Joanne Smith Bollinger, 70, of Glen Alpine, NC, loving wife, mother, and grandmother went to be with her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, June 3, 2009 at Grace Hospital after a period of declining health. Born in Burke County, NC on March 8, 1939, she was the daughter of the late Ernest Hunter Smith and Mary Estelle Duckworth Smith. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Lynn Bollinger; a brother, Ernest Smith, Jr.; and sisters, Louise Roper and Doris Smith.

Joanne is survived by her son, Kevin Bollinger and wife, Susan, of Morganton; daughters, Misti Bollinger of Morganton and Bobbie Jo Bollinger of Glen Alpine; grandchildren, Kolten, Peyton, Dakota, and Greyson; brothers, Richard Smith of Morganton and Stephen Smith of Nebo, NC; and sisters, Ione Speagle of Morganton, Arlene Mayfield of Glen Alpine, Helen Gwyn of Morganton, and Donna Costner of Morganton; a step-son, Kenneth Bollinger of Morganton; a step-daughter, Barbara Shaffer of Morganton; and step-grandchildren, Jennifer, Jeffrey, and Robbie.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, June 6, 2009 at Conley Road Pentecostal Holiness Church with Rev. Bill Rice and Pastor Kenneth Shew officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 7:00 until 8:30 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the funeral hour.

Ruby P. Smith, 85, of River Road, Morganton, NC died Wednesday, June 3, 2009 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. Born in Burke County, NC on November 20, 1925, she was the daughter of the late Julius Monroe Penley and Florence Penley Carswell. Ruby was a member of Walker’s Chapel Baptist Church. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother.

Ruby is survived by her husband, Frank D. Smith of the home; sons, Glen Edward Smith and Donnie “Ray” Smith, both of Morganton; a brother, James Penley of Valdese, NC; four grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild.

In addition to her parents, Ruby was preceded in death by a son, Frank C. Smith, Jr., four brothers, two sisters, and one daughter-in-law.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, June 6, 2009 at Walker’s Chapel Baptist Church with Reverends Ronnie Lefevers and Steve Parker officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Saturday at the church one hour prior to the funeral. At other times the family will be at the residence, 4037 River Road, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Walker’s Chapel Baptist Church Building Fund, 5292 Walker’s Chapel Road, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Long-time Morganton resident John Phillip ‘Phil’ Kellar, 74, died Saturday, June 6 in Norfolk, Virginia following a prolonged illness. He was born on December 1, 1934 in Harrison County Missouri to the late Lula Viola Shaver Kellar and Francis Anthony Kellar. He spent his adolescence in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Phil was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force stationed in England. He was graduated from the Kendall School of Design with a degree in Furniture Design and subsequently moved to Morganton, where he began his life-long career in the furniture industry. In 1962, he married Millie Dean Brittain of Morganton, who was his wife of 40 years until her death in 2002.

Phil was a designer for Drexel Furniture Company in Morganton, Bernhardt Furniture in Lenoir and Universal Furniture in High Point and taught classes in Furniture Design at Western Piedmont Community College. He was an active member and Elder of the First Presbyterian Church.

Surviving are his daughters Laura Kellar Fullton and Christophe of Lausanne Switzerland and Diana Kellar Espino and husband, Oscar, of Virginia Beach, Virginia; his sister Jeanne Kellar Beaty of Alberta, Canada; his brother David Lawrence Kellar and wife, Lee, of Northville, Michigan; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Millie Brittain Kellar and his brother Charles William Lethco.

Burial will be 11:15 am Thursday June 11, 2009 at Forest Hill Cemetery. A Celebration of Phil’s life will be held 12 noon Thursday June 11, 2009 at the First Presbyterian Church with the Reverend Adam C. Bowling officiating. The family will receive friends following the service in the parlor at the First Presbyterian Church. Memorials contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 100 Silver Creek Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.

Connie Beck Farr, 78, of, Morganton, NC died Sunday, June 7, 2009 at Grace Hospital. Born in Burke County, NC on July 25, 1930, she was the daughter of the late Wiss Monroe Beck and Bertha Clontz Beck. Connie was an active member of First Baptist Church where she was active in the W.M.U.M., the Agape Sunday School Class, and the First Baptist Women’s Bible Study Group. She was a former member of Morganton Advent Christian Church. She was also a member of the Morganton Women’s Club and a former member of the Eastern Star, Mimosa Chapter 269.

Connie is survived by her sons, Gaston Farr and wife, Kim, of Lewisville, NC and Deryl Farr and wife, Patti, of Charleston, SC; and grandchildren, Aaron Smith and Bethany Farr. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Manford G. Farr, Sr.; brothers, Otis Beck, Charles Beck, Ned Beck, and Doug Beck; and sisters, Eula McMahon and Ada Walker.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, June 10, 2009 at the First Baptist Church with Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr. officiating. Burial will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday in the Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Black Mountain, NC. The family will receive friends Tuesday 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. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Attn: Office Manager, 4-A Oak Branch Drive, Greensboro, NC 27407 or to the First Baptist Church, P.O. Drawer 459, Morganton, NC 28680.

Tommy Wayne Lane, 42, of Tammy Lane Rd. in Morganton went to be with the Lord Saturday, June 6, 2009 at his residence. He was born October 6, 1966 in McDowell County, and was a son of Rosa Lee Burnette Carneal of Morganton, and the late Clarence Paul Lane. Tommy received his G.E.D. from Isothermal Community College in 1996. He was a former employee of Carolina Shoe, Morganton Dyeing and Finishing, and Alan Heating and Air. Tommy attended Missionary Ridge Baptist Church.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife, Sheila Jean Lane of the home; children, Andrew Lane of Florida, Cara Fantisha Lane, Dillion Lawton Brewer, Jeana Rose Lane, and Daniel “D.J.” Lane, all of Morganton; and one grandson. Also surviving are brothers, Dwayne Lane and wife, Jennifer, of Claremont, and Teddy Lee Lane and wife, Lisa, of Texas; sisters, Tammy Lane Powell and husband, Wayne, of Morganton, and Paulette Lane Gragg and husband, Rick, of Hildebran; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his father, Tommy was preceded in death by a sister, Roxanne Lane Alley; and a nephew, Donnie Powell.

