George Paul Williams, 84, of Creekside Dr., Morganton, NC died Tuesday, January 1, 2008, following a lengthy illness. He had been residing at Wilora Lake Healthcare in Charlotte, NC for the last several years. He was born in Boaz, Alabama to the late Clyde and Opal Hubbard Williams. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a sister, Dorothy. George was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Morganton and of the Huffman Sunday School class for many years. Mr. Williams served in the U. S. Army as a teletype operator during World War II, and he enjoyed attending the yearly reunions with the 260th Signal Service. Following his years of military service, he continued his education and graduated from Auburn University. He retired from Belk Department Store after 37 years of service. One of his greatest joys as a manager was working with young people, and he was awarded a life membership in the Distributive Education Clubs of America.

Mr. Williams was an active member in his community serving as a board member of the Morganton Downtown Development Association, the Flynn Home, and was instrumental in the formation of the Friendly Tuesday Club for servitor citizens, arranging for them to meet at area churches twice a month for social and business meetings. As a member of the Morganton Lions Club, George was a past president and was awarded a lifetime membership. He was also recognized for his 50 plus years of service as a Shriner and a Mason.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Wilma Williams, of the home; a son, Paul W. Williams and his wife, Margaret, and their children, Maggie and Katie; his daughters, Margaret W. Bahr, and her husband, Jonathan, and their daughter, Lauren, and Laura W. Lookadoo, all of Charlotte; step-daughters, Tracie Bennett and her husband, Andrew, and Kellie Transou, and her husband, Terry; his sister, Ann W. Little of Muscle Shoals, AL; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, January 3, 2008, at First Baptist Church with the Rev. Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr. and Rev. Frederick Schuszler officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friend in the church parlor one hour before the service. Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, PO Drawer 459, Morganton, NC 28680 or to Presbyterian Hospital Harris Hospice Unit, 200 Hawthorne Lane, Charlotte, NC 28204. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Rachel Louise Cook McNeely, 65, of Watermill Rd., Morganton, NC died Tuesday, January 01, 2008, at Frye Regional Medical Center following a period of declining health. She was born in Burke County on August 3, 1942 and was a daughter of the late Paul Douglas Cook and Junie Branch Cook. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her daughter, Alisha Burns; great-grandchild, Bridget Finley; and by brothers, Dean and Ronnie Cook. Mrs. McNeely was a member of Zion Road Baptist Church and was a former employee of Valdese General Hospital and Saft Industry in Valdese.

Surviving are her daughters and their husbands, Elaine and Ronnie Gilbert, Janet and Greg Cook, Karen McNeely, and Ramona and Jamie Deaton, all of Morganton; a brother, Cecil Cook, of Hickory, sisters, Fonda Sigmann of Clarkston, MI and Sharon Dainoviec of Petoskey, MI; grandchildren, Michael Anthony, Crystal McNeely, Haili Cook, Lacie Deaton, and Lauren Burns; a great-grandchild, Kimberly Finley; her companion, Fred Canipe, of Hickory; and a special nephew, Tim Cook and his family of Hickory.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, January 5, 2008, in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Mica Piercy officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 3:00 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

Frances Cannon Powell, 81, of Rockett St., Morganton, NC died Wednesday, January 2, 2008 at Camelot Manor Nursing Care in Granite Falls, NC following a period of declining health. She was born July 22, 1926 in Forsyth County, NC, and was a daughter of the late Kenneth Rondall Cannon and Nell Mae Bennett Cannon. Frances worked for 35 years at Drexel Furniture Plant #7, 25 years at the Holiday Inn, and 3 years at Western Piedmont Community College.

She is survived by sons, Wayne Butler and wife, Joyce, of Asheville, NC, Jesse Boyd Powell and wife, Sallie Ray, of Chesapeake Bay, VA; a daughter, Linda Powell Vuncannon of Morganton; a brother, Donald Cannon of Bethlehem, NC; sisters, Laverne Atkins of Durham, NC, and Alta Cannon of Morganton; 12 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jesse James “Jim” Powell; a daughter, Virginia Powell Fox; sisters, Charlotte Smith, Cynthia Denton, and Katrida Williams; brothers, John, Bill, and Marshall Cannon; and a grandson, James Barus.

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m., Friday, January 4, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Allen Bolick officiating. Burial will be at 2:00 p.m., Monday, January 7, 2008 in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Thursday from 6:30 until 8:30 pm at the funeral home. At other times, the family will receive friends at the residence, 101 Rockett St. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Catawba County, 3975 Robinson Rd., Newton, NC 28658.

Edna Cline Ramsey, 83, of Old NC 18, Morganton, NC, died Thursday, January 03, 2008 at her residence. Born in Lincoln County, NC on February 7, 1924, she was the daughter of the late Hoyle Jackson Cline and Florence Rhoney Cline. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William Clyde “Bill” Ramsey; brothers, Talmadge Cline, Lee Cline, and Rob Bess; a sister, Hester Shull; and a son-in-law, Walter H. Windley, III. Edna was a member of St. Matthews United Methodist Church and the co-founder of Ramsey Motors.

She is survived by her son, Clyde Ramsey and wife, Darlene, of Morganton, NC and Dennis Ramsey and wife, Bo, of Raleigh, NC; a daughter, Debbie Ramsey Windley of Gastonia, NC; sisters, Eva Young, Joyce Ann Lingerfelt, and Nancy McCaslin; brothers, Hoyle Cline, Jr., Joe Cline, and Gene Bess; six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, January 5, 2008 at St. Matthews United Methodist Church with Rev. Allen Boliek officiating and grandson, Walt Windley, IV assisting. Entombment will follow in Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the funeral. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Matthews United Methodist Church, 201 Shady Rest 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.

Annie Lee Rich, 88, of Jewel St., Morganton, NC died Friday, January 04, 2008, at her residence following a period of declining health. She was born May 19, 1919 in Catawba County, NC, and was a daughter of the late Lee B. Drum and Vergie Cline Drum. Annie was a member of Morganton Seventh Day Adventist Church.

She is survived by a son, Gary Rich and wife, Jackie, of Morganton; grandchildren, Phillip, Kelly, Paula, Adam, Patrick, and Heather; great grandchildren, Cody, Brent, Nicky, Matthew, Jessie, and Hunter; a brother, Calvin Drum of Newton, NC; and a sister, Ruth Cramartie of Matthews, NC.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Tillman Monroe Rich; and seven brothers and sisters.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, January 6, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Craig Price officiating. Burial will follow in the Seventh Day Adventist Cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday from 1:30 until 3:00 pm at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Morganton Burke Senior Center, 501 N. Green St., Morganton, NC 28655, or to Burke Hospice and Pallative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.

