Karen Kirkman McKinney, 50, of Laurel Pointe Drive, Nebo, NC, died Monday, March 31, 2008 at her residence following a period of declining health. Born in Randolph County, NC on July 5, 1957, she was the daughter of Roy Franklin Kirkman and Margaret Ann Stockwell Cox. She was a member of Oak Hill United Methodist Church.

Karen had been in the nursing field for over thirty years. Starting out in dietary at Grace Hospital, she worked there while attending school for her associate degree from Western Piedmont Community College. She then attended UNC Greensboro for her BSN in nursing. While at Grace Hospital she worked in medsurg, pediatric, community health, occupational health, and home health. Her high point while at Grace was when she joined the City of Morganton’s “Rent-a-nurse” program, which was part of the occupational health program. While involved with the program Karen taught wellness programs to the public and helped with cholesterol screenings.

Karen was always such a caring, loving soul and it reflected in her work. She also loved teaching aerobics, which she did at the Racquets, Spa Lady, and at Fit and Thin. She was dedicated to fitness and loved showing others how to have fun while staying active.

For the last eight years she has been at Mission Memorial Hospital in Asheville serving as the director of the wound center. She took such pride in her ability to lead and direct others. She led over 30 employees with compassion and grace. Karen was loved by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Her smile was contagious. She will be deeply missed.

Karen is survived by her husband, Randy McKinney of the home; a daughter, Jill McKinney and her children, Trey and Mackinsey Sawyer, all of Morganton; a step-daughter, Kristi Byers and her children, Gavvin and Noah, all of Morganton; her father, Roy F. Kirkman and wife, Donna, of Randleman, NC; her mother, Margaret S. Cox and husband, Charles, of Asheboro, NC; her paternal grandmother, Beulah Kirkman of Randleman; her maternal grandmother, Leona Stockwell of Randleman; a brother, Kevin Cox of Asheboro; sisters, Kim Kirkman of Holden Beach, NC and Lisa Edmisten of Bear Creek, NC; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Karen was preceded in death by her paternal grandfather, Junius Kirkman, and her maternal grandfather, Harold Stockwell.

The family will receive friends from 3:00 until 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 3, 3008 at El Bethel Baptist Church followed by a celebration of Karen’s life at 5:30 with Reverends Mark Denton, April Abernethy, and Gary Moger officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Hill United Methodist Church Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690 or to Hospice of McDowell County, 218 Logan Street, Marion, NC 28752. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Kenneth Edward “K. J.” Jordan, 35, of Hudson Lane, Morganton, NC died Sunday, March 30, 2008 in Taylorsville, NC. He was born January 27, 1973 and was a son of Carolyn Massey Dugan of Taylorsville, NC. He was a self-employed painter who enjoyed his work. Kenneth was a loving husband and father.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife, Carrie Jordan of the home; daughters, Taylor Jordan and Autumn Jordan, both of Morganton, a step-son, Dylan Seitz of Glen Alpine, NC; step-daughters, Makenna Seitz and Shelby Seitz, both of Morganton; a brother, Kent Townsend of Asheboro, NC; and sisters, Lisa Bell of Avery Co., NC, and Cindy Buchanan of Morganton.

There will be a gathering of friends from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 2, 2008 at Sossoman Funeral Home.

Our loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Hazel Hull “Maw Tib” Carter, 78, of East Union Street, Morganton, NC went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, April 1st, 2008. Born on January 9th, 1930, she was the daughter of the late Marvin Hull and Alda Hull Chapman. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Herman Carter; a son, Darrell Wayne Carter; and a grandson.

Hazel was a homemaker and retiree of Autumn Care of Drexel. She was also a member of Lakeview Baptist Church in Valdese. She loved her family and was loved deeply by all. She will be greatly missed.

She is survived by two sons, Dennis Carter and wife, Kathy, of Drexel, NC and Larry Carter of Morganton; daughters, Wanda Collingwood and husband, Michael, of Morganton and Vickie Carter Burleson with whom she lived; a brother, Donald Hull and wife, Jeanette, of Morganton; a sister, Elouise Polk of Drexel, NC; six grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren; and a number of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The funeral will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, April 5, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Ricky Parlier and Preacher Richie Carswell officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. At other times the family will be at her residence, 910-A East Union Street, Morganton, NC.

Edward Junior Duckworth, 75, of Williams Rd., Morganton, NC died unexpectedly Thursday, April 03, 2008 at Catawba Valley Medical Center in Hickory, NC. He was born August 30, 1932 in Burke County, NC and was a son of the late Thomas Ed Duckworth and Carrie Orders Duckworth. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Donna Snow Duckworth. Edward was a member of Walker Road Baptist Church, and he was a US Air Force veteran of the Korean Conflict. He was a retired employee of Western Carolina Center.

