Home - Obits - Archived Obituaries - November 2008
Archived Obits November 2008
Corinne "Betsey" Kirksey
[Back to Top]
Corinne “Betsey” Kirksey, 73, of Silver Creek Rd. in Morganton died Saturday, November 1, 2008 at Frye Regional Medical Center after a year-long illness. She was born November 19, 1934 in Burke County to Corinne Pipkin Giles, who lives at her home, and the late Ralph “Buddy” Giles.
Betsey was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Morganton where she had been active in the United Methodist Women. Betsey was a member of the Morganton High School class of 1952, of which she was very proud, and graduated from Salem College in Winston Salem. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and a past member of the Morganton Service League.
She is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, Robert “Bobby” Kirksey; her children Jimmy Kirksey and his wife Dotty of Morganton, Margaret Caldwell and her husband, Dan, of Lawton OK, Giles Kirksey and his wife, Christy, of Greensboro NC, and Corinne Alavi and her husband, Jamal, of Raleigh. She is also survived by her wonderful grandchildren, of whom she was very proud: Lyndsey and Hannah Kirksey of Morganton; Elizabeth and Wilson Caldwell of Lawton, OK; Christopher, James and Isabella Kirksey of Greensboro NC; Robert, Susan and Caroline Alavi of Raleigh; as well as a number of cousins in the Giles, Walker, Pipkin and Kirksey families.
The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 pm Wednesday in the Fellowship Hall of the First United Methodist Church. A celebration of Betsey’s life will follow at 2:00 pm at the church with the Reverends Dr. Sydnor Thompson, III, Jason Harvey, and Holly Adams officiating. A private family burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery.
The Family has asked that in lieu of flowers memorials be sent in our Mother‘s memory to either the First United Methodist Church, 100 N King Street, Morganton NC 28655 or to The Medical Foundation of NC, Inc. – Nephrology Department, 800 MLK Jr. Blvd, CB#7565, Chapel Hill NC 27514.
Betsey was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Morganton where she had been active in the United Methodist Women. Betsey was a member of the Morganton High School class of 1952, of which she was very proud, and graduated from Salem College in Winston Salem. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and a past member of the Morganton Service League.
She is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, Robert “Bobby” Kirksey; her children Jimmy Kirksey and his wife Dotty of Morganton, Margaret Caldwell and her husband, Dan, of Lawton OK, Giles Kirksey and his wife, Christy, of Greensboro NC, and Corinne Alavi and her husband, Jamal, of Raleigh. She is also survived by her wonderful grandchildren, of whom she was very proud: Lyndsey and Hannah Kirksey of Morganton; Elizabeth and Wilson Caldwell of Lawton, OK; Christopher, James and Isabella Kirksey of Greensboro NC; Robert, Susan and Caroline Alavi of Raleigh; as well as a number of cousins in the Giles, Walker, Pipkin and Kirksey families.
The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 pm Wednesday in the Fellowship Hall of the First United Methodist Church. A celebration of Betsey’s life will follow at 2:00 pm at the church with the Reverends Dr. Sydnor Thompson, III, Jason Harvey, and Holly Adams officiating. A private family burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery.
The Family has asked that in lieu of flowers memorials be sent in our Mother‘s memory to either the First United Methodist Church, 100 N King Street, Morganton NC 28655 or to The Medical Foundation of NC, Inc. – Nephrology Department, 800 MLK Jr. Blvd, CB#7565, Chapel Hill NC 27514.
Edith Beck Rumpel Murphy
[Back to Top]
Edith Beck Rumpel Murphy, 89, of Fish Hatchery Road, Morganton, NC died Saturday, November 1, 2008 at the Burke Palliative Care Center, Valdese, NC. Born in Burke County, NC on November 3, 1918, she was the daughter of the late William V. Beck and Lola Isis Cox Beck. Edith was an active member of Calvary Lutheran Church. In WWII she worked in the Philadelphia Navy Yard and was awarded the Navy “E”. She retired from 3M (Minnesota Mining Manufacturing) in Bristol, PA after 23 years. She was a member of the Oak Hill Fire Department Ladies Auxillary and of the Post 90 American Legion Auxillary in Levittown, PA.
Edith is survived by her sons, John W. Rumpel and wife, Susie, of Levittown, PA and Robert C. Rumpel of Morganton; a granddaughter, Carol Saxton and husband, Tony, of Levittown; great-grandsons, Michael Anthony Saxton and John Robert Saxton; sisters, Elizabeth B. Gray and Lola B. Setzer Roupe, both of Morganton; a step-daughter, Becky Neimi of Coco, FL; a special canine companion, Dolly; and a number of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
In addition to her parents, Edith was preceded in death by her first husband, Carl J. Rumpel; second husband, Ralph M. Murphy; brothers, Ernest, Leonard, and Homer Beck; and sisters, Rachel Seagle, Bennie Smith, Naomi Sauls, and Rama Hogan.
The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 4, 2008 at Calvary Lutheran Church with Rev. Dr. Michael Riley officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. At other times the family will be at 308 N. Green Street, Apt #2, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Lutheran Church Building Fund, 119 N. King Street, 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.
Edith is survived by her sons, John W. Rumpel and wife, Susie, of Levittown, PA and Robert C. Rumpel of Morganton; a granddaughter, Carol Saxton and husband, Tony, of Levittown; great-grandsons, Michael Anthony Saxton and John Robert Saxton; sisters, Elizabeth B. Gray and Lola B. Setzer Roupe, both of Morganton; a step-daughter, Becky Neimi of Coco, FL; a special canine companion, Dolly; and a number of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
In addition to her parents, Edith was preceded in death by her first husband, Carl J. Rumpel; second husband, Ralph M. Murphy; brothers, Ernest, Leonard, and Homer Beck; and sisters, Rachel Seagle, Bennie Smith, Naomi Sauls, and Rama Hogan.
The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 4, 2008 at Calvary Lutheran Church with Rev. Dr. Michael Riley officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. At other times the family will be at 308 N. Green Street, Apt #2, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Lutheran Church Building Fund, 119 N. King Street, 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.
Ayden Jerry Jeff Crawley
[Back to Top]
Ayden Jerry Jeff Crawley, 9, of Lee Loop in Morganton died Saturday, November 1, 2008, due to an accident. He was born September 26, 1999 in Burke County and was the son of Jerry Adrian Crawley and Deni Lynn Beulah Beller Crawley of Morganton. Ayden attended the First Baptist Church of Glen Alpine and was a 4th grade student at Salem Elementary. He was very active in the Salem Recreation Program where he played football, basketball, and baseball. Ayden was a ball boy for the R. L. Patton High School Varsity football team. He liked to write songs and play video games, and he had a great imagination.
In addition to his parents, Ayden is survived by sisters, A’lyssa Carolyn Sofia “Poe Poe” Beller and Jordan Kaye “Gerdy-Lou” White, both of the home; his paternal grandparents, Sandra Dale Crawley of Glen Alpine and Jerry Butch Crawley of Morganton; aunts and uncles, Lorrinda Sossamon and husband, Neil, of Charlotte, NC, Nathan Crawley and wife, Anita, of Glen Alpine, Lori Clayton and husband, David, of Silverdale, WA, and Brenda Leae of Bremerton, WA, his Godfather, Jeff “Gus” Bush; a number of cousins especially Andrew; and extended family and friends. Ayden was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Loren and Carol Beller.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 5, 2008 at the First Baptist Church of Glen Alpine with Rev. Michael Brown officiating and Rev. David Turbiville officiating. Burial will follow in the Glen Alpine Cemetery. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. At other times the family will be at the residence. Memorial contributions may be made to Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central and Western North Carolina, 212 S. Tryon St., Suite 1080, Charlotte, NC 28281.
In addition to his parents, Ayden is survived by sisters, A’lyssa Carolyn Sofia “Poe Poe” Beller and Jordan Kaye “Gerdy-Lou” White, both of the home; his paternal grandparents, Sandra Dale Crawley of Glen Alpine and Jerry Butch Crawley of Morganton; aunts and uncles, Lorrinda Sossamon and husband, Neil, of Charlotte, NC, Nathan Crawley and wife, Anita, of Glen Alpine, Lori Clayton and husband, David, of Silverdale, WA, and Brenda Leae of Bremerton, WA, his Godfather, Jeff “Gus” Bush; a number of cousins especially Andrew; and extended family and friends. Ayden was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Loren and Carol Beller.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 5, 2008 at the First Baptist Church of Glen Alpine with Rev. Michael Brown officiating and Rev. David Turbiville officiating. Burial will follow in the Glen Alpine Cemetery. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. At other times the family will be at the residence. Memorial contributions may be made to Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central and Western North Carolina, 212 S. Tryon St., Suite 1080, Charlotte, NC 28281.
William F. "Bill" Brown, Jr.
[Back to Top]
Mr. Bill Brown, Jr., former principal of Oak Hill School and respected citizen of the community, passed away Monday morning, 3 November 2008. Mr. Brown had been in declining health for the past several years. He was 84 years old.