Carl L. Norman, 89, of Drexel, NC went home to be with Maw-Maw, his loving wife of 68 years, on Saturday, January 05, 2008 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. Born in Cleveland County, NC on January 1, 1919, he was the son of the late Lawrence Norman and Lola Ledford Norman. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Margie Deal Norman; brothers, Amos and Emmett Norman; and a sister, Selma Baker. Carl attended High Peak Baptist Church and was a US Navy Veteran of WWII.

He retired as a supervisor from Drexel Knitting Mills after 60+ years. An avid hunter and fisherman, his most enjoyable moments were spent in his deer stand. Carl was a member of Mull’s Hunting Club. He was a loving father and pawpaw. Carl is survived by daughters, Brenda Foss of Drexel, Priscilla Moretz and husband, Ted, of Charlotte, NC, and Rachel Griffin and husband, Ed, of Charlotte; a son, Larry Eugene Norman and wife, Molly, of Hickory, NC; a granddaughter, Tonya Shull Queen and husband, Dean, of Drexel; a brother, Loy Norman and wife, Dean, of Valdese; grandchildren, Lance Foss, Kendall Foss Brown, Chase Foss, Greg Griffin, Matt Griffin, Kirk Moretz, Stephanie Moretz, Kristen Moretz Oliver, Jacqueline Norman Fuentes, Cherise Norman Klutz, and Chuck Norman; and sixteen great-grandchildren.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Monday, January 7, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Chaplain Dennis Stamper officiating. Entombment will follow in Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum with military rites to be performed by Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. At other times the family will be at the residence of the daughter, Brenda Foss, 1785 Drexel Rd., Valdese.

Samuel Phillip Marcus, 72, of Secrest Street, Morganton, NC went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, January 6, 2008 at Grace Hospital. He was born September 10, 1935 in Avery County, NC to Paul and Martha Jane Dellinger Marcus. Samuel attended Full Gospel Church where he was a faithful servant of the Lord. He was a US Army Veteran of the Korean Conflict, and was honorably discharged in 1971. Samuel worked for the Wamsutta High Pile Plant until it closed, and then worked at Crest Line Furniture and Breeden Poultry. He was loving, kind, patient, and alreadys ready to help anyone. Samuel’s presence will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Marcus of the home; grandchildren, Jessica Wright, Abigail, Joseph, and Timothy Marcus, mother-in-law, Jenny Self; sisters-in-law, Mildred Thames, Jewel Self, Melva Self, and Patsy Stamey and husband, Virgil; brother-in-law, Edward Self and wife, Peggy; a brother, Jimmy Marcus and wife, Lucy, of Spruce Pine, NC; sisters, Mildred Wilson and husband, Bernhard, of Morganton, and Shirley Mitchell and husband, Eairn, of Lenoir, NC; numerous nieces and nephews; and many other family members and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sons, Roy and Paul Marcus; and sisters, Belle Burleson, Rosaly Hopson, and Esther Webb.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 9, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Scott Evans officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 1 until 2 pm at the funeral home.

Ruth J. Bollinger, 89, of Bollinger Loop, Morganton, NC died peacefully surrounded by her family on January 6, 2008 at her residence. She was born June 13, 1918 in Burke County, NC, and was a daughter of the late Marshall Duckworth and Sally Mace Duckworth. Ruth attended Nowlings Chapel Freewill Baptist Church. She enjoyed her flower garden and crocheting. Ruth was a devoted and loving wife, mother, and grandmother.

Left to cherish her memory are daughters, Faye Norman and husband, Lou, Juanita Crotts and husband, Sam, and Ann Carswell and husband, PeeWee, all of Morganton; sons, Henry and Garland Bollinger, both of Morganton; granddaughters, Penny, Tammy, Tracy, Ashley, and Wendy; grandsons, Lynn, Eddie, Andy, Lewis, and Johnny; 13 great grandchildren; a brother, Herman Duckworth and wife, Judy, of Morganton; and sisters, Annie Ree Epley of Glen Alpine, NC and Faye Rhyne of Valdese, NC.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, John Henry Bollinger; a son, Hatch Bollinger; brothers, Glen, Ruben, John, Stan Duckworth; and a sister, Margaret Lambert.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M., Tuesday, January 8, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Darvy Hensley officiating. Entombment will follow at Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 10 until 11 am at the funeral home. At other times, the family will be at Mrs. Bollinger’s residence, 5795 Bollinger Loop, Morganton. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690, or to Nowlings Chapel Freewill Baptist Church, 5827 Fisher Davis Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.

SFC Herman Dean “Stormy” Street, U.S. Army Ret.,54, of Patton Road, Morganton, NC, died Saturday, January 5, 2008 at Catawba Valley Medical Center in Hickory, NC. Born on February 11, 1953 in Rutherford County, NC, he was the son of the late J. D. Street and Josephine Crane Street. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a step-father, R. J. Smith. Herman was a retired member of the U.S. Army Airborne Rangers Special Forces. During his army career, he was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal with a Bronze Star, the NCO Professional Development Ribbon, the Army Service Ribbon, and the Overseas Service Ribbon. Herman was awarded certificates for completing the Parachutist Training Course and the Advanced NCO Course.

He is survived by his wife, Charlene Beck Street of the home; a son, Jacob Dean Street of Rutherfordton, NC; a daughter, Ora Katherine White of Rutherfordton; brothers, Bobby Ray Street and James David Street, both of Morganton; sisters, Patsy Burnett of Poke County, NC, Doris Baker of Morganton, and Kathy Boone of Rutherfordton; a step-son, Stephen Dellinger of Morganton; step-daughters, Molly Gilliam of Black Mountain, NC and Rebecca Powell of Morganton; nine grandchildren, fives nephews, and three nieces.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, January 13, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Chaplain Larry Cronk officiating. Burial will follow in the L. R. Patton Family Cemetery in Morganton with full military graveside rites. The family will receive friends Saturday from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the DAV, Chapter 43, c/o Robert Miller, PO Box 572, Morganton, NC 28680.

James F. Hughes, Jr., 75, of Willowbrook Drive, Morganton, NC, died unexpectedly Saturday, January 5, 2008 at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, NC. Born in Yancey County, NC on September 27, 1932, he was the son of the late James F. Hughes, Sr. and Elizabeth Bennett Clapp. James served 12 years with the U.S. Air Force. He then worked in aerospace engineering for 20 years as a draftsman with various contractors at Kennedy Space Center. Mr. Hughes was of the Baptist faith.

He is survived by his wife, Juanita “Nita” Parker Hughes of the home; sons, Richard Hughes of Melbourne, FL and Michael Hughes of Johnson City, TN; and one grandson, Richard Hughes.

The memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, January 12, 2008 at North Morganton United Methodist Church with Rev. Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr. officiating. The family will receive friends at the church following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to North Morganton United Methodist Church, 990 Sanford Drive, Morganton, NC 28655 or to First Baptist Church, P.O. Drawer 459, Morganton, NC 28680. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Joseph Vance Alexander, 73, of Creekside on W. Union Street, Morganton, NC died Monday, January 7, 2008, at his residence. He was born in Jacksonville, FL on May 25, 1934 and was a son of the late William Theodore Alexander and Eloise McDowell Alexander. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a brother, William Theodore Alexander, Jr. Mr. Alexander was a U. S. Marine Corps veteran of the Korean War and was a graduate of Appalachian State Teachers College. He taught for 32 years for the Burke County Schools. Joe was a 32nd Degree Mason; a member and past master of Catawba Valley Lodge #217; and was a Shriner with the Oasis Shrine Temple in Charlotte. Joe was also a member of the Marine Corps League, Table Rock Detachment and a member of Grace Episcopal Church where he was a past member of the vestry.

Surviving are his wife, Mary Boggs Alexander of the home; daughters and their husbands, Mary H. and Paul Braun and Louisa A. and Kirk Emmons all of Morganton; grandchildren, Cory Braun, Mary Faye Lyle, and James Alexander Emmons; his sister, Eloise McDowell Stieneke, of Lenoir; a brother, and his wife, Erwin McDowell and Celia Alexander, of Suffolk, VA; a sister-in-law, Mary Ann Bostic Alexander, of Nebo; and a number of nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, January 11, 2008, at Grace Episcopal Church with Rev. Bruce Walker officiating. Inurnment will follow in the church cemetery with Masonic Rites conducted by Catawba Valley Masonic Lodge #217. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Thursday at Sossoman Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be made to Grace Episcopal Church Endowment Fund, 303 S. King St., Morganton, NC 28655.

Margaret Elizabeth McGimsey, 95, of NC 181, Morganton, NC, died Monday, January 7, 2008 at her residence. Born in Burke County, NC on January 6, 1913, she was the daughter of the late Joseph Alphonso McGimsey and Margaret Lucille McGimsey. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Joseph A. McGimsey, Jr.

In 1944 she became the first educator in Burke County to earn a Master’s degree. She was also the very first “Teacher of the Year” in Burke County public schools. It was decided by a county-wide vote for the educational year of 1972-1973. In 1952 she was one of 28 teachers from the U.S. invited to Washington for a conference on teacher workloads. She taught in the Burke County School System for 43 years. Margaret was a member of the Delta Kappa Gamma for 63 years. The oldest member of Mountain Grove United Methodist Church, she received the Methodist Woman’s Award and was awarded a Life Membership Pin many years ago.

She is survived by her brother, David McGimsey of Morganton; a sister, Anna Sue Fess and husband, Albert E. of Rochester, NY; nieces, Carol Helfond and husband, Geoff, and Margaret Fox and husband, Gordon, all of Rochester; nephews, David Fess and Edward Fess and wife, Connie, all of Rochester; and eight great-nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Thursday, January 10, 2008 at Mountain Grove United Methodist Church with the Reverends Cornelius Brantly, Karen Kajiyama, Charles Sisk, and Betty Henson officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Wednesday evening from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the funeral hour. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mtn. Grove United Methodist Church, 3625 Fish Hatchery Rd., Morganton, NC, 28655, Brown-McGimsey Scholarship Fund, c/o Howard Sercery, 2516 NC 181, Morganton, NC 28655, or the Burke Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.

Frank Richard Garland, 82, of Duckworth Circle, Morganton, NC, died Thursday, January 10, 2008 at Grace Hospital. Born in Avery County, NC on December 19, 1925, he was the son of the late Steven Garland and Texie Wiseman Garland. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Stephen Clyde Garland. Frank retired from Causby Construction.

He is survived by his wife, Delcie Ruth Crowder Garland of the home; a son, Frank Junior Garland and wife, Reba, of Morganton; daughters, Glenda Hatton and husband, James, of Hudson, NC, and Margaret Norman of Morganton; grandchildren, Scott Hatton, Bryan Garland, Tracy Oliver, Lesley Norman, and Kristin Garland, and nine great-grandchildren.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, January 14, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Bob Devinney officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. The graveside service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Monday at Pine Grove United Methodist Church Cemetery in Spruce Pine. At other times the family will be at the residence. Memorial contributions may be made to Pine Grove United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund, 53 Pine Grove Rd., Spruce Pine, NC 28777.

Irene Hipps Duckworth, 91, of Foothills Drive, formerly of Walker Road, Morganton, NC, died Friday, January 11, 2008 at Grace Heights Health Care Center. Born in Burke County, NC on December 7, 1916, she was the daughter of the late Joseph Marion Hipps and Dovie Prewitt Hipps. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Clinton Ray Duckworth; a granddaughter, Lori Morrison Rayfield; a son-in-law, Ben Morrison; brother, Ezra Hipps, Vernon Hipps, and Alfred Hipps; and sisters, Jessie McNeely, Iris Shouse, Artie Jaynes, Mary Franklin, Cora Reid, and Nettie Weller. Irene was a former employee of Shadowline and retired from Western Carolina Center. She was a member of Mt. Home Baptist Church where she sang in the choir, was a Sunday School teacher, and served in many other capacities.

She is survived by her son, Ray Duckworth and wife, Shirley, of Morganton; a daughter, Frances Morrison of Morganton; a sister, Carleen Williams of Chase City, VA; a half-brother, Jim Hipps of IN; grandchildren, Jeffrey Duckworth, Tim Duckworth, Gayle Rostan, Tim Trull, Deana Trull, and Wanda Smart; great-grandchildren, Jeffrey Duckworth, Shanna Hudson, Amanda Minish, Lindsay Cabe, Breanna Trull, Ben Rostan, Sara Rostan, Andrew Rostan, Hannah Rostan, and Carl Smart; great-great-grandchildren, Tyler Belton and Ray Duckworth; and a number of nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, January 14, 2008 at Mt. Home Baptist Church with Reverends Jerry Gamble and David Orders officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Home Baptist Church Graceful Giving Fund, 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.

Jeffrey Alan Beaver, 43, of Shuffler Road, Morganton, NC, died Friday, January 11, 2008 at Grace Hospital. Born in Burke County, NC on August 7, 1964, he was the son of Glen E. Beaver of Morganton and the late Shirley Brittain Beaver. Jeffrey worked for many years in several area textile manufacturing facilities. He was a very loving son, brother, uncle, and brother-in-law.

In addition to his father, he is survived by brother, John E. Beaver and wife, Tammy, and James B. Beaver and wife, Robin, all of Morganton; a sister, Lisa Beaver Moore and husband, Michael, of Morganton; and nieces and nephews, Justin Beaver, Leslie Gragg, Felicia Moore, Michael C. Moore, and Erin Moore.

