Betty A. Digh, 82, of N. Council Oak St., Morganton, NC died Wednesday, March 5, 2008 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. She was born March 5, 1926 in Burke County, NC, and was a daughter of the late Otis and Callie Fox Alwran. She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church.

Betty is survived by her husband of 64 years, Charles S. Digh of the home; a son, Charles S. “Chuck” Digh, II and wife, Vickie, of Morganton; a sister, Barbara Hines of Lincolnton, NC; and a grandson, Wesley Digh.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two sisters, Ima Clontz and Jean Rader.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, March 8, 2008 at Calvary Baptist Church with Rev. Larry Thompson and Rev. Bob Devinney officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends Saturday from 10 until 11 am at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Baptist Church Painting Fund, 407 S. Green St., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Edna Lillie Whisenant Stillwell, 78, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister went to be with the Lord on March 4, 2008 while at Grace Heights Nursing Home. She previously resided on Jamestown Road. Born on November 8, 1929 in Burke County she was the daughter of the late Harrison and Gladys Miller Whisenant. Edna was a life-long member of Zion Baptist Church and was a retired employee of Skyland Textile with 25 years of service. She enjoyed staying on the campground throughout the summer, fishing with her husband, and being with family and friends. She also loved her canine friend, Taz, who was always at her side. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by a brother who died at birth, Baby Whisenant, and by her step-mother, Lillian Loven Whisenant.

Edna is survived by her husband, Howard Junior “Cotton” Stillwell, of the home; three daughters, Gladys Conley and her husband, Tommy, Pat Condrey and her husband, Eddie, and Mae Flynn and her husband, Sammy, all of Morganton; seven grandchildren, Jimmy Bailey, Tina Wilson, Vickie Flynn, Ben Flynn, Beth Pearson, Christopher Conley and Christy Conley; ten great-grandchildren; and other special family members, Renee Bailey, Adam Wilson, Gil Little, Brittany Gilliland, D.J. Davis, and Heath Carroll. She is also survived by a sister, Virginia Moses and her husband, Ernest, and by a brother, Harrison Junior Whisenant and his wife, June, all of Morganton.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, March 8, 2008, in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Rev. David Orders officiating. Interment will follow at Zion Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:30 until 3:00 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. At other times the family will be at the home, 1946 Jamestown Rd., Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc. 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690, to Zion Baptist Church, 3396 Pea Ridge Rd., Morganton, NC 28655, or to the Hospitality House of Charlotte, PO Box 36891, Charlotte, NC 28236.

Virgil Martin Allman, 75, of Walter Taylor Avenue, Morganton, NC died Wednesday, March 5, 2008 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. He was born July 21, 1932 in Burke County, NC, and was a son of the late Burley Monroe Allman and Fannie Ann Benfield Allman. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Virgil worked over 51 years in automobile upholstery. He was the owner and operator for Allman Upholstery which was a gathering place for his many friends. Virgil enjoyed meeting and getting to know his customers.

He is survived by his wife, Trudy Elma Norman Allman of the home; a son, Virgil Martin “Marty” Allman, II and wife, Cathi, of Morganton; daughters, Dolores Gettys and husband, Steve, and Barbara Allman, all of Morganton; grandchildren, Chris Gettys, Jody Gettys, Brenda Throneburg, Heather Ridings, Emily Jackson, Erica Jackson, and Katherine Allman; great grandchildren, Madison Daniels, Gracie Daniels, Caden Gettys, Hunter Throneburg, and Ashlynn Throneburg; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Virgil was preceded in death by a daughter, Sharon Allman; and a brother, Malcolm Allman.

A gathering of friends will be held Saturday from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. At other times, the family will be at the residence, Walter Taylor Avenue. No other services are planned.

Melissa Ann “Missy” Woody, 37, of Harold Street, Morganton, NC, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, March 11, 2008 at UNC Hospital in Chapel Hill, NC following a period of declining health. She fought a good fight but went to her eternal rest after battling an extended illness. Born McDowell County, NC on February 7, 1971, she was the daughter of David Jerome Ramsey and Mary Louise Greene Ramsey. Before her illness, Missy was employed at Burke Primary Care as a CMA.

A devoted daughter, wife, and mother, in addition to her parents she leaves behind her husband, Wallace Woody of the home; sons, Stephen and Joshua Woody of the home; brothers, Bill Ramsey and wife, Lauren, of Morganton and John Ramsey and wife, Cindy, of Fayetteville, NC; a very special aunt, Shirley Beck of Nebo, NC; several nieces and nephews, and many friends.

