Grayson, GA, and John Stewart of Winter Gardens, FL; daughters, Myra Smith of Boise, ID, and Sandra McKee of Morganton; sisters, Lutie Williams of Maiden, NC, and Geneva Johnson of Salina, KS; brothers, Bill Drum of Cary, NC, and Jolly Drum of Burke, VA; ten grandchildren, eighteen great grandchildren, three step-great grandchildren, and one step-great great grandchild.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Monday, May 15, 2006 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Chris Stephens officiating. The family will receive friends Monday one hour before the funeral service. The burial will be Wednesday in the Greenwood Cemetery, Orlando, FL. Memorial contributions may be made to Hope Crossings Church, 50 Village Drive, Jefferson, GA 30549.

Margie Lee Houston, 64, of Woodman Street, Drexel, NC, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, May 12, 2006 at Grace Hospital following an extended illness. Born August 28, 1941 in Caldwell County, NC, she was the daughter of Lily Mae Holden Walters and the late Glenn Arthur Gragg. In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her sister, Shelby Hughes. Margie was a member of North Laurel Baptist Church in Valdese, NC. She retired from Burke Mills after 35 years of service and also worked at Kerr Drug.

Mrs. Houston is survived by her husband of 48 years, James Houston of the home; three daughters, Sheila Diane Houston of Drexel, Sharon Houston Kitchings and husband, Bill, of Taylorsville, NC, and Cynthia Houston Beard and husband, Billy, of Morganton, NC; sisters, Alma Jean Nelson, Annie Mae Harmon, Mary Dyer, Suzette Gragg, Nina Walters, Freda Walters, and Shiela Walters; and two brothers, Rowdy and Randy Walters; her mother, Lily Mae Walters of Newland, NC; a very special friend, Ann Thompson of Morganton; eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

The funeral will be held at 4:00 p.m., Monday, May 15, 2006 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Tim Dockery officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m.

Billy Joe Stamey, 61, of Hemlock Trail, Morganton, NC, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, May 12, 2006 following a courageous battle with cancer. Born June 4, 1944 in Burke County, NC, he was the son of the late Phifer Edward Stamey and Cora Lou Prewitt Stamey. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by several aunts and uncles. Billy was a member of the Church of God, Hwy 226. He owned and operated Stamey’s logging and was an avid hunter and fisherman. Billy was a giant of a man whom everyone loved.

Mr. Stamey is survived by his wife, Linda Branch Stamey of the home; a son, Jeffery Stamey and wife, Nicki, of Kingsport, TN; a step-son, Barry Scott Fisher and wife, Michelle, of Morganton; four daughters, Carolyn Turner and husband, Kevin, of Granite Falls, NC, Kelly Bentley and husband, Greg, of Taylorsville, NC, Tracy Norman and husband, Todd, of Morganton, and Jamie Gettys and husband, Jody, of Morganton; ten grandchildren, Brett and Sage Stamey, Heather Turner, Kennedy, Chase, and Heath Bentley, Kirt, Blake, and Graham Norman, and Caden Gettys; and two step-grandchildren, Elizabeth and Emily Fisher; an uncle, Bill Prewitt and wife, Frances; three aunts, Norma Franklin and husband, Bob, Pauline Dale and husband, Ralph, and Faye Hawkins; many cousins and numerous friends.

The funeral will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, May 15, 2006 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Brother Ken Van Buskirk, Brother Buren Clark, and Rev. Wayne Deaton officiating. Entombment will follow in Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum. The family will receive friends Sunday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. At other times, the family will be at the residence, 2195 Hemlock Trail, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Attn: Office Manager, 4-A Oak Branch Dr., Greensboro, NC 27407 or to Burke Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.

Joe E. Yeager, 79, of Lenoir Rd., Morganton, NC died Friday, May 12, 2006, at Grace Ridge following a period of declining health. He was born in Sullivan County, IN on December 20, 1926 and was a son of the late Max Burke and Lucille Yeager Woodsmall. Mr. Yeager was a graduate of Toledo University and was a member of First United Methodist Church. He was an active volunteer in the community including member of the Lions Club, S.H.I.P., Literacy Council, past president of the Residence Association of Grace Ridge, past president of the Port Clinton Chapter of the American Field Service, member and past president of A.A.R.P., and was a member of Catawba Valley Mason Lodge #217.