Funeral services will be held at 4:00 p.m., Thursday, June 11, 2009 at Calvary Assembly of God with Rev. Mike Whisnant and Rev. Donald Lovelace officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday at the church one hour before the service. At other times, the family will be at the residence of Tammy and Wayne Powell, on Lonnie Shuffler St. in Morganton. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Sossoman Funeral Home, PO Box 2608, Morganton, NC 28680 for assistance with funeral expenses.

Bennie Denton Bollinger, 94, of Lash Drive, Salisbury, NC died Tuesday, June 9, 2009 at the Laurels of Salisbury. Born in Burke County, NC on June 5, 1915, she was the daughter of the late Benjamin Denton and Annie Poteat Denton. She was a member of Westview Baptist Church where she taught Sunday school, bible school, and was a member of the W.M.U. At one time she was superintendent of the Sunday school and was the church secretary and treasurer. Bennie was a talented seamstress and loved to make afghans, quilts, and English embroidery.

She is survived by her daughter, Betty Bollinger Peeler of Salisbury; grandchildren, Billy Hugh Peeler, Jr. of Salisbury, Gary Lynn Swink of Morganton, and Tamara Peeler Ervin of Salisbury; five great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Luther James Bollinger; a daughter, Jean Bollinger Swink and her husband, Fay; a son-in-law, Bill H. Peeler, Sr.; a brother, Glen Denton; and sisters, Osa Lybolt, Julia Hulseapple, Lelia Caraway, Ada Honeycutt, Dallas Smith, and Lillian Williams.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, June 12, 2009 at Westview Baptist Church with Reverends Rick Speagle and Gene Pons officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Westview Baptist Church, 3205 US 64 West, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Glen R. “Dick” Baker, Jr., 57, of Walter Taylor Avenue, Morganton, NC went to be with his Lord and Savior Tuesday, June 9, 2009 at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, NC after a long battle with lupus. Born in Burke County, NC on January 23, 1952, he was the son of Glen Baker, Sr. and Kathleen Clay Baker, both of Morganton. He was a member of El Bethel Baptist Church. Dick was an employee of Sypris Technologies, formerly Dana Corporation for twenty-eight years.

He is survived by his wife, Melba Willis Baker; a son, Joshua Glen Baker of Morganton; a daughter, Carla Baker Beck and husband, Daniel, of Morganton; a brother, Jeff Baker and wife, Mikki, of Morganton; a sister, Glenda B. Childers and husband, David, of Morganton; and grandchildren, Isaac Beck, Avram Beck, Abigail Beck, and Hayden Glen Baker, all of Morganton.

He was a beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. We look forward to a glorious reunion in Heaven.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, June 12, 2009 at El Bethel Baptist Church with Reverends Ron Cooper and David Bean officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday evening from 6:00 until 8:30 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Gideon’s International, P.O. Box 678, Morganton, NC 28680 or to the South Mountains Children’s Home, 7330 Myrtle Drive, Nebo, NC 28761.

Roger Dean King, 55, of Jamestown Rd. in Morganton died Tuesday, June 9, 2009 at his residence following a period of declining health. He was born February 15, 1954 in Avery County, NC, and was a son of Thelma Beam King of Morganton and the late Ronald Owens King. Roger was a faithful member and bass player at Zion Road Baptist Church. He was a former employee of Rexnor and McCombs Oil Company, and an antique car enthusiast.

In addition to his mother, Roger is survived by a son, Ronald Preston King and wife, Kelly of Morganton; a daughter Marisa Piercy and husband, Rev. Micah Piercy of Morganton; four grandchildren, Savannah Piercy, Luke Piercy, Cadence King, and Cole King; a brother, Mike King of Morganton; and many other relatives and friends.

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Kay Mayfield King; and brothers, Kenneth Eugene King, Gary King, and Ronnie Dale King.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, June 12, 2009 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Reverends Tony Harris, Scott Evans, and Micah Piercy officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Thursday from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Dolores Ann “Lois” Hemphill Throneburg, 57, of Muddy Creek Rd., Morganton died Wednesday, June 10, 2009, at Grace Hospital following a brief illness. She was born in Burke County on October 25, 1951 and was the daughter of Mae Inez Hemphill of Morganton and the late Richard Guy Hemphill. Dolores was a U. S. Navy veteran, previously owned and operated Wild Country Styling Salon, and also worked at Broughton Hospital. She was a former member of Bridgewater Presbyterian Church and Tabernacle Baptist Church.

Surviving in addition to her mother are her son and his wife, Richard Adam and Stephanie Mingle Throneburg; her brother and his wife, Richard and Shirley Clark Hemphill; her former husband, David Gary Throneburg, all of Morganton; her Uncle Vernon Powell, her Aunt Bennie Bailey, two nieces, Djuna Acker and Ledonna Good, and numerous cousins; and good friends, Charlie Taylor and Robert Anderson.

In addition to her father, Dolores was preceded in death by several aunts and uncles.

The funeral will be held at 4:00 p.m. Friday, June 12, 2009, in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Pastor Gary Cline officiating. Burial will follow at Bridgewater Presbyterian Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Friday from 3:00 until 4:00 p.m. At other times the family will at the homes of her mother, Inez Hemphill, Muddy Creek Road or her son, Richard Adam Throneburg, Surrey Drive, Morganton. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Attn: Office Manager, 4-A Oak Branch Dr., Greensboro, NC 27407 or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

Horace Cleveland Pearson, 90, formerly of Pearson Avenue, Morganton, died Wednesday, June 10, 2009 at Morganton Long Term Care following a period of declining health. He was born in Burke County on July 4, 1918 and was a son of the late Will and Laura Lane Pearson. Mr. Pearson worked for many years as a logger and sawmill worker and retired from Henredon Furniture Co. after 18 years of employment. He was a longtime member of Missionary Ridge Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, Horace was preceded in death by his wife, Martha Morris Pearson; brothers, Lee, John, Joe and Arthur Pearson; and by sisters, Mary Courtney and Maggie Lane.

