Jane Annis Clontz, 75, of Piedmont Rd. in Morganton died Friday, January 30, 2009 at Hahnemann University Hospital in Philadelphia, PA following an extended illness. She was born May 22, 1933 in McDowell Co., NC and was a daughter of the late Fred Terry Annis, Sr. and Phoebe Louise Cox Annis. Jane graduated from Oak Hill High School and then attended Western Carolina University. She was a member of Arney’s Chapel United Methodist Church where she had been a Sunday school teacher and church pianist. She also served on several church boards and was a member of the United Methodist Women. Jane was the administrative assistant to the President of Drexel-Heritage, Masco, and Hendredon Furmiture. She was also the Secretary-Treasurer of Parker Plumbing and Heating, Inc.

Jane is survived by her husband, Thomas Nelson Clontz, Jr. of the home; a son, James M. Clontz, and daughters, Debra C. Kirby and Janet C. Bush, all of Morganton; grandchildren, Joshua T. Bush, Jesse C. Bush, Chelsea M. Clontz, and Christopher T. Clontz; sisters, Katherine A. Silvers of Union, SC, and Hazel A. Sarvis of Mooresville, NC; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Fred T. Annis, Jr., Jack C. Annis, George H. Annis, and Dean A. Annis; and a sister, Lou Nell Brown.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, February 5, 2009 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Neal F. Brantley, Jr. officiating. Burial will follow at Arney’s Chapel United Methodist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Arney’s Chapel United Methodist Church, 101 Knowles Avenue, Morganton, NC 28655.

Vergie Mae Williams Mitchell, 89, of Highway 18 South, died Sunday, February 1, 2009 at her residence. Mrs. Mitchell was born in York County, South Carolina, July 12, 1919, to the late James Robert Williams and Maggie Janie Withers Williams. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Gus Bristol Mitchell; and three sisters, Cora Lee Rollins, Emily Moore, and Rebecca Miller; and a son-in-law, Robert Clark.

Mrs. Mitchell is survived by two daughters, Carolyn Smith and her husband, Clarence, of Rock Hill, SC, and Betty Clark of Morganton; four grandchildren, Lisa Clark Preslar and husband, John, of Morganton, Debra Ann Clark, of Lewisville, NC, Sam Williams Jr. and wife Cindy, of York, SC and Kevin Williams of Fort Mill, SC; three great-grandchildren, Amanda, Brayden, and Chandler Williams, all of York, SC; a nephew, Bill Miller and wife, Georgie, of Morganton; and special “great-grand dogs”, Tarheel and Deacon.

A celebration of Mrs. Mitchell’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 4, 2009 at the Freedom Church of God with the Rev. Todd Phillips and Rev. Gerald Huntley officiating. Burial will follow the service at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Tuesday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contribution may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to Burke Hospice and Rev. Todd Phillips.

Pauline Dean Ensley, 62, of Piedmont Road, Morganton, NC died Monday, February 2, 2009 at Grace Hospital. Born on September 27, 1946 in Jackson Co., NC, she was the daughter of Cora Dean Beasley of Sylva, NC and the late Hubert W. Dean. Pauline was a member of Webster Baptist Church in Webster, NC and Hopewell Baptist Church in Morganton. She enjoyed mission work and her life touched many people. She was a guardian-ad-litem in Haywood Co. for seventeen years where she advocated for Children. She was also a VOICE volunteer where she advocated the elderly. Mrs. Ensley was a nurse and remained certified most of her life. She spent most of her working career, twenty-six years, as the co-owner and operator of Ensley Firestone in Canton, NC.

Mrs. Ensley is survived by her husband and soul mate of forty-four years who referred to her as “Tinker”, Haven Ensley; her children, Michael and Rhonda Ensley of Morganton, David and Stephanie Ensley of Evans, GA, and Vicki and Mark Todd of Sylva, NC; her grandchildren (the love of her life), Kaitlin Ensley, Allie Todd, Michael Todd, and Hunter Ensley; sisters, Patsy Parris and husband, Bobby, and Linda Sellers and husband, Lloyd, all of Sylva; a special sister, Gayle Hanosh of Paradise, CA and a special Aunt Bea and Uncle Jim Clark of Asheville, NC.

A funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, February 5, 2009 at Webster Baptist Church in Webster, NC with Reverends Mike Dellinger, Scott Carter, John Reid, Eddie Stillwell, and Bill Serjak officiating. The family will receive friends from 9:30 until 11:00 a.m. before the service. Another funeral will be held at 5:30 p.m., Thursday, February 5, 2009 at Hopewell Baptist Church with Reverends Homer Murdock and Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr. officiating. The family will receive friends from 4:00 until 5:30 p.m. prior to the service. A private graveside service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Gideon’s International, P.O. Box 678, Morganton, NC 28680, Hopewell Baptist Church Building Fund, 1112 Hopewell Rd., Morganton, NC 28655 or to Friends of the Jackson County Public Library, 755 W. Main Street, Sylva, NC 28779. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Annette Sondel Crosbie, 91, of Ann Street, Morganton died Monday, February 3, 2009, at her residence following a period of decline health. She was born on June 13, 1917 in Erie County, New York to the late Michael and Rose Gawrys Sondel. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Stanley Crosbie; brothers, Anthony, Alexander, Andrew, Walter, Richard, Donald, and Henry Sondel; and by a sister, Josephine Kozlowski.