Surviving are his wife, Eilene Yeager, of the home; a son and his wife, Rick J. and Debbra Yeager, of Cambridge, OH; a daughter and her husband, Cynthia “Cindy” and Thomas Antonides, of Allendale, MI; grandchildren, Carissa Jo Snarski and her husband, Chad, Matthew Earl Yeager and his wife, Angela, Jessica Ellene Weiker, Jason Weiker, and Jaime Weiker; sisters, Donna Moody and Sharon McCracken; and brothers, William Burke and Robert Burke.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m. Monday, May 15, 2006, in the Community Room of Grace Ridge with Rev. Carl Lindquist officiating and Rev. Sheldon Stephenson and Rev. Don Robb assisting. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends 1 hour before the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church Discretionary Fund, 200 King St., Morganton, NC 28655 or the Grace Ridge Scholarship Fund or Friendship Fund, 500 Lenoir Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.

Carl Thomas May, 77, of Music Mountain Road, Morganton, NC, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, May 13, 2006 while surrounded by his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a great-grandfather who had a great love for his family. Carl loved to fish, hunt, and build furniture for his family. He was born December 6, 1928 in Ashe County to the late Robert Todd May and Ethel Graham May. In addition to his parents, Mr. May was preceded in death by a son, Tommy Allen May, a brother, Charles May, and a sister, Mary Iles. Carl was retired from Drexel Heritage and was a member of Mount Home Baptist Church.

Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Joan Leonard May; a daughter, Betty Burnette and husband, Dean, of Morganton; sons, Jimmy May and wife, Melody, of Morganton and Dennis May and wife, Kristine, of Lenoir, NC; a sister, Beryl Jaynes of Chapel Hill, NC; a brother, Edward May of Galax, VA; grandchildren, Brandon Burnette and wife, Amy, Brooke Walker and husband, Randy, and Mackenzie May, all of Morganton, Chris May of Hickory, NC, Ashley, Samantha, Alexandria, and Sheyenne May, of Lenoir; and great-grandchildren, Alex Walker, Brittney May, and Taylor May.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, May 16, 2006 at Mt. Home Baptist Church with Rev. Jerry Gamble and Mr. Cecil Tallent officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Monday 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, 3253 Music Mtn. Road, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Mount Home Baptist Church Building Fund, 2272 Mt. Home Church Road, Morganton, NC 28655 or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.

Anna Frances Walton, 48, of US 64 West, Morganton, NC, died as the result of an automobile accident on Sunday, May 14, 2006. Born in Burke County, NC, on November 10, 1957, she was the daughter of the late Cyrus Leslie Walton, Jr. and Frances Louise Wilson Walton. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her grandparents, Dr. and Mrs. C.L. Walton and Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Wilson. Frances was a member of Linville United Methodist Church. She worked for many years as a hair stylist in area shops and was also employed at Home Depot in Hickory, NC. Ms. Walton was an avid animal lover and a loving daughter and sister. She also loved to dance.

Frances is survived by her sister, Adele “Del” Walton of Morganton; a step-mother, Gaye Campbell Walton of Morganton; three aunts, Eleanor Neal and husband, Bill, of Charlotte, NC, Mary Walton Kent of Hewitt, NJ, and Mary Etta Whisnant and husband, Thomas, of Granite Falls, NC; an uncle, Ben Campbell and wife, Mary, of Maiden, NC; and a host of cousins.

The funeral will be held at 6:00 p.m., Thursday, May 18, 2006 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Michael L. Jenkins officiating. The family will receive friends Wednesday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. At other times the family will be at the residence of the sister, Del, 3250 US 64 West, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to the Save the Tiger Fund, National Fish & Wildlife Foundation, 1120 Connecticut Avenue NW, Suite 900, Washington, DC 20036.