The graveside service will be held at 4:30 p.m., Monday, January 14, 2008 at Mt. Olive Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. David Orders and Mr. Cecil Tallent officiating. The family will greet friends at the cemetery following the service. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Ellen Lawyer, 50, of Conley Road, Morganton, NC died Saturday, January 12, 2008 at Mission Memorial Hospital in Asheville, NC. Born in Goshen, IN, she is the daughter of Karl and Evelyn Hoover. She was preceded in death by her beloved grandparents and son-in-law. Ellen was a member of Mountain View Church of Christ where she loved to play the piano for church services. She was known for her love of teaching at Table Rock Middle School and most importantly, her love for her family.

She is survived by her husband, Michael Lawyer of the home; daughters, Bethany Bobo and Renee Atkins and husband, Michael, all of Morganton; sisters, Mary Stephens of Morganton and Jane Lollis of St. Cloud, FL; and a number of nieces and nephew.

The memorial service will be held at 5:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 15, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Mr. Carl Bowles officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home following the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Lewis Rathbun Center, 121 Sherwood Road, Asheville, NC 28803-2426.

Jean B. Brackett, 72, of Bollinger Gap Street, Morganton, NC, died Saturday, January 12, 2008 at Frye Regional Medical Center in Hickory, NC. Born in Burke County, NC on January 16, 1935, she was the daughter of the late Tilghman Brittain and Lillian Branch Brittain. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Fons Brackett; and her twin sister, Ruth Irene Brittain.

Jean was a member of the Morganton Seventh Day Adventist Church where she had been very active in her younger days, including playing the piano at church. For a number of years she helped her husband at Brackett Brothers. She was an avid animal lover as well as a member of Audubon Society, Smithsonian Society, North Shore Animal Association, and the Sierra Club. Jean is survived by her children, Shelly Suttle and husband, Albert, of Morganton, P. Ann Brackett of Morganton, and Todd Brackett and wife, Patricia Megnin, of Lenoir, NC; grandchildren, Tori Suttle Braswell and husband, Chad, Eve Carpenter, and Adam Carpenter; a great-grandchild, Brandy Nicole Baker; sisters, Mary Alice Carswell of Morganton, Hazel Carswell of Morganton, Patsy Walker of Morganton, and Mildred McHenry of California; and a number of nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 15, 2008 at the Morganton Seventh Day Adventist Church with Pastor Tim Sheridan and Elder Ted Brackett officiating. Burial will follow in the Seventh Day Adventist Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church from 1:00 until 3:00 p.m. before the service. At other times the family will be at the residence of her daughter, Shelly Suttle. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690 or the Morganton Seventh Day Adventist Church, 2187 Jamestown Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

John Thomas “Tommy” Smith, 56, of Jonas Ridge, NC, died surrounded by his loving family and friends on Saturday, January 12, 2008 at the V.A. Hospital in Asheville, NC following a period of declining health. Born in Burke County, NC on July 17, 1951, he was the son of the late John Dossie Smith and Jimmie Burton Reid Smith. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Christy Michelle Smith and a brother, Richard Wayne Reid.

Tommy was a U.S. Army veteran. He was a long distance truck driver for Lance Transport of Hildebran, NC, a talented artist and craftsman, a comic, a devoted brother, uncle and friend. Of the Baptist faith, he professed his faith in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and now rests in him.

Left to cherish Tommy’s memory are his wife (separated), Nancy Davis Smith; step-sons, Donald Hughes and wife, Kim, of Morganton, Brian Hughes of Morganton, Albert “J.R.” Minish and wife, Ruby, of Boomer, NC; a brother, Dwight Earl Smith of Morganton; sisters, Judy S. Norville and husband, Jim, of Morganton, Susan S. Helms and husband, Bill, of Gastonia, NC, Frances S. Norville and husband, Larry, of Morganton, Ruth S. Franklin and husband, Gene, of Morganton; fiancé, Tammy Blevins of Jonas Ridge and her two sons; eleven nieces and nephews, three step-grandchildren, and a host of friends.

The memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 15, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with military rites performed by Valdese Ceremonial Team American Legion Post # 234. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. At other times the family will be at the home of Larry and Frances Norville on Scott Road.

Sadie Poteet Ross Cagle, 91, of Morganton, and a former resident of the Enola Community in Morganton for many years, died Sunday, January 13, 2008 at Autumn Care of Drexel following several months of declining health. She was born April 23, 1916 in Burke County to the late Fred J. Poteet and Emily Smith Poteet. Sadie was a faithful member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, and lived a selfless life devoted to loving and giving to others. She was a caregiver by nature, having been a step-mother to seven children, a loving wife to two husbands, and a devoted daughter to aging parents. Sadie worked in hosiery mills in both High Point, NC and Valdese, NC. She was a quilt maker and created quilts for many people in Burke County. Sadie loved gardening, canning, and baking, and will be fondly remembered by friends and neighbors for her generosity in sharing her goods with them.

She is survived by a step-son, Charles R. Ross and wife, Mary Martha, of Waco, NC; and a sister, Beatrice Hull of Morganton.

In addition to her parents, Sadie was preceded in death by her first husband, David L. Ross and her second husband, Guy Cagle; a son, David Calvin Ross; brothers, Leon G. Poteet, Fred J. Poteet, Jr., Nollie G. Poteet, Irvin Poteet, and Jesse H. Poteet; sisters, Geneva McCurry, Hester Carswell, Nellie Ross, and Dorothy Poteet; step-children, Sylvester Ross, Delbert F. Ross, William L. Ross, Lena F. Martin, Violet Ross, and Naomi Daves.

Funeral services will be held at 12 noon, Wednesday, January 16, 2008 at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Larry Cline officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 11:00 am until 12 noon. Memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, 2396 Enola Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Kevin LeRoy Bailey, 41, passed from this life to his eternal home on Tuesday, January 8, 2008 after a five year battle with Lou Gehrig’s Disease. He was born March 27, 1966 in Vero Beach, FL to Herbert L. and Sylvia J. Bailey. Kevin leaves his loving parents, sister, Karen Bailey, and children, Kenneth and Katherine Bailey.

He is also survived by his grandmother, Esther Bailey of Lake Wales, FL, and many caring aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Kevin was preceded in death by his grandparents, Franklin and Velma Henley, formerly of Drexel, NC; and great grandparents, John and Ethel Sigmon of Enon Rd. in Valdese.