Edward is survived by sons, Terry Glenn Duckworth and his wife, Julie, and Douglas Wayne Duckworth and his wife, Lisa, all of Morganton; a brother, Carl Duckworth, of Morganton; sisters, Margaret Clark and Clara Vaughn, both of Morganton; and grandchildren, Melissa Duckworth, Joshua Duckworth, Travis Duckworth, Ashley Gibson, and Kathrine Gibson.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Monday, April 7, 2008 at Walker Road Baptist Church with Rev. Brandon Ware officiating. Burial will follow at Salem United Methodist Church Cemetery with military honors conducted by Valdese American Legion Post 234. The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m Monday at Walker Road Baptist Church. Memorial contributions may be made to Walker Road Baptist Church, 100 Walker Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Glenn “Pop” England, 73, of Snowhill Place, Morganton, NC went to Heaven unexpectedly Wednesday, April 2, 2008 at his residence. He was born September 22, 1934 in Burke County, and was a son of the late Joe C. England and Roberta Wells England. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Norman and J. C. England.

Glenn was a member and former Trustee of the First Assembly of God in Morganton. He was a US Air Force veteran and served during the Korean Conflict. Glenn was a charter member and a Vice-Commander of the Morganton D.A.V., and also a life-long member of the Morganton Optimist Club. He was the former owner of England Wholesale and later England TV. Glenn then went to work for the Morganton Post office from which he retired.

He is survived by his wife, Sonya Trawick England of the home; sons, Greg England, and his wife, Cindy, and Doug England, all of Morganton, Robb Bennett and his wife, Katie, of Lake Toxaway, NC, and Kelly Bennett and his wife, Tonya, of Valdese, NC; grandchildren, Julia Schwierking and her husband, Joe, T. J. Fox, Joseph England, Ryan Sanders, Maddie Rose Dunning, and Ashe, Chris, Gavin, Karrigan, and Kendall Bennett; great grandchildren, Rylee and Phoenix Schwierking; brothers, Kenneth England and his wife, Jeanne, of Fort Mill, SC, and Bill England, and his wife, Edna, of Raleigh, NC; and sister-in-law, Katherine England of Colfax, NC.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, April 5, 2008 at the First Assembly of God with the Pastors George Logan, Mark Myers, Brian Rainbow, and Jerry Willis officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Saturday from 12:30 until 2:00 pm at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Assembly of God, PO Box 1458, Morganton, NC 28680, or to the New Day Christian Church, PO Box 1864, Morganton, NC 28680. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Mae Reichard Summers, 89, of Whispering Pine Street, Morganton, NC died Saturday, April 5, 2008 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. Mae was a resident at Cable’s Family Care on Henderson Mill Road for the last 3½ years where she and her family were accorded loving care and respect. She loved all of the staff and residents. Born in Caldwell County, NC on September 11, 1918, she was the daughter of the late Finley Augusta Reichard and Emma Braswell Reichard.

Mae was a member of Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church and a former member of Pleasant View, Asheville Street, and Southside Baptist Churches. She was a retired seamstress with Skyland Textiles. Following her retirement, she traveled extensively with her son, Ted, and his wife, Marie. Mae was an avid reader.

She is survived by sons, Ralph Towery and wife, Priscilla, of Myrtle Beach, SC, Robert “Bob” Summers and wife, Virgie, of Lexington, SC, and Ted Summers and wife, Marie, of Valdese, NC; a daughter, Nancy Summers Snipes and husband, Gene, of Morganton; a step-son, Jim Summers and wife, Bobbie, of Cary, NC; grandchildren, Stan Towery, Steven Towery, Matthew Summers, Heather Ford, Lori Flake, Jason Summers, Leslie Benson, and Donn Snipes; great-grandchildren, Justin Towery, Christopher Towery, Emily Towery, Wyatt Summers, Morgan Summers, Caroline Ford, Caleb Summers, Nancy Flake, Drake Summers, Mitchell Summers, Katherine Benson, and Andrew Benson; a brother, Finley Reichard of Morganton; sisters, Mozelle Kincaid of Morganton and Betty Lambert of Madisonville, TN; and a number of step-grandchildren, step-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Mae was preceded in death by her husband, J. D. Summers; an infant son; a step-daughter, Patricia Jones; brother, Virgil and Troy Lee Reichard; and sisters, Pearl Mace, Ann Devinney, and Gertrude Snipes.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, April 7, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Danny Byers officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church, Mission Project Romanian Church, P. O. Box 1159, Morganton, NC 28680.

Joyce C. Chapman, 83, of Piercy Avenue, Morganton, NC, died Saturday, April 05, 2008 at her residence following a period of declining health. Born in Burke County, NC on September 23, 1924, she was the daughter of the late Savanse Carswell and Sarah Ann Roper Carswell. Joyce was a homemaker and a member of Nowlings Chapel Freewill Baptist Church in Morganton. She loved her family and was loved deeply by all. She will be greatly missed.