Mrs. Crosbie was a member of the Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church in Morganton. She had worked for Kittinger Furniture in New York before moving to North Carolina in 1960 where she worked for Southern Devices for over seventeen years.

She is survived by her sons, Michael Frank Straczuk and his wife, Betty, of Vidalia LA, Wayne Crosbie and his wife, Paula, of Santa Rosa, CA, and Brian Crosbie of Morganton; a sister, Laurie Schultz, of Buffalo, NY; eleven grandchildren; a number of great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Annette’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, February 5, 2009 at Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum with the Reverends Bruce Walker and Bill Hall officiating. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Mountain Office, 31 College Place, Sta. D. 320, Asheville, NC 28801-2644. Sossoman Funeral service is assisting the family with arrangements.

James “Taylor” Smith, 95, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, February 3, 2009 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. He was born Knoxville, TN on September 23, 1913 and was a son of the late Robert Fulton Smith and Cansada Loy Smith. Mr. Smith was a U. S. Army veteran of World War II where he was awarded the Purple Heart for his service in the European theater. Taylor worked for over 35 years at Morganton Full Fashion Hosiery and later retired from the Morganton Post Office in 1980. He was a faithful member of Calvary Baptist Church where he served as a deacon and Sunday school teacher as well as various committees. The family would like to express their appreciation to Terry Newton and the staff of Direct Care for their compassionate care, and special thanks to Dr. Tim Robinson and Dr. G. Michael Gould for their excellent care during Taylor’s recent hospital stay.

Surviving are his daughters, Linda L. Smith and Martha S. Dale, both of Morganton; grandchildren, Franklin Dale and his wife, Taylor, of Valdese and Jeff Dale of Morganton; great-grandchildren, Brittany Dale, Josh Dale, and Haiden Dale; a sister, Lola Bollinger of Elizabethtown, NC; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Taylor was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Mary Whisenant Smith; brothers, Edwin, Walter, and J. G. Smith; and by sisters, Velma Hayes and June Hayden.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, February 7, 2009, at Calvary Baptist Church with Reverends Larry Thompson and Jerry Gamble officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery with military honors conducted by the ceremonial team of American Legion Post 234. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Friday at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes before the funeral hour. Memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Baptist Church, 407 S. Green St., Morganton, NC 28655 or to Mt. Home Baptist Church Building Fund, 2272 Mt. Home Church Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.

Eugene “Gene” Milton Hines, 77, of Woodlawn Dr. in Morganton died Monday, February 2, 2009 at Grace Hospital. He was born May 3, 1931 in Lynchburg, VA, and was the son of the late Otis Linwood Hines and Lois Bishop Hines. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Michael Wayne Hines. Gene was a member of the First Presbyterian Church. He retired from Carolina Shoe where he was a plant manager.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Phillips Hines of the home; daughters, Kathy Hines Horne and husband, Scott, of Morganton, and Kim Hines Hubbard and husband, John, of Ocean Isle Beach, NC; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, February 5, 2009 at the First Presbyterian Church with Rev. Michael Bailey officiating. The family will receive friends at their residence following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church, 100 Silvercreek Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Martha Matthews Conklin, 73, died Tuesday, February 3, 2009, following a period of declining health. She was born in Cabarrus County, NC on August 24, 1935 and was a daughter of the late Frank Oliver Matthews and Grace McKinnley Matthews. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Derwood Parrish Conklin; a brother, Harold Matthews; and by sisters, Mary Elizabeth Richmond and Billie G. Gallagher.

Mrs. Conklin graduated from Watts Hospital School of Nursing and was a retired employee of Iredell Memorial Hospital where she worked in labor and delivery. She was a member of Forest Park Presbyterian Church.

Martha will be remembered by her family for her dedication as a wife and mother. She is survived by a son, Eric Kave Conklin, of Cornelius, NC; a daughter, Kenlaugh Conklin Lewis and her husband, Raymond, of Burke County, NC; grandchildren, Erica Krystal King, Alisha Candace Bolton, Richard Alexander Lewis, Philip Ryan Lewis, Kamron Elizabeth Lewis, Eric Reid Conklin and Susan Katherine Conklin; a great-grandchild, Sadie Marie Bolton; a brother, Charles Thomas Matthews; and a sister, Nancye C. Brodie.

Private family services will be held at a later date. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Jane S. Cole, 92, formerly of Linville Street, Morganton died Tuesday, February 3, 2009 at Grace Heights following a period of declining health. She was born in Lycoming County, PA on March 31, 1916 and was a daughter of the late Raymond and Marcellite Thorne Sweet. Mrs. Cole was a retired employee of The Hammock Shop at Pawleys Island, SC. Jane was one of the founding members of “Reach for Recovery” in Georgetown County, SC, and also was one of the founding members of Burke Hospice and Palliative Care. She was a member of Grace Episcopal Church.

