Charlene Barber Hicks, 82, of River Hills Way, Morganton, NC died Sunday, November 4, 2007 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. She was born Dec. 6, 1924 in Burke County, and was a daughter of the late Ernest and Gertie Berry Barber.

Charlene is survived by a brother, Gary Barber of Warren Robins, GA; and a sister, Criscelda Osborne of Charlotte, NC. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Crawford Hicks; a daughter, Arlene Barber Higgins; and a sister, Hilda Hoppes.

Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 6, 2007 at Drexel Memorial Park with Rick Osborne officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of personal choice. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Jessie Mae Abernathy, 97, of Brian Center East in Hickory, NC and formerly of Drexel, died Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2007 at her residence following a lengthy illness. She was born July 13, 1910 in Russellville, KY, and was a daughter of the late James and Teresa Chapman. Jessie was a member of the Glen Alpine United Methodist Church.

She is survived by her son, Oliver Abernathy, Jr. of Valdese; and a sister, Kate Chapman. In addition to her parents, Jessie was preceded in death by her husband, Oliver Alexander Abernathy; brothers, Jimmy, J.W., and Raymond Chapman; and sisters, Corra and Mary Lou.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, November 10, 2007 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. David Duncan officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Saturday from 12 until 1 pm at the funeral home. At other times, the family will be at the residence of Oliver Abernathy, 1218 Drexel Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

Mary Lou Franklin Egan, 102, of Carolina Rehab Center of Burke in Connelly Springs, NC died Friday, November 09, 2007 at her residence following a period of declining health. She was born January 6, 1905 in Burke County, NC, and was a daughter of the late Obe N. Franklin and Minnie Pearson Franklin. She was a member of Salem United Methodist Church.

Mary Lou worked as a registered nurse in hospitals in New Jersey and Ohio. She later moved to Florida and worked in the radiology field. After the death of her husband, she moved back to Morganton.

Mary Lou is survived by a sister-in-law, Martha Franklin of Morganton; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, John F. Phillips and her second husband, John B. Egan; brothers, Preston, Ralph, Eugene, Obie, Howard, and Iverson Franklin; and sisters, Velsie Lee Franklin, Elizabeth Dale, and Dail Murphy.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, November 11, 2007 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Donald Freshour officiating. The family will receive friends Sunday from 2 until 3 pm at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Salem United Methodist Church, 1206 Salem Road, Morganton, NC 28655. Burial will be at a later date in the Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

Fred Carson Browning, 73, of Sojourner Road, Valdese, NC, went home to be with his Lord on Saturday, November 10, 2007 at Memorial Mission Hospital in Asheville, NC while surrounded by his family. Born in Burke County, NC on November 19, 1933, he was the son of the late Mack Duff Browning and Katie Buff Browning. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Devaude, Charles, Wesley, and Ralph Browning, and an infant brother, Rufus Browning. Fred worked for Crestline Furniture for thirty-three years, twenty-seven of which he was a supervisor. He then worked for thirteen years at Thomasville Furniture in Hickory, NC as supervisor in the sewing department. He was a member of Christ United Methodist Church.

Fred is survived by his wife of fifty-five years, Ollie Powell Browning of the home; a daughter, Greta B. Clark; a granddaughter, Nikki C. Hawkins and husband, Joshua; a great-grandson, Xander Carson Hawkins; a brother, Herbert Browning and wife, Dorothy, all of Morganton, and a number of nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Monday, November 12, 2007 at Christ United Methodist Church with Rev. Kenneth Curtis officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church on Monday from 1:30 until 3:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Christ United Methodist Church, P.O. Drawer 38, Drexel, NC, 28619. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Cupid Coleman Beach, 71, of Hwy 181 N., Morganton, NC, died Saturday, November 10, 2007 at her residence. Born in Burke County, NC on July 11, 1936, she was the daughter of the late Avery Wilson Coleman and Carrie Elizabeth Isabell Hice Coleman. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Olin Leroy Beach; a sister, Katie Coleman, and brother, Ralph, John, Jerry, Charlie, and Frank Coleman. Cupid was a member of Linville United Methodist Church. She loved church and traveling. She served as a Worthy Matron of the Eastern Star. Cupid was a wonderful mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and great friend to many.

Cupid is survived by her son, Michael Beach and wife, Angie, of Hickory, NC; a granddaughter, Ashley Beach all of Hickory; sisters, Grace Deal of Drexel, NC, Sadie Elizabeth Harliss of Mooresville, NC, Fairy McNeely of Morganton, Mary Frances Cook of Valdese, NC, and Alice Marie Forbes of Morganton; brother, Roy Coleman of Morganton and Robert Coleman of Glen Alpine, NC; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

The memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 14, 2007 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Neal Brantley officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. A sixteen year cancer survivor, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Attn: Office Manager, 4-A Oak Branch Drive, Greensboro, NC 27407, Linville United Methodist Church, 3625 Fish Hatchery Road, Morganton, NC 28655, or to Options, Inc., P.O. Box 2512, Morganton, NC 28680.

Robert H. “Buddy” Brown, 80, of Edgewood Circle, Morganton, NC, died Sunday, November 11, 2007 at his residence following a period of declining health. Born in Burke County, NC on September 3, 1927, he was the son of the late Horace Brown and Estelle Epley Brown. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Wilma Ritchie Brown, and a brother, Jim Wacaster. Buddy was a U.S. Navy veteran of WWII and attended UNC Chapel Hill. He was a former employee of Wamsutta Mills, Highlander, LTD, and the Burke County Clerk of Superior Court. Buddy was also a former deputy with the Burke Co. Sheriff Department.

Buddy is survived by his daughter, Toni B. Dills and husband, Herb, of Morganton; granddaughters, JoAnna Johnson and Jill Johnson Gwyn and husband, Carroll; great-grandsons, Gavin and Gage Gwyn; a sister, Patty Wacaster of Morganton; and a “special” daughter, Barbara Lingerfelt of Morganton.

The graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 13, 2007 at Forest Hill Cemetery with Rev. Donald Smith officiating. Military graveside rites will be performed by Valdese American Legion Post #234. At other times the family will be at Toni’s residence, 111 Newland Street, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke County Friends for Animals, c/o Ed Davis, P.O. Box 1884, Morganton, NC 28680 and to Morganton First Church of God Building Fund, P.O. Box 1404, Morganton, NC 28680. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Harold D. Smith, 80, of Enola Road, Morganton, NC, died Sunday, November 11, 2007 at Frye Regional Medical Center in Hickory, NC following a brief illness. Born in Burke County, NC on September 19, 1927, he was the son of the late Christopher Columbus Smith and Winnie Lurinda Smith. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Alana Poteet Smith; five brothers, Sanford, Tellis, Cordell, Conley, and Bennett Smith; three infant brothers; and two sisters, Myrtle Smith and Mona Lee Smith. Harold was a US Army veteran and a member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church. He enjoyed helping all of his neighbors and friends. He was a devoted sports fan, particularly of the Carolina Panthers Football team. He was a devoted father.

Mr. Smith is survived by his daughter, Aleta Smith of Morganton; a brother, Carroll H. Smith and wife, Darlene, of Morganton; and a number of nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 14, 2007 at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church with Rev. Eddy Bunton officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m. At other times the family will be at the residence of the brother, Carroll, 2433 Enola Road, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, 2396 Enola Road, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Gena Kincaid Williams, 97, of 500 Lenoir Road, Apt. 524, Morganton, NC, died Monday, November 12, 2007 at Grace Hospital. Born in McDowell County, NC on July 28, 1910, she was the daughter of the late Larry A. Kincaid, Sr. and Flossie Cox Kincaid. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 69 years, W. R. “Bob” Williams; two brothers, two sisters, and a son-in-law, Louis Webb.

Gena was a member of First United Methodist Church, where she was active in the Claywell Sunday School Class and the Methodist Women’s Circle. Mrs. Williams was a graduate of the Asheville Normal Teachers College. After graduation, she taught school for a few years. Then in 1946 she, along with her husband, became co-directors of South Mountain Children’s Home, where they served for twenty-eight years until their retirement in 1974. After her retirement, she volunteered as a “Pink Lady” at Grace Hospital.

Gena is survived by her daughter, Sylvia W. Webb of Hopewell, VA; grandchildren, Charles Berkley English of Houston, TX, Robert Timothy Egnlish, Robin Janette Webster, and Christopher Edward English, all of Hopewell, VA; brothers, Clyde Kincaid of Walterboro, SC and Larry A. Kincaid of Charleston, SC; a sister, Winnie Cordell of Asheville, NC; and five great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 14, 2007 at First United Methodist Church with Rev. Dr. Sydnor Thompson, III officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends in the church fellowship hall one hour prior to the service. Memorial Contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, 200 N. King Street, Morganton, NC 28655 or to a charity of one’s choice. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Virginia Richardson Mallonee, 84, of Airport Road, Marion, NC, died Monday, November 12, 2007 at Autumn Care of Marion. Born in Jasper, AL on September 27, 1923, she was the daughter of the late Clearvy Christopher Richardson and Decia Katherince Watkins Richardson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Elbert Mallonee; daughters, Jennie Lou Mallonee and Jerrie Von Canon; and a grandson, Frederick Von Canon, III. Virginia was a member of North Morganton United Methodist Church. An avid reader, Virginia also loved to quilt and volunteer for her church. She was devoted to her family.

She is survived by a daughter, Jane Philips of Birmingham, AL; grandsons, Joseph Bond Philips, IV and wife, Stephanie, of Decatur, GA, and Ian Mallonee Philips of Birmingham; a granddaughter, Katie Jensen and husband, Christian, of Mt. Juliet, TN; a sister, Elaine Styles of Morganton; as well as numerous nieces and nephews, and a dear friend, Martha Waters of Morganton.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, November 15, 2007 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Eddy Bunton officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the funeral. Memorial contributions may be made to Autumn Care of Marion’s Activity Fund, P.O. Box 339, Marion, NC 28752 or to Burkemont Baptist Church Youth Ministry, 4668 Burkemont Road, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Evelyn Hewitt Copenhaver, 92, of Grace Ridge, Morganton, NC, died Monday, November 12, 2007 at Grace Ridge Health Center. Born in Catawba County, NC on March 22, 1915, she was the daughter of the late A.C. Hewitt and Mande Buffaloe Hewitt. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, H. Wayne Copenhaver, and brothers, the Rev. Kenneth Hewitt, Albert Hewitt, and Jack Hewitt. Evelyn was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church. She was educated at Fasifern School for Girls and Marion College in Marion, VA. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Colonial Dames, and retired from the NC School for the Deaf.

Evelyn is survived by her children, Howard Copenhaver, Jr. and wife, Julie, of Morganton, Dorothy Edes and husband, Wayne, of Kennebunk, ME, and Ernie Copenhaver and wife, Phyllis, of King, NC; grandchildren, Wayne Edes, Jr., William Edes, Joshua Copenhaver, and Benjamin Copenhaver; and great-grandchildren, Evelyn Edes and Anthony Edes.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, November 16, 2007 at Calvary Lutheran Church with the Rev. William Robertson officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery in Marion, NC. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Calvary Lutheran Church Endowment, 119 North King Street, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Margaret Robinson Williams, 92, of Lenoir Park in Lenoir, NC, and formerly of N. King St. in Morganton died Monday, November 12, 2007 at Caldwell Memorial Hospital in Lenoir following a period of declining health. She was born Feb. 28, 1915 in Gaston Co., NC, and was a daughter of the late Laban W. Robinson and Mary Huffman Robinson. Margaret was a member of the First Baptist Church in Morganton where she volunteered at Mothers Morning out for over 18 years. She was also a member of the Dorcas Sunday School Class. Margaret was employed for more than 30 years at Skyland Textiles. She was a volunteer for Red Cross and many other area organizations, and worked for the Burke County Board of Elections for 25 years. She also volunteered as a Blue Blazer at COMMA. Margaret was a charter member of the Grace Hospital Guild for 37 years.