She is survived by her daughter, Jeanette Fisher and husband, Vernon, of Morganton; son, Tony Chapman and wife, Dorothy, of Vale, NC and Verlin Chapman and wife, Mary, of Morganton; a sister, Cleo Smith of Morganton; nine grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, and a number of nieces, nephews, and cousins; and a special friend, Crystal Setzer.

In addition to her parents, Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, Leonard Ray Chapman; a son, Clifford Chapman; and a granddaughter, Tonia Hall.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, April 7, 2008 at Nowlings Chapel Freewill Baptist Church with Reverends Darvy Hensley and Richard Ellington officiating. Burial will follow in Bethlehem Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the funeral hour. At other times the family will be at the residence, 111 Piercy Avenue, Morganton, NC 28655. Memorial contributions may be made to Nowlings Chapel Freewill Baptist Church, 5827 Fisher Davis Road, Morganton, NC 28655.

Dorothy M. Buchanan, 77, of New Haven Circle, Morganton, NC, died Sunday, April 6, 2008 at her residence. Born in Haywood County, NC on July 10, 1930, she was the daughter of the late Harvey Emmett Mashburn and Margretta Smiley Mashburn. Dorothy was a member of Dysartsville Missionary Baptist Church.

A loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, she is survived by a son, Tommy Buchanan and wife, Susie, of Morganton; daughter, Glenda Moody and husband, Bill, of Piedmont, AL, Becky Beaver and husband, Dennis, of Morganton, Patsy “Pat” Powell of Nebo, and Darlean Smith and husband, Jim, of Nebo; a brother, Harvey Mashburn; sisters, Gladys Bower, Thelma Morton, Hazel Mashburn, Sharon Crisp, and Geneva Penson; fourteen grandchildren, nineteen great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, Robert “Buck” Tooms Buchanan; brother, Earl and Jimmy Mashburn; and an infant daughter, Shelby Jean Buchanan.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 8, 2008 at Dysartsville Missionary Baptist Church with Reverends John Cope and Walker Toney officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Monday evening from 6:00 until 7:30 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the funeral hour. Memorial contributions may be made to Dysartsville Missionary Baptist Church, 24 Club House Road, Nebo, NC 28761.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Hospice for their loving care.

Herbert Alexander “Hub” Franklin, 89, passed away into his eternal reward on Sunday, April 6, 2008 following a stroke. Born on June 7, 1918, he was the son of the late Ade and Lilly Orders Franklin. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Melva Franklin; and his siblings, Elwood Franklin and Azalee Franklin Davis. He was a 1936 graduate of Morganton High School and a member of Calvary Baptist Church for over fifty years. Hub had enjoyed a long retirement following a career of more than 40 years in the furniture industry. His career began at Drexel Furniture and culminated in over 30 years at Henredon Furniture Company.

Hub is survived by three children, Robert A. Franklin of Greensboro, NC, Elizabeth Ann F. Ragan of Oak Ridge, TN, and Richard “Rick” Franklin of Morganton; seven grandchildren which include Amanda Ragan of Oak Ridge, Captain Patrick Ragan (USAF) of Glendale, AZ, Lindsay F. Berrang of Jacksonville, FL, and Kelly F. Greene of Asheville, NC; and three great-grandchildren, Savannah Berrang, Corban Berrang, and Callie Alexandra Berrang, all of Jacksonville.

The funeral will be held at 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, April 8, 2008 at Calvary Baptist Church with Rev. Larry Thompson officiating. Entombment will follow in Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Baptist Church, 407 S. Green Street, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Rita Smith Ledford, 99, of Eastwood Ave., Morganton, NC died Sunday, April 6, 2008 at Grace Heights in Morganton following a period of declining health. She was born May 9, 1908 in Burke County, and was a daughter of the late William Pinkney Smith and Emma Hutchens Smith. In addition to her parents, Rita was preceded in death by her husband, Elijah Leroy Ledford; a son, Deward Ledford; a daughter, Jean Pless; and a brother, Addie Monroe Smith. She was a member of Hopewell Baptist Church, and devoted to reading her Bible. Rita loved needlework and crocheting, and made several bedspreads for members of her family.

Rita is survived by a daughter, Rama Fields and her husband, William, of Gainesville, FL; a son-in-law, Phifer Pless of Morganton; and grandchildren, Anne Wright, Steven Fields, Vickie Pless, Piper Poteat, and Ramona Henderson; 5 great-grandchildren and 1 great great-grandchild; and her special caregiver friend, Barbara Williams.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the entire staff at Grace Heights for the loving care shown to our Granny. “She loved all of you.”

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, April 10, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Homer Murdock officiating. Burial will follow at New Home United Methodist Church Cemetery in Casar, NC. The family will receive friends Thursday from 10 until 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Hopewell Baptist Church, 1112 Hopewell Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.