Surviving are her daughters, Marilyn Williams of Valdese and Mary Jane Mustard of Ft. Smith, AK; seven grandchildren; and thirteen great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William Thomas Cole; six brothers and sisters; and by sons-in-law, Wayne M. Williams and Rev. Allan Mustard, Jr.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, February 7, 2009, at Grace Episcopal Church with the Reverend Bruce Walker and Reverend Larry Thompson officiating. Inurnment will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m. Saturday at Grace Episcopal Church Parish House. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Grace Heights Endowment Fund, 109 Foothills Dr., Morganton, NC 28655, to Grace Episcopal Church, 303 S. King St., Morganton, NC 28655, or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.

John Junior Bradshaw, 81, of Allen St., Glen Alpine, NC, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, February 5, 2009, at Burke Hospice Palliative Care Center following a period of declining health. Born January 25, 1928 in Burke County, NC, he was a son of the late John William Bradshaw and Nora Shull Bradshaw. He served in the U.S. Army and U. S. Army Reserves from 1946 until his retirement from the Army Reserves in 1983. During his tenure in the Army, he was stationed in Japan following World War II as a part of the occupying force. Mr. Bradshaw was also a retired employee of Drexel-Heritage Furnishings and was of the Baptist faith. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Bob, Howard, and Charles Bradshaw; and sisters, Mildred Tallent, Louise Chapman, and Mabel Barnwell.

Surviving are his wife, Shirley Ann Paige Bradshaw, of the home; sons, William Bradshaw of Valdese and Patrick Bradshaw and his wife, Angela, of Glen Alpine; a grandson, Drew Bradshaw; a sister, Sadie Alice Chapman, and her husband, Cecil, of Morganton; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, February 7, 2008, at Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Dewey Thomas and Rev. Brett Howell officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park with military honors conducted by Valdese American Legion Post 234. The family will receive friends Friday 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, 219 Allen St., Glen Alpine. Memorial gifts may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

Thea Grill, 90, of Hilltop St., Morganton, NC died Thursday, February 5, 2009 at Grace Hospital. No services were held for Thea.

Marie C. Graney, 85, of Hyder Ct., Morganton, died unexpectedly on Friday, February 6, 2009 at her residence. She was preceded in death by husband, Nicholas M. Graney, a brother, Daniel Curry, and a sister, Rita Curry.

Marie is survived by her daughters, Mary Anne Scott of Asheville, NC, Margaret Post and husband, Richard, of Morganton, and Kathleen Fischer and husband, William, of Howey In The Hills, FL; eight grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

Services will be held at a later date in Ft. Pierce, FL. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with local arrangements.

Clarence M. Robinson, 84, of Park St. in Morganton, NC died Sunday, February 8, 2009 at Carolina Rehab Center of Burke in Connelly Springs, NC following a period of declining health. He was born March 25, 1924 in Yancey County, NC, and was a son of the late Luther M. Robinson and Sally Bergin Robinson. Clarence was a member of North Morganton Baptist Church, and the former co-owner of Morganton Tire Store.

He is survived by a brother, Charles Edward Robinson, Sr. and wife, Norma, of Burnsville, NC; sister-in-laws, Linda McConnell of Fort Lauderdale, FL, Ada Hendon and Sadie Turner, both of Jacksonville, FL, Genevieve Gorman of Owensboro, KY, and Dorothy Robinson of Morganton, NC; 5 nieces, Darlene Hill, Kim Mercado, Carroll Weisloger, Betty Spicer and Angela Woody; and 5 nephews., Bobby Murphy, David Murphy Jimmy Turner, Charles Robinson and Ervin Robinson.

In addition to his parents, Clarence was preceded in death by his wife, Lois Edith Robinson; and a brother, Lloyd Robinson.

The family will receive friends Thursday, February 12, 2009 from 1:00 p.m. till 1:45 p.m. with the funeral services to follow at 2:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Kenneth Baker and his brother-in-law Mac McConnell officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

Thomas Edward “Ed” Wilson, 70, of Williams Road, Morganton, NC died Sunday, February 8, 2009 at his residence. Born in Yancey Co., NC on December 21, 1938, he was the son of the late Will Alexander Wilson and Bonnie Ballew Wilson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Charles Glen Wilson and Alvin Wilson, and a sister, Mildred Huffman.

Ed is survived by his wife, Wanda Myrtle Pearson Wilson of the home; daughters, Eyvonne Kellogg and husband, Charles, and Tammy Wilson, all of Marion, NC; a sister, Betty Brown and husband, Ed, of Asheville, NC; and grandchildren, Brandon Kellogg, Morgan Bryan, and Ashlyn Bryan.

The memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 11, 2009 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Chuck Tripp officiating. Valdese American Legion Post #234 will perform military honors. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Palliative Care Ctr. and Hospice of Catawba Valley, 3975 Robinson Rd., Newton, NC 28658.

