Baxter John Jaynes, 72, of Camelot Dr. in Morganton died Sunday, February 28, 2010 at Grace Heights following a lengthy illness. He was born March 15, 1938 in Burke County, and was a son of the late Sherman Jaynes and Gladys Propst Jaynes. In addition to his parents, Baxter was preceded in death by a half-brother, Dennis Jaynes. He was a member of Hopewell Baptist Church. Baxter was the first employee hired at Southern Devices in Morganton with 34 years of service. He was hired as a supervisor, but later became Plant Manager.

Baxter is survived by his wife of 48 years, Faye Patton Jaynes of the home; sons, Jon Jaynes and wife, Angelia of Morganton, and Van Jaynes and wife, Robyn of Harrisburg, NC; grandchildren, Andrew Jaynes and Allyson Jaynes, both of Harrisburg, NC; and a half-sister, Anita Pond of Suffolk, VA.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, March 4, 2010 at Hopewell Baptist Church with Rev. Homer Murdock officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. At other times, the family will be at the residence, Camelot Dr. in Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Hopewell Baptist Church Building Fund, 1112 Hopewell Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.

Joseph “Fred” Propst, 74, of Minneapolis, NC went to be with his Heavenly Father on Monday, March 1, 2010 at Cannon Memorial Hospital. He was born in Burke County on August 23, 1935 and was a son of the late Fitzuh Lee Propst and Annie Lou Dale Propst. Fred was a veteran of the U. S. Army and was a retired employee of the Morganton A. B. C. Store. Fred was a member of Cranberry Baptist Church and a former member of Cross Memorial Baptist Church where he had served as a deacon.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Ila Faye Pyatte Propst of the home; sons, Jeffery Joseph Prost and wife, Gayle of Charlotte, NC and Ronald Dean Propst of Tucson, Arizona; a grandchild, Jeremy Joseph Grant; a brother, Jerry Propst of Marion, VA; and sisters, Lucille Phillips of Tucson, and Sylvia Hernandez of San Francisco, CA.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers.

Funeral services will be held at 4:00 p.m., Thursday, March 4, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Donnie Thomas officiating. Military rites will be conducted by the Valdese American Legion Post #234. Entombment will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Thursday from 2:00 until 4:00 pm at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Cranberry Baptist Church Building Fund, c/o Donnie Thomas, 65 Hazel Lane, Spruce Pine, NC 28777.

Ruth Smith Slovak, 85 of Chesterfield Adult Care Home on Pax Hill Rd., Morganton, NC died Tuesday, March 2, 2010 at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center, Winston-Salem, NC. Born September 11, 1924 in Burke County, NC, she was a daughter of the late John Bunyan Smith and Bessie Tallant Smith. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Steven Slovak; a daughter, Ruth E. Slovak; brothers, Brantley, Bob, and Donald Smith; and a sister, Annie Keever.

Surviving are her daughter, Joyce Slovak Mahoney of Tennessee; granddaughters, Melanie and Danica Berkel; a great granddaughter, Jada Mahoney; and a brother, Ted Whisnant of Drexel, NC.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 5, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Rev. Eddy Bunton officiating. Burial will follow in Drexel Memorial Park. Memorial gifts may be made to Southmountain Children’s Home, 7330 Myrtle Dr., Nebo, NC 28761.

Dawn Kusik Curtis, 61, of Jenkins Rd. in Morganton died Wednesday, March 3, 2010 at her residence following a period of declining health. She was born June 28, 1948 in Waukesha, WI and was a daughter of Ruth Dettmer Kusik of Cudjoe Key, FL, and the late Fred Kusik. Dawn was a caring and loving wife, mother, and sister.

She is survived by her husband, Gary Curtis of the home; sons, Gary Scott Curtis and fiancée, Michelle Crow, and Gregory David Curtis, all of Morganton; brothers, Dean Kusik of Milwaukee, WI, Davin Kusik of Cudjoe Key, FL, and Fred Kusik of Burlinton, WI; sisters, Denise Steger of Hartland, WI, Danette Omlie of Clermont, FL, and Doriann Habel of Milwaukee.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, March 7, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Allen Curtis officiating. The family will receive friends Sunday two hours before the service. At other times, the family will be at the Curtis residence on Jenkins Rd. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association Memorial and Honor Program, 222 South Church St., Suite 336M, Charlotte, NC 28202.

Dorothy “Edna” Carswell, 79, of Morganton passed away unexpectedly, Friday, March 5, 2010 at her residence. Born April 22, 1930 to the late Rose Velt Carswell and Zena Smith Carswell, she was a lifelong resident of Burke County. Ms. Carswell was of the Baptist faith. She attended school at Salem and then worked as a mender for Morganton Hosiery and Hanes for over 50 years until her retirement. Ms. Carswell was an avid gardener and cook, and loved her family.

She is survived by her daughter, Kathie Dianne Carswell of the home; brothers, John Ervin Carswell and Frank Carswell, both of Morganton; a sister, Ruby Watson of Lenoir, NC; special niece, April Rose Carswell Peeler; special great-nephew, Jesse Ervin Peeler; nieces, Theresa Robbins and Karen Walker; nephews, Tommy, Donald, David, Jimmy, and Randy Carswell, Dewayne and Joey Watson; and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

In addition to her parents, Ms. Carswell was preceded in death by a brother, Marvin Carswell; sister, Cathleen Carswell; nephew, Ricky Allen Carswell; sister-in-law, Ella Mae Chapman Carswell; and brother-in-law, Roger Watson.

A graveside service will be held at 3:30 p.m., Sunday, March 7, 2010 at Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Alan Wilson officiating. The family will receive friends Sunday from 2:00 until 3:00 pm at Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1942.

William “Billy” Hlobil, 66, of Morganton NC went home to be with his Heavenly Father on Saturday, March 6, 2010 after an extended illness. Born in Chicago, IL on June 26, 1943, he was the son of the late Joseph William Hlobil and Christine Boyd Alberts. Billy was a member of Friendly Freewill Baptist Church. He was proud that he had recently become an ordained minister. He was a U.S. Navy veteran of the Vietnam Conflict and retired from Broughton Hospital.

