Beulah May Carswell Childres, 84, of Lawndale, NC died Monday, February 1, 2010 at Carolinas Medical Center. She was born in Burke County on October 19, 1925 and was a daughter of the late Kelly Bill Carswell and LouRindy Brittain Carswell. In addition to her parents Mrs. Childres was preceded in death by her husband, Douthit “Daffy” Childres, and by eight brothers and one sister. She was a member of the Christian Fellowship Church.

She was the beloved mother and grandmother to her sons, Glenn Childres and wife, Kathryn, James Allen Childres, David Childres and wife, Glenda, and Chris Childres and wife, Jackie; to her grandchildren, Jennifer Childres, Matthew Childres, Rebecca Arney, James Childres, Jr., Kimberly Davis, Michael Childres, Bradley Childres, Kristen Abner, Jolene Williams, and Patricia Nelson; and to her twelve great-grandchildren.

The funeral will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 4, 2010, in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with her grandson, Pastor Bradley Childres, and Pastor Lloyd Hunt officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour before the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Christian Fellowship Church, C/O Jamie Childres, 4904 Jackson White Rd., Lawndale, NC 28090.

John Michael Bartok, 83, of Smawley St. in Morganton died Friday, February 5, 2010 at Sunrise Rehab and Care in Nebo, NC. He was born January 28, 1927 in Allegheny, PA, and was the son of the late John G. Bartok and Alice Marie Keane Bartok. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Annie Mae Smawley Bartok. John was a US Navy veteran and served in World War II. He was a member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church.

He is survived by four daughters; three sisters, and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

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

Thelma Lequire Griffith, 63, of Fish Hatchery Road, Morganton, NC died Saturday, February 6, 2010 at her residence. Born in Cherokee County, NC on November 23, 1946, she was the daughter of the late Clint Harvey Lequire and Mary Ethel Walsh Lequire. Thelma was a member of Mountain Grove United Methodist Church. Thelma loved the Lord and was strong in her faith. She loved traveling, flea markets, and camping, and she loved her family and grandchildren, and enjoyed taking her grandchildren with her. She retired from the City of Morganton after 33 years of service. Thelma was a former member of the Burke County Rescue Squad Ladies Auxiliary.

Thelma is survived by her husband, S. J. Griffith of the home; children, Rhonda Petersen and husband, Chris, and Steve Jay Griffith and wife, Rebecca, all of Morganton; grandchildren, Gregory Griffith, Emily Petersen, Kendall Griffith, and Bryce Griffith; a brother, Charles Lequire and wife, Ella, of Euless, TX; and sisters, Mary Frances Suttles and husband Bobby, of Morganton, Martha Hughes and husband, Rocky, of Murphy, NC, Sue Pritchard of Morganton, Ruth Gurley of Connelly Springs, NC, and Brenda Wilson and husband, Joe, of Morganton.

In addition to her parents, Thelma was preceded in death by two brothers, Edwin and James Lequire.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 9, 2010 at Mountain Grove United Methodist Church with Reverends Neal Brantley, Lloyd Harris, and Betty Henson officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Monday evening from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the funeral hour. Memorial contributions may be made to Mountain Grove United Methodist Church, 3624 Fish Hatchery Road, Morganton, NC 28655.

Esther M. Green, 84, of Cemetery St., Morganton, NC, went home to be with her Heavenly Father and her family on Saturday, February 6, 2010, at Grace Heights Health Care Center. Born in McDowell County, NC, on July 14, 1925, she was the daughter of the late Marion Maxwell Morris and Mayhue Pritchard Morris. Esther retired from Southern Devices and attended Conley Road Pentecostal Holiness Church.

She is survived by her son, Bobby “Bob” Green and wife, Joyce, of Statesville, NC; grandchildren, Janet Spicer, Jennifer Green, Jason Green, and Joe Green; a brother, Earl Morris of Morganton; sisters, Edith White of Morganton, Ethel Flowers of Glen Alpine, NC, Frances West and Gladys Brewer of Roanoke, VA; and ten great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents, Esther was preceded in death by her husband, Troy Nathaniel Green; a son, Billy Ray Green; a grandson, Terry N. Green; and brothers, James “Ed” Morris and Frank Morris.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 10, 2010, in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. William Rice officiating. Burial will follow in the Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service.