Louise Pearson Towery, 83, of Salem Road, Morganton, NC died Tuesday, February 10, 2009 at Presbyterian Hospital in Charlotte, NC following a period of declining health. Born in Rutherford Co., NC on June 5, 1925, she was the daughter of the late John Lee Pearson and Effie Hoffman Pearson. Louise was a member of Burkemont Baptist Church. For many years she served as a foster parent for a large number of children and was also a home maker. Early in her life she worked at Morganton Full Fashion Hosiery Mill. She loved to arrange flowers for her family and friends.

Louise is survived by her husband, Clyde J. Towery of the home; a son, Dennis Towery and wife, Sarah, of Mt. Holly, NC; a daughter, Susan T. Carpenter and husband, Lanny, of Glen Alpine, NC; grandchildren, Jason Carpenter, Nora Towery Denny, Lora Towery Cooper, and Douglas Towery; great-grandchildren, Cheyenne Carpenter, Makayla Carpenter, Carter Denny, and Madison Denny; and sisters, Fay Lyle, Earline Whisenant, and Marian McNeily, all of Morganton.

In addition to her parents, Louise was preceded in death by her brothers, Clyde, Grant, and Doyle Pearson.

The funeral will be held at 3:30 p.m., Friday, February 13, 2009 at Burkemont Baptist Church with Rev. Burl Sain, Rev. Eddy Bunton, and Mr. Jerry Pearson officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church from 2:00 until 3:30 p.m. prior to the service. The family will be at the residence, 404 Salem Road, Morganton, on Thursday evening and Friday. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Iva Jane Duckworth, 61, of Eastwade Avenue in Morganton died Tuesday, February 10, 2009 at her daughter’s residence following a period of declining health. She was born June 9, 1947 in Burke County, NC, and was a daughter of the late Forest Graham Chapman and Dorine Pruett Chapman. Iva enjoyed gardening, and loved nature and animals.

She is survived by her husband, Rickie A. Duckworth of Drexel Rd. in Morganton; a daughter, Lisa Duckworth Curtis of Morganton; a grandson, Zachary Curtis of Morganton; and sisters, Mary Chapman of Morganton, and Linda Palangi of Sanford, NC.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 A.M., Friday, February 13, 2009 at Burke Memorial Park with Rev. Ricky Watkins officiating. The family will receive friends Thursday from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

Judy B. Brown, 61, of Piney Road, Morganton, NC died Wednesday, February 11, 2009 at Grace Hospital. Born in Burke County, NC on December 2, 1947, she was the daughter of the late Reid Bollinger and Jesseco Walker Bollinger. Judy was a former employee of Kimble Glass, Premier Hosiery, Burke Yarn, and Duracell.

Judy is survived by her husband, Troy Brown of the home; daughters, Vanda Benfield and husband, Edward, and Ellen Williams and husband, Mark, all of Morganton; grandchildren, Mikkaylla Ann Benfield and Miranda Nikkolle Benfield; and a brother, Larry Bollinger and wife, Tilly, of Granite Falls, NC.

In addition to her parents, Judy was preceded in death by brothers, Conley Smith and Broadus Smith.

The memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m., Friday, February 13, 2009 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Ronnie Lefevers officiating. The family will receive friends at the church from 2:oo until 4:00 p.m. prior to the service. Inurnment will be held at a later date.

Malla Goble Duncan Stephens, 86, of Autumn Care of Drexel died Friday, February 13, 2009 at her residence following a period of declining health. She was born February 5, 1923 in Burke County, NC, and was a daughter of the late Oscar Goble and Nell Baker Goble. Malla was a member of the Drexel First Baptist Church.

She is survived by her husband, Jack Stephens of the home; and grandchildren, Susan Schwind and Cindy Randolph, both of Morganton, NC, Johanna Starrett of Knoxville, TN, and Jennifer Drum of Hickory, NC; and ten great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Malla was preceded in death by a son, O. Allen Duncan; a daughter, Olivia Lynn Duncan Proffitt; and a great-grandson, Reston Lee Drum.

Memorial services will be held at 4:00 p.m., Monday, February 16, 2009 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Don Smith officiating. A private interment will be held at Drexel Memorial Park at a later date. At other times, the family will be at the residence of Cindy and Tom Randolph on Bost Road in Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

Randy Leslie McLean, 51, of Steakhouse Road, Morganton, NC died Friday, February 13, 2009 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. Born in Caldwell County, NC on November 28, 1957, he was the son of Merzie H. McLean and the late Charlie Clifford McLean, Sr. Randy was a member of Shady Grove Baptist Church. He enjoyed watching NASCAR and loved to make model cars. He loved helping others and spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his daughters, Tracy Boutin and husband, Steve, and Sandra Benfield of Morganton; sisters, Cathy Gantt and husband, Steve, of Morganton, Carolyn Anderson and husband, Alex, of Hendersonville, NC, and Margaret Setzer and husband, John, of Morganton; a brother, Charlie C. McLean, Jr. and wife, Judy, of Drexel, NC; grandchildren, Michaela Benfield, Lexie Benfield, Summer Boutin, Marshall Boutin, and Russell Boutin, and several nieces and nephews.

The graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, February 15, 2009 at Shady Grove Baptist Church Cemetery with Reverends Jerry Hudson and Billy Mace officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Shady Grove Baptist Church Building Fund, 6021 NC 18 S., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Phyllis Kay LaValley, 63, of Crystal Creek Road, Morganton, NC died Friday, February 13, 2009 at her residence. Born on September 21, 1945, she was the daughter of the late Gordon and Frances Hudson Flood. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Perry Connell; a son, William Jeffrey Connell, and a grandson, David Connell.

Phyllis is survived by her sons, Robert Raymond Connell and wife, Roni, and Charles Kenneth Connell; daughters, Linda Faye Connell and friend, Roger Short, and Vivian L. Moody and friend, Ernest Jordan; sisters, Marlene LaValley, Joann Trowbridge, Brenda Flood, and Joyce Eckhart; thirteen grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Eva Burnette Lowdermilk, 61, of Park Lane Drive, Morganton, NC died Friday, February 13, 2009 at her residence. Born in Burke County, NC on June 27, 1947, she was the daughter of the late Lee Roy Burnette and Sue Whisnant Burnette. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by a son, William Bennett Lowdermilk, III.

Eva is survived by a son, Tim Lowdermilk; a daughter, Amy Lowdermilk; a granddaughter, Cassie Lowdermilk; sisters, Iris DuBois, Patsy Stoss, and Diane Allman, all of Morganton. Private family services will be held at a later date.

Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Bonnie Metcalf Pruett, 91, of Goodman Lake Rd., Morganton, NC died Saturday, February 14, 2009 at Heartland Hospice House in Columbia, SC following a period of declining health. She was born in Dinwiddie County, VA on December 3, 1917 and was a daughter of the late Horace Melton Metcalf and Laura Price Metcalf. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, James Glenn Pruett; a son, Robert D. Pruett; a brother, Raymond Metcalf; and a sister, Gladys Whisenant. Bonnie was a loving mother and grandmother and will be remembered for her contagious laugh. She loved to travel and was an avid gardener and craftswoman. Mrs. Pruett was a member of Zion Baptist Church where she was active in her circle and Sunday School Class.

Surviving are sons, James B. Pruett of Morganton and Douglas Wyatt of Fancy Gap, VA; a brother, Marvin Metcalf, of Morganton; six grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 18, 2009 at Zion Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Ralph May and Rev. David Orders officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. Wednesday at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to the Catawba River Baptist Association Building Fund, PO Box 993, Morganton, NC 28680. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Iva P. Smith Wiseman, 90, of Britthaven of Morganton, and formerly of Morganton Long Term Care, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, February 16, 2009 at the nursing home. She was born March 2, 1918 in Burke County, NC, and was a daughter of the late William Fred Powell and Ollie Clontz Powell. Iva was a member of Calvary Baptist Church. She had worked at several textile mills in Morganton, but her foremost job was caring for her family and her home.

Iva is survived by sons, Thomas Smith and wife, Rachel, of Morganton, and Andy Smith and wife, Bea, of South Port, FL; daughters, Ollie Martin of Statesville, NC, and Nancy Leonard and husband, Mike, of Morganton; a sister, Betty Walker of Morganton; seven grandchildren, twenty-four great-grandchildren, and eleven great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by husbands, Edward R. Smith and Fredrick Wiseman; a son, Gilbert Edward Smith; four grandchildren; brothers, Clyde, Clarence, and Sam; and sisters, Eula, Beulah, Margaret, and Ruth.

Funeral services will be held at 12 noon, Thursday, February 19, 2009 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Mr. Greg Leonard officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday one hour before the service. At other times, the family will be at the home of Thomas Smith on Mountain View Lane in Morganton.

Harold E. Jay, Jr. 41, affectionately called JR, of White Pine Lane, Morganton, NC died Wednesday, February 18, 2009 at his residence. Born in Burke Co, NC on May 1, 1967, he was the son of Judy Russ Jay and the late Harold Edwin Jay, Sr. He loved to play his dad’s guitar, country music, being outside, and working on cars. He also enjoyed being with his friends who knew him as JR.

In addition to his mother, Harold is survived by his daughter, Shelia Jay of Morganton; a granddaughter, Ariel; siblings, Rita, and Samantha Jay both of Morganton, Travis, and Corey Jay of FL; grandparents, Wilma Spiers and Carl Jay, both of FL; his “Pawpaw”, Fletcher Russ of Morganton; an uncle, William Spiers, Jr. of FL; aunts, Lana Anderson of FL and Mary Watkins of CA; and numerous relatives of Florida and North Carolina.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, February 23, 2009 at Conley Road Pentecostal Holiness Church with the Rev. Bill Rice officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Sunday at Sossoman Funeral Home.

Sudie Frances Falls, 85, of Greer Avenue in Glen Alpine, NC died Thursday, February 19, 2009 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. She was born March 11, 1923 in Cleveland County, and was a daughter of the late John Pinkney Smith and Ellie Buff Smith. Sudie was a member of Gibbs Chapel Wesleyan Church, and a retired employee of Drexel Heritage Furniture with over 30 years of service.