Billy is survived by his sister, Donna Lee Perham of VT; nephews, Arthur Perham, Tony Perham, and wife, Abby, and Eric Perham, all of VT, and Dominic Perham and wife, Sandra, of Morganton; and a close friend, John Ernst of MN.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, March 13, 2010 at Friendly Freewill Baptist Church with Rev. Dan Hensley officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery with military honors provided by Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. At other times the family will be at the residence of his nephew, Dominic Perham, in Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Friendly Freewill Baptist Church, 104 Cross Memorial Avenue, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Savana Clarke Beam, 88 of Autumn Care of Drexel, NC, formerly of Maplewood Drive in Council Oaks, died Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at Grace Hospital. Born in Avery County, NC on September 18, 1921, she was the daughter of the late Winfield Clarke and Lydia Rose Clarke. Savana was a lifelong member of the Baptist Faith. She was a devoted and loving wife, mother, and grandmother.

Savana is survived by her sons, Douglas “Doug” Beam and wife, Doris, of Morganton, Stanley “Stan” Beam and wife, Sandra, of Morganton, Joseph L. “Butch” Beam and wife, Joyce, of Murrells Inlet, SC, and Ricky “Rick” Beam and wife, Nancy, of Bethlehem, NC; daughters, Margaret Stamey and husband, Charles, Morganton, Elaine Lawson and husband, Russ, of Charlotte, NC, Nancy Davidson and husband, Carlton, of Concord, NC, and Carolyn Bollinger and husband, Mike, of Gamewell, NC; sixteen grandchildren; twenty-four great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; six step-great-grandchildren; a host of nephews and nieces; a special niece, Eula Harrison; and a dear friend, Savannah Souther.

In addition to her parents, Savana was preceded in death by her husband, A.J. Beam; a brother, David Clarke; sisters, Roxie Franklin, Emma Clark, and Ollie Barrier; and a grandson, Jimmy Stamey.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, March 13, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Reverends Carlton Davidson and Don Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Pregnancy Care Center, P.O. Box 368, Drexel, NC 28619. Condolences may be made online at www.sossomanfuneralservice.com.

Charles Hamm, 77, of Drexel Heights St., Morganton, NC died Thursday, March 11, 2010 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. Born in Ashe Co., NC on June 9, 1932, he was the son of the late Riley Ham and Estella Wilcox Ham. Charles was of the Pentacostal Faith. He loved his family and he loved to garden.

Charles is survived by his wife of 56 years, Hilda Berry Hamm of the home; a son, Stevie Hamm and wife, Mary Gail, of Valdese, NC; a grandson, David Hamm and wife, Angie, of Valdese; a granddaughter, Jennifer Hamm of Long View, NC; a great-granddaughter, Katie Hamm; brothers, Fred Ham and wife, Gwen of Folson, CA and Darrell Ham of West Jefferson, NC; and sisters, Volree Good and Aileen Edwards of West Jefferson.

In addition to his parents, Charles was preceded in death by half-brothers, Dean, Dale, and Edgar Ham; and a half-sister, Edna Carpenter.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, March 13, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Daniel Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Assembly of God, 1955 Hwy 70 East, Morganton, NC 28655.

Francis Scholl, 73, of Forest St., Morganton departed this life on Thursday, March 11, 2010 at Frye Regional Medical Center in Hickory following a brief illness. Born October 16, 1936 in Crosby County, TX, she was the daughter of the late David Shoemaker and Velma Springer Hunt. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her step-mother, Martha Shoemaker. Francis was a member of Grace Episcopal Church and a volunteer at Burke United Christian Ministries. She was a former employee of J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center.

Francis is survived by a son, Bobby Penland and wife, Betsy, of Morganton; daughters, Debi Cutter and husband, Randy, of Claremont, and Davi Ledet and husband, Mark, of Hernando, Mississippi; grandchildren, Bobby, David, Francis, Miranda, Lauren, Drew, Celeste, and Elise; a great-granddaughter, Aubree; and brothers, James and Roy Shoemaker, both of New Mexico.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, March 14, 2010 at Grace Episcopal Church with Rev. Bruce Walker officiating. The family will receive friends in the Parish Hall following the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke United Christian Ministries, 305-B W. Union St., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

John Daniel Shelton, 61, of Conley Road, Morganton, NC died Thursday, March 11, 2010 at his residence following a period of declining health. Born in Buncombe Co., NC on September 27, 1948, he was the son of Koeppie King Shelton and the late George Shelton. John was a member of Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church. He was a loving husband, father, and friend to everyone. He loved Harley-Davidson motorcycles and bluegrass music, and lived life for his kids and grandkids.

John is survived by his wife of 41 years, Patricia Carswell Shelton of the home; daughters, Amy Shelton George and husband, Lewis, of Lenoir, NC and Glenda Shelton Jackson and husband, Scott, of Connelly Springs, NC; grandchildren, Brett Daniel Stamey, Mason Garrett George, Shelby Lee George, Vincent Palermo, Drake Jackson, Clinton George, and Casey Coffey; great-grandchildren, Kaitlyn Coffey and Briar Lewis George; a sister, Brenda Stilwell and husband, Larry; and numerous cousins and beloved friends.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, March 14, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Reverends Charles Shelton and Larry Cline officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 1:30 until 3:00 p.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow in Pleasant Hill Baptist Church Cemetery on Enola Road.

Doris Stephens Carswell, 84, of 132 Harbison Dr. in Morganton died Thursday, March 11, 2010 at Autumn Care of Drexel following a period of declining health. She was born September 23, 1925 in Burke County, and was a daughter of the late Albert Franklin Stephens, Sr. and Virginia Harriett Pascall Stephens. Doris was a member of El Bethel Baptist Church, and a retired seamstress from Shadowline. Doris loved to sew for her family and friends, and was an avid flower gardener.