Ralph Madison Crotts, 82, of Green Pasture Lane, Valdese, NC died Sunday, February 7, 2010 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. Born in Cleveland County, NC on November 23, 1927, he was the son of the late Claudus Crotts and Hattie Cook Crotts. Ralph was a member of Morganton First Church of God. For 27 years he owned and operated Ralph Crotts Well Drilling. He also worked for many years in the residential construction industry. He loved building and selling home utility buildings. Ralph truly enjoyed his family and his work.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Naomi “Peggy” Cagle Crotts of the home; sons, Kirby Crotts and wife Doris, of Valdese, Michael Crotts and wife, Darlene, of Valdese, and Todd Crotts and wife, Cyndi, of Winter Park, FL; a daughter, Connie Anderson and husband, Joe, of La Plata, MD; grandchildren, Aaron Crotts and wife, Celeste, Jacob Anderson, Peter Anderson, Zachary Crotts, Tiffany Callahan, and Matthew Crotts; two great-grandchildren; a brother, Wayne Crotts and wife, Sarah, of Belwood, NC; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Ralph was preceded in death by a daughter, Sharon Crotts Callahan; and brothers, Russell, Clyde, and Raymond Crotts; and a sister, Dessie Canipe Duckworth.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, February 10, 2010 at Morganton First Church of God with Reverends Tim Kufeldt, Don Smith, and Dr. Don Blankenship officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. 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 Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.

Thurman Patton, 76, of Celia Creek Rd., Lenoir, NC died Tuesday, February 9, 2010 after an extended illness. Born in Burke County, NC on August 19, 1933, he was the son of the late Ronnie Patton and Evelyn Kiser Patton. Thurman was a member of Lenoir First Freewill Baptist Church of which he was a charter member and served as a church trustee. He retired from Sears and Roebuck with over 40 years of service.

Thurman is survived by his wife, Artie Clark Patton of the home; sons, Dennis Patton of Morganton, NC, Kenneth Patton of Lenoir, Michael Patton of Granite Falls, NC, and Mark Patton of Lenoir; a step-mother, Edna Detter of Sanford, NC; brothers, James Patton and Randolph Patton; sisters, Gladys Moses, Mable Carswell, Voneta Hensley, and Goldie Combs; step-brothers and sisters, Paul, Edward, Glenn, Lila, and Jewell Austin; twelve grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Thurman was preceded in death by a brother, Edmur Patton; sisters, Geneva Norville and Alice Patton; sons, Keith and Darin Patton; and a grandson, Tracy Patton.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, February 15, 2010 at Nowling’s Chapel Freewill Baptist Church with Reverends Darvy Hensley and Jack Moses. Burial will follow in Drucilla Independent Fundamental Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday evening from 6:30 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. Memorial contributions may be made to the Special Olympics, 2200 Gateway Center Blvd., Suite 201, Morrisville, NC 27560.

Phillip “Casey” Causby, 32, died Thursday, February 4, 2010. Casey was born in Burke County on October 1, 1977 and was the son of Melvin Phillip Causby and the late Carolyn Ann Good Causby. In addition to his mother he was preceded in death by his sister, Brandy Caroleen Causby, and by grandparents, Virginia Gladden, Fred Causby, and Burlon Bartlett. Casey was a member of Bethlehem Freewill Baptist Church. He was an avid Carolina Panthers fan and will be greatly missed by all who loved him.

Surviving are his daughter, Brook Causby; grandmother, Iline Bartlett; aunt, Brenda Piercy; several other aunts and uncles and numerous cousins; and special friend, George Hall.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, February 12, 2010, in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Reverends Randy Clark and Denver Davis officiating. Burial will follow at Glenwood Baptist Church Cemetery in Marion. The family will receive friends one hour before the service. At other times the family will be at the home of Brenda Piercy.

Jeremiah Hayden South, infant son of Jeremy South and Kasey Ward from Morganton died Wednesday, February 10, 2010 at Grace Hospital.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his paternal grandfather, Danny Tanner; maternal grandfather, Charles Ward; maternal grandmother, Melinda Branch; paternal grandparents, Darrel and Tammy South; paternal great grandmother, Wilma Ward; uncle, Charlie Izor; aunt, Adrian Branch; maternal step-grandfather, Roger Branch; and Joe Glaskoks.

A funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Friday, February 12, 2010 at Salem United Methodist Church with Rev. Mark Conforti officiating. Graveside services will be held at 4:00 p.m. at Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends a half-hour before the funeral service at the church. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Jean Garrison Causby, 75, of Salem Rd. in Morganton went to be with her heavenly Father on Thursday, February 11, 2010 at her residence following a period of declining health. She was born May 8, 1934 in Burke County, and was a daughter of the late Carl Thomas Garrison and Sadie Louise Orders Garrison. Jean was a member of Salem United Methodist Church where she served as a Sunday school teacher. She was a member and past President of the United Methodist Women. Jean was a graduate of Salem High School. She retired from Southern Bell in 1983 after 31 years of employment. Following her retirement, she worked in the real estate industry with McCombs Realty. Jean enjoyed camping, reading, watching sports, traveling with groups of friends, and especially playing ball with her son and grandsons. She cherished and loved all of her many dear friends.