He will be remembered for his courageous fight against ALS, how he touched lives, and served as an inspiration to his family and friends. Kevin was a life-long member of Vero Beach First Church of God. He graduated from Vero Beach High School, attended Warner Southern College in Lake Wales, FL, and graduated from Azusa Pacific University in Azusa, CA, prior to joining the family tax and accounting business in Vero Beach, FL.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 19, 2008 at the First Church of God in Drexel, NC with Rev. Don Hackney officiating. Inurnment will be at Burke Memorial Park in Morganton, NC under the direction of Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made in honor of Kevin Bailey to support the 2008 Walk to D’Feet ALS, c/o The ALS Association, 1933 14th Avenue, Vero Beach, FL 32960.

Mack Burton Wilson, 89, of Jug Wilson St., Glen Alpine, NC died Tuesday, January 15, 2008 at his residence. Born in Mitchell County, NC on April 15, 1918, he was a son of the late Wiss Tate Wilson and Inez Ledford Wilson. Mack was a World War II U. S. Army veteran and for 57 years was a member of the “Old Hickory” 30th Infantry Division Association, Tarheel Chapter. For 60 years, he was a Master Mason and a member of Lodge #357 in Bakersville, NC. He was a retired Lt. with the Department of Corrections, McDowell County unit and was an active member of the First Baptist Church in Morganton. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a son, Samuel Keith Wilson; and brothers, Ralph S. Wilson and Joe G. Wilson.

Surviving are his wife, Wilma Etta Putnam Wilson of the home; a son, Phillip B. Wilson and his wife, Shirley of Morganton; a daughter, Belinda Inez Wilson of Raleigh, NC; a grandson, Chad B. Wilson of Morganton; a sister, Melba Bennett of Morganton; and a brother, Ray K. Wilson of Bakersville, NC.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 19, 2008 at the First Baptist Church with Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr. officiating. A Masonic service will be conducted by Catawba Valley Masonic Lodge #217. Honorary pallbearers will be Ben Robinson, Wayne Huffman, George Greene, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5362, Catawba Valley Masonic Lodge #217, the First Baptist Church Volunteer Sunday School Class, and the Tarheel Chapter of the “Old Hickory” 30th Infantry Division Association. A graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday at Snowhill Cemetery, Bakersville, NC with Masonic rites by Lodge #357 and military honors by V.F.W. Post 8060, Spruce Pine, NC. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Friday at Sossoman Funeral Home. At other times the family will be at the residence, 104 Jug Wilson St., Glen Alpine. Memorial gifts may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690 or to First Baptist Church, P. O. Drawer 459, Morganton, NC 28680.

Millard Larry Caldwell, 50, of Rector Corner Rd., Marshall, NC died Wednesday, January 16, 2008 at Mission Memorial Hospital in Asheville, NC. He was born December 5, 1957 in Burke County, NC and was a son of Millard Luther Caldwell of Marshall, NC and the late Ruth Etta Buff Caldwell. Millard was a member of the Marshall Community Baptist Church. He loved to hunt and fish, and enjoyed all automobiles, both new and antique.

In addition to his father, Millard is survived by his uncle, Dwight Buff, of Hildebran, NC.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, January 19, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Roger Massey officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m. Saturday. Memorial contributions may be made to the Marshall Community Baptist Church, Main St., Marshall, NC 28753.

Jeanette Vella, 75, of Williams Rd., Drexel, NC died unexpectedly, Tuesday, January 15, 2008 at Grace Hospital in Morganton. She was born March 11, 1932 in Brooklyn, New York, and was the daughter of the late George LeClaire and Jeanette McCreary LeClaire. Mrs. Vella was active in the Women of the Moose and achieved the College of Regents Degree, was Star Recorder, and a member of the Academy of Friendship. She was a loving wife and devoted mother who took great joy in having her family together.

Jeanette is survived by her husband of 56 years, Joseph Vella of the home; sons, Stephen Vella and wife, Judy, Wayne Vella and wife, Karen, Danny Vella and wife, Darlynn, Ronald Vella and wife, Mary, Russell Vella and wife, Sara, Joseph Vella, Paul Vella, and Kenneth Vella and wife, Dawn; 16 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, January 18, 2008 at St. Charles Catholic Church with Father Kenneth Whittington officiating. The family will receive friends Thursday at 7:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. A Rosary for Mrs. Vella will be said at the beginning of the visitation. At other times, the family will be at the residence of Danny Vella, 4609 Lakeview Acres Rd., Valdese.

Linda Mayfield King, 55, of Jamestown Rd., Morganton, NC died Thursday, January 17, 2008 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. She was born September 28, 1952 in Burke County, NC, and was a daughter of the late Lawrence Preston Mayfield and Mary Stamey Mayfield. Linda was a member of Zion Road Baptist Church, and was employed at J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center as a health care technician.

She is survived by her husband, Roger Dean King of the home; a son, Ronald Preston King and wife, Kelly, of Morganton; a daughter, Marisa Piercy and husband, Rev. Micah Piercy of Morganton; brothers, Larry Mayfield and Paul Mayfield, both of Morganton; sisters, Barbara Burris and Judy King, both of Morganton, and Kathy Ward of Connelly Springs, NC; grandchildren, Savannah Piercy, Luke Piercy, Cadence King, and Cole King; and a number of nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Frankie Mayfield.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, January 20, 2008 at Zion Road Baptist Church with the Reverends Micah Piercy, Tony Harris, Jr., and Scott Evans officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Saturday from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes before the funeral hour. Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Road Baptist Church, the Linda King Memorial Fund, 2328 Zion Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.

Roena Daves Haigler, 94, of Grace Ridge died Thursday, January 17, 2008, at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. She was born in McDowell County on March 8, 1913 and was a daughter of the late Robert Lee Daves and Lucy Roena Landis Daves. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, J. Carl Haigler; a sister, Addie Benfield; and by brothers, Guy, Paul, and Robert Daves. Mrs. Haigler was a retired employee of Drexel Furniture Co.

Surviving are a son and his wife, Jim and Loetta Haigler, of Newland; daughters and their husbands, Wanda and Bob Littlejohn of Lenoir and Virginia “Ginger” and John Chapman of W. Jefferson; six grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at Sossoman Funeral Home Sunday from 1:00 until 1:45 p.m. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to a favorite charity of one’s choice.

James T. Rockett, 83, of Castlegate Dr., Morganton, NC died Friday, January 18, 2008 at Brian Center Nursing Care in Hickory, NC following a period of declining health. He was born October 27, 1924 in Burke County, NC, and was the son of the late Luther Theodore Rockett and Olar Mae Orders Rockett. James was a faithful servant of the Lord, and an active member of Calvary Baptist Church. He was a Tech Sergeant in the US Army, serving in the European Theatre with the 295th Heavy Ordinance Division during World War II. James was a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 11546. He was very grateful for his 35 years of employment at Great Lakes Carbon Corp. and the affiliation with his many co-workers. James was a great believer in physical fitness and tried to never miss his morning and afternoon walks at Bethel Park with his walking buddies. He was a polite and humble gentleman who always had a positive attitude. His family and friends nicknamed him “Mr. Sunshine”.