He is survived by a number of nieces and nephews and by a stepson and his wife, Tommy and Carla Wortman, and their children, all of Morganton.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, June 13, 2009, at Missionary Ridge Baptist Church with Preacher Mark Hensley officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m. Saturday in the church sanctuary. 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.

Elsie Clark Barrier, 95, of Jonas Ridge passed after a lingering illness at Cannon Hospital on Wednesday, June 10, 2009. She was born in Avery County on February 18, 1914 and was a daughter of the late Elgie and Margaret Bowman Clark. Elsie enjoyed reading, gardening, quilting, and gospel music and was a member of Jonas Ridge Baptist Church. She had a great love for her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. As a devoted member of Jonas Ridge Baptist Church, Elsie lived, loved, and taught the love of God.

Left to carry on her memory are three sons, Isaac Barrier, Roy Barrier, and Arvel Barrier; two daughters, Stella Gallion and Jane Holden all of Jonas Ridge; 27 grandchildren; over 58 great-grandchildren; and 22 great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Elsie was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Silas Christopher Barrier, and by daughters, Alice Mae Barrier Whetsel and Brenda Kay Barrier Wheeler.

The funeral will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, June 13, 2009, at Jonas Ridge Baptist church with Rev. Jude Hughes officiating. Burial will follow at Gingercake Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Gage Gallion, Jessie St. John, Robert Garland, Dennis Barrier and John Gallion. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Friday at Sossoman Funeral Home. At other times the family will be at her residence on Barrier Avenue. Memorial contributions may be made to Jonas Ridge Fire Department, PO Box 31, Jonas Ridge, NC 28641.

Janette Davis Lowman, 71, of Miller Bridge Rd. in Connelly Springs, NC died Wednesday, June 10, 2009 at Valdese General Hospital following a period of declining health. She was born April 15, 1938 in Burke County, and was a daughter of the late Patrick Odell Davis and Mae Fannie Robinson Davis. Janette was a member of Warlick’s Chapel United Methodist Church. She was retired from the textiles manufacturing industry, and was an accomplished cook and baker. Janette was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

She is survived by her husband, Bob Lowman of the home; a son, Randy Lowman and wife, Carolyn of Connelly Springs; daughters, Barbara Holman and husband, James of Hudson, Pan Parker of Connelly Springs, and Jan Chester and husband, Keith of Hudson; grandchildren, Cody Lowman, Justin Lowman, Curtis Holman and wife, Amanda, Jessica Holman, Jill Knox and husband, Adam, Josh Parker and wife, Roseanna, Doug Chester and wife, Alicia; great-grandchildren, James David Holman, Madelyn Knox, Sam Knox, Gwendolyn Chester, and Jocilyn Chester.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Colon Davis; sisters, Lola Mae Arney and Patricia Juanita Setzer; and a son-in-law, Randy Parker.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, June 13, 2009 at Warlick’s Chapel United Methodist Church with Rev. Larry Fletcher and Rev. Dr. Clifton Black officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Saturday from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. in the church fellowship hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Southmountain Children’s Home, 7330 Myrtle Dr., Nebo, NC 28761. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

R. Clyde Dula, 87, of Denver St. in Drexel died Wednesday, June 10, 2009 at his residence. He was born June 10, 1922 in Burke County, and was a son of the late Albert Dula and Margaret Pearl Webb McGimpsey. Clyde served in the US Army during World War II, and was a retired employee of Drexel-Heritage Furnishings. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Drexel.

Clyde is survived by daughters, Darlene Brittain and husband, Guy of Connelly Springs, and Stephanie Dula and companion Joey Oxford of Drexel; grandchildren, Melissa Bivens, Shane Lackey, Wesley Lackey, and Cadence Simmons; great-grandchildren, Brittany Brigman, Austin Brigman, and Tyler Brigman; brothers, Parks Dula of Hendersonville, NC, Forrest Dula and Ray Dula, both of Morganton; and sisters, Lena Engstrom of Tennessee and Hazel Belanger of Morganton.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Melba Marie Jenkins Dula; brothers, William and James Dula; a sister, Ruby Walker; and a great-grandson, Marcus Brigman, Jr.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, June 14, 2009 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home. Burial will follow in at Burke Memorial Park with military honors conducted by the Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends Saturday from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Sossoman Funeral Home, PO box 2608, Morganton, NC 28680 to help with funeral expenses.

Hughes Harding Crabtree, 88, of Amherst Rd. died Wednesday, june 10, 2009, at Valdese General Hospital. He was born in Smyth County, VA on April 16, 1921 and was the son of James Perry Crabtree and Emma Jefferson Crabtree. Mr. Crabtree was a U. S. Army veteran of World War II and was a recipient of the Purple Heart. He was a member of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church.

Surviving are his sons and their wives, David and Diane Crabtree and Ken and Sherrie Crabtree; his daughter, Dona Wilkie, all of Morganton; grandchildren, Dana Withrow, Elizabeth Self, Joseph Jaynes, Peter Jaynes, David Jaynes, and Mary Cardin.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, june 15, 2009, at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church with Rev. Francis King officiating. Inurnment will follow in the church cemetery with military honors conducted by Valdese American Legion Post 234. The family will receive friends Monday from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m. in the parish hall. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Episcopal Church 140 St. Mary’s Church Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting with a arrangements.