She is survived by sons, Ronald O. Williams of Morganton, and Steve D. Williams and wife, Sue of Virginia; a brother, Jay Robinson and wife, Scottie of Pensacola, FL; 6 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Margaret was preceded in death by brothers, Eural, Clyde, Woodrow, and Richard Robinson; and sisters, Bessie Hovis, Eloua Ballenger, and Ruth McGinnis.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, November 16, 2007 at the First Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr. officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday from 1 until 2 pm in the church parlor. Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, PO Drawer 459, Morganton, NC 28680. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Wilson Avery Cooper, 87, of Victory Point, Morganton, NC, died Tuesday, November 13, 2007 at Autumn Care of Drexel after a period of declining health. Born in Burke County, NC on June 18, 1920, he was the son of the late Sam Jones Cooper and Mattie Jane McNeely Cooper. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Lettie Brittain Cooper; a son, Rhett Cooper; three sisters, Bernice Griffin, Sarah Weir, and Beulah Sherrill; a half-sister, Jesse Powell Mull; two brothers, Colon Cooper and Lloyd Cooper; and a half-brother, Bud Powell.

Wilson was a member of the First Church of God, Drexel. He organized and performed with the Messengers Quartet and had a TV show on WLOS in Asheville for a period of time. He was president of the Drexel Lions Club and a founder and a charter member of the Drexel Community Center. He was a long time resident of the Drexel community.

Mr. Cooper is survived by his wife, Sarah Louana Duckworth-Cooper of the home; grandsons, Rhett and Clint Cooper; a granddaughter, Angelique Cooper-Gianakos; a step-grandson, Scott Cooper; great-granddaughters, Oakley and Onna Gianakos; step-sons, Doug and Greg Duckworth; a step-daughter, Melanie Duckworth Honeycutt; step-grandsons, Rhett Duckworth, Gregory Duckworth, Tory Honeycutt, and Wesley Honeycutt; a step-granddaughter, Lindsay Duckworth Blalock; step-great-grandsons, Dakota Duckworth and Trevor Honeycutt; one nephew, and four nieces.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, November 16, 2007 at the First Church of God, Drexel with the Reverends Maxine McCall and Tony Didway officiating. Burial will follow in Drexel Memorial Park with military graveside rites to be performed by Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. At other times the family will be at the residence. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Church of God of Drexel, P.O. Box 218, Drexel, NC 28619 or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Douglas “Doug” LaFevers, 54, went to be in his heavenly home on Tuesday, November 13, 2007, surrounded by his beloved family and friends. He was born in Burke County on October 5, 1953 and was the son of the late Malcolm Eugene LaFevers and Evelyn Beach LaFevers. Doug was an active member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church where he served on the vestry as both Junior and Senior Warden. Further, he chaired and served on several committees, especially the building and planning committees. He also participated in his community as Cub Scout Master, Little League Baseball coach with the Glen Alpine Recreation Department, and served as ringmaster at equestrian events. Doug retired from Duke Power in 2003 and then worked at Lowe’s Hardware. In his spare time, Doug was an avid fisherman and hunter and was a member of the H.O.G. Association.

He was a devoted family man and friend to all. Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 36 years, Pat Barrier LaFevers, of the home; his son, Heath LaFevers, of Raleigh; his sister, Frances Bailey and her husband, Earl, of Glen Alpine; nephews, Jarrod Bailey and his wife, Kathy, of Morganton and Nathan Bennett his wife, Angie, and their family of Covington, GA; a niece, Robin B. Guy, and husband, Stacy, and their family of Alpharetta, GA; his Godchild, Courtney Swink, of Morganton; numerous cousins; and his beloved animal friends, Toodles, Fred, and Topaz.

The family would like to express their deep gratitude to Jennifer Farish, Wanda Mull, Lisa Richards, and Dr. Greg Jones and his staff for their kindness and care.

A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, November 17, 2007, at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church with Rev. Dr. Alfred Zadig and Rev. John Fitzgerald officiating. The family will receive friends following the service in the parish hall. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Building Fund, 1865 N. Powerhouse Rd., Morganton, NC 28655, Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690, or the American Association for Cancer Research, 615 Chestnut St., 17th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Cleo Huffman Hildebrand, 94, of 125 Piercy Ave, Morganton, NC died Wednesday, November 14, 2007 at Grace Heights following a period of declining health. She was born March 17, 1913 in Burke County, NC, and was the daughter of the late Lewis Huffman and Medie Alice Lail Huffman. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Leroy J. Hildebrand; daughter, Ruth Huffman Snipes; son, Cecil Rogers; granddaughter, Glenda Jo Snipes; brothers, Clifton “Kip” Huffman and Kermit Huffman; sisters, Katy Craig, Marie Reep and Pansy Peyronel. Cleo was a member of The Valdese Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses. She was an avid gardner, and loved reading, cooking and spending time with all the grandchildren.

Cleo is survived by daughters, Nelda Lambert and husband Herb, Jane Simmons and husband, Steven, all of Morganton; daughter-in-law, Mary Jo Rogers; grandchildren, Rema Lambert, Dedra Pasco, Toby Simmons, Ashley Simmons, Martin Snipes, Leroy Rogers, Judy Smart; ten great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, November 16, 2007 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Valdese Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, c/o Chris Tripp, 311 Springwood Dr., NE., Valdese, NC 28690.

Larry Dickens, 58, of Morganton, NC passed away on Monday, November 12, 2007 at Memorial Mission Hospital, Asheville, NC. Mr. Dickens was born on September 7, 1949 in Alabama and had lived in Morganton for the past 33 years. He was a graduate of N. C. State University. Larry worked for Drexel Heritage for many years and then worked for Ferguson Copeland, Ltd. He was preceded in death by his father, Randolph Dickens and a brother, Bob Dickens. Surviving are his loving wife of 25 years, Susan Marler Dickens; a daughter, Jessica Watkins and husband, Paul of Hickory, NC; a son, Nathaniel Dickens of Raleigh; mother, Lazelle Williams Dickens of Raleigh; brother, Michael Dickens and wife, Denise of Washington, DC; granddaughter, Morgan Watkins; and several nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, November 17, 2007 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home, Morganton. The family will receive friends following the service.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to Freedom High School Marching Band, 511 Independence Blvd., Morganton, NC 28655 or to N. C. State University Alumni Association, 2450 Alumni Dr., Campus Box 7503, Raleigh, NC 27695-7503. Harwood Home for Funerals, Black Mountain, NC and Sossoman Funeral Home are assisting the family.