Doris is survived by a son, Joseph Franklin Carswell and wife, Susan, of Morganton; grandchildren, Misha Lovelace Wilson and husband, Michael, Joseph Shane Carswell and fiancé, Katherine Thompson, and Shanna Carswell-Worley and husband, Ricky, all of Morganton; great-grandchildren, Matthew Wilson, Kristian Wilson, Joseph Lawrence Carswell, Kayla Wilson, Haven Worley, Jeffery Carswell, and Emma Carswell; brothers, Robert Stephens and wife, Franda, of Morganton, and Ralph Stephens and wife, Barbara, of Raleigh; sisters, Viola Longo, Lois Tolbert and husband, William, and Jackie Metcalf and husband, Ronald, all of Morganton; a step-brother, Ted Lane and wife, Catherine, of Morganton; and a host of nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Daniel Carswell; daughter, Linda Carswell Lovelace; brother, Albert F. “Junior” Stephens and wife, Adelee; sister, Ruth Carlisle; and step-mother, June Lane Stephens.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, March 14, 2010 at El Bethel Baptist Church with Rev. Ron Cooper and Rev. David Bean officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday from 1:00 until 3:00 pm at the church. At other times, the family will be at the son’s residence, 1192 Creekwood Dr. in Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to El Bethel Baptist Church, PO Box 2518, Morganton, NC 28680, or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Ralph A. Abernethy, Jr., 91, of Radio Station Road, Newton, NC, formerly of Drexel, passed away Friday, March 12, 2010 at the Palliative Care Center and Hospice of Catawba Valley. Born in Burke County, NC on June 26, 1918, he was the son of the late Ralph Adolphus Abernethy, Sr. and Belle Ballew Abernethy. Ralph was a graduate of Hickory High School. He went on to obtain his BS and MA Degrees from Appalachian State Teachers College. He served for 4 years, 4 months, and 23 days with the U.S. Navy during WWII.

In 1949 he moved to Drexel to become a teacher at Drexel High School. At Drexel High School he served as a teacher, coach, and principal for 18 years. He also worked at West Concord School, Morganton High School, Valdese High School, and East Burke High School, where he retired in 1981.

An avid gardener, Mr. Abernethy was known locally as a grower of azaleas. He was an active member of the Drexel Community, having held offices in the Drexel Community Fair Board, the Lion’s Club, the American Legion, and Phi Delta Kappa, an honorary society for educators. He served as manager of the Drexel Community Fair for six years. The 1999 Drexel Community Fair was dedicated to him by the board. He was also honored by the Drexel Alumni Association for guiding and directing the paths of Drexel Students.

Ralph is survived by his wife of 62 years, Silver Miller Abernethy of the home; sons, Rev. Ralph “Dolph” Abernethy and wife, Sue, of Conover, NC and George Miller Abernethy and wife, Caroline, of Charlotte, NC; a daughter, Sarah Abernethy Hoyle and husband, Joe, of Richmond, VA; eight grandchildren, Jamin Hoyle, Brendan Hoyle, Anna Hoyle, Lara Hoyle, Luke Abernethy, Katie Abernethy, Emmi Abernethy, and Joshua Abernethy; and four great-grandchildren, Emma Foster, Noah Hoyle, Lily Hoyle, and Charlotte Hoyle.

In addition to his parents, Ralph was preceded in death by sisters, Louise Abernethy, Josephine Abernethy Morris, Virginia Abernethy Davis, and Helen Abernethy, and a brother, John Ballew Abernethy.

The funeral will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, March 15, 2010 at Drexel First Baptist Church with Rev. Tito Madrazo officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park with military honors provided by Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Drexel First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 308, Drexel, NC 28619 or to the Palliative Care Center and Hospice of Catawba Valley, 3975 Robinson Road, Newton, NC 28658. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Nathan Lee Digh, 30, of Acorn Dr. in Morganton died Friday, March 12, 2010 as a result of an auto accident. He was born April 27, 1979 in Burke County, and was the son of William Wallace Digh, Jr. and Rebecca Chapman Osborne, both of Morganton. Nathan was employed at C & C Roofing, and was an avid hunter.

Nathan is survived by his mother and step-father, Rebecca and Jimmy Osborne; father and step-mother, Bill Digh, Jr. and Anita; a son, Tyler Digh of the home; a sister, Kristen Digh of the home; maternal grandparents, Lee and Zora Chapman, paternal grandparents, Bill Digh, Sr. and Elva; uncle, Rex Chapman, aunt, Patricia Burnette; and a special aunt, Renee Dale, all of Morganton.

He was preceded in death by a cousin, Sam Chapman; and a great-grandfather, Sam Chapman.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 16, 2010 in the Roy Sheehan Fellowship Hall of Nowlings Chapel Freewill Baptist Church with Rev. Darvy Hensley officiating. Burial will follow in the Chapman Cemetery. The family will receive friends Monday from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. At other times, the family will be at the residence of Rex Chapman, 4395 Bill Dale Rd. Memorial contributions may be made to the Ethan Tyler Digh Trust Fund, c/o Rebecca C. Osborne, 2735 Acorn Dr., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Cecil Oliver Shell, 79, of US Hwy 64, Morganton went home to be with the Lord Friday, March 12, 2010 at Carolinas Specialty Hospital in Charlotte following a lengthy illness. Mr. Shell was born in Burke County on March 10, 1931 and was a son of the late Joe Oliver Shell and Elsie Powell Shell. Cecil was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed boating and fishing. He was a member of Walker Road Baptist Church for 53 years where he was a member of the choir and served as a deacon.

Surviving are his wife of 58 years, Cordie Denton Shell, of the home; his son, Paul Shell of Morganton; grandchildren, Wesley Shell of Raleigh and Allison Shell of Morganton; and great-granddaughter, Molly Ann Shell of Morganton; brothers, Marshall Shell of Forest City, and Roy Shell of Hendersonville; and a sister, Beulah Whisnant, of Glen Alpine.

In addition to his parents Cecil was preceded in death by brothers, Buddy and Kenneth Shell.
The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, March 15, 2010 at Walker Road Baptist Church with the Reverends Brandon Ware and Jack Moses officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. Monday at the church. At other times the family will be at the home, 3020 US Hwy 64, Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Walker Road Baptist Church, 100 Walker Road, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.

