Mildred T. Keene, M.D., 82, of Skyland Drive, Morganton, NC died Tuesday, June 30, 2009 at Grace Hospital. Born in Lake Butler, FL on January 28, 1927, she was the daughter of the late Vernon Keene and Eva Mary Edenfield Keene Pearce. She was of the Methodist Faith.

Following her graduation from the University of Tennessee, she joined the U.S. Air Force from which she retired as a Lt. Colonel. She was active in politics, prompting her to be one of the first women to run for Congress and the U.S. Senate.

Dr. Keene received numerous prestigious awards, including the Long Leaf Pine and the Korean National Defense Medal, presented by the United Daughters of American Confederates. She held medical licenses in psychiatry, dentistry, and emergency medicine. She was the director of Mental Health in Fulton County, Atlanta, GA and later joined the Charlotte Psychiatric Associates. She relocated to Morganton where she practiced psychiatry until her retirement. She continued to work locum tenems until her death.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, John Richard Keene, and sisters, Mary Lee Keene Johnson, Evelyn Strickland, and Eleanor Kieloboski.

Dr. Keene is survived by a brother, Wayne Pearce and wife, Hazel, of Gainesville, FL; a sister, Bonnie Parker and husband, Glen, of Gainesville; a special cousin, Gerry Vaughn of Bunnell, FL; a special niece, Mary K. Sumner of Jacksonville, FL; a special nephew, Joshua C. Shelton; and other nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, July 4, 2009 from 9:00 until 9:30 a.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday at Burke Memorial Park with Gerry Vaughn officiating. Valdese American Legion Post #234 will provide military honors. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Mt. Moriah United Methodist Church, Mt. Moriah Church Road, Casar, NC 28020.

Mildred Louise Beck “Nana” Taylor, 84, of Carbon City Rd. in Morganton went to be with her Loving Lord and Savior on Wednesday, July 1, 2009 after an extended period of declining health. She was born on January 15, 1925 in Morganton, and was a daughter of the late Dwight C. Beck and Velsie Morrison Shepherd and Grady Shepherd. Mildred graduated from Glen Alpine High School, and then attended the Asheville Women’s Business College. She married Guy Lawson Taylor (her loving husband of 43 years) on July 28, 1945. Mildred retired from Henredon with over 30 years of service. She was a member of Calvin Heights Baptist Church where Mildred taught Sunday School for 55 years. She also served on several committees and in various capacities within the church.

Mildred is survived by her four children, Jay Taylor and wife, Pat of Hilton Head, SC, Bo Taylor and wife, Barbra of Glen Alpine, Connie McFarland, and Beverly Abernathy and husband, Phillip, all of Morganton; seven grandchildren, Travis Taylor and wife, Jaclyn of Taylorsville, KY; Wesley Taylor of N. Augusta, SC, Bo Taylor, Jr. and wife, Tammy of Glen Alpine, Brent Taylor and wife, Meredith of Cary, NC, Kendra Arrowood and husband, David of Valdese, Haze McFarland of Morganton, and Chesley Greer and husband, Eric of Drexel, NC; great-grandchildren, Xavier Taylor, Simon Taylor, Bo Taylor, III, Bryan Taylor, Braeyon Taylor, Abigail Taylor, Colton Arrowood, and Cade Arrowood; a sister, Lois Beck of Statesville, NC; a brother, Wayne R. Beck and wife, Joyce of Inverness, FL; and a number of nieces and nephews. Mildred was a loving daughter, mother, wife, and Nana to all.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Guy Lawson Taylor.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, July 3, 2009 at Calvin Heights Baptist Church with Rev. Paul Culbertson and Rev. Mark Beck ( Mrs. Taylor’s nephew) officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends in the church fellowship hall immediately following the graveside service. At other times, the family will gather at Mrs. Taylor’s residence, 604 Carbon City Rd. in Morganton. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials contributions be made to the Quality of Life Fund, Blue Ridge Health Care Foundation, c/o Grace Heights, 107 Foothills Dr., Morganton, NC 28655 (where Mrs. Taylor spent her final days), or to the Calvin Heights Baptist Church Pew Bible Fund, 107 Calvin Heights St., Morganton, NC 28655. Nicholson Funeral Home of Statesville, NC and Sossoman Funeral Home of Morganton are assisting the Taylor family with arrangements.

There is no way that our family can name all the people who have reached out to us with support, prayers, and many comforting words. For everyone who has been faithful with calls and visits or touched our lives and our mother in some way, we are eternally grateful. We would like to express our extra love and gratefulness to the medical profession that personally has taken care of her medical needs. We are extremely grateful to the staff of Family Medical Associates and especially Tracy Chapman who has attended to her for several years with great compassion and love. We are most blessed to have had her final day at Grace Heights Rehabilitation Center. Mother frequently spoke lovingly of each one of you. Your care and love for her and our family will always be remembered and cherished. Although her body was worn and she is no longer with us, her love and smiles will always remain.

Geneva O. Willson, 78, of Pete Brittain Rd. in Morganton died Friday, July 3, 2009 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. She was born December 15, 1930 in Burke County, and was a daughter of the late Paul Timothy Orders and Ruth Irene Bobbitt Orders. Geneva was a faithful member of Salem United Methodist Church Cemetery. She formerly worked as a beautician at Edna Williams Beauty Shop and then retired from Sky City.