Missy was preceded in death by a brother, David Lee “Harvey” Ramsey; an uncle, Reverend Randy “Pinky” Beck; and grandparents, Homer and Mary Greene, and Garrett and Nanie Ramsey.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Friday, March 14th, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Reverends Douglas Woody, Luther Carver, and Billy Bollinger officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Thursday evening from 7:00 until 8:30 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. At other times the family will be at the residence. Memorial contributions may be made to Steven or Joshua Woody Memorial Fund, % Bill Ramsey, 110 Grandview Court, Morganton, NC 28655.

Buddy Mitchell, 79, of Main Avenue West, Hildebran, NC, died unexpectedly Tuesday, March, 11, 2008 at his residence. Born in Buncombe Co., NC on May 2, 1928, he was the son of the late Charles George Mitchell and Daisy Marie Brown Mitchell. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Charles Lee Mitchell.

Buddy was a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean Conflict. He was a member of the American Legion Post #398 in Drexel for twenty-eight years. For many years he worked for Bashason Air Conditioning and he retired from B & W Hosiery.

He is survived by a daughter, Diane Fruend and husband, Mark, of Morganton, NC; grandchildren, Jessica and Bryan Fruend; sister, Mary Ruth Fleck and Doris Naomi Pollock, both of N. Myrtle Beach,SC and Nannie Kathryn Beeson of Clinton Township, MI; brothers, Charles Robert “Bo” Mitchell and wife, Frances, of Asheville, NC, Harry Edward Mitchell and wife, Barbara, of Hickory, NC; his former wife, Irene Pritchard Mitchell Whitman of Morganton; and a special friend, Evelyn Anderson of Hickory.

The graveside service will be held at 1:30 p.m., Friday, March 14, 2008 at Burke Memorial Park with Rev. Earl Cross officiating. Military graveside rites will be performed by Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends from noon until 1:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Brookwood Baptist Church, 210 Brookwood Road, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Claude Clayton Clark, 61, of Manley Clark Road, Morganton, NC, died Wednesday, March 12, 2008 at his residence following a period of declining health. Born in Burke County, NC on February 5, 1947, he was the son of the late Grover Stevenson Clark and Nola Marie Helms Clark. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Floyd Clark; a sister, Laverne Arrowood; a nephew, Todd Clark, and a niece, Connie Pearson. Claude was a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War. He worked for many years with local area construction and furniture companies. He was an avid gardener.

Claude is survived by his wife, Dale Whisenant Clark of the home; sons, Brian Epley and wife, Rene, of Greer, SC, Clay Clark and wife, Connie, of Morganton, and Tony Bollinger of the home; daughters, Claudia Boyette and husband, Robbie, of Greer, and Tammy Basinger of Morganton; grandchildren, Jessalyn, Brittnie, Marina, Ripley, Andrew, Ashley, Sarah, Alexxis, Dustin, and Aaron; brothers, John “Homer” Clark and wife, Carolyn, Buren Clark and wife, Faye, Palmer Clark and wife, Mildred, and Alden Clark and wife, Elaine; sisters, Judy Pearson and husband, Will, Veriena Freeman and husband, Ray, and Rebecca Bradshaw and husband, Randy; a sister-in-law, Vera Clark; an uncle, Clarence Clark and wife, Margie; and several nieces and nephews.

The memorial service will be held at 7:00 p.m., Friday, March 14, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Mr. Buren Clark officiating. Military honors will 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, 5597 Manley Clark Road, Morganton. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Sossoman Funeral Home to help the family with expenses or the Burke Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc, 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.

Elizabeth “Bernice” Mull, 79, of Carbon City Rd. in Morganton, NC went home to be with her Lord on Wednesday, March 12, 2008 at Grace Hospital. She was born in Burke County on November 14, 1928, and was a daughter of the late Summie and Mary Shepard. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Bernon J. Mull; and a sister, Elgiva Shepard. Bernice was a life-long member of the First Baptist Church of Glen Alpine, NC.

Bernice is survived by a sister, Jewell “Judy” Shepard; a son, David Mull; daughters, Wanda Stamey and husband Bill, and Debbie Ingram and husband, Kevin; grandchildren, Tony Stamey, Josh Stamey and wife, Cathy, Heather Meredith and husband, Ed, and Chad Dickson and wife, Jessica; and great grandchildren, Jack Bailey Stamey, Josalyn, and twins, Jacey and Jenna Dickson. Bernice will be sorely missed by all her family and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, March 16, 2008 at the First Baptist Church of Glen Alpine with Rev. Michael Brown officiating. The family will receive friends Saturday from 7:00 until 8:00 pm at Sossoman Funeral Home.

Mae Merrill Conley, 93, of Morganton, NC, died Thursday, March 13, 2008 at Morganton Long Term Care following a period of declining health. She was born August 21, 1914 in Buncombe County, NC, and was a daughter of the late Luther H. Merrill and Melissa Ross Merrill Adams. Mae was a charter member of St. Matthews United Methodist Church, and had worked for Morganton Hosiery for over 64 years.