Jean is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Chris and Melissa Causby of Morganton; grandsons, Matthew, Neal, and Grant Causby, whom she adored; brothers, Tommy Garrison and wife, Faye of Morganton, and David Garrison of Olympia, Washington; sisters, Nancy Clark and husband, Monroe of Morganton, and Judy Stamey and husband, Troy of Valdese; a sister-in-law, Carolyn Garrison of Morganton; a special niece, Teresa Molnar of Amherst, OH; many other nieces and nephews; and special friends, Betty and Earl Storie of Lenoir.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, James L. “Lewis” Causby; brother, Ted Garrison; sister and brother-in-law, Betty Mae and Garland Franklin; and a sister-in-law, Lou Garrison.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, February 15, 2010 at Salem United Methodist Church with the Reverends Mark Conforti, Don Freshour, and Alan Wilson officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., Sunday at Sossoman Funeral Home. At other times the family will be at Mrs. Causby’s residence, 1011 Salem Rd. Memorial contributions may be made to Salem United Methodist Church, 1206 Salem Rd., Morganton, NC 28655, or to Denton’s Chapel United Methodist Church, 5358 Denton’s Chapel Rd., Morganton, NC 28655, or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care Center, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

Josephine Mabe Grady, 83, of Dickenson St., Morganton, NC died Friday, February 12, 2010 at her residence. Born in Burke County, NC on January 1, 1927, she was the daughter of the late William Herbert Mabe, Sr. and Eva Seagle Mabe. Josephine was a member of Calvary Baptist Church and retired from Shadowline.

She is survived by her daughter, R. Kim Grady of Morganton; a granddaughter, Dawn Grady Burr and husband, Jay, of Conway, SC; two great-grandchildren; Cody Burr and Nikki Burr; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Josephine was preceded in death by her son, Stephen Michael “Mickey” Grady; brothers, William Mabe, Jr. and Bob Mabe; a sister, Quteen Nusz; and a former husband, Robert W. Grady.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, February 20, 2010 at Forest Hill Cemetery with Rev. Larry Thompson officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the French or German Clubs at Patton High School, 701 Enola Road, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

John “Johnny” Harris, 85, of Evans St., Morganton, NC died Sunday, February 14, 2010 at Grace Hospital after an extended illness. Born in Gaston County, NC on January 25, 1925, he was the son of the late James Harris and Georgia Price Harris. Johnny was a member of North Morganton United Methodist Church and was very active in the building of the church columbarium. He retired from Great Lakes Carbon with over 30 years of service. He was a past president of the N.C. Soil and Water Conservation’s Burke County District and was also an accomplished woodworker.

Johnny is survived by his wife of 9 years, Leatrice Taylor Harris of the home; a daughter, Nancy Mull and husband, Ken, of Morganton; a son, Robert Harris; step-sons, Larry Whisnant and wife, Threna, and Randy Whisnant and wife, Arbadella, all of Morganton; a step-daughter, Judy McGhee and husband, Ray, of Morganton; grandchildren, Mary Siniard and Seth Mull; a great-grandchild, Rachel Siniard; seven step-grandchildren; and six step-great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Johnny was preceded in death by his first wife, Margaret Harris; his second wife, Mary Harris; a daughter, Judy Harris; and brothers, Lac and James Harris.

A celebration of Johnny’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, February 16, 2010 at North Morganton United Methodist Church with Rev. Neill Shaw officiating. Entombment will follow in the church columbarium. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to North Morganton United Methodist Church, 990 Sanford Dr., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Helen Morello Lolli, 88, of Grace Ridge, Morganton, NC died Sunday, February 14, 2010. Born in Middlesex County, CT on September 2, 1921, she was the daughter of the late Paul Morello and Sabestaina Gillitto Morello. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by brothers, Angelo, Sebastian “Charlie”, Louis ”Gene”, Joseph, and Attilio Morello; and sisters, Mary Morello Milardo and Anna Morello Giunfrido.

Helen is survived by her husband of 64 years, Anthony Lolli, Sr. of the home; children, Tony Lolli of Vermont, Lorraine Lolli Waldman and husband, Bruce, of Peekskill, NY, Raymond Lolli and wife, Rebecca, of Ft. Ashby, WV, and Gerald Lolli and wife, Barbara, of Morganton; and a number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

There will be no services. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 728 W. Union Street, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Elsie McCurry Setzer, 87, died Monday, February 15, 2010 following a period of declining health. Mrs. Setzer was born in Rutherford County on July 14, 1922 and was a daughter of the late Simeon McCurry and Ethel McCurry McCurry. She was a member of Hartland Baptist Church and was a wonderful cook who enjoyed sharing with others.