James is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Estaleen Digh Rockett; son, James Webb “Jim” Rockett and wife, Helen Mary, of Chino, CA; daughter, Margaret Ann “Meg” Rockett Wallis and husband, Charles, of Fort Worth, TX; grandchildren, Shea Ramsey, Rip Alejandro Rockett and wife, Lyudmila, Michael James Rockett and wife, Elizabeth, and John Wallace Rockett and family, Rebecca and Rachel; great grandchildren, Anastasia Rockett, Erin Elizabeth Rockett, and Abigail Jeane Rockett; and sisters, Iris Maye of Newton, NC, Katherine Head of Morganton, and Clare Smith and husband, Glenn, of West Point, Georgia.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters, Wilhemina Rockett Anderson and Mable Rockett.

A Celebration of Life memorial service will be held at 12 noon, Saturday, January 26, 2008 at Calvary Baptist Church with Rev. Larry Thompson officiating. Private family graveside services will be held at Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church following the memorial service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Baptist Church, 407 S. Green St., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Robert J. Tompkins, Sr., 64, of Hwy. 18 South, Morganton, NC died Saturday, January 19, 2008 at his residence. Born November 28, 1943 in Dutchess Co., NY, he was a son of Teresa Victoria Spealing Tompkins of Morganton and the late Hilton Eugene Tompkins. He was a U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam veteran and was a member of Bethel United Methodist Church on Bethel Rd. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by a brother, Elmer Tompkins.

Surviving in addition to his mother are his wife, Carol Lasher Tompkins, of the home; a son, Robert J. Tompkins, Jr., and his wife, Karen, of Highland, NY; a granddaughter, Danille, of Highland, NY; a number of nieces; and his faithful canine companion, Snoopy.

The funeral will be held at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, January 22, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Reverends Rod Randolph and Ed Stephenson officiating. Burial will be in the New Paltz Rural Cemetery, New Paltz, NY. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Memorial gifts may be made to Burke County Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

James Whisenant, 42, of Shirley St., Connelly Springs, died, Wednesday, January 16, 2008. James was born in Burke County on June, 28, 1965 and was a son of Zula Randolph Whisenant and the late Robert Whisenant. James owned and operated J & W Auto in Hickory for a number of years. He was a loving father, grandfather and brother.

James is survived by daughters, Melissa W Dillingham and husband, Dustin, of Valdese, Kimberly W. Chavez of Newton, Stephanie Whisenant and Brittany Whisenant both of Valdese; grandchildren Calobe Dillingham, Serenity Dillingham, and Landon Dillingham, all of Valdese; a brother, Rhodney Whisenant; and and by sisters, Jeannie Whisenant and Doris Abernathy all of Morganton.

No services are planned at this time.

Betty Fox Goodman, 81, of Green Pasture Lane, Valdese, NC, died Sunday, January 20, 2008 at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, NC. Born in Burke County, NC on August 22, 1926, she was the daughter of the late Crudup Ouray Fox and Mary Eunice Mauney Fox. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Faye Fox Carroway, and a brother, Glen Ray Fox. Betty was a member of First Baptist Church of Morganton.

She is survived by her husband of 61 years, M. A. “Short” Goodman, Jr. of the home; children, Mary Beth Goodman Fletcher of Valdese, Susan Goodman Secrest and husband, Jonathan of Drexel, NC; Steven Lee Goodman and wife, Jan, of Morganton, NC; and Nancy Goodman of Asheville, NC; grandchildren, Jason Secrest of Raleigh, NC, Adam Secrest of Charlotte, NC, Alex Goodman, Matt Goodman, and Wade Goodman, all of Houston, TX, Jordan Crump of Morganton, Carol Ray of Fort Smith, AR, and Christy Traylor of Columbus, NC; great-grandchildren, Katie Ray, Houston Ray, Mary Ray, Hadley Huffman, Ryder Huffman, Hunter Goodman, Wade Goodman and Ava Goodman; a brother, James J. Fox of Morganton; and a number of nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, January 23, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Larry Fletcher officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.

Mary F. Sanford, 97, of Grace Ridge, Morganton, NC, died unexpectedly on Monday, January 21, 2008 at Grace Hospital. Born in Cass County, MI on September 25, 1910, she a daughter of the late James and Jean Curtis Sturges. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Gilson Ellis Clarke; her second husband, Colman G. Sanford; a daughter, Barbara O’Dell; and a sister, Jean Corlette. Mrs. Sanford was a member of Grace Episcopal Church and vice-president of the Episcopal Church Women. She was past state treasurer of DAR in Michigan, president of the Saugatuck Women’s Club in Saugatuck, MI; and worked at the Pentagon from 1961-1962.

She is survived by a daughter, Lynn Beucus and husband, Dick, of Banner Elk, NC; grandchildren from Michigan and Illinois, Tammy Andrews, Michelle Jansma, Monica Fogler, Robert Andrews, Amy Reed, and Melisa Engelsma; a step-son-in-law, John Sanford and wife, Peg, of MI; and nine great-grandchildren.

A memorial service for Mary will be held 1:00 p.m., Monday, January 28, 2008 at Grace Episcopal Church with Father Bruce Walker officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Grace Episcopal Church Memorial Fund, 303 S. King Street, Morganton, NC 28655 or to the Grace Ridge Friendship Fund, 500 Lenoir Road, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Shannon Holbrooks, 32, of Rain Hill Church, Morganton, NC died unexpectedly Saturday, January 19, 2008, at her residence. She was born in Mecklenburg County on July 20, 1975 and was a daughter of Terry Wayne Carpenter of Charlotte and Debra McKinney Ireland of Union Mills. Shannon had attended Faith Temple Tabernacle.

Surviving in addition to her parents are her husband, Jamie Stephen Holbrooks; children, Ronnie J. Daniels, Zhana Daniels, Daniel Carpenter, and Summer Holbrooks, all of the home; her father-in-law and his wife, Marvin and Elaine Holbrook, of Nora, VA; her mother-in-law, Rosalee Holman, of Morganton; her paternal grandmother-in-law, Nellie Fugate, of Nora, VA; and a number of aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, January 26, 2008, at Faith Temple Tabernacle with Rev. Danny Sprouse officiating. The family will receive friends one hour before the service.

Melva Jean Mull Carswell, 71, of Bethel Rd., Morganton, NC died Monday, January 21, 2008 at her residence following a brief illness. She was born February 19, 1936 in Burke County, NC, and was a daughter of the late Odie A. Mull and Clara Viola Cline Mull. She was an active lifetime member of Bethel United Methodist Church. Melva enjoyed nature, traveling, fishing and vacationing at the coast, playing the piano, staying in touch with friends, and writing poetry. She also enjoyed a good joke. Melva was devoted to her family and friends.

