Tommy Thomas, 67, of Morganton, NC died Sunday, May 02, 2010 at Valdese General Hospital. Born in Buncombe Co., NC on June 30, 1942, he was the son of the late John Washington Thomas and Bessie Lee McDevitt Thomas. Tommy was a member of New Manna Baptist Church in Marion. A self employed mechanic, he loved to play bingo and fish. He was a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam Conflict.

Tommy is survived by his wife, Lisa Marie Dicken Thomas of the home; sons, Marion Thomas of Asheville, NC, Tommy Thomas, II of Greenville, TN, William Thomas of Georgia, Joe Seay of Asheville, T. J. Thomas of Morganton, and Matthew Massey of the home; daughters, Michelle Thomas of Marion, NC, Levita Thomas of Georgia, Angie Goforth of Morganton, Addie Thomas of Morganton, and Laurie Thomas of Morganton; brothers, Ray Thomas and Gene Thomas; a sister, Evelyn Hall; fifteen grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Tommy was preceded in death by several brothers and sisters. The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 5, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Michael Pearson officiating. Burial will follow in Faith Temple Tabernacle Church Cemetery with military honors provided by Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Sossoman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 2608, Morganton, NC 28680 to help with funeral expenses.

Herman Woody, 81, of Tucker Drive, Morganton, NC peacefully went home to be with his Lord on Tuesday, May 4, 2010 after a period of declining health. Born in Yancey Co., NC on May 22, 1928, he was the son of the late Rev. Lonzo Woody and Florence Wilson Woody. Herman was a long time member of River Valley Baptist Church. He had also attended Smart’s Grove Baptist Church. He retired from Drexel Heritage after twenty years of service. After retirement, he loved to spend time gardening and enjoyed time with his family.

A loving husband, father, and “Paw Paw”, he is survived by his wife of 60 years, Nevada McClellan Woody of the home; sons, Rev. Douglas Woody and wife, Cherlyn, and Wallace Woody, all of Morganton; daughters, Carolyn Riddick and husband, Ken, of Glen Alpine, NC and Evelyn Mace and husband, Jim, of Morganton; grandchildren, Tina Bryant and husband, Greg, Matt Woody, Kevin Woody and wife, Amber, Stephen Woody, Joshua Woody, Melissa Johnson and husband, Aaron, Carrie Mace, and Jonathan Mace; great-grandchildren, Peyton and Jaylen Bryant; and a sister, Essie Murdock of Spruce Pine, NC.

In addition to his parents, Herman was preceded in death by brothers, A. D. Woody, Opal Woody, and Clarence Woody, and a daughter-in-law, Melissa Woody.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, May 7, 2010 at Bible Gospel Baptist Church with Reverends Tim Dockery and Douglas Woody officiating. Entombment will follow in Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum. The family will receive friends Thursday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the funeral hour. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690 or to Bible Gospel Baptist Church, 8621 NC 18 South, Connelly Springs, NC 28612.

Charles Winborn Russell, 66, of East Winds Ave. in Morganton died Wednesday, May 5, 2010 at his residence following a brief illness. He was born September 17, 1943 in Troy, NC and was a son of the late Barna Russell and Mary Strider Russell. Charles retired in 2007 after 30 years of service as the Director of Manufacturing at Continental Teves.

Charles is survived by his wife, Tracey Demetris Russell, his sons, Charles Russell, Jr. and wife, Susie, of Atlanta, GA, Jacob Deal Russell and Thomas Russell, both of Morganton; grandchildren, Jamison V. Russell McLaurin of Newport News, VA, and Avery Francis Russell of Atlanta, GA; brothers, Roger Russell and wife, Audrey, of Greenville, SC, Frank Russell and wife, Debbie of Troy, NC; sisters, Emily Howell and husband, Harold of Lumberton, NC, Mary Lou Russell of Troy, NC, and Martha Griego of Troy, NC; a number of nieces and nephews; brother-in-law, Robert Demetris and wife Katherine of Fletcher, NC; sisters-in-law, Pebbles Stucker and husband, Jeff of Asheville, NC and Gayle Roberts and husband, Scott of Alpharetta, GA.

In addition to his parents, Charles was preceded in death by his brother, Larry Russell.