She is survived by a son, Jim Conley and wife, Donna “Dodie”, of Greenwood, SC; grandchildren, Jim Conley, Jr., and wife, Deborah, Scott Conley and wife, Amy, and Robin Conley Templeton, and husband, Robbie; great grandchildren, Caitlin, Sydney, Chris, and Charron Conley, and Rett, Reed, and Ryan Templeton; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, M. “Ed” Conley; brothers, Ralph and Shannon Merrill; and sisters, Margaret Kettleson and Catherine Adams Poteat.

Memorial services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, March 16, 2008 at St. Matthews United Methodist Church with Rev. Allen P. Boliek officiating. A private family graveside service 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 St. Matthews United Methodist Church, 201 Shady Rest Rd., Morganton, NC 28655, or to a charity of personal choice. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Dewey Silas Norville, 63, of Propst Road, Morganton, NC, died Sunday, March 16, 2008 at his residence following a period of declining health. Born on July 4, 1944 in Rutherford County, NC, he was the son of the late Thomas C. Norville and Robert Mae Laughters Norville. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a grandson, Jacob Lee Hardin; brother, George, Donald, Paul, and Crawford Norville; and sisters, Mary Lee Laughters, Carrie Mae Tessner, and Addie Bea Yelton.

Dewey retired from PCA after 39 years of service. He was a faithful member and deacon of Nowlings Chapel Freewill Baptist Church. A loving husband, father, and grandfather, he enjoyed fishing, camping, and riding dune buggies.

Dewey is survived by his wife of 42 years, Linda Banner Norville of the home; a son, Buford Norville and wife, Lori, of Morganton; daughters, Shannon Vess and husband, Ben, and Misty Cook and friend, Jonathan Franklin, all of Morganton; brothers, Bill, Ben, Jim, Ronald, Ray, and Roby Norville, all of Morganton; sisters, Shirley Freeman of Morganton and Jo Anne Cook of Connelly Springs, NC; grandchildren, Elizabeth Norville, Mitchell Norville, Samantha Vess, Brayden Vess, Brianna Hardin, Issac Hardin, and Deanna Hardin; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 18, 2008 at Nowlings Chapel Freewill Baptist Church with Reverends Darvy Hensley and Richard Ellington officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Monday evening from 6:00 until 8:30 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the funeral hour. Memorial contributions may be made to the family to assist with medical expenses, c/o Linda Norville, 2178 Propst Road, Morganton, NC 28655.

Catherine “Janette” Port, 69, of Jamestown Rd., Morganton, NC died Monday, March 17, 2008 at her residence following a period of declining health. She was born August 30, 1938 in Spartanburg Co., SC, and was a daughter of the late Charles Edgar Thompson and Arzzie Lorina Scruggs Thompson. Janette was a member of Gibbs Chapel Wesleyan Church. She was a fantastic wife and mother, but most of all a friend who loved everyone she met. Janette had a very nurturing and sensitive nature, a “heart” with hands. She would hug and pet her children, but could pinch a bloodblister on those who needed a little reminder of proper behavior. Janette did not always agree with her children, but she still loved and supported all of them, and would do anything to protect her family. Janette always wanted to be an angel, and now she is!

She is survived by her husband and best friend, W. K. “Bill” Port, Sr. of the home; a son, William Kenneth Port, Jr. and wife, Cheryl of Candler, NC; daughters, Lisa Annette Port of Morganton, and Lori Port Crook and husband, Michael, of Asheville, NC; grandchildren, Heather, Ashley, Megan, Catherine, Charles, Alex, and Riley; a great grandchild, Taylor; brothers, Maxie Dean Thompson and Everett Thompson, both of Spartanburg, SC; and sisters, Amelia Neal and Juanita Marler, both of Spartanburg.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by brothers, Edward and George Thompson.

Funeral services will be held at 1 PM, Thursday, March 20, 2008 at Gibbs Chapel Wesleyan Church with Rev. P. Dean Lavender officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Wednesday evening from 7:00 until 9:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Gibbs Chapel Wesleyan Church, PO Box 603, Glen Alpine, NC 28628 or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.

Nell T. Potts, 88, of “The Stratford”, High Point, NC, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, March 17, 2008 at her residence. Born in Iredell Co., NC on July 27, 1919, she was the daughter of the late Woodrow and Ann Harris Thomas. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 64 years, Charlie Potts, and her daughter, Donna Graybeal. A resident of Morganton for more than 60 years, she was a former employee of Broughton Hospital and a retired employee of Western Carolina Center. She was a faithful member of North Morganton United Methodist Church for many years.