William R. “Bill” Maxwell, 64, of Morganton, NC died Sunday, November 4, 2007 at his home. He was born in Shelby County, Ohio on March 16, 1943 and was a son of the late Max E. and Cleona E. Hone Maxwell. On October 14, 1967 he married the former Gillian Beswick, and she survives, along with daughters, Natalie Maxwell of Cincinnati, OH and Katie Maxwell of Morganton; sons, Matthew Maxwell of Columbus, OH and Daniel Maxwell of Cincinnati; and a grandson, Bryant Maxwell of Cincinnati.

Mr. Maxwell was a graduate of Jackson Center High School and was a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War. He was a member of Scherer Post #493 American Legion, Jackson Center, and Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church in Morganton, NC. He retired from Airstream in 1999 and was an assistant manager for Wal-Mart stores in Sidney, Cincinnati, and Morganton.

A memorial service will be held at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, November 18, 2007 at Mount Pleasant United Methodist Church with Rev. George Williamson officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or to the Lewis Rathbun Center, 121 Sherwood Rd., Asheville, NC 28803.

Azalee Childers Chapman, 70, of Mt. Gilead Church Road, Connelly Springs, NC, died Wednesday, November 14, 2007, at Grace Hospital. Born on July 8, 1937, she was the daughter of the late Jesse Childers Anthony. Azalee retired from Burke Mills, Inc. with thirty years of service. She was a loyal member of Mt. Gilead Baptist Church, and actively involved in the women’s Sunday school class.

Mrs. Chapman is survived by her loving husband of fifty-two years, Earl Chapman of the home; children, Barbara Stewart and husband, Lee, of Morganton, NC, Sandra Bentley and husband, David, of Easley, SC, Tammy Whitmire and husband, Bill, of Pickens, SC, and Jeffery Earl Chapman of Lawndale, NC; grandchildren, Davie Bentley, Daniel Bentley, Brittany Davis, Katie Bentley, Samantha Bentley, Levi Whitmire, Taylor Stewart, and Sarah Bentley; brothers, Charles Anthony, Larry Anthony, and Rick Anthony, all of Morganton, and Donald Anthony of Monroe, NC; and sisters, Caroleen Coffey of Morganton and Wanda Deal of Taylorsville, NC.

In addition to her mother, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Kathy Diane Chapman; a grandson, Darrell Gene Davis; and a brother, Cyrus Anthony. Our Mother has fought a good fight. Our Mother has kept the faith. Our Mother has finished the race.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, November 17, 2007 at Mt. Gilead Baptist Church with Rev. Keith Fulbright officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Saturday from 2 until 3 pm in the church fellowship hall. At other times, the family will be at the residence, 4064 Mt. Gilead Church Rd., Connelly Springs. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690 or to Mt. Gilead Baptist Church, 4264 Mt. Gilead Church Rd., Connelly Springs, NC 28612.

Benjamin Cortez Watkins, Jr., 83, of Leonhardt Rd., Morganton, NC, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, November 14, 2007 at his home. Born on January 4, 1924, he was the son of the late Benjamin Cortez Watkins, Sr. and Beatrice Cordia Walker Watkins. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Benjamin Keith Watkins. Ben was an active member of Oak Hill United Methodist Church. He was a WWII veteran during which he served in the European theater and received five bronze stars. Ben was a life-long dairy farmer, having served on the board of Dairymen, Inc. He was a devoted family man and friend to all. His family and friends will miss his wonderful sense of humor, love of life, and his sharing of wonderful stories.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Betty Crawley Watkins of the home; a daughter, Denise Watkins Harris and husband, Danny; a grandson, Izaak B. Watkins; a granddaughter, Cody M. Watkins; two great-grandsons, Noah and Josiah Watkins; a brother, Eugene Watkins and wife, Geraldine, of CA; two sisters, Louise Kidd of Lexington, KY and Sarah Alice Huffman of Hickory, NC; and a number of nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, November 18, 2007 at Oak Hill United Methodist Church with the Reverends Mark Denton, Ron Cooper, and Ronnie LaFevers officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with military graveside rites to be performed by Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends at Sossoman Funeral Home on Saturday evening from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m. At other times the family will be at the residence. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Oak Hill United Methodist Church Driveway Fund, 2239 NC Hwy 181, Morganton, NC 28655.

Eleanor Butkus, 81, of Burke Drive, Morganton, NC, died Wednesday, November 14, 2007 at Frye Regional Medical Center in Hickory, NC. Born in August 21, 1926 in Cook County, IL, she was the daughter of the late Leonard John Butkus and Helen C. Okons Butkus. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a great-nephew, Steve Pritchard. Eleanor was a member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church. She was also a former member of Holy Cross Catholic Church in Chicago, IL. While living in Chicago she painted lamps for the Royal China Company. Eleanor retired from the Kick Dial Company. After her retirement, she stayed to take care of her aging parents. In 1979, she moved to Morganton to be with her family. In her better years she was a certified doll doctor and collector.

Miss Butkus is survived by a sister, Marie M. Butkus of Morganton; nephews, David Tubergen and wife Danita, of Morganton, and John Tubergen of the home; nieces, JoAnn Whitley and husband,Mike, and Sheril Rhinehart and husband, David, all of Jefferson City, TN; great-nieces, Tracy Peña, Carrie Steidl, Shylon Perky, and Sherry Pritchard; great-nephews, Thomas Tubergen, Joseph Tubergen, Brian Pritchard; 8 great-great nieces and nephews, and a special cat, Mirah.

The funeral will be held at noon on Saturday, November 17, 2007 at St. Charles Catholic Borromeo with Father Kenneth Whittington officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home.

With great sorrow, the family of Tommy J. Hardy, age 62, announces his passing on Wednesday, November 14, 2007. He was born in Clayton, GA, on December 13, 1944 to Thomas and Mozelle Hardy. After completing high school, Tommy proudly served his country in the United States Navy. Following his service to his county, he dedicated himself to law enforcement in both practice and application. Service to his community, through training, education, and mentoring, became the hallmark of his career.