Mr. Brown was born in Nebo, NC on 25 September 1924 to the late Will Brown, Sr. and Nora Jimerson Brown He graduated from Nebo High School in 1942 and attended the University of North Carolina until he entered the Army Air Corps in April 1943. Mr. Brown participated in numerous battles of World War II, including the battles of Rome-Arno, Southern France, Normandy, the Rhineland, and Central Europe. He participated in the D-Day Invasion, Operation Market Garden, the Battle of the Bulge, and the liberation of the Nazi Concentration Camps. For distinguished service, he received the EAMET Campaign Medal with six Bronze Stars, the Victory Medal, and the Distinguished Unit Badge. Mr. Brown was discharged from the Army in December 1945, and resumed his education at Appalachian State Teachers College (now ASU), where he received his BA and Masters degrees.
In 1949, Mr. Brown came to Oak Hill School as a teacher and shortly thereafter was named Principal. He spent his entire career as an educator at Oak Hill until his retirement in 1979. Some of the greatest joys in Mr. Brown’s life centered around Oak Hill School and his former students. He often remarked at how blessed he had been to have had the opportunity to serve with so many fine teachers, and to have had the privilege to have known so many fine young students and to see them grow into adults. It can be said in all honesty that Mr. Brown remembered every single child who attended Oak Hill School and could call each one by name.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Brown was preceded in death by his wife, Letha Dobson Brown, sisters, Thelma Brown, Sara Brown Lewis, and Hazel Brown, and a great granddaughter, Ashley “Madison”Brown.
Mr Brown is survived by his son, William F. Brown, III and wife, Anne, and his daughter, Pam Brown Lookadoo and her husband, Scott, as well as eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
The family will receive friends Thursday, November 6, 2008 from 5 to 8 PM at Sossoman Funeral Home in Morganton, and the funeral will be held at 4 PM Friday at Oak Hill United Methodist Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Bill and Letha Brown Scholarship Fund, c/o Oak Hill United Methodist Church, 2239 NC 181, Morganton, NC 28655.
Bill Brown lived a rich and full life. He was blessed with a close and loving family, as well as a huge “extended family” that included the hundreds of former Oak Hill students whom he considered as much “family” as his own. All who knew him will dearly miss him, but his legacy of love, compassion, service, and wisdom will endure for generations to come.
Mr. Brown was born in Nebo, NC on 25 September 1924 to the late Will Brown, Sr. and Nora Jimerson Brown He graduated from Nebo High School in 1942 and attended the University of North Carolina until he entered the Army Air Corps in April 1943. Mr. Brown participated in numerous battles of World War II, including the battles of Rome-Arno, Southern France, Normandy, the Rhineland, and Central Europe. He participated in the D-Day Invasion, Operation Market Garden, the Battle of the Bulge, and the liberation of the Nazi Concentration Camps. For distinguished service, he received the EAMET Campaign Medal with six Bronze Stars, the Victory Medal, and the Distinguished Unit Badge. Mr. Brown was discharged from the Army in December 1945, and resumed his education at Appalachian State Teachers College (now ASU), where he received his BA and Masters degrees.
In 1949, Mr. Brown came to Oak Hill School as a teacher and shortly thereafter was named Principal. He spent his entire career as an educator at Oak Hill until his retirement in 1979. Some of the greatest joys in Mr. Brown’s life centered around Oak Hill School and his former students. He often remarked at how blessed he had been to have had the opportunity to serve with so many fine teachers, and to have had the privilege to have known so many fine young students and to see them grow into adults. It can be said in all honesty that Mr. Brown remembered every single child who attended Oak Hill School and could call each one by name.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Brown was preceded in death by his wife, Letha Dobson Brown, sisters, Thelma Brown, Sara Brown Lewis, and Hazel Brown, and a great granddaughter, Ashley “Madison”Brown.
Mr Brown is survived by his son, William F. Brown, III and wife, Anne, and his daughter, Pam Brown Lookadoo and her husband, Scott, as well as eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
The family will receive friends Thursday, November 6, 2008 from 5 to 8 PM at Sossoman Funeral Home in Morganton, and the funeral will be held at 4 PM Friday at Oak Hill United Methodist Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Bill and Letha Brown Scholarship Fund, c/o Oak Hill United Methodist Church, 2239 NC 181, Morganton, NC 28655.
Bill Brown lived a rich and full life. He was blessed with a close and loving family, as well as a huge “extended family” that included the hundreds of former Oak Hill students whom he considered as much “family” as his own. All who knew him will dearly miss him, but his legacy of love, compassion, service, and wisdom will endure for generations to come.
John James "Jack" Burke, Sr.
[Back to Top]
John James “Jack” Burke, Sr., 80, of Grace Ridge and formerly of Charlotte, NC died unexpectedly, Sunday, November 2, 2008. He was born in Monroe County, NY on June 15, 1928 and was the only son and youngest of five children of the late John Joseph Burke and Mary Agnes Goschwind Burke. Jack was a U. S. Army veteran of World War II and was a graduate of the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, VA where he was a brother of the Theta Chi Fraternity. Before moving to Morganton several years ago, Jack spent the majority of his career in real estate in Charlotte. He was a member of Grace Episcopal Church.
Surviving are his wife of 53 years, Dorothy Bason Burke, to whom Jack was a devoted husband and loving caregiver for the past five years; his daughter, Carolyn Cumming Hart and her husband, Jim, of Bethesda, MD; his son, John James Burke, Jr. and his wife, Cathy, of Chattanooga, TN his sisters, Sister Jeanette Burke, O.S.F of Tampa, FL and Mary Agnes Gross, of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; and his grandchildren, John G. Cumming, IV, Emily Burke, and Megan, Burke.
A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, November 6, 2008, in the Ervin Community Room at Grace Ridge. The family will receive friends following the service. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, Always and Forever Memorial Program, PO Box 13067, Alexandria, VA 22312. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.
Surviving are his wife of 53 years, Dorothy Bason Burke, to whom Jack was a devoted husband and loving caregiver for the past five years; his daughter, Carolyn Cumming Hart and her husband, Jim, of Bethesda, MD; his son, John James Burke, Jr. and his wife, Cathy, of Chattanooga, TN his sisters, Sister Jeanette Burke, O.S.F of Tampa, FL and Mary Agnes Gross, of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; and his grandchildren, John G. Cumming, IV, Emily Burke, and Megan, Burke.
A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, November 6, 2008, in the Ervin Community Room at Grace Ridge. The family will receive friends following the service. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, Always and Forever Memorial Program, PO Box 13067, Alexandria, VA 22312. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.
Jane Bost Shaffer, 73, of Orlando, FL passed away Sunday, November 2, 2008 in Orlando. Born in Morganton, NC on March 2, 1935, she was a daughter of the late Walter F. and Margie Carswell Bost. She was a graduate of Oak Hill High School, Morganton, NC. She received her bachelor of science degree in education from Lenoir-Rhyne College, Hickory, NC and her masters degree from Appalachian State University. Jane was a classroom teacher in Burke County, NC, in Brevard, NC, in Alachua and Martin Counties, FL, and in Alexandria, LA. She was a member of the Florida Reading Association and the International Reading Association. Her hobbies included fishing, bridge, and rock hounding. Mrs. Shaffer was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Oviedo, FL.
Surviving are her husband, Bob of the home in Orlando; sons, Eric Shaffer of Oviedo, FL and Michael Shaffer of Deming, NM; granddaughters, Madison and Megan Shaffer of Oviedo, FL; a brother, Walter F. Bost, Jr. of Woodstock, NY; and brothers-in-law, Vernon Shaffer and his wife, Onyx of Gainesville, FL and Don Shaffer and his wife, Barbara of Oviedo, FL. The funeral will be held at 3:30 p.m., Thursday, November 6, 2008 at Quaker Meadows Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Andrew Parkey officiating. Burial will follow in the Bost-Forney Cemetery on Bost Rd. The family will receive friends at the church for thirty minutes before the service.
A memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m., Thursday, November 13, 2008 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 123 East Livingston St., Orlando, FL. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Quaker Meadows Presbyterian Church, 2698 N.C. 181, Morganton, NC 28655 or to Trinity Lutheran Church and School, 123 East Livingston St., Orlando, FL 32801. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Surviving are her husband, Bob of the home in Orlando; sons, Eric Shaffer of Oviedo, FL and Michael Shaffer of Deming, NM; granddaughters, Madison and Megan Shaffer of Oviedo, FL; a brother, Walter F. Bost, Jr. of Woodstock, NY; and brothers-in-law, Vernon Shaffer and his wife, Onyx of Gainesville, FL and Don Shaffer and his wife, Barbara of Oviedo, FL. The funeral will be held at 3:30 p.m., Thursday, November 6, 2008 at Quaker Meadows Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Andrew Parkey officiating. Burial will follow in the Bost-Forney Cemetery on Bost Rd. The family will receive friends at the church for thirty minutes before the service.
A memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m., Thursday, November 13, 2008 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 123 East Livingston St., Orlando, FL. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Quaker Meadows Presbyterian Church, 2698 N.C. 181, Morganton, NC 28655 or to Trinity Lutheran Church and School, 123 East Livingston St., Orlando, FL 32801. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Mary Viola "Tiny" Norman
[Back to Top]
Mary Viola “Tiny” Norman, 80, of Denton’s Chapel Rd., Morganton, NC died Tuesday, November 4, 2008 at Britthaven of Morganton. Born in Burke County, NC on September 6, 1928, she was a daughter of the late John W. and Hattie McDaniel Roper. For many years, Tiny worked at Pauline Hosiery Mill in Valdese and in 1989, she retired from Henredon Furniture Co. Following her retirement she worked part time at Wal Mart. She was a member of Nowlings Chapel Freewill Baptist Church. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence Norman; a sister, Betty Johnson and her husband, Kelly.