Mozelle B. Kincaid, loving wife, mother, sister and aunt; 82, of Drexel Rd., Morganton, NC died Monday, May 15, 2006 at her home. She was born in Burke County, NC on June 23, 1923 and was a daughter of the late Plato Brittain and Mary Duckworth Brittain. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by a daughter, Kay Mitchell; a grandson; 4 brothers; and 4 sisters. Mrs. Kincaid was a member of Bethel United Methodist Church. She was lovingly known at “Mama Kincaid” by the many children she cared for in her home over the years.

Surviving are her husband of 60 years, Max B. Kincaid, of the home; daughters Ann Saladino of Clemmons, NC and Penny Jones and her husband, Ron, of Morganton; and a sister, Colean Mull, of Morganton.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 17, 2006, at Sossoman Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 8:00 p.m. in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Rod F. Randolph officiating. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, May 18, 2006 at Burke Memorial Park. At other times the family will be at the home. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

The family of Mozelle Kincaid would like to express their deep appreciation to the staff of Grace Hospital, Dr. Herington, and the many friends, neighbors, and family for their loving care and support.

Carl Rogers, 81, of Conley Rd., Morganton, NC died Tuesday, May 16, 2006 at Burke Palliative Care Center in Valdese following a period of declining health. He was born August 7, 1924 in Burke County, NC, and was a son of the late James Mickler Rogers and Florence Fisher Rogers. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Eugene Rogers; and sisters, Leola Ingle, Mary Browning, and Louise Wellman. He was an active member of Silver Creek Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon for many years. He enjoyed owning and operating Roger’s Used Cars during his retirement years. Carl also loved to fish. He was a US Army Air Corp veteran and served in Guam and Hawaii during World War II. Mr. Rogers was a devoted family man.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Virginia Brittain Rogers of the home; a son, Carl “Eddie” Rogers and wife, Cindy of Lenoir, NC; daughters, Susan Rogers Toney and husband, Robert, and Catherine Patrice Mathis and husband, Johnny; brothers, Jimmy Rogers and wife, Virginia Ruth, and William Stanley Rogers and wife, Marie, a sister, Beulah Lee Dale, all of Morganton; grandchildren, Jason Vance, Stephen Rogers, Matthew Rogers, Travis Pons, and Christy Pons; step-grandchildren, Nicky Brittain, Shannon Harmon, Kelly Lingafelt, and Robbie Toney; and six great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, May 18, 2006 at Silver Creek Baptist Church with Reverends Jesse Head, Darvy Hensley, and Lloyd Harris 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 one hour prior to the service. At other times the family will be at his residence on Conley Road. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.

Mr. Frank Junior Woody, 82, of Lenoir Road in Morganton died Friday, May 19, 2006 at Baptist Hospital in Winston –Salem following a period of declining health. He was born October 29, 1923 in Yancey County to the late Grayson W. Woody and Florence Gardner Woody. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by brothers Howard , James, Wintford and Wilford Woody ; sisters Dorothy Taylor, Flaude Davis and Delpha Elliott. Mr. Woody was a very active member of the North Morganton Baptist Church in Morganton where he had been a Deacon, Member of the Brotherhood, Sunday School Director and teacher, Church Training director and teacher, R.A. Boy’s director, Transportation Chairman and had assisted in laying the Corner Stone for the present church. He had retired from Drexel Heritage Furniture Company Plant #7 and was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing boating and camping. Mr. Woody was a veteran of WW II where he served in the U.S. Army Air Corp station in the Pacific Theater. He was known as a man of compassion and integrity by all. A loving husband , generous father, brother ,grandfather and great grandfather he is survived by his wife Frances Perkins Woody of the home; sons Steve Woody and wife Wilma ,Mike McGimsey and wife Lynn all of Morganton, David Woody and wife Janice of Nashville Tn.; daughter Shelia Little and husband Bryan of Cleveland NC; brother Paul Woody of Morganton ;sisters Marjory Grindstaff of Green Mountain NC, Venus Mull of Morganton; Grandchildren Tonya Wilson, Jennifer West, Steven Woody, David Majors Jr., Jonathan Woody, Julia Elizabeth Woody; great grandchildren Taressa Lowman, Caroline Wilson, Jesse West, Joseph West and Sophic Majories. Funeral Services will be 4:00PM Sunday May 21, 2006 at North Morganton Baptist Church with the Reverends Kenneth Baker and Dewey Thomas officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial park with Military Rites performed by the Valdese American Legion Post 234 The family will receive friends from 2 until 3:30 Sunday at North Morganton Baptist Church. Memorials in Mr. Woody’s memory may be made to the North Morganton Baptist Church, 101 View Street, Morganton, NC 28655 Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the Woody family with arrangements.