Geneva is survived by her husband of sixty years, Aubrey R. Willson of the home; a son, Stephen A. Willson and wife, Alice of Rutherford College; a daughter, Lynn Willson Woody and husband, Bobby of Morganton; grandchildren, Antony Willson and Brandi Woody; sisters, Mayre Jane Lawrence of Orlinda, TN, and Pauline O. McGhinnis of Morganton; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 4:00 p.m., Sunday, July 5, 2009 at Salem United Methodist Church with the Reverends Mark Conforti, Donald Freshour, Alan Wilson, and Kenny Baker officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour before the service on Sunday at the church. At other times, the family will be at the home of Pauline McGhinnis on Pete Brittain Rd. Memorial contributions may be made to Salem United Methodist Church Building Fund, 1206 Salem Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Frances Kay Hester, 56, of J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center, Morganton, NC, formerly of Lincolnton, died Friday, July 3, 2009 at Grace Hospital in Morganton. Born January 26, 1953 in Lincoln County, she was the daughter of Edith Stowe Hester and the late Dewey Leroy Hester.

In addition to her mother, Frances is survived by her brothers, James Leroy Hester and Charles Steve Hester, both of Lincolnton; and a sister, Brenda Marlene Hester Swaney of Pendleton, SC.

The funeral will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 7, 2009 at the Covenant Chapel of J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center with Chaplain Johnny Phillips officiating. The family will receive friends at the chapel from noon until 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Hollybrook Cemetery in Lincolnton. Memorial contributions may be made to J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center, 300 Enola Road, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Nellie “Nell” Cannon Setzer, Our Beloved Nanny, 90 of York Street, Morganton, NC fell asleep in Christ on Saturday, July 4, 2009 at The Good Samaritan Center at Advent Christian Village in Dowling Park, FL. Born in Icard, NC on September 10, 1918 to the late Edward Cannon and Lillie Mae Ervin Cannon she was preceded in death by her husband, Von Bernie Setzer. She is survived by her children, Judy Withers Setzer and Terry Vaughn Setzer both of Morganton; her granddaughters, DeRae Nell Shuffler and her partner, Rick Benfield of Birmingham, AL and Elizabeth Shuffler Lamb and her husband, Randy of Dowling Park, FL; a very special niece, Louise Hice Benfield; her great grand Angels, Lilian DeRae Lamb, Madeline Elizabeth Shuffler, and Nellie Margaret Lamb.

Nanny was a member of First Advent Christian Church in Morganton and at the time of her death was the oldest member. She served her church as Sunday School teacher, member of the Women’s Home and Foreign Mission Society, Deaconess, and member of the Official Church Board. She retired from Broughton Hospital in 1978.

Nanny’s family wishes to thank the wonderful staff at The Good Samaritan Center for the love and care expressed to her during her last year of life.

A celebration of Nell’s life will be held at 4:00 p.m., Friday, July 10, 2009 at the First Advent Christian Church with Reverends Jim Taber and Randy Lamb officiating. The family will receive friends at the church for one hour before the service. Memorial gifts may be made to First Advent Christian Church, 211 Lenoir Road, Morganton, NC 28655 or to The Good Samaritan Center, P. O. Box 4332, Dowling Park, FL 32064. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Virgie Pauline Coffey Sprouse, 68, of Windy Acres, Morganton, NC died Saturday, July 4, 2009. Born in Avery Co., NC on July 17, 1940, she was the daughter of the late William McKinley Coffey and Annie Crump Coffey. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Burleson G. Sprouse. Virgie was a retired employee of the Burke County School System and a member of Harvest Praise Church.

Mrs. Sprouse is survived by her sons, Burl D. Sprouse and wife, Daisy, of Ft. Lee, VA and Tim J. Sprouse and wife, Renee, of Morganton; daughters, Teresa Holsclaw and husband, Terry, and Regina “Gená” Farris and husband, Mickey, all of Morganton; a brother, Charlie Coffey of Avery County; sisters, Christine Clark of Morganton and Shirley Burse of Spruce Pine, NC; and seven grandchildren, Michael Farris, Josh Farris, Joseph Hildebran, Danny Holsclaw, Ashley Holsclaw, Abby Sprouse, and Kali Sprouse.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 7, 2009 at Harvest Praise Church with Reverends Harold Camp, Barbara Camp, and Barry Camp officiating. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow in Mull’s Grove Baptist Church Cemetery. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Vera Twiggs Jackson, 92, of Hwy 70 West, Morganton, NC died Monday, July 6, 2009 after a period of declining health. Born in Avery County, NC on February 23, 1917, she was the daughter of the late John Henry Twiggs and Matilda Freeman Twiggs. Vera attended Faith Missionary Baptist Church. She retired from Ferree Cleaners after over forty years of service. She enjoyed gardening, the outdoors, and traveling with her family. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother.

She is survived by her daughter, Betty Lawes of Morganton; a special family friend, Sarah McKinney; grandchildren, Sandra Dubrow and husband, Richard, of Guyton, GA and Christy Ingersoll and husband, Tom, of Drexel; great-grandchildren, Tiffiney Poovey of Morganton; Carrie Lam of Gray, GA, Drew Abee of Ft. Stewart, GA, and Jennifer Ingersoll of Chapel Hill, NC; and ten great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Vera was preceded in death by her husband, Elmer F. Jackson; a son, Todd Jason Jackson; a granddaughter, Peggy Witkowski; three brothers, and three sisters.

The funeral will be held at 5:00 p.m., Thursday, July 9, 2009 at Faith Missionary Baptist Church with Reverends Terry Robinson and Marshall Dills officiating. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow in Snow Hill United Methodist Church Cemetery. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Charles William “Bill” Patton, 85, of Foothills Dr., Morganton, NC died Wednesday, July 8, 2009 at Grace Heights. Born June 2, 1924 in Burke County, he was the son of the late Carl William Patton and Zora Mae Patton. He was a WWII Army Veteran and a member of Glen Alpine United Methodist Church.