Margaret Harrell Miller, 94, of Asheville, NC and formerly of Morganton, died Sunday March 14, 2010 at her home in the Wood Assisted Living Center of Givens Estates. Mrs. Miller was born on November 6, 1915 in St. Marys, Georgia and was a daughter of the late Rev. Dr. Luther Alonzo Harrell and Mary Elizabeth Quillian Harrell. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. Ralph Miller, brothers, Rev. Dr. William A. Harrell and his wife, Elia, and Luther A. Harrell, Jr. As a daughter of a Methodist minister Margaret’s family moved often, and she grew up in communities in South Georgia. She graduated from Andrew College in Cuthbert, GA with an associates degree and from Wesleyan College in Macon, GA with her bachelors degree. Margaret went on to receive her master’s degree in religious history from Duke University and had completed most of her studies toward her doctorate degree while her husband completed his divinity degree. Margaret taught in public schools in Durham, NC. As she followed her husband’s ministry, she lived throughout Western North Carolina.

In 1964 Margaret and her husband, Rev. Ralph Miller moved to Morganton when he became chaplain at the then Western Carolina Center. She taught high school math at both Glen Alpine High and Freedom High Schools and was a member of the Pilot Club of Morganton. She was a member of Skyland United Methodist Church in Asheville and was a former member of First United Methodist Church, Morganton where she taught Sunday School.

Surviving are her children, Ralph H. Miller and wife, Gail, of Charlotte, Marie M. Lowdermilk and husband, Gene, of Morganton, Sarah M. Nuttall and husband, Doug, of Candler, Kathryn M. McIntyre and husband, Loring, of Swannanoa, and Allen G. Miller of Asheville; grandchildren, Emily L. Keathley and husband, Kenny, of Morganton; Ellen Nuttall and Ben Nuttall, Meghan Schronce and husband, Jason, and Rachel McIntyre; great-grandchildren, Ella Grace and Nora Kate Keathley; her sister, Maria L. Harrell of Asheville; nephew, William “Bill” Harrell and wife, Karen; and niece, Mary Harrell.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, March 16, 2010 at Burke Memorial Park, Morganton, NC with Rev. W. Gerald Davis officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the UMAR Home (United Methodist Agency for the Retarded), PO Box 1558 Huntersville, NC 28070. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.

Annie Ree Duckworth Epley, 97, of Pea Ridge St., Glen Alpine, NC took her walk with Jesus into Heaven on Wednesday, March 17, 2010 after years of declining health. Born in Mebane, NC on February 28, 1913, she was the daughter of the late Marshall Lee Duckworth and Sally Mace Duckworth. Annie was a lifelong member of Glen Alpine United Methodist Church. She retired from Dolly Hosiery in Valdese and had worked at Glen Alpine Knitting Mill. She was an avid gardener and loved to sit on her porch and look at her flowers.

Annie is survived by her grandchildren, Randall Bennett Epley and Lisa Epley Arrowood, both of Glen Alpine; a daughter-in-law, Thelma Chapman Epley of Glen Alpine; great-grandchildren, John Randall Epley, Charity Cherie Epley, Lauren Michelle Epley, Jakob Lee Arrowood, Zakery Kaleb Arrowood and their father, Johnny Arrowood; a brother, Herman Duckworth and wife, Judy, of Morganton; a sister, Faye Rhyne of Valdese, NC; a special niece and caregiver, Fay Norman; a caregiver for several years, Teresa Hurt; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Annie was preceded in death by her husband, John Bennett Epley; a son, Bennett “Cisco” Epley; brothers, Glenn, John, Reuben, and Stanley Duckworth; sisters, Azalee Duckworth, Margaret Lambert, and Ruth Bollinger; a special niece, Juanita Crotts and husband, Sam; Lewis Norman; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at 4:00 p.m., Saturday, March 20, 2010 at Glen Alpine United Methodist Church with Rev. David Duncan officiating. Burial will follow in Glen Alpine Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Glen Alpine United Methodist Church New Building Fund, P.O. Box 576, Glen Alpine, NC 28628 or to Burke Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

The family would like to give a heart-felt thanks to her neighbors, Glen Alpine United Methodist Church, Grace Heights, Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Clinic Drug, Catawba Valley Medical Services, and Dr. Clay Richardson and staff for their wonderful care of Annie throughout this difficult time.

Dwight L. Brenneman, 89, of Grace Ridge, Morganton, NC died Wednesday, March 17, 2010 at the Burke Palliative Care Center in Valdese, NC. Born in Glen Rock, PA on August 29, 1920, he was the son of the late Norman Nathaniel Brenneman and Alta Vernette Lamison Brenneman. Dwight was a member of First Presbyterian Church. He was a US Army Air Corps veteran of WWII.

In 1956 he moved to Morganton to establish Ralph Edwards State Forest Tree Nursery, which is now the Catawba Meadows Park. He concluded his 33 year career with the NC Forest Service leading the state’s reforestation research and improvement program. His passion for designing, building and growing things also is evident in landscaping at his home, church, and refuge in Avery County. Retirement gave him more time to paint in oils and acrylics.

Dwight is survived by his wife, Martha Jean Sanders “Marty” Brenneman of the home; son, Dwight S. “Sandy” Brenneman and wife, Kathy, of Shelby, NC, Norman L. Brenneman and wife, Cindy, of Hillsborough, NC, and Curtis A. Brenneman of Morganton; a sister, Charlotte E. Brenneman of York, PA; grandchildren, Kristin Brenneman Eno, Claire Brenneman, Amy Brenneman, and Alan Brenneman; and great granddaughter, Marion Magnolia Eno.

The service to celebrate Christ’s resurrection and Dwight’s life will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, March 20, 2010 at First Presbyterian Church with Rev. Michael Bailey officiating. On Friday, March 19, 2010; from 4:00 until 5:00 p.m. the family will receive friends at the Grace Ridge Mezzanine, and later from 7:00 until 8:30 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church Columbarium Fund, 100 Silver Creek Road, Morganton, NC 28655 or to the Grace Ridge Friendship or Scholarship Funds, 500 Lenoir Road, Morganton, NC 28655.