Constance Houle St. Armand, 69, of Morgan Trace Dr. in Valdese died Thursday, June 11, 2009 at Valdese Hospital following a brief illness. She was born April 19, 1940 in Middlesex County, MA, and was a daughter of the late Gilbert Houle and Laurette Charest Houle. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Gerard St. Armand.

Constance is survived by daughters, M. Angela Ducharme of Kingston, NH, Pamela A. Murphy and husband, Charles Michael Murphy of Haverhill, MA, and Marcella J. Ferrara of Bedford, NH; grandchildren, Jillian Ducharme, Christy Ducharme, Elizabeth Murphy, Scott Murphy, Katelynn Sweeney, Brittany Sweeney, and Alexis Ferrara; a great-granddaughter, Mia Wheeler; a brother, Donald Houle of Tampa, FL; and sisters, Jacqueline Bianco of Valdese, and Louise Juliette Copenhaver and husband, Howard of Morganton.

Connie expressed the very essence of beauty, talent, intelligence, generosity, and kindness. Her indomitable spirit, joy, and courage under adverse conditions will forever inspire the greatness in us all. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, June 15, 2009 at Calvary Lutheran Church with Rev. Michael Riley officiating. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Billy Thomas Parson, 69, of Morganton went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, June 11, 2009 after an extended illness. He was a loving husband and caring father who will be greatly missed by his family. He was born on June 7, 1940 in Burke County and was the son of the late Thomas Bartley and Beatrice Coffey Parson. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a son, Timothy Michael Parson, and by a sister, Troy Mae Smith. Billy was united in marriage to Margaret Haynes of Whitnel in 1963, having recently celebrated their 45th anniversary together surrounded by friends and family. He worked as a truck driver for Hammary Furniture, Caldwell Freight Lines, MDI, and Breeden’s Case Farms before entering retirement.

Billy was a caretaker to many pets over the years, and he was a story teller and could strike up a conversation with anyone. He had a passion for wood working and could be found in his woodshop most days building outdoor furniture while listening to Gospel music as he worked. He always looked forward to family gatherings throughout the year, and he took pleasure in gardening during the summer months. He was an active member of Antioch Baptist Church in Morganton where he loved serving others.

Billy is survived by his wife, Margaret; his faithful dog, Sandy; two daughters, Kimberly Culler and husband, Mike, of Lenoir and Angelia Poe and husband, Chip, of Granite Falls; one son, Eric Todd Parson, of Morganton; three grandchildren, Matthew and Erica Gragg of Granite Falls, and Jordan Culler of Lenoir; one sister, Carolyn McFalls, of Morganton; nephews, Terry and Scottie McFalls, of Morganton; and other relatives and friends.

Billy’s family will be receiving friends and family members from 11:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Sunday, June 14, 2009, at Antioch Baptist Church. The funeral service will begin at 12:30 p.m. Sunday with Rev. Clarence Correll and Mr. John Edwards officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Antioch Baptist Church, 2441 Antioch Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.

Myrtle A. Turner, 68, of Mill Race Road in Morganton died Friday, June 12, 2009 at her residence following a period of declining health. She was born July 14, 1940 in Burke County, NC, and was the daughter of the late John Chapman and Hailey Causby Chapman. Myrtle was a member of Faith Temple Tabernacle Church.

She is survived by her husband, Wesley Ray Turner of the home; a son, Clarence Helms of Morganton; daughters, Helen Brown of Morganton and Cathy Romero-Reese of Valdese; grandchildren, Amy Walker, Jamie Walker, Phillip Romero, Stephanie Helms, and Samuel Helms; four great-grandchildren; and step-daughters, Sheila Jean Turner of Morganton, and Lisa Gail Adkins of Martinsville, VA.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, June 15, 2009 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Julius Lowery and Rev. Danny Sprouse officiating. Burial will follow in Faith Temple Tabernacle Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday from 7:00 until 9:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, surgeon, and friend, John Henry Giles, age 76, joined the Lord in Heaven on June 13, 2009.

Born February 22, 1933 in Calvin, NC, John was the son of the late Ellen Trexler Giles and Robert Hampton Giles, Sr. After graduating from Glen Alpine High School in 1951, John’s love of learning led him to earn an Associates of Arts Degree from Pfeiffer College in Meisenheimer, NC in 1951, a Bachelor of Science from Randolph Macon in Ashland, VA in 1953 where he graduated Phi Beta Kappa, and a Doctor of Medicine from Bowman Gray School of Medicine in Winston-Salem in 1959.

On completion of his medical studies, John entered the United States Navy with internship at the US Naval Hospital in St. Albans, NY. This was followed by duty at sea on the USS Iwo Jima LPH2 which he commissioned and was the senior medical officer aboard. John then completed surgical training at the US Naval Hospital, San Diego, the largest military hospital in the world.

After a year as a staff surgeon at US Naval Hospital Charleston, John believed that being a naval surgeon in Vietnam was his proper place and he asked for and was given duty in Da Nang, Vietnam. He served as staff surgeon in Da Nang from 1966-1967, where he cared for thousands of wounded service men and women.

On returning to the US in 1967, John completed his duty at the US Naval Hospital in Philadelphia, PA where he continued to care for wounded servicemen. After attaining the rank of Commander Medical Corp, US Navy, John ended his service with the Navy in 1969.

Throughout the rest of his life John continued to have deep love, respect, admiration, and gratitude for the US military. In recent years John was instrumental in bringing a World War II memorial to downtown Morganton and as recently as two weeks ago he was honored to give the Memorial Day message at the Valdese American Legion. Throughout his life John was a strong advocate of individual freedom and responsibility with service to fellow man.

John returned to his hometown in 1969 where he spent the next 45 years devoting himself to caring for the people of Burke County. He was a compassionate physician who always put the needs and welfare of his patients first. The practice of medicine defined much of his life, and he was honored that people trusted him with their care.

John was a natural leader and served in numerous leadership positions including the Burke County Medical Society, the North Carolina Medical Society, and the Boards of Directors of Blue Ridge Health Care, Mimosa Hills Country Club, and the National Charolais Association.