Surviving are her sons and their wives, Clarence Welsey Norman and Kathy, Vester Lee Norman and Janet, and Wayne Nelson Norman and Janet; a daughter, Linda Diane Norman Michaels and her husband Billy Ray; grandchildren, Tracy Oliver and her husband, Darrin, Lesley Norman, Rodney Norman and his wife, Julie, Michelle Smith and her husband, Jason, Chris Michaels and his wife, Amy, Chad Michaels and his wife, Miranda, and Kimberly Powell and her husband, Travis; great grandchildren, Lucas Oliver, Sisalynn Norman, Shaunna Norman, Stephanie Norman, Caleb Norman, Brayden Pearson, Dakota Michaels, Alora Michaels, Kinsley Michaels, Kaden Michaels, and Jack Powell; sisters, Agnes Keaton and Nancy Hipps; brothers, John Roper, Jr. and his wife, Ellen, Leroy Roper and his wife, Rose of Lake Charles, LA, Claude Roper and his wife, Verlie, and Richard Roper and his wife, Nancy; a host of nieces and nephews; and a special canine companion, Coco. All of the family except Leroy is from Morganton.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, November 7, 2008 at Nowlings Chapel Freewill Baptist Church with the Rev. Darvy Hensley officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Thursday at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes before the funeral hour. Memorial gifts may be made to the Young at Heart Group, c/o Nowlings Chapel Freewill Baptist Church, 5827 Fisher-Davis Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.
Surviving are her sons and their wives, Clarence Welsey Norman and Kathy, Vester Lee Norman and Janet, and Wayne Nelson Norman and Janet; a daughter, Linda Diane Norman Michaels and her husband Billy Ray; grandchildren, Tracy Oliver and her husband, Darrin, Lesley Norman, Rodney Norman and his wife, Julie, Michelle Smith and her husband, Jason, Chris Michaels and his wife, Amy, Chad Michaels and his wife, Miranda, and Kimberly Powell and her husband, Travis; great grandchildren, Lucas Oliver, Sisalynn Norman, Shaunna Norman, Stephanie Norman, Caleb Norman, Brayden Pearson, Dakota Michaels, Alora Michaels, Kinsley Michaels, Kaden Michaels, and Jack Powell; sisters, Agnes Keaton and Nancy Hipps; brothers, John Roper, Jr. and his wife, Ellen, Leroy Roper and his wife, Rose of Lake Charles, LA, Claude Roper and his wife, Verlie, and Richard Roper and his wife, Nancy; a host of nieces and nephews; and a special canine companion, Coco. All of the family except Leroy is from Morganton.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, November 7, 2008 at Nowlings Chapel Freewill Baptist Church with the Rev. Darvy Hensley officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Thursday at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes before the funeral hour. Memorial gifts may be made to the Young at Heart Group, c/o Nowlings Chapel Freewill Baptist Church, 5827 Fisher-Davis Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.
James Anthony "Little Jim" Cramer
[Back to Top]
James Anthony “Little Jim” Cramer, 33, of Stonebridge Dr., Morganton, NC died Sunday, November 2, 2008 at Grace Hospital. Born in East Liverpool, OH on October 7, 1975, he is the son of James Floyd Cramer of Morganton and Linda Sturgeon of Harrisonburg, VA.
Surviving in addition to his parents are his Fiancee, Tammy Basinger of the home; daughters, Alexxus Cramer and Desiree Wise; special daughter, Sarah Basinger; son, Danny Wise; brother, Shawn Cramer and his wife, Crystal; sister, Jamie Cramer; nephews and niece, Nathan, Landein and Crystal Cramer.
A memorial service will be held at 6:00 p.m., Friday, November 7, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Brother Matt officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Sossoman Funeral Home, PO Box 2608, Morganton, NC 28680.
Surviving in addition to his parents are his Fiancee, Tammy Basinger of the home; daughters, Alexxus Cramer and Desiree Wise; special daughter, Sarah Basinger; son, Danny Wise; brother, Shawn Cramer and his wife, Crystal; sister, Jamie Cramer; nephews and niece, Nathan, Landein and Crystal Cramer.
A memorial service will be held at 6:00 p.m., Friday, November 7, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Brother Matt officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Sossoman Funeral Home, PO Box 2608, Morganton, NC 28680.
Marie Noble Monroe
[Back to Top]
Marie Noble Monroe, 85, of Southview St., and formerly of College St. in Morganton died Wednesday, November 5, 2008 at Morganton Long Term Care following a period of declining health. She was born June 30, 1923 in Monroe County, WV, and was a daughter of the late Walter Bowd Noble and Bertha Mae Mann Noble. Marie was a member of First Baptist Church, and a retired employee of Bell South Telephone Company. She was very active in the Parent’s Association at the North Carolina School for the Deaf where she had served as past president.
Marie is survived by daughters, Donna M. Johnson and husband, Rev. Carl Johnson of Reidsville, NC, Vickie M. Guerry and husband, Dr. Wendell Guerry of Mt. Pleasant, SC, and Terri M. Houser and husband, Larry, of Morganton; grandchildren, Katherine Johnson, Annie Johnson, Jenny Johnson, Benjamin Guerry, Dana Houser, and Shana Houser; and a dear cousin, Mildred Spangler of Ballard, WV.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Dana F. Monroe; a brother, Marshall Noble; and sisters, Louise Keatley and Nancy Folds.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, November 7, 2008 in the First Baptist Church Chapel with Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr., Dr. Wendell Guerry, and Rev. Carl Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Friday from 10 until 11 am in the church parlor. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church, PO Drawer 459, Morganton, NC 28680, Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690, or to the North Carolina School for the Deaf Foundation, 517 W. Fleming Dr., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Marie is survived by daughters, Donna M. Johnson and husband, Rev. Carl Johnson of Reidsville, NC, Vickie M. Guerry and husband, Dr. Wendell Guerry of Mt. Pleasant, SC, and Terri M. Houser and husband, Larry, of Morganton; grandchildren, Katherine Johnson, Annie Johnson, Jenny Johnson, Benjamin Guerry, Dana Houser, and Shana Houser; and a dear cousin, Mildred Spangler of Ballard, WV.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Dana F. Monroe; a brother, Marshall Noble; and sisters, Louise Keatley and Nancy Folds.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, November 7, 2008 in the First Baptist Church Chapel with Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr., Dr. Wendell Guerry, and Rev. Carl Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Friday from 10 until 11 am in the church parlor. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church, PO Drawer 459, Morganton, NC 28680, Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690, or to the North Carolina School for the Deaf Foundation, 517 W. Fleming Dr., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Vance Edward "Cookie" Cooke
[Back to Top]
Vance Edward “Cookie” Cooke, 82, of Bear Wallow Bend in Morganton died Tuesday, November 4, 2008 at his residence following a period of declining health. He was born November 29, 1925 in Burke County, NC and was a son of the late Jerry Lee Cooke and Annie Mae Carpenter Cooke. Vance served in the US Army during World War II, and was a retired employee of Leviton.
He is survived by his former wife, Dorothy Cooke of Morganton; a son, Alan Edward Cooke and his wife, Eva, of Morganton; daughters, Elizabeth Brown of Orlando, FL, and Yvonne Wolgamott of Bitely, MI; a sister, Louise Ivy of Florida; eight grandchildren; many, many loving great-grandchildren; and his favorite niece, Bobbi Cooke Holleman.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Jerry Lee Cooke, Jr., Russ Cooke, Did Cooke, and Johnny Cooke; and a sister, Nell Cooke Deal.
Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, November 8, 2008 at Enon Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Steve Chapman officiating. Military graveside rites will be conducted by the Valdese American Legion Post #234. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
He is survived by his former wife, Dorothy Cooke of Morganton; a son, Alan Edward Cooke and his wife, Eva, of Morganton; daughters, Elizabeth Brown of Orlando, FL, and Yvonne Wolgamott of Bitely, MI; a sister, Louise Ivy of Florida; eight grandchildren; many, many loving great-grandchildren; and his favorite niece, Bobbi Cooke Holleman.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Jerry Lee Cooke, Jr., Russ Cooke, Did Cooke, and Johnny Cooke; and a sister, Nell Cooke Deal.
Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, November 8, 2008 at Enon Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Steve Chapman officiating. Military graveside rites will be conducted by the Valdese American Legion Post #234. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Mary Ellen Hoffman
[Back to Top]
Mary Ellen Hoffman, 89, of Foothills Dr. in Morganton died Wednesday, November 5, 2008 at Grace Heights following a period of declining health. She was born April 4, 1919 in Gaston Co, NC, and was a daughter of the late L. Carl Ford, Sr. and Myrtle Carpenter Ford. Mary was a member of the First Baptist Church.