Sudie is survived by sons, Lewis Falls and wife, Julie, of Nova Scotia, Canada, Fred Falls and friend, Melissa Grill, Edward Falls and wife, Sheron, and John Falls and wife, Ruby, all of Glen Alpine; daughters, Frances Hood and husband, Charles, of Lenoir, NC, Betty Falls of Morganton and Edith McKee and husband, James, all of Morganton, and Mary Ellen Price and husband, Jackie, of Lawndale, NC; brothers, Franklin, Reid, Ace, Howard, and Joe Smith, all of Morganton; sisters, Lucy Lail of Drexel, NC, and Ivey Cook of Casar; eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Lewis Jackson Falls.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, February 21, 2009 at Gibbs Chapel Wesleyan Church with Rev. Roger Brackett and Rev. Jackie Price officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes before the funeral hour. At other times, the family will be at the residence in Glen Alpine. Memorial contributions may be made to Gibbs Chapel Wesleyan Church, PO Box 603, Glen Alpine, NC 28628.

Francis Marion Denton, 79, of Pleasant Hill Ave., Morganton, NC died peacefully at Grace Hospital on Thursday, February 19, 2009. He was born in Burke County, NC on July 24, 1929 in a log cabin on the Little Cedar Mountain, the son of the late Maggie Denton. Except for his U.S. Army service from 1952 to 1954, he was a lifelong resident of the Enola Community. He was a Korean War veteran and during his deployment to Korea, he served as a chaplain’s assistant. He married the late Peggy Swinson Denton, daughter of Rev. James & Wilmer Swinson, on December 23, 1953. He was a loving husband and devoted father. He was a dedicated Christian servant for his entire adult life. He served as a deacon, trustee, Sunday School teacher, greeter, and in numerous other ways at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church. He was also a member of The Gideons and was excited about sharing the good news of Jesus around the world.

He worked for 42 years with Drexel Heritage Furniture, serving as supervisor of the finishing department in plant 3 & 5. After the death of his first wife, Peggy, he was blessed to share five wonderful years of marriage with Lucy Ford Smith Denton.

In addition to his mother and first wife, he was preceded in death by his sister, Esther Denton Smith, and his son, Richard Denton.

Survivors include his wife, Lucy Denton of the home; children, Debbie Cramer of Morganton, Rev. Ed Denton and his wife, Julia of Durham, NC, and Steve Denton of Morganton; grandchildren, Ben Cramer, Chris Denton, and Cameron Denton; brother-in-law, Jim Swinson and his wife, Marie of San Diego, CA; and nieces, LaVerne Smith and her husband, Rick Trois of Anchorage, AK and Connie Smith King and her husband Cliff, of Fort Lauderdale, FL.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, February 23, 2009 at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Larry Cline officiating. Burial with military honors by Valdese American Legion Post 234 will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Pleasant Hill Baptist Church Building Fund, 2396 Enola Road, Morganton, NC 28655; or to The Gideons International, P. O. Box 678, Morganton, NC 28680. Online condolences may be made at www.sossomanfuneralservice.com.

Allen Kuykendall, 58, of Heavenly Lane, Morganton, NC went to his mansion on the hill on Monday, February 23, 2009 at his residence. Born in Laurens Co., SC on December 21, 1950, he was the son of the late Lawrence Kuykendall and Vivian Annette Hardeman Kuykendall. Allen was a member of South Mountain Baptist Church where he loved to sing and play guitar. He was a U.S. Army Veteran of the Vietnam War. He later became a drill sergeant and continued as such until he retired from the army. After the military he worked as a truck driver instructor at Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute.

He is survived by daughters, Audrey Black of Marion, NC, Sandra Perham and husband, Dominic, of Morganton, April Hall of Marion, and Taylor Kuykendall of the home; a step-son, B.J. Powell of Catawba County; grandchildren, Josh Clark, Amber Black, Valerie Black, Cole Banner, Hunter Perham, Jared Perham, Dustin Hall, and Dalton Hall; great-grandchildren, Daniel Clark and Cayden Black; his first wife, Dena Revis; his second wife, Marsha Kuykendall; a brother, Gary Kuykendall of Laurens County; sisters, Joni Kuykendall and Tonya Oaks, both of Laurens County; and a number of cousins.

The funeral will be held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 25, 2009 at South Mountain Baptist Church with Rev. Chris Annas officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with military honors provided by Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday evening at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the funeral hour.

John Victor Hutchins, 63, of Rob Carswell St., Morganton, NC died Tuesday, February 24, 2009 at Mission Memorial Hospital in Asheville, NC following a brief illness. Born in McDowell County, NC on May 13, 1945, he was a son of the late John Hutchins and Helen Williams Hutchins. John was an active member of Cross Memorial Baptist Church where he was a deacon, Sunday school director, and trustee. He had worked for Sypris Technologies since 1978.

John is survived by his wife, Jennie Chapman Hutchins of the home; a daughter, Mary Hutchins Nelson of Morganton; a brother, David Hutchins of Morganton; a sister, Margaret Hutchins of Glen Alpine, NC; grandsons, James Wyatt, Richard Wyatt, and Jonathan Hutchins; a great-grandson, Christopher Thames; a daughter-in-law, Brenda B. Hutchins; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by a son, Jonathan Hutchins.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, February 27, 2009 at Cross Memorial Baptist Church with Reverends Jeff Beach, Jerry Campbell, and Steve Walsh officiating. Burial will follow in Pleasant Hill Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday 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 on Rob Carswell St., Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to the Cross Memorial Baptist Church Awana Program, 650 Enola Road, Morganton, NC 28655.