Annie Mae Burleson, 75, of Bristol Creek Ave., Morganton, NC died Wednesday, March 17, 2010 at her residence following a lengthy illness. Born in Burke County, NC on February 26, 1935, she was the daughter of the late John Dixon Norman and Martha Dellia Watts Norman. Annie was a member of Community Baptist Church. She retired from Drexel Heritage Furniture Plant #6. Annie enjoyed gardening, fishing, and spending time with family and friends.

She is survived by her husband, Hobert Burleson of the home, sons, David Burleson and wife, Marie, and John “J.D.” Burleson and wife, Lisa, all of Morganton; step-daughters, Renda Wilson and husband, Bill, and Kathy Webb, of Morganton; a brother, Clyde Norman and wife, Betty, of Morganton; sisters, Zenna Poteat and husband, Robert, Sudie Newton, Trudy Allman, and Nellie Kembrell, all of Morganton; grandchildren, Jacob, Elizabeth, and Libby Burleson, Darrell and Brian Wilson, Robert and Michael Webb, Rhonda McCormick, Steven Roberts and Patty Reep, Brandon Buff, Chris Yount, Brittany Wooten, Katelyn and Dylan Burleson, and Savannah Leonard; eight great-grandchildren, a special friend, Steven Hicks; and a caregiver, Brooke Daniels.

In addition to her parents, Annie was preceded in death by a daughter, Elizabeth McCurry Sain, and a sister, Vergie Smith.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, March 20, 2010 at Community Missionary Baptist Church on St. Mary’s Church Rd. with the Reverends Billy Bollinger, Lloyd Harris, and Jimmy Harmon officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the funeral hour. At other times the family will be at the home on Bristol Creek Ave., Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Western NC Chapter, 31 College Place, Suite D-320, Asheville, NC 28801.

Jairam Ramsamooj, 50, of Dysartsville Road, Morganton, died Thursday, March 18, 2010 at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte. Jairam was born July 18, 1959 in Trinidad to William Ramsamooj and Seeraji Ramsamooj of Trinidad. His children were his life, and he gave everything for them. He was the best dad in the world, and loved to read, especially car magazines.

In addition to his parents he is survived by the mother of his children, Morina Torres of Hickory; children, Clifford Ramsamooj and his wife, Ksenia of Virginia Beach, VA. Keith Ramsamooj of the home, Jon Ramsamooj of Wilmington, Crystal Ramsamooj of Greensboro, Adriel Ramsamooj of the home, and Kristyanna Ramsamooj of Hickory; and a sister, Seeta Ramsamooj of Trinidad.

A funeral service will be held at 4:00 p.m., Monday, March 22, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Eddy Bunton officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Monday, prior to the service. At other times the family will be at the home of Morina Torres, 5429 Gunpowder Dr., Hickory, NC.

Ingrid Zimmer Timmerman, 66, of Morganton, NC died peacefully on March 18, 2010 in her sleep. Born April 7, 1943 in Stetten, Germany, she was the daughter of the late Erwin Ernst Zimmer and Maria Sohm Zimmer. Ingrid was a certified trilingual interpreter in German, English, and French for Pan Am Airlines and loved traveling to all the places her job took her. She enjoyed spending time baking kugelhupf cakes for friends and family, working crossword puzzles, and playing crazy eights with her grandchildren. In her youth, she painted, snow skied, played ping pong, and grew many varieties of flowers. She loved to write letters and cards. Prior to her illness she was very active in the Episcopal Church. She was a member of The Order of the Daughters of the King, and thoroughly enjoyed many Cursillo weekends.

Ingrid is survived by her son, Dr. Michael Gould and his wife, Elizabeth of Morganton; a daughter, Michele Greenway and her husband, Eric of Moncks Corner, SC; her grandchildren, who lovingly called her “Oma”, Benjamin Gould, Nicholas Gould, Anna Beth Gould, and Andrea Greenway.

Our dearest Ingrid will be sorely missed. The family expresses a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Edward Plyer and Allison Tucker, FNP at Burke Primary Care. The efforts and care by the staffs of Morganton Long Term Care, Grace Heights, Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, and Burke Primary Care are greatly appreciated.

Memorial gifts may be made to West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, 400 North Lee St., Lewisburg, WV 24901, or to Samaritans Purse, 801 Bamboo Rd., Boone, NC 28607.

Manly Hamilton “Hamp” Whisnant, 85, of Lenoir St., Morganton died Sunday, March 21, 2010 at his home. Born January 12, 1925 in Burke County, NC, he was a son of the late William James Whisnant and Bertha Mae Harris Whisnant. He was a retired engineer with the U.S. Coast Guard and served in the U.S. Navy. He loved to walk and garden.

Mr. Whisnant is survived by daughters, Phyllis Smith and husband, Jay, and Karen Butler, and husband, Glenn all of Morganton; six grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; brothers, Paul Whisnant, and Melvin Whisnant; and sisters, Dorothy Moose, Betty Abee, Alice Shull, and Sarah Bowman.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by sons, Garry Whisnant and Christopher Whisnant; and brothers, John, Dan, Bill, and Bobby Whisnant.

A celebration of Hamp’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 24, 2010 at Calvary Assembly of God with Rev. Mike Whisnant officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with military graveside honors provided by U.S. Navy and Coast Guard. The family will receive friends at the church for one hour prior to the service. At other times the family will be at Mr. Whisnant’s home. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Ralph W. Carter, Sr., 86, of NC Hwy 126, Morganton, NC died Sunday, March 21, 2010, at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. Mr. Carter was born in Bessemer, AL on December 7, 1923 and was a son of the late Samuel Frank Carter, Sr. and Cora Elizabeth Thomason Carter. Ralph was a U. S. Army veteran of World War II where he served in the Pacific Theater. He was a graduate of Auburn University and retired from Alabama Power Company with 38 years of service as an electrical engineer.