She is survived by sons, Michael F. Hoffman of Bethesda, MD, and Frank P. Hoffman of Friendship, MD; a brother, James L. Ford of Myrtle Beach, SC; six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, November 10, 2008 at Forest Hill Cemetery with Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr. officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church Parish Nursing Program, PO Drawer 459, Morganton, NC 28680. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
She is survived by sons, Michael F. Hoffman of Bethesda, MD, and Frank P. Hoffman of Friendship, MD; a brother, James L. Ford of Myrtle Beach, SC; six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, November 10, 2008 at Forest Hill Cemetery with Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr. officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church Parish Nursing Program, PO Drawer 459, Morganton, NC 28680. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Marie West Buff, 80, of Messer Rd., Valdese, NC died Friday, November 7, 2008 at Valdese General Hospital following a period of declining health. Born February 10, 1928, she was a daughter of the late Glen and Myrtle Sherrill West. Marie was a member of United Baptist Church. She was a beloved wife, mother, sister, and loving friend. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Joe Bynum Buff, Jr.
Surviving are her sons, Terry Ray Buff of Morganton and Randy Buff and his wife, Shelia, of Hudson, NC; a daughter, Dianne Garner and her husband, Bill, of Nebo, NC; a niece and nephew that she raised, Retha McDonald of Valdese and Garmon West of the home; brothers, Jack West and his wife, Thelma, Johnny West and his wife, Barbara, Jerry West and his wife, Sherrie, Teddy West, Tommy “Tinker” West and his wife, Brenda, all of Valdese; sisters, Reba Howell and her husband, Dave, of Greenville, SC, Delores Rector, Carolyn Franklin and her husband, Lewis, and Joan Carswell and her husband, Tom, all of Valdese; eleven grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren.
The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, November 9, 2008 at United Baptist Church with the Reverends Avery Owenby and Barry Camp officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:30 p.m. until 3:00 p.m., Sunday at the church. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Surviving are her sons, Terry Ray Buff of Morganton and Randy Buff and his wife, Shelia, of Hudson, NC; a daughter, Dianne Garner and her husband, Bill, of Nebo, NC; a niece and nephew that she raised, Retha McDonald of Valdese and Garmon West of the home; brothers, Jack West and his wife, Thelma, Johnny West and his wife, Barbara, Jerry West and his wife, Sherrie, Teddy West, Tommy “Tinker” West and his wife, Brenda, all of Valdese; sisters, Reba Howell and her husband, Dave, of Greenville, SC, Delores Rector, Carolyn Franklin and her husband, Lewis, and Joan Carswell and her husband, Tom, all of Valdese; eleven grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren.
The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, November 9, 2008 at United Baptist Church with the Reverends Avery Owenby and Barry Camp officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:30 p.m. until 3:00 p.m., Sunday at the church. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Raymond Thomas Orders
[Back to Top]
Raymond Thomas Orders, 89, of Glen Alpine died Friday, November 7, 2008, at his residence following an illness of several years. He was born in Burke County on August 26, 1919 and was a son of the late Marvin James Orders and Beulah Wise Orders. In addition to his parents, Mr. Orders was preceded in death by his wife Josephine Houck Orders; a son, Larry Orders; and by brothers, Clyde, Roy, Charles, Harry, and Benny Orders. Raymond was a U. S. Army veteran of World War II and was a carpenter by trade. He and his brother, Harry, built many homes in the Glen Alpine area.
Surviving are his sons and their wives, Michael T. and Susan Orders of Glen Alpine and David L. and Becky Orders, of Charlotte; his daughters, Rama O. Whitlock of the home, Susan O. Bingham and her husband, Bruce, of Morganton, and Donna O. Poteet and her fiancée, Chris Taylor, of Marion; grandchildren and their spouses, Jennifer and Stephen Holden, Christina and Sam Holden, Hannah and Justin Orders, Amelia and Phillip Hunt, Alicia and Phillip Harkey, Amanda and Danny Powell, and Michael and Stormi Bingham; eight great-grandchildren; a brother, Jerry Orders and his wife, Betty, of Glen Alpine; and a sisters, Ola Turner and her husband, Tommy, of Glen Alpine.
Graveside services will be held at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, November 9, 2008, at Glen Alpine Cemetery with Rev. Chester West officiating. Military honors will be conducted by Valdese American Legion Post 234. The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m. Sunday at Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Blue Ridge Healthcare Foundation, 2201 S. Sterling St., Morganton, NC 28655 or to Glen Alpine Cemetery Fund, C/O Jane Pitts, PO Box 226, Glen Alpine, NC 28628.
Surviving are his sons and their wives, Michael T. and Susan Orders of Glen Alpine and David L. and Becky Orders, of Charlotte; his daughters, Rama O. Whitlock of the home, Susan O. Bingham and her husband, Bruce, of Morganton, and Donna O. Poteet and her fiancée, Chris Taylor, of Marion; grandchildren and their spouses, Jennifer and Stephen Holden, Christina and Sam Holden, Hannah and Justin Orders, Amelia and Phillip Hunt, Alicia and Phillip Harkey, Amanda and Danny Powell, and Michael and Stormi Bingham; eight great-grandchildren; a brother, Jerry Orders and his wife, Betty, of Glen Alpine; and a sisters, Ola Turner and her husband, Tommy, of Glen Alpine.
Graveside services will be held at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, November 9, 2008, at Glen Alpine Cemetery with Rev. Chester West officiating. Military honors will be conducted by Valdese American Legion Post 234. The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m. Sunday at Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Blue Ridge Healthcare Foundation, 2201 S. Sterling St., Morganton, NC 28655 or to Glen Alpine Cemetery Fund, C/O Jane Pitts, PO Box 226, Glen Alpine, NC 28628.
Shirley Ann Ledford Brown
[Back to Top]
Shirley Ann Ledford Brown, 64, of 19th St., SW, Hickory, NC died Saturday, November 8, 2008 at Frye Regional Medical Center, Hickory. Born November 9, 1943 in Cleveland County, she was a daughter, of the late Claude Drayton Ledford and Elgie York Ledford. She was formerly employed by Jackson-Hewitt Tax Service as a manager and trainer.
Surviving are her former husband, John Walter Brown of Butler, TN; sons, John Timothy Brown of Hickory, Rocky Drayton Brown of Morganton, Richard Allen Brown and his wife, Teresa of Vale, and Jonathan Keith Brown and his wife, Jackie of Hickory; a daughter, Wendy Huffman and her husband, Russell of Connelly Springs, grandchildren, Jonathan Scott Brown, Brent Jackson Fulbright, Kale Brown, Nikki Huffman, Chasity Huffman, Jeremy Huffman, Julie Huffman, Corey Brown, and Kala Brown; great grandchildren, Blake and Madilyn Brown; a brother, David Ray Ledford of Connelly Springs, and sisters, Catherine Cook of Casar, and Nancy Ferguson of Connelly Springs.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 12, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Allan Barlow and Rev. E. Warren Markam officiating. Burial will follow in Chapman Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.
Surviving are her former husband, John Walter Brown of Butler, TN; sons, John Timothy Brown of Hickory, Rocky Drayton Brown of Morganton, Richard Allen Brown and his wife, Teresa of Vale, and Jonathan Keith Brown and his wife, Jackie of Hickory; a daughter, Wendy Huffman and her husband, Russell of Connelly Springs, grandchildren, Jonathan Scott Brown, Brent Jackson Fulbright, Kale Brown, Nikki Huffman, Chasity Huffman, Jeremy Huffman, Julie Huffman, Corey Brown, and Kala Brown; great grandchildren, Blake and Madilyn Brown; a brother, David Ray Ledford of Connelly Springs, and sisters, Catherine Cook of Casar, and Nancy Ferguson of Connelly Springs.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 12, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Allan Barlow and Rev. E. Warren Markam officiating. Burial will follow in Chapman Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.
Ellen Turner Walk Sheets
[Back to Top]
Ellen Turner Walk Sheets, 82, of Dogwood St., Morganton, NC died Sunday, November 09, 2008 at Grace Hospital. Born September 3, 1926 in Washington County, VA, she was a daughter of the late John Van Walk and Rosie Davidson Walk. Ellen was a member of Antioch Baptist Church. She dearly loved her family, her church, and all of God’s creatures. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Elmer Lee Sheets; an infant daughter, Bessie Sheets; a son, Carl Wayne Sheets, Sr.; a grandson, Jayden Lee Peyton; and sisters, Irene Ferguson, Christina Walk, Lora Bell Walk, and Lonnie Mae Walk.
Surviving are her sons, Robert Lee Sheets and his wife, Norma of Lexington, SC, Charles “Wolf” Walk and Lee Sheets both of Morganton; daughters, Saunders Janette Bryant and her husband, Larry and Jean Patton and her husband, Kenneth all of Morganton; thirteen grandchildren, sixteen great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild; and a brother, Elmer Walk of Radcliffe, KY.
The funeral will be held at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 11, 2008 at Antioch Baptist Church with the Reverends Clarence Cornell and Jerrill Townsend officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at Sossoman Funeral Home from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. Tuesday. At other times the family will be at the home of Saunders and Larry Bryant on Amherst Rd. In order to assist the family with funeral expenses, memorial gifts may be made to Sossoman Funeral Home, P. O. Box 2608, Morganton, NC 28680.
Surviving are her sons, Robert Lee Sheets and his wife, Norma of Lexington, SC, Charles “Wolf” Walk and Lee Sheets both of Morganton; daughters, Saunders Janette Bryant and her husband, Larry and Jean Patton and her husband, Kenneth all of Morganton; thirteen grandchildren, sixteen great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild; and a brother, Elmer Walk of Radcliffe, KY.