Rassie Lingafelt LaTella, age 80 of Peachtree City, GA, peacefully passed from this world to the next on April 5th, 2008. She was proceeded in death by her parents Hank and Beulah Lingafelt, sister Macie Stratton, and brothers Manuel and Richard Lingafelt. She had a full and wonderful life in which she totally devoted herself and her love to her family.

She is survived by Daughters, Sherry (Don) Cox, Susan Webber, Melody LaTella (Rick Grimes). Son, Mike (Pam) LaTella; Grandchildren, Tripp (Tracie) Cox, Tara (Daniel) Luetkemeyer, Toby (Jeannie) Polhamus, Heidi (David) Brown, Katie Webber (Cory Benton), Christopher (Susan) Burgess, Bonnie (Glenn) Looper, Margaret Ragsdale, Michael LaTella, Thomas Langan, Lamar LaTella and ten great-grandchilren. Other survivors include sisters Mardie (Earl) Digh, Vivian Schuszler, and Mary Inez Sewell; sister-in-law, Betty Campbell plus many loving nieces and nephews.

She will be laid to rest at her birthplace that she loved so much in the foothills of the North Carolina mountains. Graveside services will be held on April 12th, 2008 at 3:00 p.m. at Forest Hill Cemetery in Morganton, NC. Arrangements are being handled by Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contributions can be made to the hospice that lovingly kept Rassie comfortable in her final days, Healthfield Hospice, 34 Upper Riverdale Rd, Suite 101, Riverdale GA 30274.

Christine H. Powell, 74, of Powell Loop, Nebo, NC, died Tuesday, April 8, 2008 at her residence following a period of declining health. She was born April 15, 1933 in McDowell County, and was a daughter of the late Fred Theodore Henline and Eulalia Gosnell Henline. In addition to her parents, Christine was preceded in death by a daughter, Joyce Anita Powell. She was a member of Victory Temple Full Gospel Church, and a devoted Christian, wife, mother, and grandmother.

Christine is survived by her husband, James Vernon “Buck” Powell of the home; sons, James Freddy Powell and wife, Brenda, Jeffrey Lynn Powell, Vernon Andrew Powell, and Christopher Eugene Powell and wife, Teresa; grandchildren, Ted Powell, Jennifer Powell, Kendall Powell, Amanda Powell, Angela Powell, Justin Powell, Jonathan Register, Chrystal Bingham, Heather Toney, and Erica Barrier; great grandchildren, Dalton Powell and Bayleigh Powell; brothers, Sam Henline and wife, Betty, Charlie Henline and wife, Louise, and Glen Henline, and wife, Dottie; and a sister, Betty Ray and husband, Max.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, April 11, 2008 at Snow Hill United Methodist Church with Rev. Bobby Swain and Rev. Walker Toney officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday 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. At other times, the family will be at the residence. Memorial contributions may be made to Snow Hill United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund, 8661 Hwy 70 West, Morganton, NC 28655.

Katherine Charlene Williams, 49, of the J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center, Morganton, NC, died Friday, April 11, 2008. Born on June 6, 1958, she was the daughter of John C. Williams and Charlene Clontz Williams.

In addition to her parents, she is survived by her sister, Janet W. Collins of Hickory, NC.

The funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, April 14, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Oakwood Cemetery in Hickory, NC. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center, c/o Evergreen Area, 300 Enola Road, Morganton, NC 28655.

Margaret Deal Miller, 73, of the Oak Hill Community, Morganton, NC, answered the call of Jesus Christ on Wednesday, April 16, 2008 after fighting a short battle with cancer. She was born in Valdese, NC on May 1, 1935, to the union of the late Lawrence Nelson Deal and Myrtle Settlemyre Deal. For over twenty-five years she was employed at Premiere Hosiery, Lowes Foods, and Hardees, and later became the fulltime caretaker for her husband of 56 years, Norman Dewey Miller. Her kind and humble attitude towards people lead them to continually remember her as an unselfish and always caring person who was concerned about others and not herself. She will be sorely missed in her beloved Oak Hill Community; however, she was ready to meet her Lord and was excited about her receiving her new body in Christ. Margaret is now enjoying her rewards in Heaven.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by a son, Mark Miller and his wife, Kathy; grandsons, Nathan Miller and Bill Wilkins, II; a great granddaughter, Rachel Faye Miller; sisters, Lucille Deal Holden, Evelyn Deal Owens, and Carolyn Deal Anderson; and a host of nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at 4:00 p.m. Friday, April 18, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Reverends Ted Swann and George Logan officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the funeral home for one 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 American Cancer Society, 4-A Oak Branch Dr., Greensboro, NC 27407.

Harold Ray “Goo” McKee, 51, Old Creek Road, Morganton, NC, died Wednesday, April 16, 2008 at his residence following a lengthy illness. Born in Cumberland County, NC on February 27, 1957, he was the son of Harold Lloyd McKee of Morganton and Esther Davis Melton of Marion, NC.