A Tribute to the life of Charles Russell will be held at the family home located at 2129 East Winds Ave. Morganton, NC. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 4:30-6:00 pm followed by a memorial service starting at 6:00 p.m. The Reverend Richard Via will be officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to the Thomas Russell Educational Fund, c/o First Citizens Bank, 217 N. Sterling St., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Barbara Moses, 68, of Raintree Dr., Morganton, NC died Wednesday, May 5, 2010 at Frye Regional Hospital in Hickory. She was born January 4, 1942 in Burke County, NC, and was a daughter of the late James Woodrow Orders and Florence Pearson Orders.

Barbara is survived by sons, Ricky Moses and wife, Lisa, and Bobby Joe Moses and wife, Angie, all of Morganton; sisters, Judy McCall and husband, David, and Bernice Golds, all of Morganton; grandchildren, Ricky Moses, Jr., Dustin, Riley, and Lynn Moses, Shannon Wells, and Joshua Woodward; and great-grandchildren, Gage Moses, Dylan, Braedyn, and Kalexis Laws.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, Eddie Moses; and a daughter, Teresa Moses.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 8, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour before the service. At other times, the family will be at the residence of Ricky Moses, 117 Raintree Dr. in Morganton.

John Pinkney Gragg, 89, of Autumn Care of Drexel, NC died Thursday, May 6, 2010 after a period of declining health. Born in Caldwell Co., NC on April 14, 1921, he was the son of the late John Vernon Gragg and Fannie Mae Leonard Gragg.

An honest and gentle man, John is survived by his niece, Judy Chavez and husband, Rolando, of Valdese; and a great-niece, Sara Shockley and husband, Daniel, of Valdese.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by six brothers and sisters.

A graveside service was held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, May 8, 2010 in Glen Alpine Cemetery with Rev. Michael Brown officiating. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Jesse Olston Gibson, 77, of Connelly Road, Morganton, NC died Thursday, May 6, 2010 at Grace Hospital. Born in Mitchell County, NC on June 18, 1932, he was the son of the late Lee and Syvilla Cole Gibson. Jesse was a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean Conflict. He was a volunteer for The Outreach Center. He worked as a barber in Winston-Salem, Black Mountain, and Morganton and had worked as a security guard at Morganton Dye and Finishing. He was an avid fisherman.

Jesse is survived by his children, Larry Buchanan, Jesse L. Buchanan and, Donna Gibson and their mother, Mimi Judith Ollis; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; brothers, Toney Gibson of Pineola, NC, Lawrence “Roy Lee” Gibson of Morganton, and Johnny Gibson of Moyck, NC; and a sister, Faith Lacey of Newland, NC.

In addition to his parents, Jesse was preceded in death by a sister, Shirley Gibson Calhoun.

A celebration of Jesse’s life will be held at 7:00 p.m., Monday, May 10, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home. The family will receive friends at the funeral home for one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to The Outreach Center, P.O. Box 1003, Morganton, NC 28680.

Russel “Rus” Cato, a loving husband, father, and grandfather, 68, of N. Anderson St., Morganton, NC died Sunday, May 9, 2010 at the Burke Palliative Care Center. Born in Richmond, VA on April 27, 1942, he was the son of the late Russel Littleton Cato and Mildred Outland Cato. Rus was a member of Grace Episcopal Church. He grew up in Emporia, VA and was a 1964 graduate of NC State University. Following his graduation, he went to work for Corning Glass, where he invented part of the Apollo moon camera. He later retired from Leviton, Southern Devices, having been plant manager in both the Morganton and West Jefferson locations. Rus was a leader of the Burke County United Way. He coached youth sports and was an avid outdoor enthusiast. He performed in Community Theatre in both Burke and Ashe Counties. He served as chairman of the Burke County Career Readiness Board of the Burke County Public Schools and also as an advocate for residents at J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center.

Rus is survived by his wife, Wendy Hodge Cato of the home; children, Chris Cato of Morganton, Scott Cato of Pilot Mountain, NC, Kerri Phipps and husband, Dewie, of Morganton, and Susan Cato and wife, Hayley, of Boston, MA; a brother, Jim Cato and wife, Patty, of Charlottesville, VA; and grandchildren, Ryan Cato and wife, Brittney, Meghan Phipps, Austin Phipps, and Piper Cato.