The funeral will be held at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 11, 2008 at Antioch Baptist Church with the Reverends Clarence Cornell and Jerrill Townsend officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at Sossoman Funeral Home from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. Tuesday. At other times the family will be at the home of Saunders and Larry Bryant on Amherst Rd. In order to assist the family with funeral expenses, memorial gifts may be made to Sossoman Funeral Home, P. O. Box 2608, Morganton, NC 28680.
Philip Alan Kramer
[Back to Top]
Philip Alan Kramer, 67, of River Trail, Morganton, died November 11, 2008 at his residence. Mr. Kramer was born July 18, 1941 in Pittsburg County, Oklahoma to the late George Allen Kramer and Loumae Dawson Davis. He was a veteran of the US Navy serving in the Vietnam War and had worked as a business consultant. He was loved greatly by his family.
Mr. Kramer is survived by a son, Greg Kramer and his wife, Heather of Morganton, a daughter, Kimberly Monroe of Cary, and three grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Mr. Kramer is survived by a son, Greg Kramer and his wife, Heather of Morganton, a daughter, Kimberly Monroe of Cary, and three grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Eilene D. Yeager
[Back to Top]
Eilene D. Yeager, 85, of Morganton, NC died Monday, November 10, 2008 at Grace Ridge Retirement Center. Born in Lucas County, OH on June 22, 1923, she was the daughter of the late Roy McKinley Derr and Coral Cidney Powers Derr. Eilene was a member of the First United Methodist Church and was very active in the United Methodist Women. She was very involved in the decorating committee at Grace Ridge. She had also served as an usher at City of Morganton Municipal Auditorium. Eilene was also active in the A.F.S. She was a graduate of the University of Toledo. Before moving to North Carolina she was a past president of the Norwalk, OH United Methodist Women, a past board member of the Elyria, OH United Methodist Home, and other civic organizations.
Eilene is survived by her son, Rick J. Yeager and wife, Debbra, of Cambridge, OH; a daughter, Cindy Antonides and husband, Thomas, of Allendale, MI; grandchildren, Carissa Snarski and husband, Chad; Matthew Yeager and wife, Angela, Jessica Weiker, Jason Weiker, Jaimee Hadaway and husband, Chad, Lisa Nordhaus, Tara Bryan, and Mary Bryan; and seven great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, Eilene was preceded in death by her husband, Joe E. Yeager; a son, Floyd Derr Bryan; and a sister, Laura Ellen Derr Penterics.
The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, November 14, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Dr. Sydnor Thompson, III and Carl Lindquist 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 the Discretionary Fund at First United Methodist Church, 200 N. King Street, Morganton, NC 28655, Friendship Fund at Grace Ridge, 500 Lenoir Road, Morganton, NC 28655, or the Palliative Care Center and Hospice of Catawba Valley, 3975 Robinson Road, Newton, NC 28658. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Eilene is survived by her son, Rick J. Yeager and wife, Debbra, of Cambridge, OH; a daughter, Cindy Antonides and husband, Thomas, of Allendale, MI; grandchildren, Carissa Snarski and husband, Chad; Matthew Yeager and wife, Angela, Jessica Weiker, Jason Weiker, Jaimee Hadaway and husband, Chad, Lisa Nordhaus, Tara Bryan, and Mary Bryan; and seven great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, Eilene was preceded in death by her husband, Joe E. Yeager; a son, Floyd Derr Bryan; and a sister, Laura Ellen Derr Penterics.
The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, November 14, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Dr. Sydnor Thompson, III and Carl Lindquist 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 the Discretionary Fund at First United Methodist Church, 200 N. King Street, Morganton, NC 28655, Friendship Fund at Grace Ridge, 500 Lenoir Road, Morganton, NC 28655, or the Palliative Care Center and Hospice of Catawba Valley, 3975 Robinson Road, Newton, NC 28658. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Viola Rhoney Robinson
[Back to Top]
Viola Rhoney Robinson, 98, of East Fleming Dr. in Morganton died Sunday, November 9, 2008 at College Pines Nursing Center following a period of declining health. She was born September 28, 1910 in Catawba County, NC and was a daughter of the late Fred Rhoney and Lille Mae Johnson Rhoney. Viola was a member of the Morganton First Church of God. She was a former employee of Burke Yarns and retired from Valdese Manufacturing and Burke Yarns. Viola loved her flowers and her family.
Viola is survived by a son, Airlene Lee Robinson of Valdese; a daughter, Joyce R. Berry and husband, Gene, of Morganton; grandchildren, Mark Berry, Karl Lee Robinson, Angie Robinson, and Tressa Stogner; and sisters, Eula Mae Hyde and Essie King, both of Morganton.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, John Lee Robinson; brothers, J. D. Rhoney, Jessie Rhoney, and Edmund Rhoney; and a sister, Vergie Stroupe. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 12, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Donald Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park.
Viola is survived by a son, Airlene Lee Robinson of Valdese; a daughter, Joyce R. Berry and husband, Gene, of Morganton; grandchildren, Mark Berry, Karl Lee Robinson, Angie Robinson, and Tressa Stogner; and sisters, Eula Mae Hyde and Essie King, both of Morganton.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, John Lee Robinson; brothers, J. D. Rhoney, Jessie Rhoney, and Edmund Rhoney; and a sister, Vergie Stroupe. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 12, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Donald Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park.
Versie Lee Hullette
[Back to Top]
Versie Lee Hullette, 74, of Vine Arden Road, Morganton, NC, died Tuesday, November 11, 2008 at Chesterfield Adult Home Care. Born in Burke County, NC on September 22, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Raymond Fayette Cook and Vassie Dallas Hildebrand Cook. Versie was a life-long member of Walkers Chapel Baptist Church.
She is survived by her sons, Gary S. Cook and wife, Anita, of Vail, NC and Ervin Lee Cook and wife, Debbie, of Morganton; daughters, Gail Hullette of the home, Libby Whisnant and husband, Steve, of Morganton, Misty Hullette and fiancée, Joe Mitchell, of Drexel, NC; the daughter’s father, Billy Joe Hullette; a brother, Raymond Sidney Cook of Morganton; sisters, Bertha Stillwell of Morganton, Flavia Ann Brown of Drexel, Rhoda Jane Poe of Valdese, NC, Sadie Mae Mace of Morganton, and Joyce Irene Carpenter of Connelly Springs, NC; fifteen grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, and a number of nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Versie was preceded in death by a son, Mike Hullette; a sister, Edith Cook; and brothers, James Cook and Larry Cook.
The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, November 16, 2008 at Walker’s Chapel Baptist Church with Rev. Ronnie LeFevers officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church from 1:30 until 3:00 p.m. prior to the service. At other times the family will be at the home of Gary Cook, 9008 Reeps Ch. Rd., Vale, NC and Libby Whisnant, 1510 McGee Street, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
She is survived by her sons, Gary S. Cook and wife, Anita, of Vail, NC and Ervin Lee Cook and wife, Debbie, of Morganton; daughters, Gail Hullette of the home, Libby Whisnant and husband, Steve, of Morganton, Misty Hullette and fiancée, Joe Mitchell, of Drexel, NC; the daughter’s father, Billy Joe Hullette; a brother, Raymond Sidney Cook of Morganton; sisters, Bertha Stillwell of Morganton, Flavia Ann Brown of Drexel, Rhoda Jane Poe of Valdese, NC, Sadie Mae Mace of Morganton, and Joyce Irene Carpenter of Connelly Springs, NC; fifteen grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, and a number of nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Versie was preceded in death by a son, Mike Hullette; a sister, Edith Cook; and brothers, James Cook and Larry Cook.
The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, November 16, 2008 at Walker’s Chapel Baptist Church with Rev. Ronnie LeFevers officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church from 1:30 until 3:00 p.m. prior to the service. At other times the family will be at the home of Gary Cook, 9008 Reeps Ch. Rd., Vale, NC and Libby Whisnant, 1510 McGee Street, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Eugene Shuffler, 68, of McAlpine Adult Care, Morganton, NC went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, November 12, 2008 at Asheville Specialty Hospitals following a brief illness. Born in Burke County, NC on July 15, 1940, he was a son of the late Claudus Christopher Shuffler and Purvy Mull Shuffler. He was a member of Antioch Baptist Church. Mr. Shuffler was a painter by trade and was proud of the many buildings he had painted in Burke County including the Old Courthouse. Eugene was an accomplished fisherman and a devoted NASCAR fan. He loved to play pool with family and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Evelyn Shuffler; a son, Timothy Allen Shuffler; a brother, Melvin Shuffler; and a sister, Geneva Fleming Williams.
Surviving are his grandsons, Randy Shuffler and Brian Shuffler both of Granite Falls, NC; and a great granddaughter, Raven Shuffler; a brother, Dewey Shuffler and his wife, Patsy of Morganton; a sister, Penny Allen of Charlotte; and a lifelong personal friend and friend of the Shuffler family, Gene Dury.