Surviving are her husband, Roy Eli Setzer, of the home; her son, Norris McCurry and his wife, Brenda, of Morganton; sisters, Katie Neely and Frances Bridges both of Morganton, and Morene Hall of Taylorsville; a brother, Oscar McCurry, of Drexel; grandchildren, Adam McCurry and Patrick McCurry; and a great-grandchild, Sallie McCurry, all of Morganton.

In addition to her parents, Elsie was preceded in death by a brother, Mack McCurry, and by a sister, Geneva Costner.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 17, 2010 at Hartland Baptist Church with the Reverend Matthew A. Grindstaff officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive one hour before the service at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Hartland Baptist Church Building Fund, 3730 Hartland Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.

Johnnie Lee Summerlin, 83, of Wall St., Morganton, NC died Monday, February 15, 2010 at her residence following a lengthy illness. Born in Burke County, NC on March 3, 1926, she was the daughter of the late Robert Allison Fisher and Pansy May Hudson Fisher. Johnnie was a member of Drexel First Baptist Church. She enjoyed gardening and growing flowers, chocolate, and dancing. She was a former member of Parents Without Partners.

Johnnie is survived by her children, Keith Summerlin and wife, Linda, of Morganton, Donna Wilkes and husband, Harold, of Lincolnton, NC, and Betsy Greene and husband, Dudley, of Morganton; brothers, Robert Joseph Fisher and wife, Dorothy, of Haines City, FL, Victor Emil Fisher of Hickory, NC, and Roger Allison Fisher of Hickory; a sister, Patsy Compton of Morganton; three grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Johnnie was preceded in death by sisters, Roberta Baber, Lucille Fisher, Oleta Leonhardt, and Joy Browning.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, February 18, 2010 at North Morganton Baptist Church with Rev. Kenneth Baker officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the funeral service. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

John L. Dempsey, 53, of South Park Drive, Morganton, NC died Monday, February 15, 2010 at his residence. Born in Nassau Co, NY on March 26, 1956, he was the son of Roberta Brown Rannazzisi, with whom he made his home. John worked for many years at Bodin Apparel Mfg. in Miami, FL.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his dear friend and neighbor, Penny Helton.

John was preceded in death by his step-father, Stephen J. Rannazzisi.

No services are planned at this time. 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.

Michael Eugene “Mike” Webb, 41 of Hilldale Lane, Morganton, NC died Wednesday, February 17, 2010 at Grace Hospital. He was born November 27, 1968 and was a son of Bessie Louise Huffman Beshears of Morganton and the late Bobby Joe Webb.

Mike is survived by his mother and step-father, Loman Beshears of Morganton; brothers, Bobby Webb and David Webb and his wife, Marie all of Morganton; sisters, Mary Benfield of Morganton, Susan McKinney of Lenoir, NC, and Angela Story of Spruce Pine, NC; close friends, Charles Scruggs and his granddaughter, Aniyah Smith of Morganton and Tamatha Sain Williams of Hickory; and a number of nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Friday, February 19, 2010 at Sossoman Funeral Home. A graveside service at Zion Baptist Church Cemetery will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Baptist Church, 3396 Pea Ridge Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.

Sondra J. Kimberlin, 64, died Friday, February 19, 2010 at her residence after a period of declining health. She was born October 11, 1945 in Greene County, PA to the late Clarence William Burkholder and Bertha Conrad Burkholder. Sondra had worked as an instructor at Catawba Valley Community College.

Sondra is survived by a daughter, Renea Bedard and her husband, Michel of Morganton; sisters, Betty Jarvis of Phoenix, AZ and Shirley Jarvis of Bloomington, MN; and grandchildren Lauren Bedard and Brett Bedard.

A celebration of life service will be held at 7:00 p.m., Monday, February 22, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Chaplin Bill Hall officiating. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke County Friends for Animals, 417 Kirksey Dr., Morganton, NC 28655 or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

Louise Brittain Veit, 92, of Moosehaven, Orange Park, FL and a former Morganton resident, died Friday, February 19, 2010 at Moosehaven Life Care Center following several years of declining health. Born in Catawba County, NC on April 1, 1917, she was a daughter of the late Wade H. and Hettie Baker Brittain. Louise’s mother died when Louise was a small child, so she was raised by her uncle and aunt, Walter E. and Mary J. Wilson. She was a graduate of Morganton High School, Rutherford College, and Asheville Business College. For many years she was employed as a secretary in the main office of Drexel Furniture Company. She also later worked at Morganton Tire Store and Nite Furniture Company. In the 1980’s she was manager of the Madd Paperback Book Exchange. Since 1953, and while a Morganton resident, Louise was an active member and officer of the Morganton Moose Lodge and the Women of the Moose. She was a former member and past Worthy Matron of the Mimosa Chapter of the Eastern Star. She was a former member of Calvary Baptist Church and was currently a member of Mountain Grove United Methodist Church in Morganton. In 1989 she and her husband, the late Joe Veit moved to Moosehaven. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husbands, Wyman W. Stubbs, Samuel Ray Smith, and Joe Veit; brothers, Wilburn W. Brittain and Joseph M. Brittain; a sister, Ellie Brittain Conrad; step-sons, Bob J. Smith and Benny L. Smith.