Surviving are his wife of 62 years, Dorothy DeShazo Carter, of the home; son, Ralph W. Carter, Jr. and his wife, Deborah, of Ocala, FL; daughter, Dorothy Elizabeth Carter and her partner, Linda D. Medlock, of the home; grandchildren, Chris and Candace Carter; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Ralph was preceded in death by a brother Samuel Frank Carter, Jr.

Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, March 25, 2010 at Forest Hill Cemetery with Minister Romey Patterson officiating and with military honors conducted by Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at Sossoman Funeral Home.

Ellen “Jane” Scarboro, 76, of Burkemont Ave., Morganton, NC passed away Monday, March 22, 2010 at Valdese Hospital following a courageous and arduous battle with lung cancer. Jane was born May 15, 1933 in Albemarle, NC and was the daughter of George and Georgia Whitley. Her adoring husband of 54 years, Joseph Phillip “Jay” Scarboro and her brother, Lonnie Whitley, preceded her in death.

Jane worked many years at Shadowline until her retirement in 1996, when she began filling her “free time” by running J & J Vending as well as Scarboro Fair. For the past 10 years, Jane has been a hostess at Timberwood Family Restaurant. She was also an active member of Salem United Methodist Church and the Women’s Methodist Union, working closely with the youth in her younger years.

On most any day, you could find Jane working hard during the day at Timberwood Family Restaurant where she not just worked, but where she found her second family. She became known to many as “Mama Jane,” a name she absolutely loved as much as she loved her “children” there. She found immense joy in simply surrounding herself with people and knew the true meaning of service, as she rolled up her sleeves and dug her hands in every single day, taking every opportunity she had to provide for others.

Once in a while, we run across people who touch our hearts tremendously, who make an impact on us daily. “Mama Jane” was one of those amazing, one-of-a-kind people who never met a stranger and one who was tremendously loved. Leaving her mark everywhere she ventured, she became and mother and grandmother to many, but a blessing to all.

Those left to cherish her memory are sons, Phillip C. Scarboro and wife, Denise, Michael D. Scarboro and wife, Deana, all of Morganton; loving granddaughters, Jordan and Jena Scarboro; sisters, Margaret Ann McDougal and husband, Dave, of Irmo, SC, Mary Walls and Nancy Whiteside of Albemarle, NC; a sister-in-law, Grace Sexton and husband, Ray, of Thomasville, NC; a brother-in-law, Charles “Whitley” Whiteside of Morganton; a number of nieces and nephews; and her adorable, furry friend, Felix.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Thursday, March 25, 2010 at Salem United Methodist Church with Rev. Mark Conforti 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 Salem United Methodist Church, 1206 Salem Road, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Elizabeth “Lib” Bailey Carpenter, 75, of Morganton died Thursday, March 25, 2010, at Valdese Hospital following a period of declining health. Lib was born in Burke County on July 3, 1934 and was the daughter of the late Roy Homer Bailey and Hazel Beatrice Garrison Bailey. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Floyd “Shorty” Carpenter, and by a brother, Ralph Homer Bailey, Jr. Lib and Shorty owned and operated L. & S Grocery for many years. Lib also worked at M & C Auto Parts and retired from Grace Hospital. She was a member of Zion Memorial United Methodist Church and of U. M. C. Women.

Surviving are her daughter, Lisa Whisnant and her husband, Dennis; her only grandchild, Heath Whisnant who was the joy of her life; and a special friend, Harold Prewitt, all of Morganton; a sister-in-law, Myra Bailey Smith; nieces and nephews, Lois Baker, Barbara Davis, Michael Bailey, and Doug Bailey; and a number of cousins.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, March 28, 2010 at Zion Memorial United Methodist Church with Rev. George Williams officiating. Entombment will follow at Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum. The family will receive friends Saturday from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. At other times, the family will be at the residence of Lisa and Dennis Whisnant, on Chism Dr. in Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Memorial United Methodist Church, PO Box 3061, Drexel, NC 28619.

Louise Perry Baker, 89, of Brookwood Dr., Valdese, NC passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family, Friday, March 26, 2010. Born in Burke County, NC on September 16, 1920, she was the daughter of the late Ulys Wiley Perry and Hessie Mae Poteet Perry Sprouse. Louise was a retired employee of Alba Waldensian after 34 years of employment. As a lifelong member of Enon Baptist Church, she was a Sunday School teacher, a G. A. leader, and was a member of the Joy Belles and Senior Saints. Louise was an avid reader, flower gardener, and crossword puzzle fan. She loved cooking for family, friends, and church functions and was a caretaker for her grandchildren during their childhood. She was a devoted and loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Louise is survived by her loving husband of 70 years, Russell S. Baker of the home; a son, Gregory R. “Greg” Baker and wife, Kim Ritchie Baker, of Drexel, NC; grandchildren, Natalie Baker of Drexel and Bryant R. Baker of Drexel and his fiancé, Pamela R. Goins of Morganton; a brother, J.C. Perry of Morganton; sisters, Ruth Ramsey of Valdese and Nelda King of Greensboro, NC; and a number of nephews and nieces.

In addition to her parents, Louise was preceded in death by a brother, Ulys William “Buddy” Perry, and sisters, Mollie Wright and Inez Walker.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Monday, March 29, 2010 at Enon Baptist Church with Rev. Gary Garner officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church for one hour prior to the service. At other times the family will be at the home. Memorial contributions may be made to Enon Baptist Church Bus Fund, 2059 Enon Road, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Walter Feimster, 86, of Crawley Dr., Morganton, NC, formerly of Settlemyre Road in Drexel, died Saturday, March 27, 2010 at Autumn Care of Drexel. Born in Burke County, NC on August 4, 1923, he was the son of the late Walter Sherrill Feimster and Cora Pennel Feimster. Walter worked at Drexel Heritage for over 45 years and he had lived on Settlemyre Road in Drexel for over 63 years.

Mr. Feimster is survived by his children, Steve Feimster and wife, Wanda, of Morganton, Stanley Feimster and wife, Betty, of Glen Alpine, NC, Elaine Walker and husband, Mack, of Morganton, and Chris Feimster and wife, Doris, of Concord, NC; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren; a brother, Jack Feimster of Morganton; sisters, Beulah Lackey of Valdese, NC and Helen Winters of Morganton; and a number of nephews and nieces.