In addition to his parents, Rus was preceded in death by a daughter, Buffy Leland, and a granddaughter, Bailey Noelle Cato.

The memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 12, 2010 at Grace Episcopal Church with Rev. Bruce Walker and Dr. Jim W. Smith of Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church officiating. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday at Sossoman Funeral Home. At other times the family will be at the residence. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.

Girlie Cornette Baldridge, 92, of Rawleigh St. in Drexel went home to be with her Heavenly Father and family on Monday, May 10, 2010 at Autumn Care of Drexel following an extended illness. She was born April 6, 1918 in Fannin County, GA, and was a daughter of the late Monroe T. Cornette and Josie Davenport Cornette. Girlie was a retired employee of Drexel Heritage Furnishings Plant #1.

She is survived by sons, Herman Baldridge, Dennis Baldridge and wife, Winona, all of Drexel, and James Baldridge and wife, Judy, of Valdese; thirteen grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death her husband, W. “Lonnie” Baldridge; a son, Charles Baldridge; a daughter, Dorothy Baldridge Green; seven brothers; and one sister.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, May 13, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Tom Bentley officiating. Entombment will follow in Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 6:00 until 8:00 pm at the funeral home.

Bill Kanoy, 88, of Buena Vista Dr. in Morganton died Tuesday, May 11, 2010 at Burke Pallative Care Center following a brief illness. He was born May 29, 1921 in Guilford Co., and was a son of the late Odell Kanoy and Alma Barber Kanoy. Bill was a member of North Morganton United Methodist Church where he served as an usher for 40 years. He was a Marine Corps veteran of World War II, and the owner and operator of BK Appliance Service. Bill was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who loved life and lived it to the fullest..

Bill is survived by his wife, Jacqueline Sexton Kanoy of the home; children, Barbara Kanoy Stroupe and husband, Richard, and William M. Kanoy and wife, Paulette, all of Morganton; grandchildren, Steven C. Hartman and wife, Cassie, of Nebo, Ashley Streeter and Lisa Gilkerson, both of Morganton, Travis Smith and wife, Jessica, of Pikeville, NC, and Crystal Hepburn and husband, Chris, of Chester, VA; eight great-grandchildren; a brother, Jack Kanoy and wife, Harriette, of Greensboro, and sisters, Ernestine Trollinger of Greensboro and Kathryn Snider of Virginia.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sisters, Madge Rich and Nellie Gorskie.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, May 13, 2010 at North Morganton United Methodist Church with Rev. Neill Shaw officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour before the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to North Morganton United Methodist Church, 990 Sanford Dr., Morganton, NC 28655, or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Douglas R. McMinn, 66, of Bill Epley Avenue in Morganton died Tuesday, May 11, 2010 at the Asheville Specialty Hospital in Asheville following a period of declining health. He was born December 16, 1943 in Lake County, Illinois, and was a son of the late Kenneth Fairford McMinn and Anna Irene Urban McMinn. Douglas was a US Army veteran of the Vietnam War, and a former employee of Tool Craft in Marion, NC.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Clark McMinn of the home; children, Bryan McMinn and Kimberly McMinn Qualls and husband, Jonathan, all of Dunedin, FL; step-children, Chris Meyers and Kimmie Hughes of Morganton; a sister, Geraldine Simon of Sandy, Utah; a brother, Roland “Budge” McMinn of Huntington Beach, California; and grandchildren, James Edwin Torplund Qualls, Skylar McMinn, Parker McMinn, Hannah Hughes, and Nick Costner; and nieces and nephews.

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

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

Grace M. Martin, 83, of Powerhouse Rd., Glen Alpine, passed away Thursday, May 13, 2010, at home surrounded by her loving family. She was born on June 12, 1926 in Rizal Province, Philippine Islands to the late Leslie Rhea and Primativa Martinez Rhea. She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother and was also a mother to many through the years. Grace was very active with the Children’s Ministry at Skyline Wesleyan Church in San Diego, CA. She never met a stranger with whom she did not share the love of Jesus. She was a homemaker and provided daycare for children in her home for several years. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Mary Taylor and Zana Tenor.