Tommy will be lovingly remembered by his family: his wife, Judy; his children, Ben Hardy, Anne Bradley, and Beth Guinn; his sons-in-law, Chris Bradley and Russell Guinn; his daughter-in-law, Adria Hardy; and his grandchildren, Julia Grace Hardy and John Thomas Guinn.

A memorial service will be held at in Tommy’s honor on Saturday, November 17, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home. The family will receive friends and family an hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made in Tommy’s name to the Burke Council of Alcoholism and Chemical Dependency at 203 White Street, Morganton, NC 28655. Condolences may be made online at www.sossomanfuneralservice.com.

Major (U. S. Army Ret.) Marshall O. Roberts, 86, of Holly Rd., Connelly Springs, NC died Tuesday, November 13, 2007 at Valdese General Hospital. He was born in Syracuse, NY on April 28, 1921 and was a son of the late Rhys Roberts and Gertrude Ferris Rigaud. He was a retired major with the U. S. Army and was a veteran of World War II and Korea. Following his retirement he returned to college and then taught elementary and high school classes in New York.

Surviving are his wife, Kunigunde S. Roberts of the home; sons, Kurt M. Roberts of the home and Rhys J. Roberts of Clearwater, FL; and granddaughters, Maria Carmina Roberts and Arlene O. Roberts.

No services were planned. Sossoman Funeral Home assisted the family.

John H. “J.B.” Branch, 76, of Vine St., Morganton, NC died unexpectedly Thursday, Nov. 15, 2007 at his residence. He was born January 3, 1931 in Burke County, and was a son of the late William Hamilton Branch and Anne Byrd Branch. John was a member of First United Methodist Church, and served in the US Army during the Korean War.

He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Mabe Branch of the home; daughters, Janice Branch and Patricia Branch Williams, both of Morganton; grandchildren, Brittainy Branch, Andrew Williams, and Smokye Williams, all of Morganton; and nephews, Richard Branch of Morganton, and Robert Branch of Burnsville, NC. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Neal Branch.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, November 18, 2007 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Sydnor Thompson, III officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Sunday from 2 until 3 pm at the funeral home. At other times, the family will be at the residence of Janice Branch, 107 Rhyne St., Morganton, NC 28655. Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church Keepers Seniors Fund, 200 N. King St., Morganton, NC 28655.

William “Bill” Hubbs, 75, of Timber Court, Morganton, NC, died unexpectedly on Saturday, November 17, 2007 at his residence. Born in Knox County, TN, he was the son of the late Sylvester Hubbs and Marie Hubbs. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Bob, Jack, and Ray Hubbs. Bill was a member of Calvary Baptist Church where he held a number of positions and was currently an active deacon. He was a retired employee of Nabisco. A former member of the Morganton Optimist, Bill had served as a past Lt. Governor.

He is survived by his wife, Mickey Hubbs of the home; a son, William “Billy” Hubbs, Jr. and fiancé Carey Bernard, of Morganton; a daughter, Claudia Morgan and husband, Howard, of Morganton; a brother, Wayne Hubbs of Maryville, TN; a sister, Marie Smith of Kingston, TN; and grandsons, Ryan Morgan and wife, Sarah, and Kyle Morgan, all of Morganton.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, November 19, 2007 at Calvary Baptist Church with Rev. Larry Thompson officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Hill Cemetery with military graveside rites to be conducted by Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends Sunday evening from 5:00 until 6:30 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the funeral hour. At other times the family will be at the residence, 107 Timber Court, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Baptist Church Building Fund, 407 S. Green Street, Morganton, NC 28655.

Martha “Mawmaw” Webb, 51, of St. Mary’s Church Rd., Morganton, NC died peacefully surrounded by her family on Saturday, November 17, 2007, at Valdese General Hospital. She was born April 2, 1956 in Cleveland County, and was a daughter of Delia Faye Hudson White of Morganton and the late James Clayton White. Martha was a member of Son-Light Baptist Church. She was a former employee of Sara Lee Textiles, and was currently working at Shadowline Mfg.

In addition to her mother, Martha is survived by her husband, of 37 years, Roger Clarence Webb of the home; children, Tim Webb and wife, Kelsey, Teresa Woody and husband, Jeff, and Christy French and husband, Naaman, all of Morganton; brothers, Rufus White, Donald White, and Jerry White, all of Morganton; sisters, Betty Brown and Mildred Sheets, both of Morganton; and grandchildren, Allie, Anna, and Cooper Webb, Mindy Woody, Jessica Webb and Brian Webb, and Haley French.

In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by a brother, Junior White; and a sister, Barbara White.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 20, 2007 at Son-Light Baptist Church with the Reverends Jimmy Harmon and Gary Garner officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 1 until 2 pm at the church. At other times, the family will be at the home of Tim Webb. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Cathy Sue Wishion, 43, of Josiah Drive, Waynesville, NC, died unexpectedly Saturday, November 17, 2007 at her home. Born in McDowell County, NC on July 8, 1964, she was the daughter of James Laughter of Marion, NC and the late Joanne Pearson Laughter. In addition to her mother, she was preceded in death by a sister, Diane Ingram. Cathy attended Rock Springs Baptist Church in Waynesville. She was a former employee of Carolina Shoe and of Spectrum Textured Yarn. Cathy was a loving wife and mother, and was devoted to her family.

In addition to her father, she is survived by her husband, James Wishion of the home; sons, Jason and James Hughes, both of Morganton, NC; sisters, Janie Hollifield and husband, S.W., of Marion, Emily Brittain of Morganton; Angie Bartlett of Marion, Amy Laughter of Spruce Pine, NC, Vickie Love of Marion, Stacy Blizzard of Marion, and Tammy Hughes of Marion; a brother, Jamie Laughter of Marion; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 21, 2007 at Westview Baptist Church in the Fellowship Hall with the Reverends Rick Speagle and Charlie Simpson officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Tuesday evening from 6:30 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the fellowship hall thirty minutes before the funeral hour.. At other times, the family will be at the residence of Cathy’s father, James Laughter, 41 Candy Acres, Marion, NC 28752. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Sossoman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 2608, Morganton, NC 28680 to assist with funeral arrangements.