Nell is survived by daughters, Sue P. Hobbs and Lynne P. Poteat and husband, Bill, all of Greensboro, NC; a brother, Basil Thomas of Catawba, NC; grandchildren, Charles Neal Hobbs and wife, Kris, of Stokesdale, NC, Ashley Poteat of Greensboro, Landon Poteat and wife, Caroline, of Asheville, NC, and Brianne Crews of Morganton; and great-grandchildren, Lindsay Hobbs, Haley Hobbs, Alexis Graybeal, Cameron Crews, Emily Crews, and Crayton Poteat.

The funeral will be held at 4:00 p.m., Thursday, March 20, 2008 at North Morganton United Methodist Church with Reverends Tony Matthews and John Woods officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to North Morganton United Methodist Church, 990 Sanford Drive, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Shirley Snipes Newton, 66, of the Chesterfield Community passed this life to be alive with her Heavenly Father forevermore on Monday, March 17, 2008, at her residence, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born in Burke County on April 16, 1941, she was the daughter of the late Calvin Marion ”Junior” Snipes and Louise Franklin Snipes.

Shirley was a member of Antioch Baptist Church and a former member of Pleasant View Baptist Church. She was current president of the Burke North Gideon’s Auxiliary and a Director of the Chesterfield Fire and Rescue Department. She has served as Women’s Missionary Union Director, Vacation Bible School Director, Sunday School Director, Sunday School Children’s teacher, Choir member and held various other church related positions.

She thoroughly enjoyed serving the public of Burke, Caldwell, McDowell and Catawba Counties as an Insurance Agent for home, auto and life & casualty. She was employed at Stoney-Kistler Insurance Agency, Inc. for 36 years and retired in 2006 from Iris Fox Insurance Agency.

Shirley was a Class of 1959 graduate of Morganton High School and of the Caldwell Business School in 1960.

She was a beautiful and caring wife, loving mother, special grandmother, dear mother-in-law, precious sister, sister-in-law, aunt and loyal friend. She genuinely loved everyone and was always concerned about others. She enjoyed growing her beautiful flowers and working in her vegetable garden, spending vacations with her family, attending her grandson’s school and athletic events, and visiting with family and friends. She and her mother loved making baskets, quilting and sewing projects and sharing fond memories with their family. Shirley faithfully attended to her mother during her illness prior to her death in 2007. Shirley will long be remembered for her many thoughtful expressions of love, her radiant smile and her Christian faith serving her Lord.

Shirley is survived by her husband, Charles; her son, Chris Newton and wife, Sherri of Concord, NC; her daughter, April Newton and special friend, Sunny Liston of West Des Moines, Iowa; and a grandson, Adam Newton of Concord, NC; her brothers, Travis Snipes and wife, Shirley, and Turner Snipes and wife, Jeannie, both of Morganton, NC; and numerous beloved nieces, nephews and extended family.

Graveside services will be held at 2:00 pm Thursday, March 20, 2008 at Forest Hill Cemetery with the Rev. Clarence Correll officiating.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Wednesday evening at Sossoman Funeral Home. At other times the family will be gathered at the residence.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Gideons International, Burke North Camp, PO Box 985, Morganton, NC, 28680, and Christmas Cheer, c/o The News-Herald, Morganton, NC 28655.

Sossoman Funeral Home is serving the family.

Melissa Ellen Jernigan, 87, of Magnolia Dr., Morganton, NC died Monday, March 17, 2008 at Britthaven following a period of declining health. She was born May 1, 1920 in Burke County, NC, and was a daughter of the late George S. McSkimmis and Cora Lee Whisenant McSkimmis. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Roy Martin Jernigan, one brother; and three sisters. Melissa was a member of Southside Baptist Church.

She is survived by her guardian and friend of the family, Leola Buchanan of Jonas Ridge, NC.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, March 21, 2008 at Forest Hill Cemetery with Rev. Clyde Buckner officiating. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Glenn E. Spaulding, 82, of Benjamin St., Morganton, NC, and a former Dysartsville, NC resident, died Wednesday, March 19, 2008 at Burke Hospice and Palliative Care Center in Valdese, NC. He was born February 17, 1926 in Kenosha, WI, and was a son of the late Harvey Lyle Spaulding, Sr. and Clara C. Smith Spaulding. Glenn was a member of Denton’s Chapel United Methodist Church. He was a retired Major with US Army having served in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam as a helicopter pilot. Glenn served for six years with the White House Executive Flight Detachment during the Eisenhour, Kennedy, and Johnson administrations. After his retirement, Glenn then served for eight years as a commissioner in McDowell County, and was a past member of the Marion Kiwanis Club. Glenn worked as a pilot with the N.C. Forest Service.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Hattie Duval Spaulding of the home; step-sons, Tom Lowery and wife, Ann of Conover, NC, and Randy Lowery and wife, Jacque of Los Angeles, CA; brothers, Harvey L. Spaulding, Jr. and wife, Irene of Kenosha, WI, Donald Spaulding and wife, June of Racine, WI, and Darryl Spaulding and wife, Ruth of Montgomery, AL; sisters, Grace Houston of Sun City Center, FL, and Marion Pacetti of Kenosha, WI; and fourteen nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, March 22, 2008 at Denton’s Chapel United Methodist Church with Rev. Alan Wilson officiating. Military rites will be conducted by the U.S. Army. The family will receive friends Saturday from noon until 1:30 pm at the church. Mr. Spaulding’s ashes will be inurned at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Pallative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690 or to Denton’s Chapel United Methodist Church Building Fund, 5358 Denton’s Chapel Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