Louise is survived by her daughter, Patricia Stubbs Walker and her husband, Phillip of Marietta, GA; sons, William “Bill” Stubbs and his wife, Judy of Morganton and Samuel Ray Smith, Jr. and his wife, Annette of Morganton; seven grandchildren and eight great grandchildren; step-children, Terry Veit of Morganton, Kenneth Veit of Calhoun, GA, and Melodie Bachelder of Morganton; and numerous step grandchildren and step great grandchildren..

A memorial service will be held at 5:00 p.m. Friday, March 5, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Rev. Neal Brantley officiating. The family will greet friends at the funeral home following the service. A committal service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, March 6, 2010 at Mountain Grove United Methodist Church Cemetery on Fish Hatchery Road. Memorial gifts may be made to Moose Charities, c/o Moosehaven, 1701 Park Ave., Orange Park, FL 32073.

Vergie Crawley Norman, 81, of Morganton, NC passed away on Sunday, February 21, 2010 following a short illness. Born in Burke County, NC on October 21, 1928, she was the daughter of the late Ernest Crawley and Flossie Denton Crawley. Vergie was a member of Denton’s Chapel United Methodist Church where she had been a member of the United Methodist Women. Vergie retired from Shadowline with over forty years of service. After her retirement she continued to work at Grace Hospital and the Holiday Inn. Vergie loved to travel and was a member of the Red Hat Club.

She is survived by her son, Timothy L. Norman and wife, Stephanie, of Morganton; a daughter, Elizabeth “Libby” Young and husband, Mike, of Charlotte, NC; grandchildren, Cierra Norman Stamey and husband, Jim, Brooke Norman, Anna Maria Vargo and husband, Craig, Jamie Young, Kelly Hall and husband, Ron, Rebecca Peele, and Jacob Peele; great-grandchildren, Michael, Caroline, Alyssa, Carson and Kaleb; brothers, Jackson Crawley, Ray Crawley, and Wayne Crawley; sisters, Nina Parker, Opealee Jonas, Doris Peeler, Kathryne Johnson, Landis Stewart, Reba Abernethy, and Gail Crawley; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Vergie was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas L. Norman; a sister, Loretta Smith; and an infant brother.

The funeral will be held at 12:00 noon, Thursday, February 25, 2010 at Denton’s Chapel United Methodist Church with Rev. Alan Wilson officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Wednesday 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 Denton’s Chapel United Methodist Church, 5358 Denton’s Chapel Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.

Carolyn “Jean” Rose Mayfield, 68, of Scott Acres St. in Morganton died Monday, February 22, 2010 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. She was born July 14, 1941 in Burke County, and was a daughter of the late Mae Rose Brown. Jean was of the Baptist faith. She was a very hard-working, strong-willed, independent woman, and a devoted parent.

Jean is survived by daughters, Teresa Mayfield of Morganton and Sheila Strickland of Hendersonville; a son, Mark Mayfield of Morganton; sisters, Barbara M. Smith, Linda M. Cobb, and Vera Brown Durrance; grandchildren, Keysha Mayfield, Samuel Evans, Andrew Evans, Aaron Strickland, Summer Strickland, and Billy Strickland; step-grandchildren, Donnie Strickland and Sunshine Atkins; and great grandchildren, Lacie Paige Michaels, Gavin Clate Evans, Lisa Ann Marie Strickland, Skyla Diane Strickland, and Alex, Dalton, and Jacob Atkins.

In addition to her mother, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Melissa Gail Arias; and a brother, William Edward Moses. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 24, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Micah Piercy officiating. Burial will follow at McDowell Independent Presbyterian Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends Wednesday one hour before the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Teresa Mayfield (to assist with medical expenses), 4965 Scott Acres St., Morganton, NC 28655.

Grace Hemphill Taylor, 84, of Frank Whisnant Rd. in Morganton went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at Margate Health and Rehab in Jefferson, NC following a period of declining health. She was born January 1, 1926 in Burke County, and was a daughter of the late Thomas T. Hemphill and Annie Shell Hemphill. Grace was a member of El Bethel Baptist Church where she played the church piano for many years. She was also a member of El Bethel WMU. During her working career, she had been employed as a medical receptionist for Dr. Helm, Dr. Lane, and Dr. Kirksey.