Survivors include her devoted and loving husband of 52 years, Jim; sisters, Edith “Dee Dee” Love and husband, Dick, of Mishawaka, IN and Florence “Mickey” Yanase of Chatsworth, CA; sons, Robert John Martin and wife, Dawn, of Lee Summit, MO and Ronald James Martin and wife, Sandy, of Holland, MI; daughter, Marla Michele Martin of Glen Alpine; dear friend of the family, Pam Rigdon; and her constant companion, “Tipper”. Grace adored her grandchildren, James Robert Martin, Kamaren Ashley Stevenson, Mandy Cooper, Preston Michael Stevenson, Alisha Michelle Martin, and Robert John “Bubby” Martin.

A private internment service is planned for the family. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Paul William Mayfield, 58, of Camelot Dr. in Morganton died Thursday, May 13, 2010 at his residence following a four month battle with cancer. He was born December 3, 1951 in Spartanburg County, and was a son of Latha Greenway Mayfield of Landrum, SC, and the late Earl Ray Mayfield, Sr. Paul grew up in Landrum, SC, and was a graduate of Tennessee Temple University in Chattanooga, TN where he met his future wife, Pam. During the summer of 1972 and while a student at Tennessee Temple University, he served as an intern in the Washington, D.C. office of South Carolina Senator Ernest Hollings. Following graduation, Paul taught and coached a state championship soccer team at the high school at Tennessee Temple. He and Pam then moved to Burlington, NC where he was assistant principal and coach at Alamance Christian School where he also coached a state championship soccer team.

The family moved to Morganton in 1978 where he served as the principal at Tabernacle Christian School for five years. He received his Basic Law Enforcement Training from Catawba Valley Community College. In 1980, Paul began working as a reserve officer with the Burke County Sheriff’s Department. In July of 1983, he became a fulltime officer and served during the administrations of Sheriff Jerry Richards, Ralph Johnson, and Richard Epley until 1999. He was a member and past officer of the Fellowship of Christian Law Enforcement Officers. In March of 2000, Paul began operating his own private police and security company, United Special Police and Security.

Paul was a member of Heritage Baptist Church where he served as Chairman of the Deacons, church treasurer, and Sunday school teacher. Paul was an avid golfer and helped organize many local golf tournaments for area organizations. He was an active member and past officer of the Burke County Republican Party.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife, Pam Webb Mayfield of the home; daughters, Kristy Mayfield of Nashville, TN and Tiffany Mayfield of Morganton; a brother, Ray Mayfield, Jr. and wife, Betty of Landrum; and a number of nieces and their families.

Paul was preceded in death by his father, Ray Mayfield, Sr.; and a son, Jeremy Mayfield.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, May 17, 2010 at the First Baptist Church in Morganton with Rev. Dewayne Buchanan officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Sunday from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes before the funeral hour. At other times, the family will be at the residence, 204 Camelot Dr. in Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Heritage Baptist Church, PO Box 2801, Morganton, NC 28680.

William Richard “Bill” Whisenant, 80, of Holly Place in Morganton died Friday, May 14, 2010 at Burke Palliative Care Center in Valdese following a period of declining health. He was born October 29, 1929 in Burke County, and was the son of the late George Macon Whisenant and Alice Elizabeth Baird Whisenant. Bill was an active member of Catawba Valley Baptist Church where he served as a former Sunday School teacher and deacon. He was a retired employee of Burke Mills with 38 years of service.

Bill is survived by a son, Richard Whisenant and wife, Sandy, of Morganton; daughters, Libby Elder and husband, Robert, of Morganton, Mary Herrick and husband, Mark, of Virginia Beach, VA, and Lisa Sher of Charlotte, NC; a sister, Lucille May and husband, Howard, of Winston-Salem, NC; grandchildren, Dana Lee Whisenant, Haley Sher and Graham Sher; a step-grandson, Alan Storie; and number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Mamie Lee Chandler Whisenant; and a sister and her husband, Margaret and Bill Pons of Valdese.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, May 16, 2010 at Catawba Valley Baptist Church with Rev. Jeff Beach officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Saturday from 6:30 until 8:30 pm at Sossoman Funeral Home. At other times, the family will be at the residence, 306 Holly Place in Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America, Inc., Carolinas Chapter, 506 East Forest Hills Boulevard, Durham, NC 27707, or to The Leukemia & Lymphoma North Carolina Society, 5950 Fairview Rd., Charlotte, NC 28210-0093, or help one of your neighbors in need.