She is survived by her husband, Cecil A. Carswell of the home; a son, Robbie Carswell; daughters, Tonja Carswell Smith and husband, Wayne, Jr., and Holly Carswell Ramsey and husband, James; a sister, Naomi M. Williams and husband, Elmer; grandchildren, Sally Carswell, Eli Smith, and Emily Smith; and a niece, Denise W. Mostiller, all of Morganton. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by an infant sister, Ina Lucille Mull; and an infant brother.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, January 23, 2008 at Bethel United Methodist Church with Rev. Rod Randolph and Rev. Earl Cook officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 6:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. At other times, the family will be at the residence. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bethel United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund, 1328 Bethel Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.

Maggie Pearson Lane, 93, of Clark Loop, Morganton, NC died Tuesday, January 22, 2008 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. She was born September 19, 1914 in Burke County, NC, and was a daughter of the late Will Pearson and Laura Pearson. Maggie was a member of Missionary Ridge Baptist Church, and a retired employee of Drexel Heritage Plant #33.

She is survived by sons, Tillman Lane, Bill Lane and wife, Brenda, and Jimmy Lane, all of Morganton; a daughter, Joann Frank and husband, Thomas, Jr. of Morganton; a brother, Horace Pearson of Morganton; 6 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Wesley Lane, and a son, Gene Lane.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, January 24, 2008 at Missionary Ridge Baptist Church with Rev. Donald Lovelace officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday from 1 until 2 pm at Missionary Ridge Enrichment Center. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

David H. Baird, 99, of Amherst Rd., Morganton died Wednesday, January 23, 2008 at College Pines following a brief illness. He was born July 9, 1908 in Cobb Co., GA, and was a son of the late William David Baird and Clara Delena Mauney Baird. David was a member of the Cajah Mountain Church of ‘God. He gave his life to Jesus Christ when he was 19 years old and walked with his Lord and Savior for more than 80 years. David loved gospel music and has sang and played it on his guitar throughout his life. David played and sang for a Bible class that he taught weekly at the “High Rise” for 27 years, where he led many young men to walk with Christ. Some of these young men and their families kept in touch with him up until his death because of the wonderful changes David had made in their lives. He retired from Drexel Furniture at the age of 62. He loved playing golf at Quaker Meadows. When he turned 96 years of age, the golf club gave him a free lunch and pass for a free year of golf. David always walked the course for exercise instead of riding in the golf cart.

He is survived by sons, Jack David Baird of Morganton and Dr. Joseph L. Baird of Kent, OH; 13 grandchildren; 25 great grandchildren; and 5 great great grandchildren; a brother, Charles Baird of Kershaw, SC; sisters, Kathrine Baker and Mary Deal, both of Morganton, and Barbara Patton of Nebo, NC; daughters-in-law, Grace Baird of Morganton and Myrtle Baird of Aiken, SC; and a special friend, Senia Penley of Morganton.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Bertis L. Baird and his second wife, Dorathy Lorraine Ward Baird; and sons, John William Baird and Bobbie Frank Baird. David led the family as the head of the fifth generation of Bairds and four generations of David Bairds. Dad, Papaw, Great Papaw, and Great Great Papaw was loved by everyone that knew him and he will be greatly missed by all.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 26, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Sam Abee officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Friday from 7:00 until 8:30 pm at the funeral home. At other times, the family will be at his son’s home, Jack Baird, Phoenix Avenue, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to the Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

Maria Rhyne Pritchard, 52, of Hartland Rd., Morganton, NC died unexpectedly Wednesday, January 23, 2008 at Caldwell Memorial Hospital in Lenoir, NC as a result of an auto accident. She was born March 28, 1955 in Mitchell County, NC, and was the daughter of Ernest Rhyne of Gastonia, NC and the late Bessie Valena Harvey Rhyne. Maria was a member of Morganton Freedom Church of God, and was employed at Employment Staffing Company in Hickory. In addition to her mother, she was preceded in death by her father-in-law, C. J. Pritchard.

In addition to her father, Maria is survived by her husband of 25 years, Timothy J. Pritchard of the home; a half-brother, Allen Rhyne of Gastonia, NC; and her mother-in-law, Linda Pritchard of Morganton.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, January 26, 2008 at Morganton Freedom Church of God with Rev. Todd Phillips officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Saturday from 1:30 until 3:00 p.m. at the church. At other times the family will be at the home on Hartland Rd. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Jeremy Korobeyko, 34, of York St., Morganton, NC was called home to be with his Lord Wednesday, January 23, 2008 at Hospice of Catawba County in Newton, NC following a courageous battle with cancer. He was the son of Vicky A. Korobeyko of Morganton, and the late Richard Walter Korobeyko. Jeremy was an electrician and worked in the construction industry.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife, Crystal Stamey Korobeyko of Morganton; children, Todd Korobeyko and Hannah Korobeyko, both of Morganton; paternal grandmother, Anne Page of Margate, FL; aunts and uncles, Rheta Farris and companion, Tom Lail of Morganton, Lewis Arney, II of Henderson, NC, Patti Fitschen, husband, John, and their two sons, and Ellen Jenkins and her two daughters, all of Margate, FL; cousins, Shea Whittington and her sons, Farris Shuping and Tanner Whittington, all of Morganton, and Brittainy Arney of Lenoir, NC; parents-in-law, Claude and Phyllis Stamey of Morganton; and brothers-in-law, James and Johnny Stamey, both of Morganton.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, January 27, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Homer Murdock and Todd Phillips officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends Saturday from 6 until 8 pm at the funeral home. At other times, the family will be at the residence of Vicky Korobeyko, 121 York St., Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Palliative Care Center & Hospice of Catawba Valley, 3975 Robinson Rd., Newton, NC 28658.