She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Ben “Hamp” Taylor of the home; sons, Ralph H. Taylor and wife, Karen of Atlanta, GA, and Glenn H. Taylor and wife, Marie of Creston, NC; brother, Bennett Hemphill of Morganton; three grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Grace was preceded in death by brothers, Ralph and Carl Hemphill; and sisters, Mary McGinnis and Effie Craig.

The family would like to express special thanks to the staff at Hospice of Ashe County for their kind and compassionate care.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, February 26, 2010 at El Bethel Baptist Church with the Reverends Ron Cooper and David Bean officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday one hour before the service. Memorial contributions may be made to El Bethel Baptist Church, P.O. Box 2518, Morganton, NC 28680-2518. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Pauline J. Spake, 89, of Fayetteville, NC, formerly of Morganton, NC and Newport News, VA died Tuesday, February 23, 2010, following a brief illness. She was born in Burke County, NC on May 28, 1920 and was the daughter of the late Robert Lee Joyner and Carrie Lee Griffin Joyner. Mrs. Spake was a member of Stoney Point Baptist Church in Fayetteville.

She is survived by her daughter, Joyce Washo and her husband, Bill, of Fayetteville; a brother, Gerald “Buddy” Cook of Newport News, VA; and sisters, Catherine Smith and Esther Morgan both of Newport News and Pearl Person of Augusta, GA.

In addition to her parents, Pauline was preceded in death by her husband, J. D. Leonard Spake; a sister, Rachel D. Spake; and a brother, Ray Cook.

Graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, March 1, 2010 at Burke Memorial Park with Rev. Dr. Dewey Thomas officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Stoney Point Baptist Church Food Closet, 6554 Rockfish Rd., Fayetteville, NC 28306. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.

John Gatlin, 57, of Hwy 64 in Morganton died Wednesday, February 24, 2010 at his residence following a lengthy illness. He was born March 10, 1952 in Tipton County, TN; and was a son of the late Grady Gatlin and Sarah Arlene Tate Gatlin. John was a member of Daniel Town Baptist Church in Rutherfordton, NC.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon Gatlin of the home; sons, Brian Gatlin and Austin Gatlin, both of Covington, TN; daughter, Stacy Gatlin of Tipton County, TN; step-daughter, Laura Reed and husband, Jason of Morganton; his grandson, Jake Reed (John’s pride and joy); brothers, Roy Gatlin of Oregon, and Dale Gatlin of Tipton County; and sisters, Agnus Klassen of California, Deborah Dvnavant of Memphis, TN, Barbara Wilson of Munford, TN, and Ann Gatlin of Covington.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, February 27, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Craig Lovelace officiating. Burial will follow in the family cemetery. The family will receive friends Saturday one hour before the service.

Paul Audine Henderson, 84, a resident of Grace Ridge Retirement Community died February 25, 2010. Born May 21, 1925, his parents were Allen and Bobye Ruth Marshall Henderson. He and his wife of fifty-eight years, Betty Jean Arnett Henderson, met at Hiram College in Hiram, Ohio, where both received undergraduate degrees. Mr. Henderson served during World War II in the US Army Air Corp. He received a Masters degree from the Wharton School of Finance, and enjoyed a long career in administrative and banking venues.

In addition to his wife, Paul is survived by five children and ten grandchildren; daughter, Martha Lee Ladd, her husband Steven, their sons Daniel and Gabriel; daughter, Laura Jean Henderson, her sons Robert James Myers and William Lee Myers; son Paul Marshall Henderson, his wife, Cynthia Ann, their sons Paul Bowman and William Henry; son Bruce Douglas Henderson, his wife Marcie, their daughter Holly Jean and son Ryan; and son Allen William Henderson, his wife Cynthia Ilene, their daughter Martha Elizabeth and son Adam Walter. Paul is also survived by his brother Robert Henderson and wife Mary of Loveland, Colorado, and their daughter Susan.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, March 6, 2010 in the Grace Ridge Mezzanine with Rev. Michael Bailey officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Hiram College, PO Box 67, Hiram, OH 44234, or to the Scholarship Fund of Grace Ridge Retirement Community, 500 Lenoir Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Ruth Melton Hahn, 89 of Stephens Dr., Morganton, NC died Thursday, February 25, 2010 at her residence. She was born on June 29, 1920 in Rutherford County, NC and was the daughter of the late Oliver Lawson Melton, Sr. and Lola Olivine Long Melton. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Dennis Lamar Hahn; a daughter, Libby Hahn Arenschield; brothers, Paul and David Melton; and sisters, Elsie Whitehead, Eunice Toney, Loree Hoare, and Sarah Seagle.

Mrs. Hahn was a graduate of Lattimore High School in Rutherford County and of the Blanton Business College and was a retired secretary from Drexel-Heritage Furniture. Ruth was an active member of Calvary Lutheran Church where she was financial secretary for 17 years and was a member of Circle #2. She was a godly, kind, and gentle woman who loved to read her Bible, loved her family and friends, and was an accomplished cook.