James Lee “Bud” Crisp, Sr., 88 of 203 Clark Street, Morganton died Friday, March 21, 2008 at Frye Regional Medical Center in Hickory, NC following a period of declining health. He was born in Patterson, NC on December 10, 1919 and was a son of the late William Avery Crisp and Narley Rhyner Crisp. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Lillian Morris Crisp, who died in April, 2001; brothers, Talmadge W. Crisp, Floyd Crisp, and Dayton Crisp; and by sisters, Colene Perryman, Della Mae Hollar, and Irene Greer. Mr. Crisp was a U. S. Army veteran of World War II and was awarded the Bronze Star among other medals. Bud retired from Southern Bell Telephone Company in Morganton after a 41 year career and attended First Baptist Church. He was an avid golfer and beloved husband and father.

Surviving are his son, Jimmy Crisp, Jr., of Morganton and his daughter, Brenda Simmons and her husband, Ken, of Greenville, SC. One of nine children, he is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Michael (Helen) Barbusca of Stewartstown, PA and Mrs. Pete (Sadie) Whisnant, of Maiden, NC; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Cryptside services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 25, 2008, at Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum with Rev. Dr. Thomas Bland and Rev. Fred Schuszler officiating. Military honors will be conducted by the Ceremonial Team of Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends 30 minutes before the service. Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, PO Drawer 459, Morganton, NC 28680. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.

Billie S. Prestwood, 44, of Gibbs Street, Glen Alpine went to her heavenly home on Thursday, March 20, 2008. She was born in Burke County on May 24, 1963 and was a daughter of Bill and Barbara Prestwood of Glen Alpine. Billie was baptized at First Baptist Church in Glen Alpine and was raised in the Baptist faith.

Surviving in addition to her parents are her daughter, Tara Mae Prestwood; her grandson, Timothy Jordan Saulman; her maternal grandmother, Essie Mae Epley; her sisters, Bobbi P. Biggerstaff and Charlotte P. Ramsey; nephews, Lance and Clay; and nieces, Tessa and Sarah, all of Glen Alpine.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, March 25, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Pastor Michael Stroud and Rev. Michael Brown officiating. Burial will follow in the Glen Alpine Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Christian Outreach Center, 510 E. Fleming Dr., Morganton, NC 28655.

Faye Harris Aikens, 77, flew away to be with her Heavenly Father, Saturday, March 22, 2008. She was born in Burke Co., March 13, 1931, to the late Joseph Jeter Harris, Sr. and Della Mae Singleton Harris.

Faye worked at Broughton Hospital Vocational Rehab for 25 years, where in 1996 she received a certificate of appreciation for her many years of service as an administrative assistant. As an accomplished artist she derived much joy in her creations. Faye was a faithful and very active member of Morganton First Church of God, where she served as the church historian and participated in numerous other activities. Faye was honored to be the recipient of a life membership in the WCG. She, along with her husband, supported Caroline, a child in Uganda for over 15 years. Caroline is now in college studying agriculture in hopes to serve her country.

Faye wished to thank her family, church family, friends, and community for their love and support. Also thanks to Doctor’s, Pippett, Stutesman, Holler, Mohiuddin and their staffs for their care and compassion.

In addition to her parents, Faye was preceded in death by a brother, Joseph Jeter Harris, Jr. and his wife Jeanne, and their daughter, Connie.

Left to cherish her memory is her husband of 57 years, Ray W. Aikens, daughters, Toni Berry and husband, Glenn, of Drexel, Pam Aikens and Patty Aikens both of Greensboro; a brother, Harper Harris and wife, Rachel, of Morganton; a “sister”, Jerry Hunter of Walkertown; a granddaughter, Kelley Berry Bradley and husband, Shane, of Raleigh; and a number of dear nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services will be held at 12 noon, Monday, March 24, 2008 at the Morganton First Church of God with the Reverend’s Don Smith, Terry McGarrity and Tim Kufeldt officiating. Entombment will follow in Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Sunday, at Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society, Att: Wanda Watson, 2258 Warrior Fork Road, Morganton, NC 28655 or Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

Elizabeth “Betty” Jackson, 72, of US 70 East, Morganton, NC died Saturday, March 22, 2008 at Palliative Care Center and Hospice of Catawba County in Newton, NC following a lengthy illness. She was born November 28, 1935 in Burke County, NC, and was a daughter of the late Malcolm Carswell, Sr. and Grace Jordan Carswell. Betty was raised in the Baptist faith. She was a past president of the PTA of Drexel Elementary, and a retired employee of Autumn Care with over 27 years of service. Betty was named the Southeastern Health Care Worker of the Year, and won numerous other awards. She also helped with both the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts. Betty was affectionately known as “Mom” to the many children she helped raise.