Ruth Allen Whalen, 90, of Inglewood Dr., Morganton, NC died Saturday, May 15, 2010 in Grace Hospital following a brief illness. Born November 2, 1919 in Franklin, MA, she was a daughter of the late Henry and Lillian Allen. Mrs. Whalen was a member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Fredrick Joseph Whalen, Jr. and a grandson, Adam Whalen.

Surviving are her sons, Fredrick J. Whalen, III and his wife, Tori and Kenneth Whalen and his wife, Diane all of Morganton; a daughter, Brenda Whalen of Morganton; a brother, Henry Allen, Jr. of Terre Haute, IN; a sister, Stella Joanis of Franklin, MA; six grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

The funeral Mass will be said at 11:00 a.m., Monday, May 17, 2010 at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church with the Reverend Kenneth Whittington officiating. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Medway, MA. The family will receive friends from 9:45 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. Monday in Murray Hall of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church. Memorial gifts may be made to St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 728 W. Union St., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Frank Vincent Rose, 46, died unexpectedly Saturday, May 15, 2010. He was born in Cherokee County, NC on January 3, 1964 and was a son of Mary Magdalene Rose of Morganton and the late Gid Rose. In addition to his father, Frank was preceded in death by a brother, Clyde Rose.

He worked in the tree service industry for a number of years with both of his brother, Clyde and Grady Rose, and with Asplundh. Frank was also a former employee of Hickory Hill Furniture. He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed watching his pet deer and his beloved dogs.

Surviving are his brother, Grady Rose, of Morganton; and sisters, Mary Kathryn Gross of Gastonia, and Mozella Fairchild and Bell Lane and her husband, James, all of Morganton. Frank has sixteen nephews and nieces and numerous great-nephews and great-nieces. He was a special brother and uncle and will be greatly missed by all.

The funeral will be held at 5:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 18, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home. The family will receive friends before the service from 3:00 until 4:30 p.m. The burial will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday at Unaka Baptist Church Cemetery, Murphy NC.

Billy Ray Jordan, 51, of Morganton went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, May 15, 2010 at Hospice House of Burke Hospice following a brief illness. He was a loving father, brother, son, uncle, and such a great friend to so many people. Born November 12, 1958 in Burke County, NC, Billy was a son of Carl Jordan of Morganton and the late Lucy Chapman Jordan.

In addition to his father, Mr. Jordan is survived by his wife of thirty-one years, Leisa Abee Jordan of the home; sons, Zachary and Jonathan Jordan of the home; a brother, Ronnie Jordan and his wife, Kathy of Conover and their children, Elizabeth and Christopher; an uncle, Roy Everett Chapman; a sister-in-law, Rhonda McNeely and her husband, Ambrose and their children, Sarah Livsey, Harlee Livsey, Blythe McNeely, and Brigham McNeely; a brother-in-law, John Cantrell and niece, Lindsey; his in-laws, Leroy and Velva Abee; and his faithful canine companion, Jake.

In addition to his mother, Billy was preceded in death by his sister, Pamela Jordan Cantrell.

Mr. Jordan was a faithful member of Bethlehem Baptist Church. He was well known for his many years of playing slowpitch softball here in Burke County and the surrounding area, and was an avid golfer. He made many friends during his years of playing softball and loved to sit around and talk about his days of traveling with the teams. Billy was a generous man who would always help anyone in need. For twenty three years, he was employed by Classic Leather in Hickory where he made many more friends who were like family.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 18, 2010 at Bethlehem Baptist Church on Watershed Road with the Reverends Jesse Carr and Eddy Bunton officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Monday at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church for thirty minutes before the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Bethlehem Baptist Church, 6494 Watershed Rd., Morganton, NC 28655 or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