Charles is survived by a grandson, Charlie Patton of Morganton; step-brother, Charles Tate, of Hickory; and daughter-in-law, Cindy Evans, of Morganton.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Jo Reep Patton; and sons, Carl and Mark Patton.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, July 11, 2009 at Glen Alpine Cemetery with Rev. Andy Evans officiating. Mr. Patton will be available for viewing from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., Friday at Sossoman Funeral Home. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Sarah Melton Rockett Seagle, 86, died Wednesday, July 8, 2009, following a period of declining health. She was born in Rutherford County on October 5, 1922 and was a daughter of the late Oliver L. Melton, Sr. and Lola Long Melton. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by husbands, Ned R. Rockett and K. M. Seagle; brothers, Paul and David Melton; and by sisters, Elsie Whitehead, Eunice Toney, and Loree Hoare. Sarah retired from Evans Rexall Drug Store in Marion, NC after 28 years, and she was a member of Mount Home Baptist Church in Morganton. An avid gardener, Sarah was lovingly called Granny by her family and friends.

Surviving are her sons, Gary K. Rockett of Nebo, Steve Rockett and Tommy Rockett and his wife, Harriet, all of Marion; a brother, Oliver L. Melton, Jr., of Morganton; sisters, Ruth Hahn and Ethel Greene both of Morganton, and Clara Humphries of Charlotte; grandchildren, Stephanie and Jefferson Rockett; and her dear friend, Bonnie Goldsmith, of Marion.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 11, 2009, at Mount Home Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Jerry Gamble officiating. The family will receive friends following the graveside service in the church fellowship hall. Mrs. Seagle will be available for viewing from 9:00 until 10:00 a.m. Saturday at Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of McDowell County, Inc., 575 Airport Rd., Marion, NC 28752.

Myrtle Lee Williams Dale, 95, died Thursday, July 9, 2009, following a short period of declining health. She was born in Burke County on June 8, 1914 and was a daughter of the late Russell L. and Bessie Mae Orders Williams. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Dale was preceded in death by her first husband, Jones Orders Pearson; her second husband, Grover Cleveland Dale; brothers, Kerry, Clyde, Raymond, Clarence, Charles, and Ned Williams; sisters, Effie Williams and Catherine Williams Duckworth. She attended Hopewell Baptist Church.

Surviving are sons, Jones Orders “Bud” Pearson of Morganton and Russell Edward Pearson of Vale; daughters, Wanda Myrtle Pearson and Sarah Christine Pearson White; six grandchildren; and numerous great and great-great grandchildren.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, July 10, 2009, in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Homer Murdock officiating. Burial will follow at Hopewell Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends Saturday from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

James George Dern, Jr., 66, of Independence Trail, Morganton, NC died Thursday, July 9, 2009 at Carolinas Medical Center. Born on May 7, 1943 in New York City, NY, he was the son of the late James George Dern and Caroline Wickett Dern. Jim served as a U.S. Army Ranger with the 101st Airborne Division during the Vietnam Conflict. He was a graduate of the University of PA and received his MFA from the Art Institute of Chicago.

Jim is survived by his wife, Doris Long Dern; a brother, George H. Dern of Delray Beach, FL; sisters, Caroline Dern Johnston of Vero Beach, FL and Mary Wickett Dern of Salt Lake City, UT; step-daughters, Lisa Cline and husband, Read, of Narragansett, RI and Julie Cline and husband, Stuart, of Albuquerque, NM; and grandchildren, Travis, Hunter, Rainy, and Sophia.

Services will be announced at a later date.

Murline B. Lowman, 76, of Drexel, NC died Friday, July 9, 2009 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. Born in Burke County, NC on March 19, 1933, she was the daughter of the late Martin Berry and Lessie Powell Berry. Murline was a member of Drexel First Baptist Church. She retired from Bell South after twenty-five years of service and retired from J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center after six years. She enjoyed her friends, cooking, and spending time with her family.

She is survived by a brother, Jerry L. Berry of Morganton; special friends, Kaye Deal and Nancy Wilson; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Johnny Cecil Lowman; brothers, Herman Berry and Clyde Berry; and sisters, Helen Sain and Peggy Lindsay.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, July 12, 2009 at Drexel First Baptist Church with Rev. Tito Madrazo officiating. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. At other times the family will be at the residence of a niece, Paula Franklin, 3025 Ramblewood Drive, Valdese, NC. Memorial contributions may be made to Drexel First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 308, Drexel, NC 28619 or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Truman H. Brown, Jr., 86, of Pine Ridge Drive, Connelly Springs, NC died Friday, July 10, 2009 at Valdese General Hospital. Born in New Castle, PA on May 29, 1923, he was the son of the late Truman H. Brown, Sr. and Margery Stickle Brown. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a sister, Dr. Betty I. Brown. Truman was a member of First United Methodist Church where he and his wife ushered the early service for many years.

Before moving to Burke County thirty-five years ago, he was President of 3 Telephone Companies in Ohio. Truman earned a B.S. in Finance from U.N.C. Asheville. He retired from the Burke County School System as Finance Officer. While he worked for the school system he taught part-time at Western Piedmont Community College in the Business Department.

Truman is survived by his wife, BettyVon Duyke Brown of the home.

A cryptside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 15, 2009 at the First United Methodist Church Columbarium with Reverends Dr. Sydnor Thompson, III and Todd McCullough officiating. The family will receive friends in the family parlor following the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church Discretionary Fund, 200 N. King Street, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Ophia Self Ramsey, 84, of Causby Road, Glen Alpine, NC died Friday, July 10, 2009 at Autumn Care of Drexel following a period of declining health. Born in Burke County, NC on September 11, 1924, she was the daughter of the late Eddie Anderson Self and Mary Ellen Milligan Self. Ophia was a former employee of Shadowline and a retired employee of Drexel Heritage Furnishings. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Glen Alpine where, for many years, she taught Sunday School.