John was a man of many passions. For many years he loved breeding and showing Charolais cattle and spending time on his sailboat. Most recently he and Ann spent most of their spare time on the golf course or turning their garden into a paradise.

John was an active member of Drexel First Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and was currently teaching the parables of Jesus in his Sunday School class.

John is survived by his devoted wife of 31 years, Ann Queen Giles, and his children and their spouses, Mary Ellen Clark and her husband, Ron, of Rutherfordton, NC; Stephen Bierce Giles and his wife, Kathryn, of High Point, NC; John Keith Giles and his wife, Joyce, of Denver, NC; and Kelly Giles Crawley and her husband, Mark, of Morganton.

John was a proud and loving grandfather of ten: Christie and J.T. Clark, Caroline and Lauren Giles, Ashley, Brannon, and Trevor Giles, and Morgan, Anna, and Giles Crawley. He is also survived by his first great-grandson, Reed Clark.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his dear brothers, Sonny, Bobby, Bill, and Jim.

John spent countless hours in the last year of his life working with the Flynn Christian Home, a half-way house committed to giving men a second chance in life. In lieu of flowers, John would want donations made to the Flynn Christian Fellowship Home, 721 West Union Street, Morganton, NC 28655.

Services for John Henry Giles will be held on Tuesday, June 16, 2009 at Drexel First Baptist Church. The family will receive friends in the fellowship hall from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m., with a memorial service immediately following in the church sanctuary. A private burial will be held at Glen Alpine Methodist Church Cemetery. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Sybil Parker Bartlett, 61, formerly of Sugar View Drive, Marion, NC died Monday, June 15, 2009 at Grace Heights Health Care Center in Morganton, NC. Born in McDowell County, NC on November 17, 1947, she was the daughter of the late DeFoix Parker and Mabel Rumfelt Parker.

Sybil is survived by her daughters, Mabel Davis and husband, Wayne, of Morganton and Holly Bartlett of York, SC; sons, James Mills and wife, Debbie, and Robert Bartlett, all of Marion, NC; a brother, DeFoix Parker, II of Marion; and seven grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Jane Conner, and a brother, James Parker.

The memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, June 21, 2009 at Vein Mountain Baptist Church in Marion, NC with Rev. Barry Gouge officiating. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Clifford “Cliff” Dale, Sr. 70, of Crawley Dale Street, Morganton, NC went home to be with his Heavenly Father on Monday, June 15, 2009. Born in Burke County, NC on September 28, 1938, he was the son of the late Thomas Roscoe Dale and Onie Lee Keever Dale. Cliff was a charter member of Grace Baptist Church. He worked the majority of his life as a truck driver, having worked for his neighbor and friend, James Wellman, and Western Hatcheries.

Cliff is survived by his son, Tim Dale and wife, Vicky, of Morganton; daughters, Lesia Moses and husband, Rick, and Lori Benton and husband, Dwain, all of Morganton; a daughter-in-law, Kathy Roseman of Morganton; a brother, Tom Dale of Morganton; sisters, Hazel Nantz of Morganton, Dot Lee of Shelby, NC, Callie Mae Small of Morganton, Lillie Chisholm of Morganton, Margaret Townsend of Morganton, and Faye Laws of Morganton; ten grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Cliff was preceded in death by sons, Rick S. Dale and Clifford R. Dale, Jr.; and a granddaughter, Jessica Leigh Benton.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 17, 2009 at Grace Baptist Church with Reverends Marty Bess and Burl Sain officiating. Burial will follow in Mull’s Grove Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends at Grace Baptist Church from 1:00 until 3:00 p.m. prior to the service. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Worth Sherrill Whisnant, Jr., 74, of Frank Whisnant Road, Morganton, NC died Thursday, June 18, 2009 at Valdese General Hospital following a period of declining health. Born in Burke County, NC on April 6, 1935, he was the son of the late Worth Sherrill Whisnant, Sr. and Pansy Elizabeth McFalls Whisnant. Worth was a lifetime member of Oak Hill United Methodist Church. He was a past District Governor and member of the Oak Hill Ruritan and was past President of the Burke County Fair Association. He retired from Henredon with 40 years of service.

Worth is survived by his wife, Frances Arnita Coffey Whisnant of the home; daughter, Debbie Morehead and husband, Steve, Dianne Stuart and husband, Tim, and Sandy Sisk and husband, David, all of Morganton; grandchildren, Angie Scott and husband, Zeb, of Morganton, Kelly Stuart and fiancée, Matthew Gay, of Raleigh, NC, and Megan Morehead, Lauren Sisk, and Alex Sisk, all of Morganton; and brothers, Donald Whisnant and wife, Laura Beth, of Fayetteville, NC and Bill Whisnant and wife, Debbie, of Morganton.

The funeral will be held at 4:00 p.m., Saturday, June 20, 2009 at Oak Hill United Methodist Church with Rev. Mark Denton officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church from 2:30 until 4:00 p.m. prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Oak Hill United Methodist Church Building Fund, 2239 NC 181, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

A. Grier Moore, Jr., 84, of Hillside Lane, Morganton, NC died Friday, June 19, 2009 at his residence. Born in Burke County, NC on July 29, 1924, he was the son of the late Allie Grier Moore, Sr. and Sadie Wilson Moore. He was a lifelong member of First United Methodist Church. Mr. Moore was a graduate of Morganton High School and attended the University of Alabama. In World War II, Mr. Moore served with the U. S. Army Air Corps. He was a member and past Commander of American Legion Post 21. Grier was founder and president of Moore Equipment Co., Hickory, NC where he designed and manufactured equipment for the automotive repair industry. In addition to his parents, Grier was preceded in death by his first wife, Alta Sullivan Moore, and a brother, John Moore.