Juanita Bollinger Crotts, 61, went to be with the Lord surrounded by her family and friends at her home on Wednesday, February 25, 2009, following a brief illness. She was born in Burke County on October 22, 1947 and was a daughter of the late John Henry Bollinger and Ruth Duckworth Bollinger. Juanita was a member of Nowlings Chapel Freewill Baptist Church and in recent years she was employed as a C.N.A. and worked as a caregiver. She was an avid flower gardener and will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Sam Crotts of the home; her son, Eddie Crotts; her brothers, Henry Bollinger and Garland Bollinger; her sisters, Faye Norman and her husband, Lou, and Ann Carswell and her husband, Pee Wee, all of Morganton; her church family; special friend, Helen Pritchard; and her faithful canine companion, Ty.

In addition to her parents, Juanita was preceded in death by her brother, Hatch Bollinger.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, February 27, 2009, in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Darvy Hensley officiating. Entombment will follow at Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Nowlings Chapel Freewill Baptist Church, 5827 Fisher-Davis Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.

Janice Carswell Woodruff, 62, of Reese Rd., Morganton died Wednesday, February 25, 2009 following a period of declining health. She was born in Burke County on October 13, 1946 and was a daughter of the late Theodore Roosevelt Carswell and Daisy Elizabeth Starnes Carswell. Janice was always full of life and loved music, dancing, and doll collecting, but most of all she loved her family.

Surviving are her sons, Robert Shawn Berry and his wife, Tonya, Joseph Ernest Berry, III and his wife, Julie, all of Kingsport, TN, and Charles Brian Woodruff of Morganton; a daughter, Crystal Lynette Ayers and her husband, Brian, of Morganton; a brother, Dennis Carswell, of Ormond Beach, FL; sisters, Betty Rockett and Lynda Davis both of Morganton, and Barbara Ritchie and her husband, Slayton, of Taylorsville, NC; grandchildren, Joseph Ernest Berry, IV of Lenoir, Amber Renee Ross, Tiffany Nichole Moody and her husband, Dusty, Jessica Michelle Setzer, and Christopher James Setzer all of Morganton, Robert Shawn “R.J.” Berry, Jr. and Justin Calvin Hurt both of Kingsport, TN, and Kelsey Lian Ayers of Vale, NC.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, March 1, 2009 at Walker Road Baptist Church with Rev. Brandon Ware officiating. Burial will follow at Drexel Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 4:00 until 6:00 p.m. Saturday at Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690 or to Walker Road Baptist Church, 100 Walker Road, Morganton, NC 28655.

Sharon C. Sellers, 54, of Colony Dr. in Morganton went home to meet her heavenly Father on Thursday, February 26, 2009 at her residence. She was born February 15, 1955 in Caldwell County, NC, and was a daughter of Margaret Collier Sellers of Morganton, and the late Hugh Leonard Sellers, Jr. Sharon was a member of the First Baptist Church of Morganton, and a retired employee of Broughton Hospital with many years of state service. She loved animals, especially her feline companion, “Kit-Kat”.

In addition to her mother, Sharon is survived by sisters, Vicki Canipe of Drexel, NC, and Valerie Sellers of Dublin, VA; a niece, Meagan Canipe of Drexel; aunts, Mary Greene, Alma Robertson, and Dorothy Parrish; and numerous cousins and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, March 1, 2009 in the First Baptist Church Chapel with Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr. officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Sunday from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m. in the church parlor. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church, PO Drawer 459, Morganton, NC 28680. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Martha Cooke Kincaid, 68, of Brentwood Rd. in Morganton went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, February 26, 2009 at Mission Hospital in Asheville following an extended illness. She was born March 3, 1940 in Avery County, NC, and was a daughter of the late Richard “Dick” Cooke and Delana Coffey Cooke. Martha was an active member of St. Matthews United Methodist Church where she had been the secretary of her Sunday school class, sung in the choir, and served on several committees. She was a past President and current member of the Women’s Circle #2. Martha loved her church and all of the church family. Her passion was cooking for others.