Gilbert Turner, 74, of Cedar Hills Dr. in Morganton died Sunday, May 16, 2010 at his residence following a brief illness. He was born February 19, 1936 in Burke County, and was a son of the late Causie E. Turner and Mamie Walker Turner. Gilbert retired in 1999 from Drexel-Heritage Furnishings after 42 years of employment. He was an active and devoted, lifelong member of Hopewell Baptist Church where he served as a deacon, choir member, and Sunday School teacher. Gilbert was presently helping oversee the current construction project at the church, and was also working on the staff as Facility Maintenance Manager. He served as a mentor to many people in the church and loved being a friend and advisor to everyone he met. Gilbert enjoyed traveling all over the country and had visited all fifty states and Canada. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather.

Gilbert is survived by his wife, Maxine Wright Turner of the home; a son and daughter-in-law, Lee and Tamara Turner of Morganton; grandchildren, Jessica and Justin Turner; brothers and their wives, Alexander and Ruby Turner of Morganton, and Clarence “C.D.” and Ann Turner of Davidson, NC; sisters and their husbands, Clara and Woodrow Norman, and Faye and Tommy Garrison of Morganton, and Betty Ann and Ed Summers of Silver Springs, MD; and a number of nephews and nieces.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Harold Turner; and a sister, Lib Ross.

Funeral services will be held at 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 18, 2010 at Hopewell Baptist Church with Rev. Homer Murdock officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m. at the church. At other times, the family will be at the residence, 145 Cedar Hills Dr., Morganton. Memorial contributions may be made to Hopewell Baptist Church Building Fund, 1112 Hopewell Rd., Morganton, NC 28655, or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Ruby Ellen Hartness Chapman, 86, of Pax Hill Rd. passed away peacefully Monday, May 17, 2010 at Burke Palliative Care Center. A native of the Snow Creek Community in Iredell County, NC, she has resided in Burke County for the last 63 years. Mrs. Chapman was a daughter of the late Willy and Eloise Hartness. Her husband, David Moran Chapman, preceded her in death. Mrs. Chapman graduated from the Grace Hospital School of Nursing in 1946 and became a registered nurse. She retired after a 30 year career of providing care at Broughton Hospital. Mrs. Chapman touched the lives of many through her work as a member of Bethel Baptist Church, as a Chesterfield Community volunteer, and as a lifelong Democrat

Children surviving are a daughter, Lu Ellen Teague and husband, Randy, of Morganton; a son, Michael Chapman and wife, Nancy, of Asheville, NC; and a grandson, David Chapman of Knoxville, TN. Surviving sisters are Lorene Hartness Revis of Columbus, GA, Joann Hartness Scarborough of Statesville, NC, and “sister” Zelma Gwaltney of Winston-Salem, NC.

She was preceded in death by sisters, Hilda Hartness Journey of White Plains, MD, and Margaret Hartness Revis of Statesville, NC; and brothers, Zeb of Denver, CO, J.P. and Clarence of Statesville, NC, Paul of Kernersville, NC, and Pete of Morganton. The family wishes to thank members of Bethel Baptist Church, friends, health care providers, and the staff at Burke Hospice and Palliative Care for endless compassion and support.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, May 20, 2010 at Bethel Baptist Church with Rev. Gary Cline officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the church one hour before the funeral service. In lieu flowers, donations may be made to Bethel Baptist Church, 3861 Pax Hill Rd., Morganton, NC 28655, or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Evelyn Ann Stephenson Greer, 75, of Boone, NC died Wednesday, May 19, 2010 following a long illness. Born in Angier, NC on September 22, 1934, she was the daughter of the late William S. Stephenson and Mavis Matthews Stephenson. Evelyn attended Valdese Christian Church and Saint Matthews United Methodist Church. She graduated with honors with a degree in business/accounting from Western Piedmont Community College. In 1998 she retired from Sara Lee Knitting Products. Evelyn was a certified professional secretary and a member of the International Association of Administrative Professionals.

She is survived by a son, William D. Greer and wife, Cindy Brown, of Boone; a daughter, Sue A. Greer and companion, Virginia D. Fielder, of Boone; brothers, Lynwood Stephenson of Fayetteville, NC, Terry Stephenson of Spartanburg, SC, and Phil Stephenson of Johnson City, TN; a sister, Elender Blackburn of Wilmington, NC; and grandchildren, Emily, Elizabeth, Will, and Brian Greer.