Surviving are her daughter, Elaine Hahn Abernathy, and her husband, Curtis, of Morganton; grandchildren, Susan, Richard, and Paige Arenschield, Chris Abernathy, Shannon Drake and her husband, Bryan, and Patrick Abernathy and his fiancée, Emily Brumley; great-grandchildren, Lily and Morgan Drake; a brother, Oliver Melton and his wife, Kathy, of Morganton; sisters, Ethel Greene of Morganton and Clara Humphries, of Gastonia; and special companion and friend, Jane Abernathy, of Morganton.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m. Sunday at Calvary Lutheran Church with Rev. Michael Riley officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m. Sunday at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Lutheran Church, 119 N. King St., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the Hahn family.

Edith Annis, 92, of Morganton, died Friday, February 26, 2010 after a period of declining health. She was born March 3, 1917 in Wayne County, Michigan to the late Frank Martin. In addition to her father she was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Annis; and an infant son, Edward.

Mrs. Annis is survived by her daughters, Connie Kurtz and husband, Ed, of Morganton, and Beverly Neighhorn and husband, Robert, of Grand Blanc, Michigan; a brother, Bill Martin, of Michigan; grandchildren, Chris Kurtz and wife, Joy, Jason Kurtz and wife, Teresia, Sarah Morgan and husband, Ryan, and Carrie Safran and husband, Stephen; and great-grandchildren, Harrison and Cameron Safran, Anna Grace Kurtz, and Jaxon and Ava Maria Kurtz.

A funeral service for Mrs. Annis will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday at Mt. Home Baptist Church with the Rev. Jerry Gamble officiating. The family will receive friends from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., prior to the service at the church. Burial will be Wednesday, March 3, 2010 at Linden City Cemetery in Linden, Michigan. In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be made to Mt. Home Graceful Giving Building Fund, 2272 Mt. Home Church Rd., Morganton, NC 28655 or to Gideon’s International, PO Box 678, Morganton, NC 28680. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Harvey Mashburn, Jr., 73, of Burkemont Rd. in Morganton died Friday, February 26, 2010 at Frye Regional Medical Center in Hickory following a period of declining health. He was born April 19, 1936 in Haywood County, and was a son of the late Harvey Emmit Mashburn and Margretta Smiley Mashburn. Harvey was a devoted member of Mull’s Grove Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon and choir director. He was a retired employee of Henredon Furniture with 44 years of service. Harvey loved life and everyone that he met. He was a wonderful husband, daddy (Pop), brother, and Papaw.

Harvey is survived by his wife of 54 years, Hazel R. Huskins Mashburn of the home; a daughter, Lynette Griffin and husband, Roger of Burnsville, NC; grandchildren, Teena L. Streett and Brian P. Streett, both of Morganton, and Tiphany Branch and husband, Bradley of Burnsville; great-grandchildren, Makenzie Branch, Paigelyn Branch, and Jamey Branch; and sisters, Gladys Bowen of Cranberry, NC, Thelma Morton, Hazel M. Mashburn, and Sharon Crisp, all of Morganton, and Geneva Penson of Forest City.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Jimmy Mashburn and Earl Mashburn; and a sister, Dorothy Buchanan.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, February 28, 2010 at Mull’s Grove Baptist Church with Brother Bud Jernigan and Pastor Roger Griffin officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour before the service. At other times, the family will be at the residence on Burkemont Rd. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690, or to The Gideons International, PO Box 678, Morganton, NC 28680. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Jane “Candy” Tolbert Senter, 54, of Phillips Street, Morganton, NC died Friday, February 26, 2010 at Grace Hospital after an extended illness. Born in Burke County, NC on November 4, 1955, she was the daughter of the late Harold Tolbert and Margaret Simpson Tolbert. Candy was a member of Calvin Heights Baptist Church. She retired from Broughton Hospital after 20 years of service.

She is survived by her husband, Ricky Gale Senter of the home; sister, Lynne Seitz and husband, John, and Pattie Barrier and husband, Mich, all of Morganton; brothers-in-law, Russell Senter and wife, Beverly, of Morganton and Jerry Shockly and wife, Cathy, of Fairview, NC; nieces, Kara Harrison and husband, Bobby, Coley Barrier, and Megan Barrier; great-nieces and nephews, Heather Copeland, Will Copeland, and Kirsten Harrison.

In addition to her parents, Candy was preceded in death by her niece, Melissa Seitz Copeland. The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, March 1, 2010 at Calvin Heights Baptist Church with Rev. Paul Culbertson 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 Calvin Heights Baptist Church, 310 Carbon City Road, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Helen Hogan, 85 of Morganton died Saturday, February 27, 2010 at Grace Heights. Born on April 2, 1924 in Burke County, she was a daughter of the late John and Lillian Smith Hogan. She was a retired operator with Southern Bell Telephone and a member of Calvary Baptist Church.