The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation for the loving care given to Ophia by the staff at Autumn Care of Drexel, Burke Hospice, and by her many friends.

She is survived by her son, J. D. Ramsey and wife, Robin, of Morganton, NC; a daughter, Vanessa Ramsey Clontz and husband, Barry, of Morganton; grandchildren, Darin and Kyle Ramsey, Phillip Clontz, and Shane Sides; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Ophia was preceded in death by her husband, Johnnie Dewey Ramsey; a son, Willard O. Sides; brothers, James, Lester, Albert, and Caldwell Self; and sisters, Bertha Keaton, Velner Penley, Martha Penley, and Annie Lingafeldt.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Monday, July 13, 2009 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Michael Brown officiating. Burial will follow in Glen Alpine Cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690 or to the First Baptist Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 557, Glen Alpine, NC 28628.

Mark Allen Winegardner, born June 4, 1967, age 42, of Morganton, went home to be with the Lord on July 12, 2009. He had a great love for the Lord and expressed that love every day. He was the son of the late Gwyn Winegardner. In addition to his beloved mother, he was preceded in death by a brother and an aunt.

Mark is survived by his extended family at the CHANGE Center and a special friend, Joni Pritchard of Morganton.

Special thanks are given to the Morganton Housing Authority and to Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte for the special care they took with Mark. Mark’s organs have been donated and by his generous gift, he has already saved three lives.

A memorial service to celebrate Mark’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, July 17, 2009 at Glen Alpine United Methodist Church with the Reverands David J. Duncan and Kenny Baker and Mr. Ed Cooper officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the CHANGE Center, PO Box 3486, Morganton, NC 28680.

Barry Johnson, 66, of Laurel Point Drive, Nebo, NC died unexpectedly Monday, July 13, 2009 at his residence. He was born in Catawba County, NC on November 2, 1942. He was preceded in death by his mother, Willie Isenhaur McDonald, and his step-father, Charles R. McDonald. Barry attended St. Paul’s Episcopal Church and was in the Army National Guard. Barry worked the majority of his life in construction, having worked at APAC Paving and Construction in Asheville and retiring from Construction Logic. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved sailing and hiking.

Barry is survived by his wife of 35 years, Lillian Wilson Johnson of the home; sons, Jeremy Johnson and wife, Jamie, of Raleigh, NC and Derek Wall and wife, Heather, of Black Mountain, NC; grandchildren, Hayden Johnson, Daintry Wall, and Christian Wall; and his beloved dog, Shelby.

A celebration of Barry’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, July 16, 2009 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. John Fitzgerald officiating. The family will receive friends following the service.

Alma Cresawn Greene, 78, of Southview Street, Morganton, NC died Monday, July 13, 2009 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. Born in Yancey County, NC on September 29, 1930, she was the daughter of the late Olan M. Huskins and Mary Harrison Huskins. Alma was of the Baptist Faith. She had worked for Drexel Knitting Mill and retired from Kathy Hosiery Mill. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Alma is survived by four sons, Robert Cresawn and wife, Mona, of Moganton, Edward Cresawn and wife, Donna, of Morganton, Allen Cresawn and wife, Sharon, of Drexel, NC, and Charlie Cresawn of Hickory, NC; a sister, Lois Webler of CA; ten grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Alma was preceded in death by her husband, Thurman Cresawn, three brothers, three sisters, and a grandson.

The graveside service will be held at 4:30 p.m., Friday, July 17, 2009 at Forest Hill Cemetery with Deacon Preston Stanback officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Jennie Lorine Self, 95, of Secrest St. in Morganton died Thursday, July 16, 2009 at her residence following a period of declining health. She was born April 3, 1914 in Cleveland County, NC, and was a daughter of the late Edward McDaniels and Sarah Canipe McDaniels. Jennie was a member of Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church.

She is survived by children, Edward Eugene Self and wife, Peggy, James W. Self and wife, Jewell, Mary Ellen Marcus, Mildred Thames, and Patsy Ann Self Stamey, all of Morganton; ten grandchildren, twenty great-grandchildren, and several great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Jennie was preceded in death by her husband, Caldwell Self; and a son, Ben Self.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, July 18, 2009 at Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church with Rev. Dewey Thomas 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. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Jean Northington Seaver, 80, of Grace Ridge, Morganton, NC died Thursday, July 16, 2009 following a period of declining health. Born in Doylestown, PA on March 7, 1929, she was the daughter of the late William Northington and Ethel Wiser Northington. Jean was a member of First Presbyterian Church. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, John “Jack” VanVliet Seaver, and brothers, William, Donald, and Neil Northington.

Jean and Jack raised their family in Alexandria, VA. They retired to Williamsburg, VA and later moved to Morganton to be near family. Jean volunteered with Meals on Wheels. She was an avid reader and enjoyed traveling with her husband and family. She took special joy in watching her grandchildren grow up.

Jean is survived by her children, Joan Seaver Forrest and husband, Robert, of Charlottesville, VA, Craig V. Seaver and wife, Ling, of Allen, TX, and Leanne Seaver Avery and husband, John, of Morganton; grandchildren, John Forrest, Madeleine Forrest, Jenna Avery, Evan Avery, Connor Seaver, and Keira Seaver; a brother, Henry Northington of Woodstock, GA; and a sister, Nan Brey of Sun City West, AZ.

The memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, July 18, 2009 at Faith Presbyterian Church with Rev. Michael Thompson officiating. A private graveside service will be held prior to the service. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 7:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. at the Grace Ridge Mezzanine. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690 or to the Morganton/Burke Nutrition Program “Meals on Wheels”, c/o Angela Wilson, 501 N. Green Street, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Mary Taylor Pritchard “Bootsie” Moon, 77, of Old Shelby Rd., Morganton, took her heavenly flight Friday, July 17, 2009 at Mission Memorial Hospital in Asheville. Mrs. Moon was born September 17, 1931 in Burke County to the late Joseph Marcus Taylor and Hannie Elizabeth Whisnant Taylor. She got her nickname “Bootsie” from wearing her father’s boots to bed as a child. Mrs. Moon was a member of Mt. Home Baptist Church and a former member of First Baptist Church in Haw River, NC. She enjoyed helping with kitchen clean-up duties with Wednesday night meals at Mt. Home Baptist Church, cook-outs with her family and loved Elvis Presley. She enjoyed pulling Little Angel Punkin “Taylor”, her great-great niece, in her red Cadillac wagon, and loved to spend long week-ends with her sisters, breaking curfews, and staying up till 2:00 a.m. Mrs. Moon loved the sun, pulling weeds, sweeping and spending time with her best friend Lexie.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husbands, George L. Prtichard, C.H. Moon; brothers, Ralph Eugene Taylor, Clyde “Pat” Taylor, Albert “Nookie” Taylor and Robert J. Taylor; and sisters, Frances Emma Saulman, Annie Azalee Icard and Ruby Carswell.

Mrs. Moon is survived by two sisters, Margaret Epley of Glen Alpine, and Dorothy Ramsey of Golden Valley; two step-children, G.L. Pritchard and Shirley P. Burke; and two grand children, Paul Pritchard, Jr. and Melissa Apple, and a number of nieces and nephews.

A funeral service for Mrs. Moon will be held at 4:00 p.m., Sunday, July 19, 2009 at Mt. Home Baptist Church with the Reverends Jerry Gamble and Kevin Crawford officiating. The family will receive friends from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m., Sunday at Mt. Home Baptist Church prior to the service. Burial will be at 1:00 p.m., Monday, July 20, 2009 at Alamance Memorial Park in Burlington, NC with Rev. Walter Jones, Jr. officiating. At other times the family will be at the home of Shirley Taylor, 2559 Mt. Home Church Rd., Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Home Baptist Church, Building Fund, 2272 Mt. Home Church Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Caleb Arthur Levi Bollinger, 18, of Dale Farm Rd., Morganton, died Friday, July 17, 2009 at Carolina Medical Center in Charlotte. Caleb was born in Burke County July 4, 1991 to Darryl and Michelle Patton Bollinger. He was a faithful member of Mountain View # 2 Baptist Church on Dysartville Rd. Caleb was a rising senior at Patton High School where he maintained a 4.0 G.P.A. He loved to watch the Morganton All Star Baseball Team and supported the Patton athletic teams. Caleb also enjoyed Carolina Panther football and UNC Tar Heel basketball.

In addition to his parents, Caleb is survived by a sister, Ashton Bollinger of the home, paternal Grandparents Arthur and Marcia Bollinger of Morganton, paternal Great Grandmother, Harriett Holland of Morganton, maternal Grandparents, Larry and Wilma Wiseman of Morganton, Ricky Patton of Nebo and Linda Isaacs of Morganton, maternal Great Grandmothers, Lennie Clark of Morganton and Greer Isaacs of Morganton, uncles, Aaron and Brandon Bollinger, and Tim Patton, aunt, Melisa Brittain, and numerous cousins and extended family.

A celebration of Caleb’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, July 20, 2009 at Burkemont Baptist Church with the Reverends Burl Sain and Jim Bollinger officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Sunday at Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Make-A-Wish Foundation® of America, Gift Processing Center P.O. Box 29119 Phoenix, Arizona 85038-9119.

Elizabeth Franklin “Dugan” Gentry, 90, of Fox St., Morganton, died Saturday, July 18, 2009. Mrs. Gentry was born in Burke County, January 18, 1919, to the late William Oscar Franklin and Lillie Holder Franklin. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church and had retired from Southern Bell in 1976.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by a son, William Bryon Gentry and grandson Bobby R. Hovis, III.

Mrs. Gentry is survived by her husband, C. Byron Gentry of the home, a daughter, DeEtta Gentry of High Point, NC; five grandchildren, Elizabeth Fauber, Susan Prince, Jennifer Helms, Andrea Gentry and Chris Gentry; eleven great grandchildren; and a nephew, Phillip Morris.

A celebration of Mrs. Gentry’s life will be at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 21, 2009, in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Rev. Dr. Sydnor Thompson, III and Rev. Todd McCullough officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., Tuesday at the funeral home, prior to the service, at other times the family will be at the residence on Fox St. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of the Piedmont, 1801 Westchester Dr, High Point, NC 27262.

Riley Heath Herron, infant son, of Carl M. Herron, Jr. and Charlene M. Pearson of Glen Alpine, went home to be with his Heavenly Father on Friday, July 17, 2009.

In addition to his parents, Riley is survived by his paternal grandmother, Patsy Kimbrell and her husband, Donnie of China Grove, NC; maternal grandmother, Ruby Faye Pearson of Glen Alpine; aunts, Lulabell Pearson of Glen Alpine, Melissa Robertson and husband, Wayne of Marion, and Patty Dobson of Albemarle, NC; and a number of cousins and extended family.

Funeral services for Riley will be held at 4:00 p.m. Thursday, July 23, 2009, at NCSD Chapel with the Reverends Mike Culler and Bobby Tallent officiating. The family will receive friends following the service.

Bessie Penland, 87, of Morganton died Sunday, July 19, 2009 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. She was born December 20, 1921 in Caldwell County, and was a daughter of the late Arthur Jones and Acklin H. Sharpe Jones. Bessie was a member of the First Baptist Church.