She is survived by a son, William Donald Jackson, Jr. and wife, Larcie of Hickory, NC; daughters, Teresa Lynn Duckworth and husband, Jeff of Morganton, and Sandra Barry and husband, Pat of Vale, NC; brothers, Grady Carswell of Nebo, NC, and Howard Carswell of Morganton; a sister, Lillie Mae Branch of Valdese, NC; 9 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Betty was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Karen Sue Jackson; brothers, Malcolm Carswell, Jr. and Charles W. Carswell; and a sister, Barbara Jean Reep.

Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 25, 2008 at Gibb Chapel Wesleyan Church with Rev. Dean Lavender officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 1:30 until 2:30 pm at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to the Palliative Care Center and Hospice of Catawba County, 3975 Robinson Rd., Newton, NC 28658. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Lee Ervin Ross, 92, of Lynn Drive, Morganton, NC, died Sunday, March 23, 2008 at Grace Hospital. Born in Burke County, NC on September 27, 1915, he was the son of the late L. Pinkney Ross and Emmer Poteat Ross. Lee was preceded in death by his wife, Annie Williams Ross; a grandson, Brian Robinson; brothers, Harrison, Nelson, Lenoir, Isaac, Johnnie, and Jesse Ross; sisters, Julia Conley and Dorothy Garrison; and a step-grandson, Chris Carr.

A U.S. Army veteran of WWII, Lee was a graduate of Morganton High School and Stamps-Baxter Music School in Chattanooga, TN. He was music director at Burkemont Baptist Church for over 40 years and at St. John Baptist Church for 15 years. He was a deacon and trustee of Burkemont Baptist Church and a charter member of the Salem Ruritan. Lee retired from Kirksey Funeral Home and Kirksey Hardware Store in Morganton and Valdese, and was a retired AFLAC insurance agent.

Mr. Ross is survived by daughters, Lynn Carr and husband, Robert, and Ann Robinson and husband, Tommy, all of Morganton; a grandson, Timothy Robinson; a great-granddaughter, Emma Robinson; a step-granddaughter, Robin Fowler; a step-great-grandson, Cody Fowler; a sister, Floy Propst of Morganton; and a number of nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, March 26, 2008 at Burkemont Baptist Church with Reverends Eddy Bunton, David Mills, and Johnnie Tiller officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Tuesday evening at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Burkemont Baptist Church, 4668 Burkemont Road, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Hazel Whisnant Cline, 87, of the Oak Hill Community in Morganton, NC departed this earth on a beautiful Easter Sunday morning, March 23, 2008 to spend eternity with her Lord and Savior. She joins her loving husband, James A. Cline, who awaits Hazel after 60 years of marriage. Born April 3, 1920 in Burke County, she was the daughter of the late Ambrose Tillman Whisnant and Callie Hood Whisnant. Hazel was a former employee of Skyland Textiles and a retired dietary department employee of Western Carolina Center. She enjoyed working with children at several day cares. Hazel was a wonderful Christian woman who loved the Lord and served him faithfully teaching Sunday school at North Morganton Baptist Church and El Bethel Baptist Church for over 35 years. She enjoyed singing in the choir and her WMU work. Hazel was a member of Morganton Freedom Church of God where she attended until her health failed. She loved working with her flowers, gardening, crocheting, and cooking, but Hazel’s greatest passion was trout fishing with her husband, children, and grandchildren.

Left to cherish the memory of this loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great great-grandmother are a daughter, Peggy Goins and her husband, Bobby, with whom Mrs. Cline made her home; a son, James Cline and his wife, Janice, of Greer, SC; grandchildren, David Marshall and his wife, Virginia, of Morganton, Rev. Dennis Marshall and his wife, LaRue, of Advance, NC, Cheryl Rodriguez and special friend, Chris Miller of Lenoir, Lynn Cline and his wife, Maggie, of Lyman, SC, and Brian Cline of Simpsonville, SC; great grandchildren, David Marshall, Jr., Summer Wells, Graham Patterson, Audrey Patterson, Chelsey Cline, Christian Cline, Lukas Cline, and McKenzie Marshall; a great great granddaughter, Serenity Wells; step-grandchildren, Renee Bowman, April Hoover, and Tori Bolding; her youngest sister, Juanita Long and her husband, Norman, of Morganton; her brother-in-law, Howard Cline and his wife, Lillie, of Charlotte; a sister-in-law, Betty Mathis of Morganton; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Hazel was preceded in death by brothers, Clyde and Grayson Whisnant; sisters, Mary Chester, Vivian Freeman, and Helen English; and two infant sons.