The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, November 15, 2008 at Antioch Baptist Church with the Rev. George Patton officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church for one hour before the service. Pallbearers will be special friends from McAlpine Adult Care. Memorial gifts may be made to The Rathburn Center, 121 Sherwood Rd., Asheville, NC 28803. This facility offers lodging to families with loved ones who are patients in the Mission St. Josephs Hospitals. The Shuffler family wishing to express their heartfelt thanks to all the Doctors, Nurses, and Staff of Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, Valdese General Hospital, and Asheville Speciality Hospitals for the special care and kindnesses shown to our Eugene. The family also sincerely appreciates the the nine years of exemplary love and care given to Eugene by McAlpine Adult Care Staff with a special thanks to Patrick. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Surviving are his grandsons, Randy Shuffler and Brian Shuffler both of Granite Falls, NC; and a great granddaughter, Raven Shuffler; a brother, Dewey Shuffler and his wife, Patsy of Morganton; a sister, Penny Allen of Charlotte; and a lifelong personal friend and friend of the Shuffler family, Gene Dury.
The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, November 15, 2008 at Antioch Baptist Church with the Rev. George Patton officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church for one hour before the service. Pallbearers will be special friends from McAlpine Adult Care. Memorial gifts may be made to The Rathburn Center, 121 Sherwood Rd., Asheville, NC 28803. This facility offers lodging to families with loved ones who are patients in the Mission St. Josephs Hospitals. The Shuffler family wishing to express their heartfelt thanks to all the Doctors, Nurses, and Staff of Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, Valdese General Hospital, and Asheville Speciality Hospitals for the special care and kindnesses shown to our Eugene. The family also sincerely appreciates the the nine years of exemplary love and care given to Eugene by McAlpine Adult Care Staff with a special thanks to Patrick. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Nelson Edward Walker
[Back to Top]
Nelson Edward Walker, 64, of Flint Avenue in Morganton died Thursday, November 13, 2008 at Valdese Hospital following a brief illness. He was born February 23, 1944 in Cleveland County, NC, and was a son of the late Wilbur Odus Walker and Evie Howard Walker. Nelson was of the Baptist faith. He enjoyed traveling and never met a stranger. Nelson also enjoyed reading the newspaper, and loved visiting his grandson.
He is survived by his wife, Bernice Valerie Hiatt Walker of the home; a daughter, Andrea Freeman and husband, Tim, of Wilmington, NC; a grandson, Tristan Freeman of Wilmington; and brothers, Arnold, Bobby, and Tim Walker.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, James Walker.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, November 17, 2008 at Hopewell Baptist Church with Rev. Homer Murdock and Rev. Tim Holt officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday, November 16, 2008 from 4:00 until 6:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home.
He is survived by his wife, Bernice Valerie Hiatt Walker of the home; a daughter, Andrea Freeman and husband, Tim, of Wilmington, NC; a grandson, Tristan Freeman of Wilmington; and brothers, Arnold, Bobby, and Tim Walker.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, James Walker.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, November 17, 2008 at Hopewell Baptist Church with Rev. Homer Murdock and Rev. Tim Holt officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday, November 16, 2008 from 4:00 until 6:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home.
Sandra Ann Crain
[Back to Top]
Sandra Ann Crain, 43, of Hidden Acres Road, Valdese, NC died Friday, November 14, 2008 at the Burke Palliative Care Center. Born in Cabarrus County, NC on September 6, 1965, she was the daughter of the late Harold Graham Carr and Shirley Ross Carr. Sandra was a member of Bible Baptist Church.
She is survived by her husband, Randy Crain of the home; a son, Travis Crain of Morganton; daughters, Tamra Bollinger and Tabitha Yax, both of Morganton; grandchildren, Rebecca Bollinger, Landen Yax, and Hayden Crain; and brothers, David Carr and Isaac Carr, both of Morganton.
The funeral will be held at 4:00 p.m., Sunday, November 16, 2008 at Bible Baptist Church with Pastor Ricky Watkins officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the funeral service. Memorial gifts may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
She is survived by her husband, Randy Crain of the home; a son, Travis Crain of Morganton; daughters, Tamra Bollinger and Tabitha Yax, both of Morganton; grandchildren, Rebecca Bollinger, Landen Yax, and Hayden Crain; and brothers, David Carr and Isaac Carr, both of Morganton.
The funeral will be held at 4:00 p.m., Sunday, November 16, 2008 at Bible Baptist Church with Pastor Ricky Watkins officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the funeral service. Memorial gifts may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Jeanette E. Gardner
[Back to Top]
Jeanette E. Gardner, 66, of Kela Dr. in Morganton died Sunday, November 16, 2008 at Grace Hospital. She was born March 5, 1942 in Madison County, NC, and was the daughter of Frances Penland Greene and the late David Dodd. She was a member of the Way of the Cross Church, and was a loving wife and mother.
In addition to her mother, Jeanette is survived by her husband, Rex Gardner of the home; daughters, Denise Lyvonne Gardner, Crystal Lee Gardner, and Angela Joan Carswell, all of the home; and Shelia Macallister and Michelle Macallister; a son, Bob Dodd; step-children, Jean Barnes, Rhonda Wolford, Linda Gardner, and Allen Gardner; grandchildren, Thackary Gardner, Stacey Carswell, Michael Carswell, and Charlise Dodd; and nine step-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, November 21, 2008 at the Way of the Cross Church with the Reverends Richard Ellington, Jim Rhodes, and Gene Pons officiating. Entombment will follow at Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum. The family will receive friends Friday from 12:30 until 2:00 pm at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to the Way of the Cross, c/o Richard Ellington, 107 Morgan Dr., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
In addition to her mother, Jeanette is survived by her husband, Rex Gardner of the home; daughters, Denise Lyvonne Gardner, Crystal Lee Gardner, and Angela Joan Carswell, all of the home; and Shelia Macallister and Michelle Macallister; a son, Bob Dodd; step-children, Jean Barnes, Rhonda Wolford, Linda Gardner, and Allen Gardner; grandchildren, Thackary Gardner, Stacey Carswell, Michael Carswell, and Charlise Dodd; and nine step-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, November 21, 2008 at the Way of the Cross Church with the Reverends Richard Ellington, Jim Rhodes, and Gene Pons officiating. Entombment will follow at Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum. The family will receive friends Friday from 12:30 until 2:00 pm at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to the Way of the Cross, c/o Richard Ellington, 107 Morgan Dr., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Nancy Janes Pruett Tallent
[Back to Top]
Nancy Jane Pruett Tallent, 79, formerly of J.R.Tallent Road in Morganton died Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at Grace Heights Nursing Center after a lengthy illness. Mrs. Tallent was born June 8, 1929 in Burke County to the late George Washington Pruett and Sarah Jane Canipe Pruett. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Roy A. Tallent; a son, David S. Tallent; sisters, Vadie Hudson, Minnie Pruett, Bessie Tallent, and Flavie Pruett; and brothers, Tom Pruett, Dave Pruett, Javan Pruett, and William “Buddy” Pruett.
Mrs. Tallent was a member of Cross Memorial Baptist Church and had retired from Broughton Hospital in 1981 She is survived by a daughter, Darlene Roper and husband, Ricky of Morganton; a sister, Mary Whitner of Hickory; a grandson, Steve Roper and wife, Jessica; great grandson, Steven Roper; special young men close to her heart, Steve, Chad, and Sam; and special nieces and nephews.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, November 22, 2008 at the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Reverend Clyde Buckner and Mr. Cecil Tallent officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Friday. At other times the family will be at the home of her daughter, Darlene Roper on J.R. Tallent Road. Memorial gifts may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese NC 28690 or to the Grace Heights Activity Fund, 109 Foothills Drive, Morganton NC 28655.
Mrs. Tallent was a member of Cross Memorial Baptist Church and had retired from Broughton Hospital in 1981 She is survived by a daughter, Darlene Roper and husband, Ricky of Morganton; a sister, Mary Whitner of Hickory; a grandson, Steve Roper and wife, Jessica; great grandson, Steven Roper; special young men close to her heart, Steve, Chad, and Sam; and special nieces and nephews.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, November 22, 2008 at the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Reverend Clyde Buckner and Mr. Cecil Tallent officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Friday. At other times the family will be at the home of her daughter, Darlene Roper on J.R. Tallent Road. Memorial gifts may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese NC 28690 or to the Grace Heights Activity Fund, 109 Foothills Drive, Morganton NC 28655.
Barney Mere Smith
[Back to Top]
Barney Mere Smith, 88, of Packs Hill Road, Lenoir, NC died Friday, November 21, 2008 at Hospice of Caldwell County’s William E. Stevens, Jr. Patient Care Unit. Born on October 31, 1920 in Cleveland, TN, she was the daughter of the late Floyd Moorefield and Irene Mere Moorefield. Barney was a member of Poarch’s Chapel and loved everyone she met, especially children.
She is survived by sons, Fairdy Smith, Jr., and wife, Valery, Earl Ray Smith, and James Allen Smith and wife, Paula, all of Morganton; daughters, Betty Shuffler and husband, Bobby, and Cynthia “Cindy” Woody and husband, Mike, all of Lenoir, NC; twelve grandchildren, and twenty-three great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, Barney was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. Fairdy B. Smith; a brother, William Moorefield; and a sister, Ethel Goins.