Bessie is survived by her son, Steve Penland of Morganton; a daughter, Judy Pritchard and husband, Jerry, and a granddaughter, Melody Pritchard, all of Marion. The family would like to extend a special thank you to caregiver, Vickie Burleson, and also the staffs of Burke Hospice and Grace Heights for the excellent care given to our mother.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William “Bill” Penland; brothers, Howard, Turner, and John Jones; a sister, Mila Mull; and a granddaughter, Gina Pritchard.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 noon, Wednesday, July 22, 2009 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr. and Rev. Harold Webb officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends Wednesday one hour before the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church, PO Drawer 459, Morganton, NC 28680, or Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

Judge John R. Mull, 59, of Woodwind Dr. in Valdese, NC died unexpectedly Sunday, July 19, 2009. He was born November 5, 1949 in Burke County, and was a son of Garland Mull of Glen Alpine, and the late Eleanor Cowan Mull. John was a graduate of Glen Alpine High School, and then attended Wake Forest University where he was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa during his junior year. John graduated Summa Cum Laude from Wake Forest in 1972 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. He was awarded a George Foster Hawkins scholarship for his undergraduate work and a Guy T. Carswell scholarship for his first year in law school. While in law school at Wake Forest, John served as a member of the Law Review staff. He earned his law degree in 1977.

After admission to the North Carolina Bar in 1977, John engaged in the private practice of law in Morganton for 20 years until January of 1997. As a “courthouse lawyer,” he built a broad-based general practice with a heavy concentration in criminal and domestic cases. Over his legal career, he had served as Secretary/Treasurer of both the Burke County Bar Association and 25th District Bar, and as President of the 25th District Bar in 1996. From January of 1997 until 2002, Mr. Mull served as an Assistant District Attorney prosecuting criminal cases in the Superior Courts of Burke and Catawba Counties. In 2002 and to the present, he was elected to and served as a Court Judge of the 25th District.

In addition to his professional pursuits, Mr. Mull served two terms as a member of the Burke County Board of Public Education, multiple terms as Mayor pro tem and alderman for his home town of Glen Alpine, and on the Boards of The Glen Alpine Recreation Foundation, the Flynn Home of Morganton, Hospice of Burke County, and Repay, Inc., a court-affiliated alternative sentencing resource organization. John was a member of the Rotary Club for 20 years, and a member of the Local Red Cross emergency response team.

In addition to his father, he is survived by his wife, Becky Shook Mull of the home; sons, Matthew Mull of the home, and John Mull, Jr. of Glen Alpine; a daughter, Rebecca Mull of Myrtle Beach, SC; grandchildren, Skylar, Damon, and Zoe Mull; a brother, Richard Ted Mull, M.D. and wife, Sonya of Bluefield, VA; a brother-in-law, Steve Shook and wife, Teressia of Morganton; a sister-in-law, Teresa Mosley and husband, Art of Valdese; a number of nieces and nephews and extended family; and John’s faithful canine companion, Luke.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, July 24, 2009 in the First Baptist Church of Glen Alpine with Rev. Michael L. Brown and Rev. Dr. Bob Shepherd officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Thursday from 6:00 until 9:00 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 their residence. Memorial contributions may be made to The Educational Fund for Matthew Mull, c/o Suntrust Bank, 612 S. Sterling St., Morganton, NC 28655.

Dorothy Preisler Smith, 93, of Morganton Long Term Care, died Tuesday, July 21, 2009. The family plans a private service at a later date. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Lora Ellis Stafford, 62, of Laurel St, in Valdese, NC, died Tuesday, July 21, 2009 at Valdese Hospital following a period of declining health. She was born August 19, 1946 in Mitchell County, NC, and was a daughter of Mildred Young Ellis of Valdese and the late Rev. Frank S. Ellis. Lora was a member of Lakeview Baptist Church, and a devoted Christian. She was a loving wife, mother, and daughter.

In addition to her mother, she is survived by her husband, Joe R. Stafford of the home; a son, Tim R. Stafford and wife, Edith of Rutherford College; a brother, Larry G. Ellis of Hickory; a sister, Linda Briggs and husband, Daniel of Hickory; nieces and nephews, Sharon Bumgarner and husband, Richard, and Eric Briggs, all of Hickory, and Billy Joe Stafford and wife, Ethel of Spruce Pine; a special friend, Kellie Stroup of Morganton; and Lora’s canine friends, Bruno and Coco.

In addition to her father, Lora was preceded in death by a great-niece, Kayla Briggs.

Funeral services will be held at 7:00 p.m., Friday, July 24, 2009 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Reverends Patrick Mourglea and Eric Grindstaff officiating. The family will receive friends Friday from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Private graveside services will be held at Burke Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to Lakeview Baptist Church, 4744 Lakeview Acres Rd., Valdese, NC 28690, or to The Gideons International, P.O. Box 678, Morganton, NC 28680-0678, c/o Memorial Bible Chairman.

Raymond Lester “Ray” Mosteller, Jr., 68, of East Dove Ridge Lane, Spring Lake, NC, formerly of Morganton, NC died Saturday, July 25, 2009 at Western Wake Medical Center in Cary, NC. Born on June 27, 1941 in Burke County, NC, he was the son of the late Raymond Lester Mosteller, Sr. and Vesta Carswell Mosteller. Ray was a member of River Community Church in Fayetteville, NC.

Ray retired from Broughton Hospital and was presently working for Food Lion in Spring Lake. He was a former President of the State Employees Association of NC. He was Chairman of Broughton Hospital District #6 of the State Employees Association. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather and was always willing to help others in need. He worked in many different forms of mission work. He was a former member and long-time deacon of Burkemont Baptist Church in Morganton.