Goo is survived by his wife, Betty Bumgarner McKee of the home; a brother, Willie McKee of Morganton; and a half brother, Jeremy Melton of Asheville, NC.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, April 18, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Reverends Steve Chapman and Bill Rice officiating. Burial will follow in Conley Road Pentecostal Holiness Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 10:30 until 11:00 a.m. before for the service.

Bradley Evans Fox, 47, of San Francisco, CA, formerly of Morganton, died, Monday, March 24, 2008 after a brief illness. Bradley was the son of Faye Kelly Stephenson and husband, Ed, and Dewey Evans Fox and wife, Martha, all of Morganton.

Bradley was a 1978 graduate of Freedom High School, and an active member of Gibbs Chapel Wesleyan Church before going off to college. He attended Western Carolina University and later joined the United States Air Force. After service he moved to San Francisco, where he graduated, cum laude, from the University of California with a Bachelors Degree in Nursing. Bradley continued his education and was working towards his Masters and other degrees. He loved to travel to different countries and train his two boxer dogs, which were his pride and joy. He loved music, drama, piano, sewing, and knitting, but most of all, nursing. Bradley worked at Seton Hospital with the Cardiac Cath Unit, where his fellow workers admired and looked to him for advice. He was loved by the whole administration.

Bradley was preceded in death by grandparents, Clarence and Annie Kelly and Earl Fox of Glen Alpine. In addition to his parents he is survived by a brother, Brent Fox and wife, Gail; three nephews, Brandon, Derek, and Kyle Fox; two step-brothers, Robert and Brett Watson; grandmother, Carrie Fox, of Glen Alpine; several aunts and uncles and numerous cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, April 20, 2008 at Gibbs Chapel Wesleyan Church on Jamestown Road. Memorial contributions may be made to Gibbs Chapel Wesleyan Church, Cemetery Fund, PO Box 603, Glen Alpine, NC 28628-0603. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Sadie Pearl Branch McDaniels, 85, of Grace Heights, Morganton, NC, died Friday, April 18, 2008 at Grace Heights. Born November 7, 1922 in Burke County, NC, she was a daughter of the late John Alexander Branch and Florence Bell Branch Branch. Sadie was an employee of Alba Waldensian for over thirty years. After working at Alba she worked for Drexel Heritage and Hanes Printables. She was a member of Snow Hill United Methodist Church. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Evert McDaniels; a daughter, Robin McDaniels; a brother, Paul Branch; and sisters, Carrie Quick and Grace Powell.

Surviving are her sons, Alan McDaniels and his wife, Myra of Morganton, and David McDaniels and his wife, Robin of Wellford, SC; grandchildren, Ramie, Allie, Dixie, Caleb, and Cory McDaniels; a brother, William “Bill” Long Branch of Morganton; and sisters, Princess Whisenant and Joyce Smith both of Morganton.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, April 21, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Rev. Mark Garnhum officiating. Burial will follow in the Snow Hill United Methodist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 7:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Memorial gifts may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

Elisabeth G. Smith, 72, of Rink Street, Morganton, NC died Saturday, April 19, 2008 at College Pines Nursing Center in Valdese, NC. Born in Czechoslovakia on December 18, 1935, she was the daughter of Herman and Josephine Grasser Gietzkovsky.

Elisabeth is survived by a son, Donald R. Smith, Jr. of Morganton; daughter, Betty McNeill and husband, Brad, and Anita Searcy and husband, Jesse Dean, all of Morganton; sisters, Elfriede G. Case of Morganton and Marget Grossman of Germany; brother, Kurt Gietzkovsky and Herbert Gietzkovsky, both of Germany; grandchildren, Brentley McNeill, Brianna Powell, and Jesse Tyler Searcy, all of Morganton; a great-grandchild, Blase Daniel Powell; a niece, Elizabeth Case Watson of Boone, NC; and a nephew, David Case of Morganton.

The memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 23, 2008 at Oak Hill United Methodist Church with Reverends Mark Denton and April Abernethy officiating. The family will receive friends at the church following the service. At other times the family will be at the residence, 206 Rink Street, Morganton, NC. Memorial contributions may be made to Oak Hill United Methodist Church Building Fund, 2239 NC 181, Morganton, NC 28655.

Priscilla Pearson Glasco, 78, of US 70 East, Valdese, NC, died Sunday, April 20, 2008 at her residence. Born in Easley, SC on July 18, 1929, she was the daughter of the late William A. Pearson and Dora Alexander Pearson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Donald E. Glasco, Sr.; a son, Donald E. Glasco, Jr.; and a daughter, Malee Glasco Simnor.

Priscilla was a member of Grace Episcopal Church. She worked at Western Carolina Center for 20 years. She volunteered at Grace Hospital for over 20 years, as well as volunteering at Burke United Christian Ministries for a number of years.