Mr. Harold Hence Patton, 78, of the Patton Road in Morganton died Saturday May 20, 2006 at Grace Hospital. He was born November 30, 1927 to Hence L. Patton and Edith Bolding Patton of Morganton. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his first wife Linda Spears Patton, brothers Unie V. Patton, Ronnie E. Patton, Don C. Patton, Robert M. Patton, Nelson A. Patton, Ernest Logan Patton, John Wesley Patton, Jacob I. Patton,; sisters Rosa Lee Patton, Fannie Patton and Bertie Patton Branch.

Mr. Patton was a Lifelong carpenter.

A loving Father, Grandfather ,Great Grandfather and Brother he is survived by his wife Judy Jarrett Patton of the home, son William (Bill) Patton, daughter Wanda Largent, Wilma and Eddie Carswell, Linda Kay and Homer Sinclair, Rita and C.J. Hurst, Stepsons Jeffrey and Terri Duckworth, Tim Duckworth all of Morganton, Grandchildren Kristen and Lena Patton, Amy Jackson of Fort Sam Houston Texas, Angie Largent of Morganton, Douglas Taylor of Morganton, Dustin Taylor of Fort Stewart Georgia, Kimberly Carswell of Morganton, Laura Deal and J. J. Hurst of Valdese, Great-Grandchildren Austin Whisnant, Justin Taylor, Josiah and Alayna Jackson, James, Joshua and Jenna Deal. Shana Duckworth, Jeffery Duckworth Jr. and wife Holly and a special great grandson Little Ray”. He is also survived by brothers Len and Nancy Patton, Troy and Joann Patton, David Patton, Willard and Clara Patton, Alfred and Mary Patton, Douglas and Dianne Patton, all of Morganton, Edward and Karen Patton of Huntingtown Maryland; Sisters Elizabeth Lane, Eldorador and Dallas Norman, Edith and Darrell Worsham of Morganton, Kaye and Carl Cline of Icard and a host of loving nieces and nephews. A Lifelong Friend Princess

Funeral services will be 2PM Tuesday, May 23, 2006 at Gibbs Chapel Wesleyan with the Reverend Dean Lavender, Darvey Hensley and Tim Sheridan officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olive Baptist Church Cemetery.

The family will receive friends Monday from 6 until 8 at Sossoman Funeral Home. At other times the family will be at the old Patton family home place 4752 Patton Road.

Memorials in Mr. Patton’s memory may be made to the Mt. Olive Building Fund, 5388 Mt. Olive Church Road, Morganton NC 28655.

Pauline T. Velez, 72, of Fletcher St., Morganton, NC died Sunday, May 21, 2006 at her residence following a brief period of declining health. She was born May 21, 1934 in McDowell County, NC, and was a daughter of the late William Marvin Tollie and Leola Guy Gibson Tollie. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Sharon Marline Stroud. Pauline attended Freedom Baptist Church.

She is survived by her husband, Danny Mike Velez of the home; sons, Russell Freeman of Morganton, and Richard Freeman of Connelly Springs, NC; daughters, Melissa Byles of Hickory, NC, and Linda Smith of Connelly Springs; 22 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm, Wednesday, May 24, 2006 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Wendell Parlier officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 6:30 until 8:30 pm at the funeral home.