Grier is survived by his wife, Debra Secreast Moore of the home; step-daughters, Kimberly Philyaw of Lenoir, NC and Leslie Williams and her husband, Thomas, of Hudson, NC; step-grandsons, Tanner Philyaw and Gunnar Williams; a sister-in-law, Janie Moore of Charlotte, NC; and nieces, Grier Elizabeth Howe of Atlanta, GA and Sadie Andress of Charlotte.

The graveside service will be held at noon, Monday, June 22, 2009 at Forest Hill Cemetery with Rev. Dr. Sydnor C. Thompson, III officiating. Military graveside honors will be performed by Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends at Sossoman Funeral Home from 10:30 until 11:30 a.m. on Monday. Memorial contributions may be made to Foothills Conservancy of NC, P.O. Box 3023, Morganton, NC 28680.

Marie Griffin Biggs, 89, of Seitz Road, Morganton, NC went to be with her Lord on Saturday, June 20, 2009 after a 19 year long battle with cancer. Born in Burke County, NC on June 29, 1919, she was the daughter of the late Theodore Patrick Griffin and Mamie Maran Ramsey Griffin. She was a member of Amherst Baptist Church and the W.M.U. She was very proud that she and her late husband of 44 years, Claude Biggs, were active members of the Gideons. During her long work history she worked at several local hosiery mills, but was most proud of being a waitress at several local restaurants.

Left to cherish her memory are her sons, Kenneth Canipe and wife, Reba, of Valdese, NC, and Neil Eugene Pitts, Sr. and wife, Elaine, of Morganton; daughters, Rita Nichols and husband, Buck, of Drexel, NC, Carolyn Clark of Morganton, and Edna Cook and husband, Al, of San Antonio, TX; sisters, Thelma Duckworth of Morganton, Evelyn Carswell of Valdese, and Gwendolyn Keener and husband, Howard, of Hickory, NC; a son-in-law, Ed Beach of Morganton; seventeen grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Marie was preceded in death by four husbands; two infant daughters; a step-son, Pete Biggs; a daughter, Ellen Farmer Beach; and sisters, Helen Ross and Vera Powell.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 23, 2009 at Amherst Baptist Church with Reverends Harold Joplin, David Orders, and Ernie Richards officiating. Burial will follow in Drexel Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Monday 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 home of Mrs. Biggs on Seitz Road.

Hazel Lorene Hudson, 87, of Walker Chapel Rd., Morganton died Sunday June 21, 2009 at Grace Hospital. She was born in Burke County on April 12, 1922 and was a daughter of the late Filo and Eliza Jane Huffman Huffman. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Osco Hudson. Mrs. Hudson was a member of Walkers Chapel Baptist Church.

Surviving are sons, James Hudson and Tommy Gene Hudson both of Morganton, and Benny Ray Hudson, of Connelly Springs; daughters, Vertie Goodman and Janie Lail both of Connelly Springs, Betty Penland of Morganton, and Ellen Duren of Jacksonville, FL; a sister, Pansy Cross of Morganton; twelve grandchildren; twenty-three grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 23, 2009, at Walker’s Chapel Baptist Church with Rev. J. C. Bradley officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church Tuesday from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. Sossoman Funeral is assisting with arrangements.

Laura G. Clark, 87, of Autumn Care of Marion, NC died Monday, June 22, 2009 at her residence following a period of declining health. She was born June 20, 1922 in Burke County, and was a daughter of the late John Gray Gibbs and Robbie Elizabeth Poole Gibbs. For many years, Laura was a very active member of the Glen Alpine United Methodist Church, the Women’s Club of Glen Alpine, and the Choraleers. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Laura is survived by a son, John B. Clark and wife, Melissa of Nebo, NC; grandchildren, Bratcher Clark II of Raleigh, NC, and Erin Airington of Jefferson, SC; great-grandchildren, Charlie Clark, Gibbs Clark, Olivia Airington, Tucker Airington, and Clark Airington.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Frank Charles Clark; four brothers and five sisters.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 24, 2009 at the Glen Alpine United Methodist Church with Rev. David Duncan officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 1:00 until 2:00 P.M. at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Glen Alpine United Methodist Church Building Fund, PO Box 576, Glen Alpine, NC 28628. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Lillie Mae Branch Griffin, 84, of Buford Dr. in Morganton went to be with her Heavenly Father on Monday, June 22, 2009 at Valdese Hospital following a short period of declining health. She was born November 23, 1924 in Burke County, NC, and was a daughter of the late Jimmy Lee Powell and Effie Epley Powell Lafevers. She was a member of Enon Baptist Church and a retired employee of the Bank of Granite.

Lillie is survived by a daughter, Joyce Cook of Drexel; sons, Andy Branch and companion, Betty of Glen Alpine, and Phillip Branch, Sr. and wife, Lynn of Baton; a sister, Ann Benfield of Morganton; seven grandsons, Doug Seagle and wife Lela of Wilsonville, AL, Jeffrey Seagle and wife, Linda of Ft. Myers, FL, Phillip Branch, Jr. and wife, Elizabeth of Drexel, Brandon Thompson, Dustin Thompson, and Todd Branch, all of Morganton, and James Branch of Chester, SC; five granddaughters, Vicki Sketoe and husband, Randy of Chester, SC, Mary Ann Rhyne of Morganton, Sheila Branch of York, SC, Kathy Whisenant and Amy Epley, both of Morganton; great-grandchildren, Nelson and Kendall Rezek, Ashlyn Seagle, and Quentin Branch; 16 other great-grandchildren; one great great-granddaughter; a special friend, J. R. (A.J.) Lingafelt; a number of nieces and nephews; and Lillie’s canine companion, Scarlett.

In addition to her parents, Lillie was preceded in death by her first husband, Albert “Jack” Branch, Jr.; her second husband, Alvin Griffin; a son, Joseph David Branch; a great-granddaughter, Kayla Isabella Branch; three brothers, Bud, J.B., and James Powell; and a sister, Marion Mode.