The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, November 23, 2008 at Poarch’s Chapel with Reverends Wallace Smith and Odell Shuffler officiating. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow in Abundant Life Tabernacle Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Caldwell Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 902 Kirkwood St., NW, Lenoir, NC 28645. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
She is survived by sons, Fairdy Smith, Jr., and wife, Valery, Earl Ray Smith, and James Allen Smith and wife, Paula, all of Morganton; daughters, Betty Shuffler and husband, Bobby, and Cynthia “Cindy” Woody and husband, Mike, all of Lenoir, NC; twelve grandchildren, and twenty-three great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, Barney was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. Fairdy B. Smith; a brother, William Moorefield; and a sister, Ethel Goins.
The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, November 23, 2008 at Poarch’s Chapel with Reverends Wallace Smith and Odell Shuffler officiating. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow in Abundant Life Tabernacle Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Caldwell Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 902 Kirkwood St., NW, Lenoir, NC 28645. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Nellie English Gibbs
[Back to Top]
Nellie English Gibbs, 84, of Magnolia Drive, Morganton, NC, died Thursday, November 20, 2008 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. Born in Avery County, NC on October 20, 1924, she was the daughter of the late Mack English and Margaret Louvica Taylor English. Nellie was a member of First United Methodist Church.
She is survived by her niece, Kathryn Conley of Penland, NC and a nephew, Jerry Newton of Burnsville, NC.
In addition to her parents, Nellie was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Newton Gibbs, three brothers, and three sisters.
The memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 25, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Holly Adams officiating. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
She is survived by her niece, Kathryn Conley of Penland, NC and a nephew, Jerry Newton of Burnsville, NC.
In addition to her parents, Nellie was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Newton Gibbs, three brothers, and three sisters.
The memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 25, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Holly Adams officiating. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Hazel Reynolds Gantt
[Back to Top]
Hazel Reynolds Gantt, 86, of George Hildebran School Road, Connelly Springs, NC died Saturday, November 22, 2008 at College Pines Nursing Home following a period of declining health. Born in Burke County, NC on January 1, 1922, she was the daughter of the late Sanford J. Reynolds and Texie Keller Reynolds.
Hazel was a member of St. John’s Baptist Church for many faithful years. She was a class of 1940 graduate of George Hildebran High School. She attended Berea College in Berea, KY and earned her associate’s degree from Clevenger Business School. She held many jobs including working at the Fresh Air Market in Hickory, NC. She retired from Valdese General Hospital with over thirty years of service in the admission and business office. Along with her mother, she ran Reynolds Grocery Store for several years. She was very active in genealogy, was a past member of D.A.R., and of the Valdese Pilot Club.
She is survived by her sons, William “Bill” Gantt, Jr., and wife, Peggy, and Patrick Joseph Gantt, all of Connelly Springs; brothers, Jerry Reynolds of Glen Alpine, NC and William C. Reynolds, Jr. and wife, Rebecca, of Hickory; seven grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and a number of nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Hazel was preceded in death by her ex-husband, William D. Gantt, Sr.; a granddaughter, Casey Gantt; brothers, William Lee Reynolds and Bennie J. Reynolds; and sisters, Raye R. Faulkner and Ruth R. Falk.
The funeral will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 25, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Harold Whitener officiating. Burial will follow in St. John’s Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends Monday evening from 6:30 until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.
Hazel was a member of St. John’s Baptist Church for many faithful years. She was a class of 1940 graduate of George Hildebran High School. She attended Berea College in Berea, KY and earned her associate’s degree from Clevenger Business School. She held many jobs including working at the Fresh Air Market in Hickory, NC. She retired from Valdese General Hospital with over thirty years of service in the admission and business office. Along with her mother, she ran Reynolds Grocery Store for several years. She was very active in genealogy, was a past member of D.A.R., and of the Valdese Pilot Club.
She is survived by her sons, William “Bill” Gantt, Jr., and wife, Peggy, and Patrick Joseph Gantt, all of Connelly Springs; brothers, Jerry Reynolds of Glen Alpine, NC and William C. Reynolds, Jr. and wife, Rebecca, of Hickory; seven grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and a number of nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Hazel was preceded in death by her ex-husband, William D. Gantt, Sr.; a granddaughter, Casey Gantt; brothers, William Lee Reynolds and Bennie J. Reynolds; and sisters, Raye R. Faulkner and Ruth R. Falk.
The funeral will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, November 25, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Harold Whitener officiating. Burial will follow in St. John’s Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends Monday evening from 6:30 until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.
Marguerite "Maggie" Houston Yount
[Back to Top]
Marguerite “Maggie” Houston Yount, 86, of Golf Course Road, Morganton, NC, died Monday, November 24, 2008 at her residence following a lengthy illness. Born in Kingsport, TN on May 8, 1922, she was the daughter of the late Benjamin Grant Houston and Pearl Dugger Houston. Maggie was a member of North Morganton Baptist Church. She taught Sunday school at her church and at Salem United Methodist Church. At age 62, she was the first woman to get her EMT license in Burke County. She was also the first woman knitter at Huffman Hosiery Mills. She was employed until age 80 and had worked at Jack-B-Quik and Burke Oil. Maggie was a member of the Mimosa Chapter Order of the Eastern Star. She was also a member of the Chesterfield Ruritan Club where she organized the blood drives.
She is survived by her husband, Samuel Yount of the home; daughters, Dinah Yount Pinkerton Gantt and husband, Michael, of Morganton and Patricia Ann Gray and husband, Howard, of Blowing Rock, NC; grandchildren, Elizabeth Brown of Granite Falls, NC and Edward Gray, Allison Crosby, and Lee Pinkerton, all of Morganton; a sister, Bonnie Settlemyre Short and husband, Joe, of Drexel, NC; twelve great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren, and several close nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Maggie was preceded in death by brothers, Carl and Cecil Houston, and a sister, Edith Setzer.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 26, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Kenny Baker officiating. The Mimosa Chapter Order of the Eastern Star is participating in the service. 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 on Golf Course Road, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to North Morganton Baptist Church, 101 View Street, Morganton, NC 28655.
She is survived by her husband, Samuel Yount of the home; daughters, Dinah Yount Pinkerton Gantt and husband, Michael, of Morganton and Patricia Ann Gray and husband, Howard, of Blowing Rock, NC; grandchildren, Elizabeth Brown of Granite Falls, NC and Edward Gray, Allison Crosby, and Lee Pinkerton, all of Morganton; a sister, Bonnie Settlemyre Short and husband, Joe, of Drexel, NC; twelve great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren, and several close nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Maggie was preceded in death by brothers, Carl and Cecil Houston, and a sister, Edith Setzer.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 26, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Kenny Baker officiating. The Mimosa Chapter Order of the Eastern Star is participating in the service. 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 on Golf Course Road, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to North Morganton Baptist Church, 101 View Street, Morganton, NC 28655.
Fred Ray Cline
[Back to Top]
Fred Ray Cline, 65, of Dean Rd., Morganton, died Sunday, November 23, 2008. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, November 30, 2008 at Bethel United Methodist Church Cemetery with the Rev. Ed Stephenson officiating. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.
James "Jim" Giles
[Back to Top]
James “Jim” Giles, 66, of Crawley Dale Rd., Morganton, died Saturday, November 28, 2008, after several months of declining health. Jim was born in Burke County, April 16, 1942, to the late Robert H. Giles, Sr. and Ellen Trexeler Giles. He was a lifelong member of Glen Alpine United Methodist Church and was retired from Henredon Furniture with 40 years of service. In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his brothers, Earnest “Sunny” Giles, Robert H. Giles, Jr. and William “Bill” Giles.
Jim is survived by his wife, Charlotte Jane Snodgrass Giles; sons, James Giles and Robbie Giles, both of Morganton; a daughter, Tressa G. Shackleford, and her husband, Bob of Randleman, NC; a step-son, Donald Lambert of Beckley, WV; a step-daughter, Belinda Underwood, and her husband, Paul, of Hildebran; brothers, Dr. John Henry Giles and his wife, Ann, of Glen Alpine; grandsons, Anthony Giles and Will Shackleford; a step-grandson, Austin Lambert; and a step-daughter, Kaitlyn Underwood.
Funeral services will be held at 7:00 p.m., Monday, December 1, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Reverends David Duncan and Bob Shackleford officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., prior to the service. A family inurnment will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Glen Alpine United Methodist Church, New Building Fund, PO Box 576, Glen Alpine, NC 28628.
Jim is survived by his wife, Charlotte Jane Snodgrass Giles; sons, James Giles and Robbie Giles, both of Morganton; a daughter, Tressa G. Shackleford, and her husband, Bob of Randleman, NC; a step-son, Donald Lambert of Beckley, WV; a step-daughter, Belinda Underwood, and her husband, Paul, of Hildebran; brothers, Dr. John Henry Giles and his wife, Ann, of Glen Alpine; grandsons, Anthony Giles and Will Shackleford; a step-grandson, Austin Lambert; and a step-daughter, Kaitlyn Underwood.
Funeral services will be held at 7:00 p.m., Monday, December 1, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Reverends David Duncan and Bob Shackleford officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., prior to the service. A family inurnment will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Glen Alpine United Methodist Church, New Building Fund, PO Box 576, Glen Alpine, NC 28628.
Bobby Ray Higgins
[Back to Top]
Bobby Ray Higgins, 65, of Lytle Dr., Morganton, died Saturday, November, 29, 2008 at Grace Hospital, after a period of declining health. He was born July 23, 1943, in Guilford County to the late Ray Higgins and Marie King Higgins. Bobby was owner of Bobs Mobile Home Movers. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Brenda Dianne Daniels Higgins; and three brothers, Danny Higgins, Roger Higgins and Alan Jackson.