William Howard Franklin, 86, of Church Court, Glen Alpine, NC, died Sunday, May 21, 2006 at the V.A. Medical Center in Asheville, NC. Born July 20, 1919 in Burke County, NC, he was the son of the late Obediah Delephate Franklin and Minnie Callie Pearson Franklin. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by an infant son, Larry Randolph Franklin; five brothers, Preston, Ralph, Iverson, Obie, and Eugene Franklin; and three sisters, Velsie Lee Franklin, Elizabeth Dale, and Dail Shuping Murphy. He attended Glen Alpine First United Methodist Church.

William was a veteran of WWII and was engaged in major battles in the South Pacific Theatre. He served five years in the US Army infantry and attained the rank of First Sergeant. Mr. Franklin was decorated with the Purple Heart, Bronze Star, Expert Rifleman, Good Conduct Medal and others. He was a member of the American Legion and was a lifetime member of the D.A.V.

William is survived by his wife of 60 years, Martha McGalliard Franklin of the home, two daughters, Patrica Franklin Cooper and husband, Edward, of Pineville, KY and Janet G. Franklin of Morganton, NC; a sister, Mary Lou Egan of Connelly Springs, NC; two grandsons, Stoney Story and wife, Debra, of Glen Alpine and Judd Howard Story of Pompano Beach, FL; three great-grandchildren, Tyler, Evan, and Landyn Story of Glen Alpine; several nieces and nephews and many friends.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, May 24, 2006 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Reverends T.B. Deese and Beth Henderson officiating. Burial follow in Glen Alpine Cemetery with military graveside rites to be conducted by Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends Tuesday evening from 6:00 until 7:30 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Glen Alpine First United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 576, Glen Alpine, NC 28628 or to the charity of your choice.

Ruby Goodson Williams, 96, of Holly Springs Nursing Center, Rutherfordton, NC died Tuesday, May 23, 2006 at her residence following a period of declining health. She was born November 28, 1909 in Caswell County, NC, and was a daughter of the late George Edgar Goodson and Georgia Nash Goodson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Carl L. Williams. Ruby was an active member of Mt. Home Baptist Church. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother.

Ruby is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Gene and Jonnie Williams of Morganton; a daughter and son-in-law, Joyce and Charles McKee of Swansboro, NC; seven grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 am, Thursday, May 25, 2006 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Jerry Gamble officiating. The family will greet friends immediately following the service. Burial will be at 4:00 pm, Thursday at the Providence Baptist Church Cemetery in Providence, NC. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Home Baptist Church Building Fund, 2272 Mt.Home Church Rd., Morganton, NC 28655, or to Providence Baptist Church Building Fund, PO Box 165, Providence, NC 27315-9391.

Mary Sue Michaels, 84, of Jacumin Rd., Valdese, NC died Tuesday, May 23, 2006 at Valdese General Hospital following a brief illness. She was born August 5, 1921 in McDowell County, NC, and was a daughter of the late Harvey and Netta Huffstetler Arrowood. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, James P. Michaels, Jr.; and a brother, Ray Arrowood. Mrs. Michaels was a member of Smart’s Grove Baptist Church. Mary Sue was the beloved mother of ten children.

She is survived by children and their spouses, Billy Ray and Linda Michaels of Morganton, Carolyn and Andy Rhyne of Mt. Pleasant, SC, Bobby and Libby Michaels of Valdese, Donald and Edna Michaels, Tommy and Glenda Michaels, Leroy and Kathy Michaels, all of Morganton, Becky and Rick Brendle, Shirley and Kelly Benson, all of Valdese, Brenda and Jeff Fredell of Connelly Springs, NC, Frances and Raymond Harmon of Valdese; twenty grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren; and a sister, Loney Rhom of Marion, NC.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, May 26, 2006 at Smart’s Grove Baptist Church with Rev. Charles Lewis and Rev. Darvy Hensley officiating. Burial will follow at Bethel Freewill Baptist Church cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday from 6 until 8 pm 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 of Becky and Rick Brendle, 3431 Greentree Acres, Valdese.