In addition to his parents, Walter was preceded in death by his wife, Etta Mae Clark Feimster; a brother, Robert Feimster; and sisters, Amila Williams, Lillian Webb, and Joann Puett.

The graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, March 29, 2010 at Burke Memorial Park with Rev. Eddy Bunton officiating. The family will receive friends Sunday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.

Myrtle Moses Golightly, 81, of Lenoir, NC died Saturday, March 27, 2010 at her residence. Born in Burke County, NC on February 3, 1929, she was the daughter of the late Horace Moses and Nellie Savannah Moses. Myrtle was a member of Abundant Life Tabernacle Church. She retired from Case Farms with over 22 years of service. Myrtle was a wonderful, loving wife, mother, grandmother, and an inspiration to all. She was loved by everyone.

Mrs. Golightly is survived by her children, Amie Hahn Clark, Garland “Buck” Carswell, and Barbara Mass and husband, Joseph, all of Lenoir; a brother, Ivey Moses; grandchildren, Phillip, Floyd, Phyllis, Tammy, Robbie, Scott, Matt, Jonathon, and Destiney; fifteen great-grandchildren; and nineteen great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Myrtle was preceded in death by her husband, William Lester Golightly.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, March 31, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Reverends David McNeil and Mike Greene officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. At other times the family will be at the residence, 1934 Braswell Place, Lenoir, NC.

Sherry Fisher Hunt, 46, of Morganton, NC died Thursday, March 25, 2010. Born in Burke County, NC on June 19, 1963, she was the daughter of Jerry Carl Fisher and Mary Aileen Whisnant Fisher of Morganton. Sherry was a member of Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church where she was very active in the church. She drove the church van, sang in the choir, and helped with children ministries. Sherry was a teacher assistant for special needs children at Ray Childres Elementary School, was an Avon representative, and was attending Lee’s McRae College where she was working towards her B.S. in education.

In addition to her parents, Sherry is survived by her son, John Everett Avery of Morganton; a daughter, Elizabeth Alexandria Hunt of Morganton; sisters, Carla Jean Fisher and Cameron Anne Fisher and friend, Dustyn Reece, all of Morganton; a brother, Jerry Fisher, Jr. and wife, Jodi, of Morganton; and nephews, Marcus, Austin, Tristan, and Caden.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, April 3, 2010 at Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Dewey Thomas officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 6:00 until 9:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the funeral hour. At other times the family will be at the home of Sherry’s parents. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lizzie Hunt Scholarship Fund, c/o Cameron Fisher, 1735 Tellis Lane, Morganton, NC 28655.

Nettie Findley Salthouse, 88, of Castle Dr., Drexel, NC died Monday, March 29, 2010 at Grace Heights, Morganton, NC. She was born in Starr, SC on February 10, 1922 and was the daughter of the late Walter and Rosalie Snipes Findley. She grew up in Honea Path, SC and graduated from Winthrop College in 1943 with degrees in Music and English. She received her Masters Degree in Library Science from Appalachian State University. She was a charter member of A.D.K. Fidelis Pi, a teachers retirement organization. She was also a charter member of P.E.O., Chapter W Sorority. Nettie was a lifelong member of the Presbyterian Church where she held many offices and was presently a member of First Presbyterian Church in Morganton. Mrs. Salthouse was a devoted mother and wife. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by a brother, James Walter Findley and an infant brother and sister.

Surviving are her husband, Kenneth Burton Salthouse of the home; son, Curt Salthouse and his wife Alice of Boone, NC; daughter, Jean Leonard and her husband Larry of Charlotte, NC; grandchildren, Burton Salthouse and his wife Ashley, Jake Salthouse, Christin Leonard and fiancé Wes Austin, Jonathan Leonard, and Alex Leonard; sister, Amelia Meadors and her husband Mike of Winston Salem, NC; sister-in-law, Dot Findley of Seneca, SC; and several nephews and nieces.

A celebration of Mrs. Salthouse’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, April 3, 2010 at the First Presbyterian Church in Morganton with Reverends Michael Bailey and Adam Bowling officiating. Following the service, the family will receive friends in the church parlor.

On Monday, April 5, 2010 a second celebration will be held at the Honea Path Presbyterian Church, 206 Church St., Honea Path, SC with receiving of friends beginning at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at 2:30 p.m. in Garden of Memories, Belton, SC. Memorial gifts may be made to the First Presbyterian Church, 100 Silver Creek Rd., Morganton, NC 28655 or to P.E.O. Scholarship Fund, 3700 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50312-2299, or to L.O.T. Ministries, P. O. Box 279, Montreat, NC 28757. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Tommy D. McDaniel, 48, of Pine Ridge Avenue, Morganton, NC died Monday, March 29, 2010 at Grace Hospital following a period of declining health. Born in York Co., SC on August 29, 1961, he was the son of Jack and Jean McDaniel Willis of Chatham, VA. Tommy was a member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church. He loved to cook, write poetry, and draw. Tommy worked for many years as a cook at Shoneys. Before moving to Morganton, he was a former resident of Charlotte, NC.

A loving husband, son, father, and grandfather, Tommy is survived by his wife, Deloris Stewart McDaniel; his parents; daughters, Brandy McDaniel of the home and Sharon Willis of Chatham, VA; a step-son, William Stewart and wife, Jessica, of Wingate, NC; grandchildren, Caleb Chapman, Alana Stewart, and James Crane; uncles, Ray McDaniel and family of Prattville, AL and Donald Willis and family of Atlanta, GA; a faithful canine companion, Penny; and a host of friends.

The memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, April 1, 2010 at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church with Rev. Larry Cline officiating. 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 Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.

Arnold Lee Causby, 53, died Tuesday, March 30, 2010. He was born in Burke County on February 16, 1957 and was a son of the late Edward Eugene “Bud” and Bertie Marie Carswell Causby. Arnold was a farmer who loved gardening and hunting. He was devoted to his family and his many friends. He was a member of Morganton Freedom Church of God.