Ray is survived by his wife, Edna Mace Lingerfelt Whisnant of the home; a son, Scott Mosteller and wife, Renee, of Hickory, NC; a daughter, Lorrie Parlier and husband, Chris, of Morganton; grandchildren, Courtney Whisenant, Kaitlyn Mosteller, Bryson Mosteller, Taylor Whisenant, Lance Corporal Tyler Parlier of the Marine Corps (serving our country in Iraq), Dana Parlier, Devin Mosteller, and Lofton Parlier; a step-son, Chad Lingerfelt and wife, Tammie, of Spring Lake; step-grandsons, Clay and Dylan Lingerfelt; and his best friend who was more than a brother, Max Duckworth.

In addition to his parents, Ray was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Braelynn Saige Parlier, and two brothers, Bill and Coman Mosteller.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 28, 2009 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Mark Pridgen and Pastor Todd Brady officiating. Burial will follow in Pleasant Hill Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Tuesday at the funeral home from 1:00 until 3:00 p.m. prior to the service.

There will also be a memorial service held at 7:00 p.m., Thursday, July 30, 2009 at First Baptist Church Spring Lake, 201 South Main Street, Spring Lake, NC.

Memorial contributions may be made to the River Community Church, NC Baptist Disaster Relief Trailer Fund, 6322 Ramsey Street, Fayetteville, NC 28311.

Kenneth L. Wilson, 72, of Britthaven of Morganton died Monday, July 27, 2009 at the nursing home following a period of declining health. He was born April 2, 1937 in Burke Co., and was a son of the late Edward Lee Wilson and Fannie Estelle Williams Wilson. Kenneth was of the Baptist faith, and was a former saw mill employee and lawn worker.

He is survived by brothers, Howard Wilson of Morganton, Carl Wilson of Nebo, Johnny E. Wilson and wife, Geneva of Valdese, and Earl Wilson and wife, Marilyn of Avon, NY; and sisters, Wilma W. Wright of Glen Alpine and Mary W. Leonhardt of Morganton.

In addition to his parents, Kenneth was preceded in death by brothers, Clarence Junior Wilson and James Vernon Wilson.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, July 29, 2009 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. David Orders officiating. Burial will follow at Hopewell Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Lillian Cline Humbert, 94, of Grace Heights, Morganton, NC died Tuesday, July 27, 2009. Born in Savannah, GA on September 11, 1914, she was the daughter of the late Bascombe Cline and Mary McGalliard Cline. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by brothers, Mike, Ellis, and Bill Cline, and a sister, Virginia Gordon.

Lillian is survived by her son, James “Jim” Humbert, Jr. and his special friend, Dolores Park, of Fair Haven, VT; nieces, Gloria Olcher of St. Augustine, FL and Carol Cline Wright of Morganton; two grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and several other nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, July 30, 2009 at Forest Hill Cemetery with Rev. Dr. Sydnor Thompson, III officiating. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Kenneth William “Poochie” Causby, 59, of Ponderosa Rd. in Morganton died Tuesday, July 28, 2009 at his residence following a period of declining health. He was born May 20, 1950 in Burke County, and was a son of the late Robert D. Causby and Zula Gates Causby. Kenneth was a member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church and and a retired fire fighter with the Enola Fire Department. He retired from Great Lakes Carbon Corporation where he had worked for 28 years. For many years, Kenneth also worked at the Morganton Tire Store.

Kenneth is survived by his wife, Hazel Penley Causby of the home; a daughter, Heather Causby Brown and husband, Marty Brown, of Morganton; grandchildren, Macray, Raelyn, and Kerrigan Brown; a brother, Ted E. Causby and wife, Norma, of Valdese; sisters, Jo Ann Mills and husband, Bobby, and Linda Sue Wilson and husband, Wesley, all of Morganton; and sisters-in-law, Judy Causby of Valdese, and Jean Causby and Jettie Causby, both of Morganton.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Jimmy, David, and Bill Causby.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, August 1, 2009 at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Larry Cline 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. Memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant Hill Baptist Church Building Fund, 2396 Enola Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.

Jack Odell Epley, 62, of Mt. Olive Church Road in Morganton died Tuesday, July 28, 2009 at his residence following a lengthy illness. Born on July 14, 1947 in Burke County, NC, he was the son of the late Roy Epley and Elsie Beaver Epley.

Jack is survived by his wife, Wilma Hudson Epley of the home; sons, Roy Junior Hudson and wife, Shana, and Ronnie Epley and wife, Jessica, all of Morganton; daughters, Betty Hitchcock and husband, Don, and Jackie Whisnant and husband, Chris, all of Morganton; brothers, Wayne Bivens and Jim Epley, both of Morganton and Raymond Epley of Casar, NC; a sister, Margie Hudson of Casar; grandchildren, Donald, Brittany, and Nicholas Hitchcock, Cody Epley, Cassie, Courtney, and Chelsey Whisnant, Megan and Gavin Epley, and Gracie Hudson; and great-great-grandchildren, Christopher Thames and Chassity Hitchcock.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, July 31, 2009 at McDowell Independent Presbyterian Church with Preacher Chad Carswell officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church Friday from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Wendy Mathis Franklin, 44, of Jenkins Road, Morganton, NC died unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 29, 2009 at Grace Hospital. Born in Burke County, NC on March 19, 1965, she was the daughter of Bobby Joe Mathis and Wanda Chapman Mathis. Wendy was of the Baptist Faith. A loving wife, mother, daughter, and granddaughter, she enjoyed gardening, canning, making jelly, making candy, and camping with her family.