Frank B. Elder, 89, of Hwy 70 West, Glen Alpine, NC died Wednesday, May 24, 2006 at Willow Ridge Nursing Center in Rutherfordton, NC following a period of declining health. He was born May 9, 1917 in Madison County, NC, and was a son of the late William Gilbert and Maggie Henderson Gilbert. Frank was raised by his adoptive parents, the late Wallace Bruce Elder and Elizabeth Henderson Elder. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Maude Epley Elder; a son, Wallace Bruce “Butch” Elder; a daughter, Barbara Ann Harrington; and a granddaughter, Tracy Elder Armstrong. Frank was a member of Snow Hill United Methodist Church. He was the plant supervisor for 27 years at Breeden Poultry and Egg, and was a co-owner of Paw-Paw Patch Antiques. He was a member of the Elks Lodge in Morganton, the Fraternal Order of Moose Lodge, and the Burke Sheriff’s Association. Frank was a former volunteer fireman with the Glen Alpine Fire Department, and he enjoyed boating and camping. He was a loving husband, and devoted father, grandfather, and great grandfather.

Frank is survived by daughters, Drinda Burleson, Elaine Ross and husband, Mike, all of Morganton, Loretta Travis and husband, Robert of Claremont, and Kathy Lynn Ray and husband, Ronald of Glen Alpine; eleven grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, May 27, 2006 at Snow Hill United Methodist Church Cemetery with Rev. Gary Leonard officiating. The family will receive friends Friday from 6:30 until 8:00 pm at Sossoman Funeral Home. At other times, the family will be at the residence, 901 Hwy 70 West, Glen Alpine. Memorial contributions may be made to Snow Hill United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund, 5425 Snow Hill Church Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.

Brenda Estelle Price Roper, 52, of Rich Road, Morganton, NC, died Friday, May 26, 2006 at Carolinas Medical Center following a brief illness. Born February 21, 1954 in McDowell Co, she was the daughter of Jesse and Lena Hembree Price of Morganton. Brenda was a former employee of Broughton Hospital.

In addition to her parents, she is survived by her husband, Ralph Wesley Roper of the home; a son, Tim Roper of Charlotte, NC; four brothers, Don, Gary Dale, Ronnie, and Wayne Price, all of Morganton; a sister, Margo Duckworth of Morganton; two special companions, Spanky and Baby, and a number of nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at 5:00 p.m., Monday, May 29, 2006 at Westview Baptist Church with Rev. Rick Speagle officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Sunday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 pm. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the funeral hour.

Anna Lee Henderson, 75, of Simpson Drive, Morganton, NC, died Saturday, May 27, 2006 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. Born June 13, 1930 in Buncombe County, NC, she was the daughter of the late Pearson Pritchard Henderson and Edna Dillingham Henderson. Anna graduated from Morganton High School in 1948 and was a devoted member of the First Presbyterian Church.

She is survived by her son, Joseph D. Secrest, Jr. and wife, Nancy, of Mt. Pleasant, SC; a brother, Phil Henderson and wife, Pat, of Pickens, SC; and a special cousin, Carolyn Hensley Denton of Morganton.

The memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 30, 2006 at the First Presbyterian Church with Rev. Michael Bailey officiating. The family will receive friends in the church following the service.

Elsie Blanche Miller, 77, formerly of the Oak Hill community, died, Monday, May 29, 2006 at Grace Hospital. Mrs. Miller was born in Burke Co. May 25, 1929 to the late Carl Freeman and Annie May McGinnis Freeman. She was a member of Quaker Meadows Presbyterian Church and a intensive care C.A.N.I for a number of years at Valdese General Hospital. Mrs. Miller was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Victor Miller, a son, Danny Miller and a daughter, Lula Mae Miller.