Richard Forbes “Dick” Ferguson, 83, of Hilltop Street, Morganton, NC, died Sunday, November 18, 2007 at Grace Hospital following a brief illness. Born on June 18, 1924 in Cass County, IL, he was the son of Elizabeth Forbes Mathein. In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by his wife, Nita Fleming Ferguson, and step-father, Otto Mathein. Richard was a WWII U.S. Marine Corps veteran. For many years he owned and operated the England and Ferguson Company which provided heating, air conditioning, electrical, and plumbing services to the community. Richard was an active member of First United Methodist Church since 1953, having served for 12 years as property committee chairman. He was also a member of the Mimosa Hills Golf and Country Club for over 40 years.

A loving husband, father, and grandfather, Richard is survived by his daughters, Suzan Raye Tolbert and husband, Woody, of Morganton and Judy Kaye Brittain and husband, Tom, of Lenoir, NC; grandchildren, Kurt Wallin and wife, Stacey, of Gunnison, CO, Keith Wallin of Gunnison, Keri Powers of Minneapolis, MN, Todd Brittain and wife, Marie, of Morganton, Chris Brittain and wife, Leanne, of Morganton, and Cyndi Danner and husband, Ray of Kearneysville, WV; and great-grandchildren, Jordan Wallin, Josh Wallin, Jake Wallin, Gabe Wallin, Taylor Raye Wallin, Blake Powers, Cameron Powers, Jodi Brittain, Zach Brittain, Ben Brittain, and Will Brittain.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 21, 2007 at First United Methodist Church with Rev. Bob Roach officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends in the church fellowship hall from 12:30 until 2:00 p.m. before the service. At other times the family will be at the residence, 120 Hilltop Street, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, 200 N. King Street, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Nancy Hills Davis, 81, of Rockview Lane, Morganton, NC, died Saturday, November 17, 2007 at the Burke Palliative Care Center in Valdese, NC. Born in Burke County, NC on December 17, 1925, she was the daughter of the late Edwin B. Davis and Marie Hills Ballard Davis. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Edwin Davis, Jr. Nancy was a lifetime member of First United Methodist Church.

Nancy attended Morganton’s public schools, Virginia Intermont College, and graduated from Salem College as an elementary school teacher. After graduation she taught inside and outside of NC. Later, having taken training in Pennsylvania to teach the deaf, she taught at Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf in Pittsburgh, PA. Upon her return to Morganton, she taught in both the public schools and at North Carolina School for the Deaf.

Nancy was a past president of the Morganton Women’s Club and served for three years as chairperson of the M.W.C. Christmas Cheer. She did volunteer work at Burke United Christian Ministries, Grace Hospital, and the public library.

Miss Davis is survived by three nieces, Nancy Davis of Louisville, KY, Susan Anderson of Berkeley Lake, GA, and Melissa Davis of Wilmington, NC, and by a great niece and nephew, Rebecca Burke and Graham Burke, both of Wilmington, NC.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, 200 N. King Street, Morganton, NC 28655 or the Burke Hospice and Palliative Care Center, 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting with the arrangements.

Annie Pearl Cordell, 82, of NC 18 South, Morganton, NC died Tuesday, November 20, 2007 at Valdese Hospital following a period of declining health. She was born September 5, 1925 in Burke County, NC, and was a daughter of the late James Ambrose Willis and Josephine Sain Willis. Annie was a US Navy veteran (WAVE) of World War II. She was a member of Mt. Home Baptist Church, and a former employee of Shadowline.

Annie is survived by sisters, Lillie Willis Cline of Charlotte, NC, and Grace Biggerstaff of Newton, NC; and a number of nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Alvin Lee Cordell.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, November 23, 2007 at Mt. Home Baptist Church with Rev. Jerry Gamble officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday from 1 until 2 pm at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Home Baptist Church Graceful Giving Fund, 2272 Mt. Home Church Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Mina Lou Avery Paille, a long time resident of Grace Heights, died on Tuesday, November 20, 2007 at age 96 after years of declining health. A Burke County native, she and her twin sister, Mary Sue, were born on September 28, 1911. They were the third and fourth daughters among the eleven children born to the late Olin Melvin and Mary Lou Kincaid Avery. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, William (Bill) Paille as well as brothers Francis Theodore Avery, Carl Baker Avery, Issac Marion Avery and Clifton Kincaid Avery and sisters Rose Kathleen Avery, Elizabeth Avery Barrs, Mary Sue Avery Dodd, Esther Avery Bowman, Eugenia Avery Cornelieusen and Annabel Avery Harper.

Mina was a graduate of Berea College in Kentucky and was a special education teacher who worked for a time at NC School for the Deaf. During the war years she worked at Walter Reed Army Hospital in Washington, DC where she met William Paille, her future husband. In 1946, she and Bill, a World War II aviator, assumed operation of Davis Airport in Laytonsville, MD. Later they purchased the airport. After her husband’s death in 1977, she operated the airport by herself until her retirement in 1999 at age 88. In 1998, she was recognized by the Maryland Transportation Department for 50 years of aviation service. Mina was a charter member of North Morganton United Methodist Church in Morganton.

She is survived by numerous nieces and nephews living throughout the country including David Campbell, Sam Avery, Linda Lackey, Sally Haney and Mary Ann Plese all of Morganton.

Graveside rites will be held on Friday, November 23, 2007 at 1:00 pm at Forest Hill Cemetery in Morganton with the Rev. Tony Matthews officiating. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Gregory “Greg” Ray, 40, of St. Mary’s Church Road, Morganton, NC, passed away unexpectedly to be with the almighty Lord. Born in McDowell County, NC, on November 18, 1967, he was the son of James E. Ray and JoAnne Arrowood Ray. Greg was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents and his paternal grandfather.

He was a faithful employee of Ethan Allen for sixteen years. He was well respected by management and the employees of Ethan Allen. He was an excellent driver, having logged 1,397,489 safe driving miles. Greg enjoyed camping, four-wheeling, and spending time with his son, Nicholas.