Surviving are his wife, Zella Lee Hollifield Causby, of the home; a step-son, Dave Suddreth; grandchildren, James and Storm Suddreth; brothers, John, Robert, and Dennis Causby; a sister, Rachel Causby Morgan; nephew, Michael Morgan; great-niece and great-nephew, Hannah and Grayson Morgan; step-nephews, Mark Langston, Ron Moorefield, Ben Hollifield, and Grey Hollifield; step-nieces, Bridgett Langston, Deanna Buff, Cindy Powell, Selena Avery, Michelle Buff, and Amanda Hollifield; brothers-in-law, Edward and Norman Hollifield; and a sister-in-law, Brenda Langston.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, April 3, 2010, at Morganton Freedom Church of God with the Reverends Todd Phillips and Bob Deviney officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 9:00 p.m. Friday at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church 30 minutes before the funeral. Memorial contributions may be made to Morganton Freedom Church of God, 1314 N. Green St., Morganton, NC 28655.

Clarence “Buster” Webb, 84, of St. Mary’s Church Road, Morganton, NC joined his wife in Heaven to be with Jesus on Wednesday, March 31, 2010 at Grace Hospital after many years of illness. Born in Watauga County, NC on December 29, 1925, he was the son of the late Lester Paul Webb and Willie Clay Taylor Webb. Buster was a former member of Community Baptist Church, which he helped build. He retired from Crestline Furniture. He also worked for A.P. Causby from the age of 15 until his later 70s, performing various jobs.

A beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Buster is survived by his sons, Roger Webb and Ronnie A. Webb and wife, Barbara, all of Morganton; daughters, Lesa Gayle Adkins and husband, Stephen, of Bakersville, NC, Janice Carol Ledford and husband, Darius, of Morganton, and Rebecca Jane Beach of Morganton; a sister, Myrtle Burgess of Morganton; and grandchildren, Tim Webb and wife, Kelsey, Teresa Woody and husband, Jeff, Christy French and husband, Naaman, Rhonda McCormick, Robert Webb and wife, Tawny, Michael Webb and wife, Awanda, Wendy Peterson and husband, Tracy, Danny Huskins, Jr. and fiancé, Brittney, Vicky Hopson and husband, Tim, Travis Ledford, Dustin Ledford, Cory Beach and fiancé, Amber, and Adam Beach; four step-grandchildren; thirty-three great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

In addition to his parents, Buster was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Mildred Hurt Webb; brother, Henry, Coy, Roy, and Jack Webb; sisters, Murtie Webb and Louise Mathes; a daughter-in-law, Martha Webb; and sons-in-law, Danny Huskins and Randy Laughrun.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, April 5, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Lloyd Harris. officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Saturday evening from 6:00 until 8:30 p.m. at the funeral home. At other times the family will be at Buster’s home. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690 or to St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1942.

Iris “Ikie” Louise Johnson Harris, 75, of East Wade Ave., Morganton, NC died Wednesday, March 31, 2010 at Britthaven of Morganton. Born in Minden, NY on October 31, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Arthur Melvin Johnson and Emma Louise Decker Johnson. Ikie was a member of Walker Road Baptist Church and was a lifetime member of the Burke County Rescue Squad. Ikie is survived by her adopted family, Marylin and Tommy Waters, Nicholas “Bubba” Evitt and Sarah Michaela “Baby” Evitt; and special caregivers and friends, Yulita and Sonny Hensley, Calvin and Shirley Evitt, and Rhonda and Chris Peterson.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Harris was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Vernon Harris.

The memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m., Friday, April 2, 2010 at Walker Road Baptist Church with Rev. Brandon Ware officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Walker Road Baptist Church, 100 Walker Road, Morganton, NC 28655 or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Guy Schwarting, 65, of Evans St., Morganton, NC passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 31, 2010 at his home while surrounded by his family. Guy fought a valiant battle with cancer. Born in Washington, DC on February 15, 1945, he was the son of the late John R. Schwarting and Ruth A. Schwarting. He grew up in Huntington, NY.

Following four years of service in the U.S. Navy, he used the G.I. Bill to attend college. He graduated from Clemson University with a degree in Civil Engineering. However, it was not long before he realized that what he really wanted to do was to work with young people as a teacher. That realization lead to him to Morganton where he received a Certification in Education of the Hearing Impaired from Lenoir Rhyne.

The majority of his career was spent teaching math and science at the Western Youth Institute. There he received the first Teacher of the Year Award. In 2008 he retired after thirty years of service to the state of North Carolina.

In addition to the joy of raising his own five children, Guy also treasured his time with young people in the community, especially the members and coaches of the ’89 Burke Blast Soccer Team.

In addition to his parents, Guy was preceded in death by his older brother, Kurt Schwarting.

He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Jeanne Schwarting; daughters, Erica Schwarting of Morganton and Chasity Schwarting of South Carolina; sons, Zach Schwarting and wife, Ellen, of Washington, DC, and Kirk and Kendrick Schwarting, both of Morganton; brothers, Paul Schwarting and wife, Wendy, of Colorado and Dan Schwarting of Morganton; sisters, Rebecca Lanigan and husband, Bill and Kate Carroll, all of Florida; his mother-in-law, Jeanne Stratford; three sisters-in-law; six nieces; five nephews; as well as his special Morganton nieces and nephews of the Cheves, Chung, and Denton families. Last but not least, he leaves behind to cherish his memory the sunshine of his days and his reason for getting up each day, his granddaughter, Tallas Lineberger.

A reception celebrating the laughs, loves, and humor of the life of Guy, “The Yard Sale King” will be held on Monday, April 5, 2010 at 6:30 p.m. in CoMMA (City of Morganton Municipal Auditorium). Please come and share your memories and “Guy stories” with his family. At other times the family will be at the home. Memorial contributions may be made to Morganton Day School Scholarship Fund, 305 W. Concord St., Morganton, NC 28655 or the Catawba Valley Behavioral Healthcare Caring and Sharing Fund, 350 East Park Road, Suite 100, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.