She is survived by a son, Joseph Miller of Shelby two daughters; Barbara Rogers and husband Joe, and Vickie Taylor and husband Clayton all of Morganton. Two brothers; Ray Freeman and Bill Freeman of Morganton, four sisters; Lucy Branch of Connelly Springs, Virginia LaFevers, Gladys Ross and Grace Robinson all of Morganton. Six Grandchildren; Joey Miller, Jamie Miller, Jennifer Miller, Tony Sloan, Alisa Edwards and Nicole VanHarken along with a number of nieces and nephews.

Graveside service will be 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 31, 2006 at Burke Memorial Park with the Rev. Dr. Ralph May officiating. The family will receive friends at Sossoman Funeral Home from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. prior to the service. At other times the family will be at the home of Barbara Rogers. Memorial services may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Western Carolina Chapter, 3800 Shamrock Drive, Charlotte, NC 28215-3220.

Julio R. Villanueva, 38, of Watermill Rd., Morganton, NC died Monday, May 29, 2006 at his residence. Born in El Salvador on July 15, 1967, he was a son of Carmen Villanueva of Morganton. Julio was an employee of the Seafood Inlet and was a loving husband, father, son, and brother.

Surviving in addition to his mother is his wife, Carla Campbell Villanueva of the home; children, Carrie, Diamond, Mercury, Delilah, and Kiera Sky Villanueva all of the home and a child to be born in November; a sister, Norma Diaz of Silver Springs, MD.

The funeral will be held at 4:00 p.m. Thursday, June 1, 2006 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Reverends Ron Cooper and Michael Beshears officiating. Burial will follow in Calvin Heights Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home for one hour before the service and at other times will be at the home of his father-in-law, Tom Campbell, 1278 Salem Rd., Morganton. To help with funeral costs, memorial gifts may be made to Sossoman Funeral Home.

Ella Mae Chapman Carswell, 62, of Rose Carswell Road, Morganton, NC, died Tuesday, May 30, 2006 at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, NC, as the result of an automobile accident which occurred on April 4, 2006. Born May 22nd, 1944 in Duval County, FL, she was the daughter of Mary Williams Chapman and the late Walter I. Chapman. Ella Mae was a member of Denton’s Chapel United Methodist Church and was a 1962 graduate of Salem High School where she played on the women’s basketball team. She was a giving, caring, and unselfish woman and was a true free-spirit.

Mrs. Carswell is survived by her husband of 43 years, John Ervin Carswell of the home; a daughter, April Rose Carswell Peeler and husband, Mark Anthony of Morganton; a grandson, Jesse Ervin Peeler of Morganton; a brother, Worth Chapman of Morganton; a sister, Nancy Chapman Roper and husband, Richard, of Morganton; and a number of beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, June 3, 2006 at Denton’s Chapel United Methodist Church with Rev. Alan Wilson officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 7:00 until 9:00 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, 5364 Rose Carswell Road, Morganton. In loving memory of W. I. Chapman and in honor of Mary W. Chapman, memorial contributions may be made to Denton’s Chapel United Methodist Church, 5358 Denton’s Chapel Road, Morganton, NC 28655.

Vona Browning McLean went to her heavenly home on Wednesday, May 31, 2006, following a short period of declining health. She was preceded in death by her husband, Horace L. McLean; by her parents, Millard A. and Harriett Ollis Browning; and by brothers, James, Jeff, Smith, Jeter, Theodore and Hamp Browning. Mrs. McLean was born in Burke County on November 22, 1915. She and her husband lived in Pittsburg, PA for 43 years. She returned to Burke County and has made her home with her sister, Mary B. Crooks, for the past 3 plus years. Another sister, Lula B. Craig, of Nebo also survives along with many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly. Mrs. McLean worked in health care for many years. She and her husband enjoyed many years of outdoor sports together.

The funeral will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, June 2, 2006, at Oak Grove Baptist Church on Hwy 126 with Rev. Mike Wakefield and Rev. Gyles Widner officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with her nephews as pallbearers. The family will receive friends from 7:30 until 9:00 p.m. Thursday at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church 30 minutes before the funeral hour. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions be made to Oak Grove Cemetery Fund, 1065 Paddy’s Creek Rd., Nebo, NC 28671.