The family would like to give special thanks to the staff of Carolina Rehab Center of Burke for their excellent loving care of our precious mother and grandmother, and a special thank you for the loving care given by Connie Foster of Drexel.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, June 25, 2009 at Enon Baptist Church with Rev. Gary Garner officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. before the service. At other times, the family will be at the residence of Joyce Cook, 421 Mountain View Dr., Drexel, NC. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in celebration of Lillie’s life, to Enon Baptist Church Bus Fund, 2059 Enon Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Louise Lane Abernathy, 83, of Carbon City Rd. in Morganton died Monday, June 22, 2009 at her residence. She was born June 6, 1926 in Morganton, and was a daughter of the late Fritz Alexander Lane and Jessie Whisenant Lane. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by brothers, Carl and Bill Lane. Louise was an active member of Calvin Heights Baptist Church where she still taught the Senior Women’s Sunday School class. She was a retired employee of Hanes.

She is survived by her husband, Jack E. Abernathy, Sr. of the home; children, Barbra Abernathy Taylor and husband, Bo of Morganton, Gary A. Abernathy and wife, Christi of Glen Alpine, and Eddie Abernathy of Raleigh; grandchildren, Bo Taylor, Jr. and wife, Tammy, Brent Taylor and wife, Meredith, Kirt Abernathy, Gretchen Whisnant and husband, Chuck, Corey Stockstad, Taylor Stockstad, and Marissa Stockstad; great-grandchildren, Bo Taylor, III, Bryan Taylor, Braeyon Taylor, Abby Taylor, Cassie Johnson, and Ava Whisnant; a brother, Fred Lane and wife, Jean of Morganton; and a sister, Sandra Smith and husband, Michael of Hildebran.

Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, June 25, 2009 at Calvin Heights Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Paul Culbertson and Rev. Jeff Lane. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Calvin Heights Baptist Church Pew Bibles Fund, 107 Calvin Heights St., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Ralph Woodie, 78, of Goodman Lake Rd., Morganton, NC died Tuesday, June 23, 2009 at his home. He was born June 16, 1931 in Jonas Ridge, NC to the late Alfred and Gertrude Coffey Woodie.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Anna Jean Carpenter Woodie of the home; daughters, Linda Woodie Huffman and her husband, Danny Huffman, and Donna Woodie Franklin and her husband, Robert P. “Cob” Franklin, all of Morganton; grandchildren, Chanda Lovelace and her husband, Greg, Leslie Benton and her husband, Brian, and Holly Huffman and her husband, Abe; great-grandchildren, Colton Rodriquez, Dylan Brittain, Makaley Lovelace, Sebashton Benton, and Chanze Benton; a brother, Roy Woodie of Jonas Ridge; a sister, Myrtle Woodie Clark of Jonas Ridge; many special nieces and nephews, neighbors that were always there for support, a host of church friends, and his beloved dog, Charlie. In addition to his parents Ralph was preceded in death by a brother, Ronald Woodie of Jonas Ridge; and a sister, Louise Clark Lane of Morganton.

Ralph was a former member of Long Ridge Baptist Church in Jonas Ridge and was currently a member of Zion Baptist Church, Morganton. He was an avid mandolin player and was a member of The Greener Grass Bluegrass Band. Members of the band, who were also his special friends, included, Steve Bradshaw, Frank Beam, Roger Ledford, Terry Acuff, Dave Withrow, Van Carswell, and Randy Bradshaw.

A celebration of Ralph’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, June 25, 2009 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Rev. Dr. Ralph May and Rev. David Orders officiating. Burial will follow in Zion Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

John W. Seagle, 52, of Golf Course Rd. in Morganton died on Wednesday, June 24, 2009 at Frye Regional Medical Center in Hickory, NC following a brief illness. He was born October 30, 1956 in Catawba County, and was a son of Shirley Ruth Gross Garrett of Hickory and the late Frank Seagle. John was a member of Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church. He graduated from Fred T. Foard High School and then worked for Old Dominion Freight Lines.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife, Roberta Roberts Seagle of the home; a step-son, Harry Everett Carpenter IV of Washington, DC; a step-daughter, Meredith Eller and husband, Tim of Lincolnton, NC; and brothers, Billy Seagle, Kenny Seagle, and Danny Seagle, all of Hickory.

Funeral services will be held at 4:00 P.M., Friday, June 26, 2009 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Thomas Lineberger officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church, PO Box 1159, Morganton, NC 28680.

Anne McDowell Abernethy Connelly, 90, of Grace Ridge, Morganton, NC died Wednesday, June 24, 2009. Born in Burke County, NC on February 27, 1919, she was the daughter of the late Edgar Lafayette Abernethy and Elizabeth Milne McDowell Abernethy. Her lifelong ambition was to be a nurse, and graduated from R. L. Long School of Nursing in Statesville, NC. Soon after graduation from nursing school, Anne married her high school sweetheart, Clark Connelly, and they began raising a family of five children, while Anne continued to pursue her nursing career. Throughout her life, Anne was an active member of the community, was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Junior League, the Morganton Recreation Committee, a Girl Scout Leader, and an active member of the PTA for her numerous children. She loved playing bridge, sewing and knitting. One of her great loves was genealogy, being a descendent of the McDowells of Pleasant Gardens. Anne was a local source of McDowell knowledge, and published a book on the McDowell family history. She enjoyed volunteering in the Historical Room in the Burke County Library. Anne was a lifelong member of the First Presbyterian Church of Morganton where some of her ancestors were buried. Anne will be sadly missed by all of her family and friends.

She is survived by her son, John Connelly of Nebo, NC; daughters, Elizabeth Connelly Jackson of Dallas, TX, Ruth Connelly Keller of Morganton, and Anna Connelly Schlawiedt of Merritt Island, FL; nieces, Margaret Elizabeth Grille of N. Palm Beach, FL and Agnes Patricia Thompson of Placentia, CA; eight grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Anne was preceded in death by her husband, James Clark Connelly, and a son, James Moulton Connelly.

Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Sunday, June 28, 2009 at Forest Hill Cemetery with Rev. Beth Ann Miller officiating. The family will receive friends at the Grace Ridge Mezzanine on Sunday from 2:30 until 4:00 p.m. At other times the family will be at the residence of her daughter, Ruth Keller, 119 Laurel Hills Dr., Morganton, NC. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690 or to First Presbyterian Church, 100 Silver Creek Road, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Cleo Burns Crump, 84, of Antioch Road, Morganton, NC died Thursday, June 25, 2009 at Grace Hospital following a brief illness. Born in Burke County, NC on August 21, 1924, she was the daughter of the late Claywell Burns and Betsy Hallyburton Burns. Cleo was a charter member of and the person responsible for the name of North Cross Church. She was a retired employee of Alba-Waldensian and loved to garden and cook. She was never too busy to teach her grandchildren to play the guitar. She cherished her family, friends, and church.

She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Curtis B. Crump of the home; a son, Charlie Crump and wife, Nancy, of Morganton; a daughter, Gloria Hevel and husband, Geoff, of Morganton; grandchildren, Richard Crump and wife, Angelica, Eric Crump and wife, Jennifer, Rebecca Crump, Gina Bowen and husband, Billy, Beth Cordell and husband, Tripp, and Michael Crump, all of Morganton, and Greta Hevel Gush and husband, John, of Oregon City, OR; great-grandchildren, Chassidy, Matthew, Marianna, Aaron, Daniel, and Olivia Crump, Quentin Benfield, Caleb, Cianna, and Caroline Cordell, Angel Gragg, Nick and Rose Bowen; a brother, Willard Burns of Asheville, NC; and a sister, Sissie Coffey and husband, Harold, of Morganton.

In addition to her parents, Cleo was preceded in death by a son, Clarence Crump; and brothers, Vernon and Joe Burns.

The funeral will be held at 5:00 p.m., Saturday, June 27, 2009 at North Cross Church with Rev. Charlie Crump officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the church at 4:00 p.m. Saturday. Memorial contributions may be made to the secretary of North Cross Church, 142 W. A. Harris Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Carl Robert Duckworth, 88, of Williams Rd., Morganton, died Friday, June 26, 2009 at Grace Hospital after a period of declining health. Carl was born May 27, 1921 in Cleveland County to the late Edward Duckworth and Carrie Orders Duckworth. He was a World War II veteran, serving in the US Army.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Fannie Catherine Williams Duckworth; a son, Alan Duckworth.

Carl is survived by a son, Kenneth Duckworth and his wife, Susan; a daughter, Brenda Murdock, of Morganton; a sister, Clara Vaughn of Morganton; grandchildren, Bryan Duckworth and his wife, Karen of Morganton, Michael Murdock of Raleigh, Jeremy Duckworth and Eric Duckworth both of Morganton; and great grandchildren, Tanner Duckworth and Carson Duckworth. A graveside service will be held at 2:30 p.m., Monday, June 29, 2009 at Salem United Methodist Church Cemetery with the Rev. Ed Stevenson officiating. Military honors will be performed by the American Legion Post # 234. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. prior to the service at Sossoman Funeral Home.

Memorials in Mr. Duckworth’s memory may be made to the American Legion Post #234, P.O. Box 987, Valdese NC 28690.

Rebecca Diana Stockton Morgan, 47, died unexpectedly Friday, June 26, 2009 at Grace Hospital. Born August 28, 1961 in Blount County, TN, she was a daughter of Larry Stockton of Thorntown, Indiana and Arbadella Woodall Whisnant of Morganton. She was a member of Maranatha Baptist Church, Marion, NC. Rebecca was preceded in death by her husband, Gary Morgan.

In addition to her parents she is survived by her son, Robert Kyle Morgan of Morganton; a step son, Gary Justin Morgan of Ohio; her step-father, Randy Whisnant; a grandson, Ethan Lee Morgan; a brother, Jason Whisnant and his wife, Katherine of Valdese; sisters, Lisa Ann Penley, Marcy Grady and her husband, Kelly, and Jennifer Powell and her husband, Robert all of Morganton.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, June 28, 2009 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Rev. Dean Silver officiating. Burial will follow in the Providence United Methodist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home for one hour before the service. At other times the family will be at the residence of Randy and Arbadella Whisnant, 2635 Acorn Dr., Morganton.

James Edward Wellman, 84, of Crawley-Dale St., Morganton, NC died Sunday, June 28, 2009 at the Burke Hospice Palliative Care Center. Born in Burke County, NC on February 6, 1925, he was a son of the late Charlie and Cora Carswell Wellman. Mr. Wellman served in World War II as a corporal flying in B-24 bombers with the 484th Unit of the U.S. Army Air Forces. He received the American Theater Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal. During his working life, he was a self employed truck driver. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Carlos Wellman and a son-in-law, Larry Patton.

Surviving are his wife of 62 years, Lucy Crawley Wellman of the home; a son, Jimmy Wellman and his wife, Debra of Morganton; daughters, Diann Pearson and her husband, Ernie, and Brenda Clark and her husband, Randy all of Morganton; a brother, Edison Wellman of Cleveland County, NC; grandchildren, Lorrie Harris, Amy Clarke, Wendy Houk, Dana Hensley, Clint Wellman, Chris Wellman, and Jamie Clark; and great grandchildren, Chelsey, Ethan, Hannah, Aubrey, Chesney, Hailey, Lucas, Randan, Kyle, Sierra, Cassie, Autumn, and Conner.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 30, 2009 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Reverends Marty Bess, Randy Clark, and Lloyd Harris officiating. Burial will follow in Salem United Methodist Church Cemetery with military honors by Valdese American Legion Post 234. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 1:30 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. Memorial gifts may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.