A loving husband and step-father, Greg is survived by his wife, Karen Lackey Ray of the home; a son, Nicholas “NickNack” Kirk of the home; a daughter, Kelsey Lane Fisher of the home; brothers, Mark Ray and friend, Tracy, and Jimmy Ray and wife, Cyndi, all of Marion, NC; a sister, Teresa Washburn and husband, Fred, of Marion, NC; a paternal grandmother, Lillian Ray of Marion; a maternal grandfather, Carl Medford of Marion; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Jerry “Tony” Lackey of Morganton; his brother-in-law and best friend, Doug Lackey and wife, Missy, of Old Fort, NC; a brother-in-law, Chris Lackey and wife, Stacey, of Valdese, NC; several nieces and nephews; a great-niece, Alexis Jade Rhymer; and a host of friends.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m., Saturday, November 24, 2007 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the service immediately following. Burial will follow in Bethel Baptist Church Cemetery in Marion. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family, 911 St. Mary’s Church Road, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Cecil Leland Baker, 81, of Reep Drive, Morganton, NC, died Wednesday, November 21, 2007 at Mission Memorial Hospital in Asheville, NC. Born in Madison County, NC, on December 25, 1925, he was the son of the late General Baker and Edith Payne Baker. Cecil was a member of First Baptist Church in Glen Alpine. He retired from Causby’s Concrete after 33 years of service. A loving husband, father, and grandfather, he enjoyed farming and raising cattle.

Cecil is survived by his wife, Ruth Worley Baker of the home; a son, Alvin Baker and wife, Dee, of Morganton; daughters, Debbie Patton and husband, Charles, of the Lake James Community and Jean Bumgarner of Hickory, NC; brothers, Bobby, Clyde, and Ohlen Baker, all of Morganton; a sister, Inez Henderson of Morganton; five grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, November 24, 2007 at the First Baptist Church in Glen Alpine with Rev. Mike Brown officiating. Burial will follow in Calvin Heights Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church from 1:30 until 3:00 p.m. before the service. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Mildred “Mimi” Louise Mullis of Morganton, NC, died at Grace Hospital on Monday, November 26, 2007 at the age of 99. Mimi was born in Morganton on February 22, 1908, a daughter of the late John Hampton Mullis and Martha Alice Hendrix Mullis. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Willard R. “Jake” Mullis, and her sisters, Hattie Mullis Dickens and Ella Dewey Mullis.

Mimi graduated from Meredith College in 1929 with a BA degree in education. She also received her Public School Librarian Certificate from Appalachian State University. She was a graduate student of the Institute of Children’s Literature, enabling her to write children’s stories. She served as a teacher and librarian in the local school systems for a period spanning forty years. She held many offices in the North Carolina Association of Educators. Mimi was a member and past president of Delta Kappa Gamma.

She was a life-long member of the First Baptist Church and sang in the Chancel Choir for many years. She devoted many years to music, working with the Children’s Choir and as a pianist for many church classes and events. She was a charter member and past president of the local Pilot Club, and served as District Governor, Director, and Historian of the Pilot Club’s N.C. District. She was an active member of The Friday Afternoon Book Club of Morganton.

Mimi’s greatest joy was being a “second mother” to her niece, Martha L. Harvey, and nephews, Alvin J. Dickens, Jr., John W. Dickens, and Major Henry V. Dickens, who all grew up next door to her at the home place. She has numerous great-nieces and nephews, Major Andrew S. Harvey, Alvin J. Dickens, III, Todd H. Dickens, John W. Dickens, II, William T. Dickens, Rachel D. White, and Sarah E. Dickens. The great-great-nieces and nephews are Stephen, Matthew, and Danny Harvey, Bess and Al IV Dickens, Mary Cannon, Scottie, Hampton, and Michael Dickens, Witt and Hayes Dickens.

The memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, November 29, 2007 at First Baptist Church with the Rev. Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr officiating. The family will receive friends in the church parlor following the service. A private graveside service will be held prior to the memorial service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent to The Music Department, c/o First Baptist Church, P.O. Drawer 459, Morganton, NC 28680. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Juanita W. Pearson, 83, of Valdese, NC, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, November 27, 2007 at her residence. Born on January 5, 1924 in Burke County, NC, she was the daughter of the late Ferdie Ersel Whisenant and Maude Lee Short Whisenant. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Grant Pearson; sons, Randy and Barry Pearson; a brother, Boyd Whisenant; sisters, Avna Barnette, and Mable Annas. Juanita was a member of United Baptist Church. She was very active in the choir, WMU, and other church functions and volunteered for many years for Hospice of Burke County. She loved to help and serve others.

Mrs. Pearson is survived by sons, Gene Pearson and wife, Sandy, of Chattanooga, TN, Mike Pearson and wife, Gail, of Valdese, Terryl Pearson and wife, Lynda, of Drexel, NC, Byron Pearson of Morganton, NC; daughters, Detra Hall and husband, Ken, of Morganton, NC and Lana German and husband, Randy, of Lenoir, NC; a sister, Greta Garrison; and a number of nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Thursday, November 29, 2007 at United Baptist Church with the Reverends Avery Owenby and Jim Lee officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church 2 hours prior to the service. Her grandsons, Garron German, Derrick German, Barry Pearson, Joey Pearson, Richard Pearson, and David Pearson will be serving as pallbearers. Memorial contributions may be made to United Baptist Church, 2638 Messer Road, Valdese, NC, 28690 or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Harold “H.G.” Pierce, 68, of Goodman Lake Rd., Morganton, NC died Tuesday, November 27, 2007 at his residence following a period of declining health. He was born September 28, 1939 in St. Albans, WV, and was a son of the late Harold Arthur Pierce and Lorene Lawrence Pierce. Harold was both a US Army and US Navy veteran, and served in the Korean War. He was a retired employee of Great Lakes Carbon Corp.

Harold is survived by his wife, Carolyn Massey Pierce of the home; a son, J. Michael Pierce and wife, Laura, of Morganton; daughters, Cathy Cottrell Hill and husband, Kenneth, of Thomasville, NC, and Jesseca Pierce Gammons and husband, Scott, of Knoxville, TN; grandchildren, Madison Gammons, Anna-Kedron Gammons, and Jordan Caroline Pierce; step-mother, Mary Pierce of Morganton; and sisters, Carolyn Bucklen of St. Albans, WV, and Judy McClanahan of Belle, WV. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Richard Pierce.