Priscilla is survived by daughters, Deborah Glasco McDowell and husband, Harold, of Mars Hill, NC and Kristal L. Glasco of Belmont, NC; grandchildren, John Frank Howard, Jr., Joseph William Simnor, Jr, Patrick Donaldson Glasco, Callie Barrett Simnor, and Anna Rose Simnor; and a great-granddaughter, Savannah Howard.

At Priscilla’s request there will be no funeral. However, her daughters and son-in-law invite you to drop by Sossoman Funeral Home on Tuesday, April 22, 2008 between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. There will be a reception to follow at her residence beginning at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.

The family would like to thank Dr. Gregory Jones and his entire staff for the excellent care their mother received.

Effie Genelia Smith, 88, died, Monday, April 21 2008. Effie was born in Burke County July 1, 1919 to the late Frank W. Smith and Geogianne Dale Smith.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Summie Smith. She is survived by a son, Tim Smith and wife, June of Morganton, and three grandchildren.

Graveside service will be held at 12:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 23, 2008 at Glen Alpine Cemetery with Rev. Alan Sumlin officiating.

Corene Pruett Propst, 91, of Burke Memorial Park Road, Valdese, NC, died Tuesday, April 22, 2008 at Autumn Care of Drexel. Born in Cleveland Co., NC on October 6, 1916, she was the daughter of the late Andy Pruett and Cora Downs Pruett. Corene was a retired employee of Skyland Textiles. She was an active member of Pleasant View Baptist Church and was an avid gardener and homemaker.

She is survived by her son, Gary Propst and wife, Rebecca, of Valdese; grandsons, Brent Propst and wife, Libby, of Hildebran, NC and Kirk Propst of Valdese; a great-grandson, Elijah Propst of Hildebran; a great-granddaughter, Hannah Propst of Hildebran; brothers, Harold Pruett of Lawndale, NC and Donald Pruett and wife, JoAnn, of Casar, NC; sisters, Aileen McNeely of Morganton and Mildred Price of Colonial Heights, VA; a brother-in-law, Donald Propst and wife, Irene, of Skipwith, VA; a sister-in-law, Lois Propst of Morganton, NC; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Corene was preceded in death by her husband, Delmar Lee Propst; and a brother, Gerald Pruett.

The graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 23, 2008 at Burke Memorial Park with Reverends Gary Garner and Dr. Burt Wilbur officiating. The family will receive friends at Sossoman Funeral Home from 2:00 until 2:45 p.m. before the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant View Baptist Church, 1834 US 70 East, Morganton, NC 28655 or to Enon Baptist Church Building Fund, 2059 Enon Road, Morganton, NC 28655.

Helen Dale Dyer, 64, of Pine St., Morganton, NC died Tuesday, April 22, 2008 at College Pines Nursing Center in Valdese following a period of declining health. She was born January 22, 1944 in McDowell County, and was a daughter of the late William Edward Dale and Minnie Helen Harrison Dale. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Angela Genell Whitson; and her very dear brother, Roy Dale. Helen was born and raised in North Cove, NC, and attended North Cove High School. After graduation, she moved to Burke County where she raised her family. Helen was employed at Grace Ridge Retirement Center as a housekeeper.

She is survived by a daughter, Tammy Dudley and husband, Alan, of White Pine, TN; a son, Robert Dyer and wife, Blenda, of Newland, NC; her sister-in-law, Peggy Dale; a nephew and niece, Bill Dale and Angie Scheaffer; a special niece, Susan Barrier and her children; a great niece, Danielle Collins; a great nephew, Alan Barrier; a great great-nephew, Caleb Collins; a special cousin, Marie Russell; and a special friend and companion, “Sabrina”, the cat.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Thursday, April 24, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Kenneth Baker officiating. Entombment will follow at Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum. The family will receive friends Thursday from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Attn: Office Manager, 4-A Oak Branch Dr., Greensboro, NC 27407.

Diane Patton, 65, of Morganton, NC died Wednesday, April 23, 2008, at Mission St. Joseph’s Hospital in Asheville, NC following an extended illness. She was born August 17, 1942, in Burke County, NC, and was the youngest daughter of the late W. R. Patton and Grace Shell Patton. Diane graduated from Morganton High School and attended the Women’s Business College in Charlotte, NC before moving back to Morganton. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Morganton. She was a past member of Mimosa Hills Golf Club where she enjoyed a good “dog fight” and the yarns that resulted.

Diane is survived by brothers, Aldine Patton of Augusta, GA, and Dick Patton of Tuscola, TX; sisters, Grace Swann of Morganton, Polly Wall of Greensboro, NC, and Peggy Levesque of Green Lake, WI; a son, Laird Grinnell of Cambridge, MD; and 28 nieces and nephews who loved her very much. Diane was a wonderful sister, aunt, and friend. She will be remembered for her kindness to those she loved and especially for her sharp wit and infectious laugh.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by brothers, Charles Fred Patton, W. R. Patton, Jr., and a sister, Sara Saunders.