She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Thomas H. Kincaid of the home; a daughter, Debbie Mace and husband, Paul, of Morganton; a son, Randy Kincaid and wife, Sheila, of Morganton: grandsons, Davey M. Anderson and Cameron T. Kincaid; brothers, Lee Cooke of Michigan, George Cooke of Linville, NC, and David Cooke of Newland, NC; sisters, Peggy Sherwood of Michigan, Lillian Ellis of Greensboro, NC, Mamie Luther of Linville, NC, Linda Pittman of Pineola, NC, and Janice Payne of Asheville, NC; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 4:00 p.m., Sunday, March 1, 2009 at St. Matthews United Methodist Church with Rev. Allen P. Boliek and Rev. Ted Kirk officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Sunday from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m. at the church fellowship hall. At other times, the family will be at the home of Thomas Kincaid. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Matthews United Methodist Church, 201 Shady Rest Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

J. D. Newton, 82, of Bumgarner Dr. in Drexel died Thursday, February 26, 2009 at Burke Palliative Care Center in Valdese following a period of declining health. He was born October 5, 1926 in Cleveland County, NC, and was a son of the late John Cletus Newton and Hattie Newton. J. D. was a member of New Home United Methodist Church. Affectionately known as “Tag” by his friends, he was a long term member of the “The Bluegrass Gospel Band” and played the mandolin. J. D. enjoyed bird watching and raised purple martins. He loved to garden and shared the fruits of his harvest with friends and neighbors. J. D. was an avid Carolina fan.

He is survived by his wife, Margie Morris Newton of the home; a son, Steve “Curly” Newton and wife, Donna, of Casar, NC; a daughter, Kathy Anthony and husband, Janson, of Drexel, NC; grandchildren, Craig Anthony of Valdese and fiancée Kristina Allen, of Rutherford College, NC, Brent Anthony and wife, Jennie, of Kernersville, NC; and John David Newton of Casar; a half-brother, Charles White of Winston-Salem, NC; half-sisters, Elizabeth Vaughn, Gertrude Smith, and Mary Carswell, all of Morganton; and an aunt, Pauline Poole of Morganton. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, James Edward Newton; and half-brothers, David and Robert Newton.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, March 2, 2009 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Steve Beatty, Rev. Michael Harrill, and Rev. Sam Snyder officiating. Burial will follow at New Home United Methodist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday from 4:00 until 5:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690, or to New Home United Methodist Church, 422 Moriah School Rd., Casar, NC 28020.

Charles Harrison Woodie, 73, of Morganton, NC passed away on Friday, February 27, 2009 at College Pines Nursing Home after a year-long, courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Charles was born in Jonas Ridge, NC on March 2, 1935 and was a son of the late Paul Rufus Woodie and Clora Clark Woodie. Mr. Woodie attended Mt. Home Baptist Church.

He had a variety of jobs over his lifetime. He started out as a young man working in the shrubbery business in the mountains and the American Thread Company before moving to Morganton. He retired from the state after many years of service at Broughton Hospital in various jobs in the kitchen and on the wards and Vocational Rehabilitation as a Job Placement Specialist. He then worked at J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center in the workshop and later drove the van at Morganton Eye Physicians for several years. During all this time, he had his own little landscaping business. Many of the beautiful yards in Burke County were sowed by him. When it came garden time, his phone rang off the hook with requests for plowing and bush-hogging. He even worked as an auxiliary policeman when there was such a thing in Burke County.

Everyone who met him fell in love with him. He just had that kind of personality. He loved surf fishing, camping, and traveling with friends and family. He loved his TV, especially the news and car racing. He also loved his friends. Their visits remained a highlight of his life until the end. His passing will leave a void in many people’s lives, especially his wife who can’t imagine life without him.

Charles is survived by his wife of thirty-one years, Sandy L. Woodie of the home; his son, Charles Terry Woodie of Morganton; his brothers, Ray Edward Woodie and wife, Bobbie, of Glen Alpine and Roger Dale Woodie of Newland, NC; his brother-in-law, Alton Lee of Gulfport, FL; his best friends, Don and Pearl Younce of Morganton; several nieces and nephews and their spouses; and last but not least, the latest of his four-legged companions, Bandit and Max.

In addition to his parents, Charles was preceded in death by his two brothers, Hayden Albert Woodie and Virgil Thomas Woodie. Words cannot express the family’s appreciation for the wonderful care and love he received at College Pines and from Burke County Hospice. Their staff are wonderful, caring, professional people who were his guardian angels. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690 or the Mt. Home Baptist Church, 2272 Mt. Home Church Road, Morganton, NC 28655.

The graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, March 3, 2009 at Jonas Ridge Cemetery with Rev. Jerry Gamble officiating. The family will receive friends on his birthday, Monday, from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home.

Harless Ervin Mabe, 84, of Morganton, NC died Saturday, February 28, 2009 at Grace Hospital. Born in Burke County, NC on March 20, 1924, he was the son of the late Jacob N. Mabe and Allie Setzer Mabe. Harless worked for many years with his father at Broadway Market. He later worked at Willis Curb Market. Harless was also an Army Air Corps veteran of WWII, having received the rank of Corporal and a recognition of valor during the Pacific Theatre of Operation. He was a devoted Christian who walked with God. He was a lover of God’s Holy Word.

Mr. Mabe is survived by sisters, Doris Stover of Murphys, CA, Iva Jane Mabe of Morganton, Nina M. LaFevers of Morganton, and Margaret Perkins Powell of Morganton, and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Harless was preceded in death by a brother, Melvin J. Mabe.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 4, 2009 at Forest Hill Cemetery with Reverends Ronnie LaFevers, a nephew of the deceased, and Jim Taber officiating. Military honors will be performed by Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends following the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Camp Dixie, 373 West Bladen Union Church Road, Fayetteville, NC 28306. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.