A private funeral service will be held in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman with entombment following in Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial contributions may be made to Blue Ridge Mountain Church Association, 2221 Blevins Creek Rd., Elk Park, NC 28622. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

James Darby, a long time resident of Burke County died November 28, 2007 at age 97. Mr. Darby was born February 5, 1910 in Greenwood, SC, and with his parents, arrived in Morganton in 1913. During his teen years, he began a love affair with airplanes and aviation that would be a large part of his life for better than fifty years. He was a pioneering aviator, one of the early barnstormers of the 1930s, and a contributor to aviation in many ways.

Darby was a patriot to this country during World War II. In Camden, SC, his flying and parachute packing skills were passed on to large numbers of young men who were being prepared to go to war. When one of the planes being used as a trainer, had an engine replaced, Darby became the test pilot for that aircraft. He was truly among those men and women who were destined to be called, “The Greatest Generation”. During those wartime years in Camden, SC, he was a member of the Camden Rotary, and served as President of the Camden Jaycees. Upon his return to Morganton and Burke County, he and his wife, Iona, served as volunteers at their church and at Grace Hospital.

James was a loyal and loving husband to his wife, Iona, who preceded him in death in the year 1993. He was dignified in life, a man of character, honest in thought and action, had ethics beyond question, and was loyal to his friends and associates. He will be missed by his many friends, but long remembered as a good man and a good friend. Many people pass into and out of our lives, but few leave footprints in our heart. James Darby was such a man.

Graveside services will be held at 2:30 pm, Sunday, December 2, 2007 at Forest Hill Cemetery with Rev. Michael Bailey officiating. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Charlotte Fox Lambert, 87, formerly of Bouchelle Street, Morganton died Thursday, November 29, 2007, at Britthaven following a period of declining health. She was born in Burke County on June 1, 1920 and was a daughter of the late I. L. Fox and Mary Lowman Fox. Mrs. Lambert was a member of Calvary Baptist Church.

Surviving are her daughter, Betsy Denton and her husband, Kenneth; son, Theodore R. Lambert, Jr.; a sister, Pauline Stephens; and a granddaughter, Kristin Denton, all of Morganton.

Graveside services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, December 1, 2007 at Burke Memorial Park with Rev. Bob Deviney officiating. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.

Gavin L. Sewell, 23, of Simpsonville, SC died Wednesday, November 28, 2007 due to an auto accident. He was born August 7, 1984 in Burke County, NC.

He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Morganton. Gavin graduated from Spartanburg High School, and graduated Cum Laude from the University of South Carolina with a double major in Business Administration and Entrepreneurial Management. He was currently working for Yellow Book.Com.

Gavin is survived by his mother, Leah A. White of Glen Alpine, NC; maternal grandparents, Lamar and Bette White of Morganton; an aunt and uncle, Dawn and Robert Collett of Morganton; his father, Tony G. Sewell of Chesapeake, VA; a half-brother, Mathew G. Sewell of Virginia Beach, VA; a half-sister, Madison Sewell of Virginia Beach, VA; cousins, Lee Collett, Cray Collett, and Arlie Collett; and numerous other cousins. He was preceded in death by his great grandmother, Ruby White; and paternal grandparents, Juanita and Gilmer Sewell.

A Celebration of Gavin’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, December 1, 2007 at the First United Methodist Church with Rev. Dr. Sydnor Thompson, III officiating. The family will receive friends Saturday from 1 until 2 pm in the church fellowship hall. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Charitable Properties for Transitional Housing 315 West Union Street, Morganton NC 28655 Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Katie Stroup Hildebrand, 96, of Mt. Home Church Road, Morganton, NC, passed away Friday, November 30, 2007 at Autumn Care of Drexel following a period of declining health. Born in Burke County, NC on April 3, 1911, she was the daughter of the late Ezra Andrew Stroup and Edith Shell Stroup. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands, Ernest Propst and Lewis Hildebrand; a brother, Jerome Stroup; and sisters, Cozie Browning, Jewel Foster, Mary Duckworth, Hester Browning, Jennie Poteat, and Mable Stroup.

Katie grew up in a very loving and giving family. She attended school at the old Mull School. She married her first love, Ernest Propst, at the age of 18. This was a very happy marriage but was short lived when he passed away at the age of 22. Later, she married Louis Hildebrand with whom she shared over 50 years.

Katie started working at the age of 16 at Morganton Hosiery Mill, where she worked for over 30 years. She then went to work at Western Carolina Center, where she worked until retirement. After retirement, staying home was not enough to keep her busy, so she went to work at Hardee’s in Valdese, and later transferred to Hardee’s in Drexel where she worked until 1998. Katie’s love for people kept her young and on the go.

She had been a faithful member of Mount Home Baptist Church, serving in a number of roles such as Sunday School teacher, Training Union teacher, choir member, Nursery worker, served on the Cemetery Committee, and was always ready to help where she was needed.

Katie is survived by her daughters, Delores H. Stroupe, and Susan H. Haugen and husband, Donald, all of Morganton; a sister, Ruby Dale of Morganton; grandchildren, Ricky Stroupe and wife, Mary, Ronnie Stroupe, Russell Stroupe and wife, Guynelle, Rex Stroupe and wife, Brenda, and Marsha Carver and husband, Aaron; great-grandchildren, Jennifer Davis and husband, Greg, Bon Stroupe, Angie Bumgarner and husband, Bruce, Josh Stroupe and wife, Shasta, PFC Karen Stroupe, Randy Stroupe, Tonya Buff and husband, Wayne, McKenna Carver, and Kiley Carver; and great-great-grandchildren, Justin Buff, Katie Buff, William Davis, Davin Stroupe, Kaylen Stroupe, and Darren Stroupe.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Monday, December 3, 2007 at Mount Home Baptist Church with Rev. Jerry Gamble officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church on Monday from 1:30 until 3:00 p.m. At other times the family will be at the residence of the daughter, Delores Stroupe, 2668 Hill Drive, Morganton, NC. Memorial contributions may be made to the Graceful Giving Fund of Mt. Home Baptist Church, 2272 Mt. Home Church Road, Morganton, NC 28655 or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.