Wendy is survived by her husband, Jason Eric Franklin of the home; a son, Marine Lance Corporal Justin Tyler Parlier of the home; a daughter, Dana Lená Parlier of the home; a brother, Dwight Mathis and wife, Melissa, of Morganton; a maternal grandfather, Max W. Chapman of Morganton; a paternal grandfather, Carl Mathis of Morganton; special friends, Amanda Benfield and Lottie Clark, both of Morganton; and several uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandmother, Grace Chapman; and her paternal grandmother, Mary S. Mathis.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, August 3, 2009 at Nowlings Chapel Freewill Baptist Church with Reverends Darvy Hensley and Doug Mathis officiating. Burial will follow in Missionary Ridge Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the funeral hour.

Johnny “Bub” Chapman, 58, of Pine Ridge Drive, Connelly Springs, NC died Thursday, July 30, 2009 at Catawba Valley Hospice in Newton, NC. Born in Burke County, NC on January 2, 1951, he was the son of the late Lester Peter Chapman and Lillie Mae Tallent Chapman. Bub was a member of Mt. Gilead Baptist Church.

He is survived by his wife, Mildred Pearl Crotts Chapman of the home; a son, Johnny Lee Chapman and wife, Angel, of Morganton; a daughter, Sherri Chapman Spillman and husband, John, of Hamptonville, NC; sisters, Debra Shook and husband, William, of Hickory, NC, Brenda Ledbetter and companion, Robert Murray, of Bostic, NC, and Ruby Cook and husband, Earl, of Casar, NC; a brother, Kenneth Chapman and companion, Vivian Lowman, of Lawndale, NC; six grandchildren, and six nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at 4:00 p.m., Sunday, August 2, 2009 at Mt. Gilead Baptist Church with Reverends Blaine Hudson and Kenny Pardue officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church from 3:00 until 4:00 p.m. prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Palliative Care Center & Hospice of Catawba Valley, 3975 Robinson Road, Newton, NC 28658 or to the Southeastern Kidney Council, 1000 St. Albans Drive, Suite 270, Raleigh, NC 27609. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Mary Self Marcus, 70, of Secrest St., Morganton, NC died Thursday, July 30, 2009 at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, NC. Born on September 26, 1938 in Burke County, NC, she was the daughter of the late Caldwell Self and Jennie Lorine McDaniels Self. Mary was a member of Living Word Full Gospel Church. She was a former employee of Breeden’s Poultry and Alba Box Plant.

She is survived by her grandchildren, Jessica, Abby, Kyle, and Timmy; several great-grandchildren; brothers, Edward Self and wife, Peggy, and James W. Self and wife, Jewell, all of Morganton; sisters, Mildred Thames and Patsy S. Stamey, both of Morganton; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Samuel Phillip Marcus; sons, Paul Eugene Marcus and Roy Lee Marcus; and a brother, Ben Junior Self.

The funeral will be held at 4:00 p.m., Sunday, August 2, 2009 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Scott Evans officiating. Burial will follow in Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends Saturday evening from 6:30 until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Lula Mae Duval, 91, of Avery Avenue, Morganton, NC died Friday, July 31, 2009 at her residence following a period of declining health. Born on May 5, 1918, she was the daughter of the late George William “Bill” Hodge and Lula Griswold Hodge. Lula Mae was a member of First Baptist Church where she was active in her Sunday School class. She had been a preschool teacher at Collett Street Recreation Center and was a Pink Lady at Grace Hospital. Lula Mae was an avid gardener and bridge player.

Mrs. Duval is survived by her daughters, Debbie Cline of West Palm Beach, FL, Wanda Burnette and husband, Rodney of Forest City, NC, Sandy Powell and husband, Dennis, of Rutherford College, NC, and Tonya Rogers and husband, Terry, of Morganton; grandchildren, Meredith Mueller and husband, Trey, Jennifer Cline, Dustin Powell, Shawn Powell, Samantha Powell, Casey Rogers and wife, Ashlee, and Lindsey Rogers; four great-grandchildren, sisters-in-law, a nieces and nephews, and numerous friends.

In addition to her parents, Lula Mae was preceded in death by her husband, Gorman B. “Sam” Duval; brothers, Roy Hodge, Bezola Hodge, Brice Hodge, and Fred Hodge; sisters, Annie Hodge, Clifford Walker, Jennie Hodge and an infant brother.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, August 2, 2009 at First Baptist Church with Reverends Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr., Bob Shepherd, and John Duval officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the church parlor from 1:30 until 3:00 p.m. prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Palliative Care Center and Hospice of Catawba Valley, 3975 Robinson Road, Newton, NC 28658 or to First Baptist Church, P.O. Drawer 459, Morganton, NC 28680. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Kevin Keith Stewart, 84, of Morganton, NC died Friday, July 31, 2009 at Grace Ridge Health Care Center following a period of declining health. Born on July 18, 1925, he was the son of the late Harley Coyle Stewart and Daisy Ford Stewart. Kevin was a member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church. He was a U.S. Army Veteran of WWII. Kevin was the owner and operator of Guy’s Shell Station in Jacksonville, FL and later worked in accounting at Royal Crown Cola in Gainesville, FL. In 2006 he moved to North Carolina to be with his family.

Mr. Stewart is survived by his wife, Irma Rose Conselice Stewart of the home; a daughter, Connie S. Wells and husband, Philip H., of Nebo, NC; grandchildren, Carlee Jones and husband, Harrison, of Chapel Hill, NC and Carrie Wells of Clemson, NC; two great-grandchildren, Harrison Nathan Jones and Jack Michael Jones; and a sister, Harlene Smith of Pennsylvania.

In addition to his parents, Kevin was preceded in death by two brothers.

The funeral mass will be held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, August 5, 2009 at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church with Father Kenneth Whittington officiating. The family will receive friends at the church following the service. Inurnment will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery at Black Mountain. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Western Carolina Chapter, 3800 Shamrock Drive, Charlotte, NC 28215. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.