Hazel spent the last years of her life living with her daughter and also residing at Autumn Care of Drexel. The family would like to give special thanks and recognition to the administration and staff for the loving care given to Hazel while she lived at Autumn Care. “During the last hours of our loved one’s life, you were there for the family, providing food, support, and love. We greatly appreciate all of you.” A special thanks to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care for their kindness and compassion given to our mother at Autumn Care and at her daughter’s home. “Your loving support means more than you will ever know.” Our loved one and our family was also blessed with a special volunteer, Ms. Carolyn Cooper, who visited her faithfully.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 25, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Todd Phillips and Rev. Harold Joplin officiating and with Mrs. Cline’s grandsons serving as pallbearers. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 2:00 until 3:00 pm at the funeral home. At other times, the family will be at the residence of Peggy Goins, 1328 Amherst Rd., Morganton. Memorial gifts may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690, or to Morganton Freedom Church of God, 1314 N. Green St., Morganton, NC 28655 or to Amherst Baptist Church Building Fund, 1024 Amherst Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.

Lee Obie Crawley, 84, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, March 24, 2008 at Charles George V.A. Medical Center in Asheville, NC. Born in Burke County, NC on February 14, 1924, he was the son of the late Charlie P. Crawley and Callie Dale Crawley. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Pamela Jean Fisher. A U.S. Army veteran of WWII, Lee was stationed in Italy and was very proud to serve his country. Lee loved to walk in his NC mountains. He loved his family, especially his grandchildren.

Mr. Crawley is survived by his wife of 65 years, Catherine Pritchard Crawley of the home; a daughter, Judy Crawley Fisher of Morganton; grandchildren, Renee Fisher, Lee Alan Fisher, and Debra Ann Fisher, all of Morganton; two great-grandchildren, Christopher Alan Fisher and Corey Lee Wheeler; a sister, Marie Russell and husband, Medford, of Waynesville, NC; and a brother, Phifer Crawley and wife, Sarah, of Morganton.

The funeral will be held at 4:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 26, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Marty Bess officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park with military graveside rites to be performed by Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the funeral home prior to the service. At other times the family will be at the residence of the daughter, 5213 Crawley Dale Street, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Grace Baptist Church, P.O. Box 8026, Morganton, NC 28680.

Randy Farrell Parker, 51, of Old NC 18, Connelly Springs died Sunday, March 23, 2008 at his residence. He was born in Catawba County on September 4, 1956 and was a son of Edith Ramsey Parker of Connelly Springs and the late Farrell Devon Parker. Randy was actively involved in the management and operations of his family’s business, Parker Industries, and was a member of First Assembly of God where he served as a trustee.

Surviving in addition to his mother are his wife of 25 years, Patricia Lowman Parker, of the home; his son, Joshua Farrell Parker who is a student at Southeastern University in Lakeland, FL and his wife, Roseanna; his daughter, Jill Parker Knox, and her husband, Adam, of Eagle River, AK; his grandchildren, Madelyn and Samuel Knox; his brother, Jeff Parker and his wife, Angela, of Huntersville, NC; his sisters, Jane Parker of Cornelius, NC and Susan Parker Sherrill and her husband, Bill, of Valdese; nieces and nephews, Emily Parker, Lance Sherrill and his wife, Mandy, and Kirk Sherrill and his wife, Kim; his father and mother-in-law, Bob and Janette Lowman; brother-in-law, Randy Lowman; his sisters-in-law, Barbara Holman and Janet Chester; and a close family friend, Dot Gasperini.

The funeral will be held at 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 26, 2008 at First Assembly of God with Rev. J. D. Mallory officiating. Burial will follow at Zion Hill Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 2:30 until 4:00 p.m. Wednesday at First Assembly of God. In lieu of flowers memorial gifts should be made in Randy’s memory and to honor his wishes that they touch the lives of children such as First Assembly of God, Children’s Ministries, 1955 U.S. 70 East, Morganton, NC 28655.

Ada Estelle Bingham, 85, of Johns River Loop, Morganton, NC died Wednesday, March 26, 2008 at Valdese Hospital following a period of declining health. She was born June 22, 1922 in Burke County, NC, and was a daughter of the late David Jackson Stroupe and Eliza Christine Mooney Stroupe. Ada was a faithful and active member of Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church where she served as the President of the Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Women for many years. She was also active in various community activities such as Home Extension Agency and Catawba Valley Senior Citizens. Ada was a very compassionate and giving person to all her family and friends.