Surviving is her sister, Christine Goodnight of Morganton.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m. Monday, March 1, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Rev. Larry Thompson officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Hill Cemetery. Memorial gifts may be made to Calvary Baptist Church, 407 S. Green St., Morganton, NC 28655.

Maledia Robinson Butler, 85, of Grace Heights in Morganton died Saturday, February 27, 2010 at her residence. She was born May 19, 1924 in Burke County, and was the daughter of the late William Jeff Robinson and Grace Bumgarner Robinson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Vernon Butler, Sr. Maledia was a member of the First Baptist Church in Rutherford College, and a retired employee of Alba-Waldensian.

She is survived by sons, David Olin Butler and wife, Elaine of Rutherford College, and Jack Vernon Butler, Jr. and wife, Connie of Fairfield Glade, TN; three grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and one great great-grandchild.

Graveside services will be held at 12:30 pm, Tuesday, March 2, 2010 at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at Sossoman Funeral Home.

Willa Jeryl Coleman Thombs, 69, of Power House Rd. in Lake James, NC died Saturday, February 27, 2010 at Carolina Rehab Center of Burke in Connelly Springs following a period of declining health. Born June 9, 1940 in Roane Co, TN, she was a daughter of the late John Franklin Coleman and Mable Blair Coleman. Willa attended Shiloh AME Church and also many local churches in the area. Along with her husband, Lemuel, Willa owned and operated 3-Way Supply for a number of years. Then, Willa worked at Grace Ridge for over 10 years until her retirement.

She is survived by sons, Anton Cleveland and wife, Crystal, of Fayetteville, NC, and Johnathan Thombs and friend, Brandy Chavis, of Drexel; brothers, Wayne Coleman and wife, Ruth, of Harriman, TN, Douglas Coleman and wife, Natalie, of Knoxville, TN, Charles Coleman and wife, Beverly, of Columbus, OH, and Don Coleman and wife, Sheena, of Chicago, IL; grandchildren, Aaliyah, Jordan, and Brooke Cleveland, and Jett Thombs; many friends; and a host of nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands, Arthur Cleveland and Lemuel Thombs; and brothers, Barrett Coleman and Glenn Coleman.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 pm, Thursday, March 4, 2010 at Shiloh AME Church with Rev. Dr. H. S. Williams officiating. The family will receive friends a half-hour before the service at the church. On Saturday, March 6, 2010, a second funeral service will be held at 1:00 pm at the New Century United Methodist Church in Harriman, TN. The family will receive friends one hour before the service. Burial will follow at Roane Memorial Gardens in Harriman, TN. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Mabel Lingafelt Beach, 93, of Morganton, NC died Saturday, February 27, 2010 at Autumn Care of Drexel. Born in Burke County, NC on June 13, 1916, she was the daughter of the late Ellis Richard Lingafelt and Clora Thelma Fincannon Lingafelt. Mabel was an active, lifetime member of Catawba Valley Baptist Church.

She is survived by her sons, John Beach and wife, Earlene, of Drexel and Carl Beach and wife, Mary, of Morganton; daughters, Charlene Jones and Sherry Cooke and husband, Danny, all of Morganton; a sister, Selma McCall of Morganton; a brother, Ellis Richard Lingafelt, Jr. of Morganton; grandchildren, Dawn Burke, Leigh Ann Crippen, Rev. Jeff Beach, Johnna Beach, Tim Jones, Julie Wilson, Warren Beach, Maurice Beach, Shane Cooke, and Jeremy Cooke; eleven great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; five step-great-grandchildren; and two step-great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Mabel was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Frank E. Beach; a son, Paul Beach; seven brothers; and three sisters.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 2, 2010 at Catawba Valley Baptist Church with Reverends Dr. Mike Odom, Jeff Beach, and Clyde Buckner 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 Catawba Valley Baptist Church Building Fund, 107 Valley View Street, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Hubert Ronald Ramsey, 69, of Old NC 105 in Nebo, NC died unexpectedly Sunday, February 28, 2010 at his residence. He was born August 26, 1940 in Greene, TN, and was a son of the late Hubert Ramsey and Leo Roberts Ramsey. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Chris Ramsey.

Hubert is survived by a daughter, Kathy Benge of Marion, NC; granddaughter, Jessica Hudgins; and sisters, Helen Norman and husband, Benny, and Patricia Page, all of Nebo, and Mamie Queen and husband, J.D. of Port Ritchie FL.

Graveside services will be held at 4:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 3, 2010 at Oak Grove Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Gyles Widener officiating. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.