The family will receive friends Saturday, April 26, 2008 from 11:00 until 11:45 am at Sossoman Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held at 12 Noon, Saturday, at Forest Hill Cemetery with Rev. Jerry Gamble and Rev. Dr. Syndor Thompson, III, officiating. A reception will follow the service at The House of Jete’, 401 N. Greene St., Morganton. At other times, the family will gather at the home of Fred Patton, Mimosa Hills Dr.

Virginia Woody Curtis, 82, of Jamestown Road, Morganton, NC, died Friday, April 25, 2008 at her residence. Born in Avery County, NC on February 9, 1926, she was the daughter of the late Greenville Woody and Roberta Wiseman Woody. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Brown Crowder; a brother, Robert Woody; and sisters, Louise Gouge and Shirley Buchanan. Virginia was a member of River Valley Baptist Church and loved playing her guitar and working with flowers. She was known for her quilt making, fried apple pies, and dried apples throughout Burke, Avery, and surrounding counties.

She is survived by her husband, Clyde Collins Curtis of the home; sons, John Crowder and wife, June, of Hattiesburg, MS, Wayne Crowder and wife, Elaine, of Spruce Pine, NC, and Dean Crowder and wife, Shirley, of Marshall, NC; a daughter, Joyce Phipps and husband, Roscoe, of Lenoir, NC; grandchildren, Keith, David, Johnny, Crystal, Robin, Dewayne, Johnny, Shellie, and Kellie; nineteen great-grandchildren; brothers, Lawrence Woody, Bill Woody, Casey Woody, and Tylie Woody, all of Spruce Pine and Scott Woody of Morganton; a sister, Mabel Wiseman of Ingalls, NC; and a number of nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, April 28, 2008 at Rolands Chapel Baptist Church in Nebo, NC with Reverends Robert Vance, Luther Carver, and Steve Chapman officiating. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Methodist Church Cemetery in Spruce Pine, NC. The family will receive friends Sunday evening at Sossoman Funeral Home from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. where Virginia will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the funeral hour. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.

Dewey W. Mull, 86, of Bright Street, Glen Alpine, NC, died Saturday, April 26, 2008 at his residence following a period of declining health. Born in Burke County, NC on November 17, 1921, he was the son of the late John Henry Mull and Margaret Ellen Lafevers Mull. Dewey was a graduate of Glen Alpine High School and a member of Glen Alpine United Methodist Church. He was a retired office manager of Drexel Heritage Furnishings where he worked for 43 years. Dewey was an avid golfer and gardnener.

He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Sharon “Sherry” Hancock Mull of the home; a daughter, Teresa Shackleford and husband, Bob, of Randleman, NC; a grandson, Will Shackleford; a brother, Garland T. Mull of Glen Alpine; a sister-inlaw, Myra Brown of Morganton; a number of nieces and nephews and his special canine companion, Sophie.

In addition to his parents, Dewey was preceded in death by brothers, James Edgar Mull and John Jackson Mull; and sisters, Bessie Marie Hefner, Princess Elizabeth Coulter, Ruby Irene Cuthbertson, and Esther Raye Scott.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, April 28, 2008 at Glen Alpine United Methodist Church with Dr. Bob Shackleford and Rev. David Duncan officiating. Burial will follow in Glen Alpine Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church from 9:30 until 11:00 a.m. before the service. At other times the family will be at the residence, 203 Bright Street, Glen Alpine, NC. Memorial contributions may be made to Glen Alpine United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 576, Glen Alpine, NC 28628. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Virginia “Ginny” Wright McClintock, 82, of Brookstone Drive, Morganton, NC, died Friday, April 25, 2008 at Burke Hospice and Palliative Care Center in Valdese, NC. Born in Greensburg, PA on August 2, 1925, she was the daughter of the late Dr. George E. Wright and Elizabeth Beatty Wright. Ginny was a member of First United Methodist Church and Mimosa Hills Country Club. She graduated from Westminster College in 1945 with an associate’s degree and was a member of the Sigma Kappa sorority.

She is survived by her husband, Robert “Bob” McClintock of the home; a daughter, Karen Sharpe and husband, Donald, of Wooster, OH and three grandchildren; a sister, Mary Elizabeth Baker and husband, Robert, of Greensburg, PA; and a sister-in-law, Doris Wendell and husband, Charles, of Williamsburg, VA.

The memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 29, 2008 at First United Methodist Church with Rev. Dr. Sydnor Thompson, III officiating. Inurnment will follow in the First United Methodist Church Columbarium. The family will receive friends in the church gathering area following the service. Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, 200 N. King Street, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Ora Hutchinson, 86, of River Road, Morganton, NC went home to be with her Lord Wednesday, April 23, 2008 at Hospice of Catawba Valley in Newton, NC following a period of declining health. She was born September 19, 1921 in Wilkesboro, NC, and was a daughter of the late Noah and Ida Long. Ora was an active member of Zion Road Baptist Church.