Bobby is survived by two daughters, Lisa Dianne Higgins and Tim Rogers, of Morganton, Kimberly Higgins and David Johnson, of Lincolnton; a step-daughter, Donna Jean Koontz and her husband, Kenneth, of Lexington; grandchildren, Jeffery Ray Norman, Brittany Nicole Greene, Dustin Douglas Wyatt and Amber Dawn Wyatt; two step-grandchildren, Rodney Alton Lee and his wife, Jennifer and Donna Renee Surratt; three step-great grandchildren, Christain Brandon Lee, Grayson Lynn Lee and Jerry Wayne “Trey” Surratt, III; brothers Darrell and wife Joyce Higgins, of Trinity, NC, and Wade Higgins, of Raleigh.
A private funeral service will be held at Sossoman Funeral Home with Chaplin Dennis Stamper officiating. Burial will follow at the Park Hill Memorial Gardens.
Bobby is survived by two daughters, Lisa Dianne Higgins and Tim Rogers, of Morganton, Kimberly Higgins and David Johnson, of Lincolnton; a step-daughter, Donna Jean Koontz and her husband, Kenneth, of Lexington; grandchildren, Jeffery Ray Norman, Brittany Nicole Greene, Dustin Douglas Wyatt and Amber Dawn Wyatt; two step-grandchildren, Rodney Alton Lee and his wife, Jennifer and Donna Renee Surratt; three step-great grandchildren, Christain Brandon Lee, Grayson Lynn Lee and Jerry Wayne “Trey” Surratt, III; brothers Darrell and wife Joyce Higgins, of Trinity, NC, and Wade Higgins, of Raleigh.
A private funeral service will be held at Sossoman Funeral Home with Chaplin Dennis Stamper officiating. Burial will follow at the Park Hill Memorial Gardens.
Jeanette Wilson
[Back to Top]
Jeanette Wilson, 87, of Eastcrest Drive, Fairview, NC, formerly of Maple Lane, Morganton, NC went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, November 29, 2008 at Memorial Mission Hospital in Asheville, NC following several years of declining health. Born in Polk County, NC on September 10, 1921, she was the daughter of the late Americas Helton and Bessie Williams Helton.
Jeanette was a current member of Calvary Baptist Church in Morganton. She was a former member of Mt. Home Baptist Church where she was both a youth and adult Sunday school teacher and past member of the WMU. She graduated from Asheville Normal Teachers College and retired from Drexel Primary School with thirty years of service. She was a Burke County Teacher of the Year and a member of the State Teachers Association. She was a current member of the Mimosa Chapter #269 of the Eastern Star. Mrs. Wilson loved growing a garden and sharing it with her neighbors and friends.
She is survived by her daughter, Roanna Wilson of Fairview, and will be greatly missed by her faithful companions, Molly, Cody, and Murphy.
In addition to her parents, Jeanette was preceded in death by her husband, Austin Walden Wilson, Sr.; a son, Austin Walden Wilson, Jr.; six brothers, and three sisters.
The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, December 6, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Jerry Gamble officiating. Burial will follow at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday in Coopers Gap Baptist Church Cemetery in Polk County, NC. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mount Home Baptist Church Building Fund, 2272 Mt. Home Church Road, Morganton, NC 28655.
Jeanette was a current member of Calvary Baptist Church in Morganton. She was a former member of Mt. Home Baptist Church where she was both a youth and adult Sunday school teacher and past member of the WMU. She graduated from Asheville Normal Teachers College and retired from Drexel Primary School with thirty years of service. She was a Burke County Teacher of the Year and a member of the State Teachers Association. She was a current member of the Mimosa Chapter #269 of the Eastern Star. Mrs. Wilson loved growing a garden and sharing it with her neighbors and friends.
She is survived by her daughter, Roanna Wilson of Fairview, and will be greatly missed by her faithful companions, Molly, Cody, and Murphy.
In addition to her parents, Jeanette was preceded in death by her husband, Austin Walden Wilson, Sr.; a son, Austin Walden Wilson, Jr.; six brothers, and three sisters.
The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, December 6, 2008 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Jerry Gamble officiating. Burial will follow at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday in Coopers Gap Baptist Church Cemetery in Polk County, NC. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mount Home Baptist Church Building Fund, 2272 Mt. Home Church Road, Morganton, NC 28655.
Michael McKinnon
[Back to Top]
Michael McKinnon’s Soul went to be with the Lord on Sunday, November 30, 2008.
I was born in Scranton, PA on August 7, 1926 and grew up there. Only my brother, Joseph, remains of the family of John and Susan McKinnon, along with nieces and nephews. My adult life was spent mostly in and around Boston, MA. It was there I met and married Agnes Sheridan, my soul mate and joy, and gained a wonderful group of Irish relatives. My formal education concluded at Northwestern University in Boston. My last job was 17 happy years as a Disability Examiner for Social Security claims.
Then came my retirement to western North Carolina, which is an area of great beauty and friendly people. My Christian faith was much enriched here among so many admirable believers from all denominations (including my Catholic faith).
Lastly, I’m Grateful to the Grace Ridge Retirement Community where my final years were brightened by a cheerful, efficient staff, and many caring residents. God bless you all. “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.”
P.S. My final prayer is that all Christians be united by our basic belief--along with all Believers in God and Searching Agnostics--living together in peace and love--learning from and helping each other in our spiritual and economic problems. Michael McKinnon.
Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 3, 2008 at Forest Hill Cemetery with Fr. Kenneth Whittington officiating. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.
I was born in Scranton, PA on August 7, 1926 and grew up there. Only my brother, Joseph, remains of the family of John and Susan McKinnon, along with nieces and nephews. My adult life was spent mostly in and around Boston, MA. It was there I met and married Agnes Sheridan, my soul mate and joy, and gained a wonderful group of Irish relatives. My formal education concluded at Northwestern University in Boston. My last job was 17 happy years as a Disability Examiner for Social Security claims.
Then came my retirement to western North Carolina, which is an area of great beauty and friendly people. My Christian faith was much enriched here among so many admirable believers from all denominations (including my Catholic faith).
Lastly, I’m Grateful to the Grace Ridge Retirement Community where my final years were brightened by a cheerful, efficient staff, and many caring residents. God bless you all. “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.”
P.S. My final prayer is that all Christians be united by our basic belief--along with all Believers in God and Searching Agnostics--living together in peace and love--learning from and helping each other in our spiritual and economic problems. Michael McKinnon.
Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 3, 2008 at Forest Hill Cemetery with Fr. Kenneth Whittington officiating. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.
Ella Frances Puckett
[Back to Top]
Ella Frances Puckett, 85, of Sipes St. in Kings Mountain, NC died Sunday, November 30, 2008 at White Oak Manor Nursing Home following a period of declining health. She was born September 6, 1923 in Burke County, and was a daughter of the late David Alexander Patton and Cora Parlee Seagle Patton. Ella was a faithful member of Zion Baptist Church. She loved the Lord and lived the life of Proverbs, Chapter 31. Ella loved to sew and cook. She had a reputation for extraordinary cake baking and the ability to create with her hands. The family would like to thank the staff at White Oak Manor for their care and love of our mother, and special thanks to the staff in Unit 3.
Ella is survived by children, Gail Mitchum of Mt. Holly, NC, Keith Puckett and wife, Cathy, and Judi Hudson and husband, Ronnie, all of Morganton; grandchildren, Tyra Lawrence, Trent Hudson, and Michael Mitchum; great-grandchildren, Austin Lawrence, Sabrina Lawrence, Ian Mitchum, Cooper Mitchum, and Jeremy Biddle; and sisters, Naomi Watson, Ruby Farris and husband, Bob, Winnie Mangum, Faye Jaynes and husband, Baxter, and Clara Jean Jackson and husband, Harry.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. William James “Bill” Puckett; a sister, Ruth Baker; and brothers, Johnny, Alan, Delbert, and Arthur Patton.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 3, 2008 at Zion Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Ralph May and Rev. Jimmy Lambert officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Tuesday 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. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Gideons International, PO Box 678, Morganton, NC 28680 or to White Oak Manor Activities Department, PO Box 578, Kings Mountain, NC 28086-0578.
Ella is survived by children, Gail Mitchum of Mt. Holly, NC, Keith Puckett and wife, Cathy, and Judi Hudson and husband, Ronnie, all of Morganton; grandchildren, Tyra Lawrence, Trent Hudson, and Michael Mitchum; great-grandchildren, Austin Lawrence, Sabrina Lawrence, Ian Mitchum, Cooper Mitchum, and Jeremy Biddle; and sisters, Naomi Watson, Ruby Farris and husband, Bob, Winnie Mangum, Faye Jaynes and husband, Baxter, and Clara Jean Jackson and husband, Harry.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. William James “Bill” Puckett; a sister, Ruth Baker; and brothers, Johnny, Alan, Delbert, and Arthur Patton.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 3, 2008 at Zion Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Ralph May and Rev. Jimmy Lambert officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Tuesday 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. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Gideons International, PO Box 678, Morganton, NC 28680 or to White Oak Manor Activities Department, PO Box 578, Kings Mountain, NC 28086-0578.
©2008 Sossoman Funeral Home, All Rights Reserved