Gertrude Ruth Mayer, 83, of Forestbrook Dr., Valdese, NC died Friday, January 25, 2008, at Grace Heights following a thirty year battle with Parkinson Disease. She was born in Milwaukee, WI on January 4, 1925 and was a daughter of the late Albert Leonard Davey and Anna Schneider Davey. Mrs. Mayer attended Mull’s Grove Baptist Church. Mrs. Mayer was an avid card player and was a member of numerous card clubs in Wisconsin. Since moving to Burke County, Gertrude has been active in gardening both indoor and outdoor plants, baking, and crafts, and was a member of the Thursday Morning Coffee Bowling League at Mimosa Lanes.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband Daniel Mayer, of the home; a son, Greg Mayer, of Valdese; a daughter, Barbara Ann Fleming and her husband, Toney, of Morganton; a special daughter, Jeri Mayer, of Morganton; brothers, John Alan Davey and his wife, Bonnie, of Villa Park, IL and Howard Norman Davey, of West Allis, WI; sisters, Elizabeth “Betty” Jean Haralson of Wauwatosa, WI and Norma Ann Gatzow, of Waukesha, WI; sister-in-law, Karen Davey of Sussex, WI; grandchildren, Danny Smith, Donny Smith and his wife, Dawn, Deanne Causby, Sheri Toner, and Trent Toner; great-grandchildren, Jimmy Smith, Madison “Madie” Causby, Ava Smith, and Tess Causby; and numerous nieces nephews and friends.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by brothers, Leonard Raymond Davey, William James Davey, and Richard “ Dick” Windeal Davey; and by sisters, Edith Ellen Davey and Mary Ann Davey.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 29, 2008, in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Allan Barlow officiating. Entombment will follow at Burke Memorial Mausoleum. Serving as pallbearers will be Craig Haralson, Danny Smith, Donny Smith, Trent Toner, Jay Mayer, and Jimmy SmithThe family will receive friends an hour before the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690 or to the National Parkinson’s Foundation, 1501 NW 9th Ave. Bob Hope Rd., Miami, FL 33136.

Laura Golden, 67, of Cresthill Dr., Morganton, NC died peacefully Saturday, January 26, 2008 after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Lexington, KY on June 11, 1940, she was the daughter of the late Hubert Andrew and Carolyn Holt Golden. Laura spent most of her early years in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. After receiving a bachelor’s degree from Florida State University and a master’s degree from Georgia College and State University, she pursued an outstanding teaching and basketball coaching career at The Colorado College, Central Michigan University, and The University of Illinois. She led her teams to National Tournaments at all three institutions but more importantly she inspired her players to develop positive leadership skills and to always strive to reach their maximum potential. In 1995, Coach Golden was inducted into the Colorado College Hall of Fame.

Laura loved the natural beauty of the mountains and lakes, and upon her retirement from the University of Illinois, she moved to Morganton where she applied her outstanding gift for forging and leading teams in real estate. She was a daily inspiration to those with whom she worked, using her limitless passion to push them to achieve both personal and professional success. Her clients and colleagues knew her to be a fair, but relentless negotiator always guided by her strict goll of ethics. Her co-workers knew her as their constant champion, mentor, and friend. When times were tough, they leaned on Laura and knew they’d get through. Her many hobbies and interests included participating in Regional and National Hunting/Retriever events with her dog, Haley, and enjoying summers on beautiful Lake of the Woods, Ontario, Canada.

She will be greatly missed by her many friends and former students throughout the United States and Canada who will fondly remember her for her genuine warmth, enthusiasm, integrity, and wit.

A memorial service and burial will be held at Lake of the Woods, Ontario. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690, to Burke United Christian Ministries, 305-B W. Union St., Morganton, NC 28655 or to Burke County Friends for Animals, P. O. Box 1884, Morganton, NC 28680-1884. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.

Letha “Mae” Little, 95, died Monday, January 28, 2008 at Autumn Care of Drexel following a period of declining health. Born in Burke County, NC on August 3, 1912, she was the daughter of the late William Lingafelt and Mattie Poteat Lingafelt. Mae was a member of Brookwood Baptist Church.

A loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, she is survived by her son, William Edward Setzer of Morganton, NC; a daughter, Marie Setzer Ray of Morganton; a brother, Benjamin Lingafelt and wife, Gracie, of La Crosse, VA; sisters, Mary Sue Barber and husband, Eddie, of Slidell, LA and Louis Hamlin and husband, Marvin, of Seaford, VA; grandchildren, Joyce Boone and husband, Jim, of Morganton, Carol Ann Ray of Morganton, Janet Glazebrooks and husband, Ralph, of Hickory, NC, and Penny Mayfield and husband, George, of Morganton; a great-grandchild, Richard Burleson and wife, Cherlyn, of Albuquerque, NM; and great-great-grandchildren, David, Carter, and Parker Burleson, all of Albuquerque.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Norman Little; brother, Ned, Coy, Bob, Charles Ray, Harry, and Bill Lingafelt; and sister, Ruby Coniglio, Lucille Fowler, and Betty Thomas.

The funeral will be held at 12:00 p.m., Thursday, January 31, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Earl Cross officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. At other times the family will be at the residence of the son, William Setzer. Memorial contributions may be made to Brookwood Baptist Church General Fund, 210 Brookwood Church Road, Morganton, NC 28655.

Catherine Jean Wilson Burns, 65, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, January 30, 2008, following a courageous battle with cancer. She was born in Burke County on March 1, 1942 and was a daughter of the late Robey and Maybell Denton Wilson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother-in-law, Perry Mull.

A loving mother, grandmother, and sister, she is survived by her children and their spouses, Angela Burns and Keith Watson and Mark Anthony and Angela Burns, of Morganton; brothers and their wives, Robey and Linda Wilson of Morganton and Leonard and Betty Wilson of Valdese; sister, Ruby W. Lail and her husband, Melvin, of Valdese and Mary W. Mull of Valdosta, GA; grandchildren, Chris Pritchard and his wife, Crystal, Michael Pritchard, Lauren Burns, and Kendall Burns; and step-grandchildren, Josh and Matt Bradshaw.

The funeral will be held at 3:30 p.m. Saturday, February 2, 2008, in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Reverends Darvy Hensley, Alan Wilson, and Richard Ellington officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 2:00 until 3:30 p.m. Saturday. At other times the family will be at the home of Angela and Keith Watson, 116 Shuping St., Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28655 or to H.O.P.E, c/o Blue Ridge Health Care, ATTN: Jan Hollar, 2201 S. Sterling St., Morganton, NC 28655.

Bobby Gene Morton, Sr., 65, of Holly Springs Dr., Granite Falls, NC died Thursday, January 31, 2008 at Caldwell Memorial Hospital. He was born March 1942 in Grayson Co., VA, and was a son of the late Andrew Mitchell Morton and Clara Odessa Phipps Morton. Bobby was a member of Catawba Valley Baptist Church.

He is survived by sons, Bobby Gene Morton, Jr. and wife, Linda of Morganton, and Jeffery Scott Morton, Sr. of Emmitsburg, MD; a daughter, Brenda Kaye Engelman and husband, James H. of Granite Falls; his ex-wife, Agnes Lillian Breeden Morton of Martinsburg, WV; a brother, Frank Morton; sisters, Edna Hall and Linda Howard; nine grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Ralph Morton; and a sister, Virginia Hall.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, February 3, 2008 at Catawba Valley Baptist Church with Rev. Mike Odom officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Catawba Valley Baptist Church, 107 Valley View Street, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.