She is survived by a son, James Hutchinson and wife, Miranda, of Connelly Springs; a daughter, Judy Butler and husband, Herman, of Morganton; brothers, Olen Long of Newton, Wayne Long of Hildebran, Roy Long of Hickory, and James Long of Conover; a sister, Margaret Felts of Wilkesboro; seven grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Ora was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years; Herman Hutchinson; brothers, Brad Long, Ward Long, and Willard Long; and a sister, Cora Shumate.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Monday, April 28, 2008 at Zion Road Baptist Church with Reverends Micah Piercy and Daniel Parker officiating. Burial will follow at Catawba Memorial Park in Hickory, NC. The family will receive friends Sunday from 7:00 until 8:30 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes before the funeral hour. At other times, the family will be at the residence of Judy Butler, 3201 River Rd., Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Road Baptist Church Building Fund, 2328 Zion Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.

John L. Hebert, 57, formerly of Port St., Morganton died Sunday, April 27, 2008, at Britthaven of Morganton following a period of declining health. He was born in Alamance County, NC on January 14, 1951 and was a son of the late George Claude Hebert and Harriett Boggs Hebert. Mr. Hebert worked in construction and manufacturing and was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church. John volunteered with Burke United Christian Ministries; was active at the Burke County Senior Center; and his hobbies included photography and ceramics. Surviving are a brother, Robert C. Hebert, of Shelby; two nieces; and one nephew. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a brother, Harold Hebert; a sister, Sharon Farbsten; and a nephew, Robert A. Hebert. The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 29, 2008, in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Michael F. Riley officiating. Burke will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends an hour before the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Lutheran Church Benevolent Fund, 119 N. King St., Morganton, NC 28655, Burke United Christian Ministries Soup Kitchen, 305-B, W. Union St., Morganton, NC 28655, or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

William M. “Bill” Lindsay, 84, of Hilltop St., Morganton, NC died Sunday, April 27, 2008 at Grace Hospital following a brief illness. He was born June 15, 1923 in Burke County, NC, and was a son of the late Marvin L. Lindsay and Della Williams Lindsay. Bill was a US Army Veteran, and served in the European Theater during World War II. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, and a retired employee of Greene Construction Company where he worked as a carpenter and cabinet maker.

Bill is survived by his wife of 62 years, Hazel Dale Lindsay, of the home; daughters, Judy Lindsay and Betsy Leonard and her husband, David, grandchildren, Corey Leonard and Jake Leonard; Rebecca Ervin; and a great granddaughter, Raven Leonard, all of Morganton; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by three brothers and three sisters.

Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 30, 2008 at Forest Hill Cemetery with Rev. Michael Bailey officiating. Military graveside rites will be conducted by the Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends following the graveside service. At other times, the family will be at the residence, 203 Hilltop St. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Julius E. Scism, 80, of Carriage Lane, Hudson, NC formerly of Forest Park, GA died Wednesday, April 30, 2008 at Britthaven of Morganton. He was born in Gaston County, NC on August 4, 1927 and was a son of the late Julius Elberry Scism and Mary Elizabeth Turner Scism. Mr. Scism was a U. S. Army veteran of the Korean Conflict and was a member of Ashe Street Baptist Church in Forest Park, GA.

He is survived by a son, Julius E. “Ebbie” Scism, Jr. and his wife, Michelle, of Lake Charles, LA; a brother, Ernest Scism, of Kendall Park, NJ; grandchildren, Jade Scism of Metter, GA and Julius E. “Trey” Scism, III of Jacksonville, FL; great-granddaughter, Tara Scism, of Jacksonville; three step-daughters, and many nephews, great-nephews, great-great-nephews, nieces, great-nieces, and great-great-nieces who were very special to Julius. Jay will always be remembered by his family and friends for his tidbits of wisdom.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his first wife, Elizabeth Fisher Scism, mother of Julius, Jr.; his second wife, Martha Scism; his third wife, Avis Browning Scism; brothers, James Scism and Arthur Scism; sisters, Kathleen Scism Ross and Evelene Scism; and by special nieces, Linda Smith and Frankie Turner.

Graveside services will be held at 4:00 p.m. Friday, May 2, 2008 at Forest Hill Cemetery with Rev. Gary Garner officiating with military honors conducted by Valdese American Legion Post 234. The family will receive friends from 2:30 until 3:30 p.m. Friday at Sossoman Funeral Home. At other times the family will be at the home of Joyce Williams, niece and caregiver, Carriage Lane, Hudson. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690 or to Enon Baptist Church Bus Fund, 2059 Enon Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.