She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Warren J. Bingham of the home; nieces and nephews, James Propst and wife, Mary, of Raleigh, NC, Leonard Walker and wife, Louise, Mary Truax, Myrtle Braswell and husband, Martin, all of Morganton, Helen Whitley and husband, Don, of Concord, NC, Brenda Israel and husband, Jim, of Clemmons, NC, Peggy Williams and husband, Mark, of Hickory, NC, Joe Bingham and wife, Joan, Bruce Bingham and wife, Susan, Glenn Bingham, and Jeff Bingham and wife, Kim, all of Morganton, Kathy Powell and husband, Michael of Bahama, NC, Mark Bingham and wife, Tamra, of Jamestown, NC, and Tommy Mull and wife, Karen, of Belmont, NC; Glinda Bingham, of Morganton, and numerous great and great-great nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by brothers, Carl and James Stroupe, and sisters, Callie Schlachter, Mary Walker, and Pearl Propst.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, March 28, 2008 at Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church with Rev. Bill Abrams and Rev. George Williams officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Friday from 1:00 until 2:00 pm at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church, PO Box 381, Morganton, NC 28680. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Alice Bailey Bollinger, 68, of Kela Dr., Morganton died Tuesday, March 25, 2008 following a period of declining health. She was born in Avery County on June 12, 1939 and was a daughter of Virginia Haga Bailey and the late James C. Bailey. Mrs. Bollinger was a retired Textile worker and was a member of Mt. Grove United Methodist Church. She enjoyed working in her flowers and gardening, and her grandchildren were the joy of her life.

Left to cherish her memory as a loving mother, grandmother, daughter, and sister are her mother, Virginia Bailey of Morganton; her son, Jamie Bollinger and his fiancée, Kearney Druken, of Raleigh; her daughter, Melanie Taylor, of Morganton; sisters, Ethel McNeely of Morganton and Carolyn Johnson of Claremont; and her grandchildren, Cameron Taylor, Brandon, Kelly, Ryan, and Karson Bollinger, and Winnie Druken. In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Bailey.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, March 28, 2008, in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Terry Adams officiating. The family will receive friends one hour before the service. At other times the family will be the home of Virginia Bailey, 2871 Bowman Ave., Morganton.

Robert Alexander “Bob” Dale, Jr., 79, of Polly St., Morganton, NC died Wednesday, March 26, 2008 at Mission Hospital in Asheville, NC following a period of declining health. He was born June 12, 1928 in Burke County, NC, and was a son of the late Robert Alexander Dale, Sr., and Bessie Ross Dale. Bob was a US Navy Veteran of World War II. He served as a police officer for 34 years with the Morganton Department of Public Safety. At the time of his retirement, Bob had achieved the rank of lieutenant. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, and an enthusiastic sports fan. Bob was a member of El Bethel Baptist Church where he had formerly served as a deacon.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Clara Carpenter Dale of the home; sons, Rex Allen Dale and wife, Nita, Robin Alexander Dale and wife, Teresa, and Ronald Wade Dale, all of Morganton; grandchildren, Dana Thompson and husband, Cameron, Gená Brienzi and husband, Carl, and Alexis Dale; great grandson, Daylin Thompson; sisters, Margaret Keaton and Getty Long, both of Morganton, Nancy Thomas and Linda Beck, both of Glen Alpine; brothers-in-law, Reece Carpenter of Drexel, NC and Everette and J. C. Carpenter, both of Morganton; and sisters-in-law, Louise Carpenter Causby of Valdese, NC, and Betty Jo Carpenter Style of Granite Falls, NC.

In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by a brother, Paul Dale; sisters, Lou Mode and Sarah Merrill; and a grandson, Dewey Robert Dale.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, March 29, 2008 at El Bethel Baptist Church with Rev. David Bean and Rev. Jimmy Lambert officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery with military honors performed by Valdese American Legion Post 234. The family will receive friends Friday 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 El Bethel Baptist Church Building Fund, PO Box 2518, Morganton, NC 28680.

Kay Carswell Coffey, 60, of Pax Hill Road, Morganton, NC, died Thursday, March 28, 2008 at the Brian Center East in Hickory, NC. Born on February 5, 1948 in Burke County, NC, she was the daughter of the late Ernest Ciscero Carswell and Hattie Lou Cooke Carswell. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Preston Eugene Coffey. Kay retired from Broughton Hospital and was of the Baptist faith.

She is survived by her daughter, Cynthia Harwood and husband, James, of Morganton; twin grandchildren, Stephanie and Samantha Harwood of Morganton; and a special niece, Francine Scevers of Charlotte, NC.

The memorial service will be held at 3:30 p.m., Sunday, March 30, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. John Pritchard officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 2:00 until 3:30 p.m. before the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, Memorial Program NCC, P.O. Box 2680, North Canton, OH 44720.