In addition to her parents, Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband, Garland Gene Greer; and three brothers, Howard, Darnell, and Lloyd Stephenson.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, May 22, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Diana Spangler-Crawford officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of Avery County, P.O. Box 1357, Newland, NC 28657.

Argyle B. Cole, 91, of Norman Rd., Morganton, NC died Thursday, May 20, 2010 at Grace Heights, Morganton, NC. Born in Ashe County, NC on May 16, 1919, she was the daughter of the late Joseph Franklin Blackburn and Lola Bare Blackburn.

She is survived by her husband of 73 years, Rev. Edgar Lee Cole; sons: Sherrill Lee Cole and his wife, Glenda of Drexel, William Cole and his wife, Jerri of Jonesborough, TN, Herbert Cole and his wife, Dawn of Granite Falls, NC, Eddie Cole of Fleetwood, NC and Timothy Cole of Morganton, NC; a daughter, Priscilla Cole Johnson and her husband, Charles of Conover, NC; a sister: Roxie Rash of Fleetwood, NC; grandchildren: Terry Cole, Randal Cole, Cynthia McNeill, Rica Shoffner, and Shannon Austin; and seven great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents, Argyle was preceded in death by her grandson, Chad Cole; brothers: Donald Blackburn, Tommy Blackburn, Carl Blackburn, and Joseph Blackburn; and sisters: Ina Mae Watson, Pearl Holman, and Dollie Pleasant.

Argyle was a preacher’s wife for more than 60 years, serving in whatever capacity needed: nursery, GA’s, Acteens, WMU, choir, and visitation. She had a heart for the people and a love for God.

The funeral will be at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, May 23, 2010 at Mount Home Baptist Church with Rev. Jerry Gamble and Rev. Tito Madrazo officiating. Entombment will follow in Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum. The family will receive friends Sunday from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to the Chad B. Cole Scholarship Fund, c/o Western Piedmont Community College, 1001 Burkemont Avenue, Morganton, NC 28655, or to the Graceful Giving Fund, c/o Mt. Home Baptist Church, 2272 Mt. Home Church Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Donald G. Baker, 80, of Windy Hill Hollow, Morganton, died Friday, May 21, 2010 at Grace Hospital. He was born January 22, 1930 in Toledo, Ohio, to the late John David Baker and Lucille Yoder Baker. Donald was a veteran of the Korean War, serving in the US Army. He was retired from Martin-Marietta and a member of the Morganton Moose Lodge #197.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Olivie Anderson “Snookie” Baker.

Donald is survived by sons, Donald Baker, Jr. and Ronald Baker both of California; brothers, Glenn Baker of Florida and Thomas Baker of Ohio; six step-grandchildren and four step-great grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, May 24, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Rev. George W. McCullough, III officiating, with military honors being provided by Valdese American Legion Post #234. Entombment will follow at Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum. The family will receive friend one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Charles R. Merrill, 89, of Enola Road, Morganton, NC died Friday, May 21, 2010 at Kindred Hospital in Greensboro, NC. Born in Burlington Co., NJ on March 27, 1921, he was the son of the late Reid Lloyd Merrill and Irene Denton Merrill. Charles was a member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church. He was a Master Sergeant in Co. 175 of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers during WWII, during which he served in France, Italy, and Africa. He served as secretary and treasurer of the 42nd battalion for 50 years. Charles played for the Brooklyn Dodgers Farm Team and was scheduled to move up to the Brooklyn Dodgers but he decided to focus on his family instead. He loved to camp, fish, travel, and restore vintage mustangs. He also loved to sing Bing Crosby, Dean Martin, Glenn Miller, and Frank Sinatra tunes.

Charles is survived by his children, Diann Merrill Wallace and husband, Roy, of Rock Hill, SC, Charles Larry Merrill of Morganton, Barbara “Babs” Merrill Poole and husband, Stephen, of Raleigh, NC, and Eric Merrill of Morganton; a special daughter-in-law, Linda Houpe; grandchildren, Dawn Byrd Scholl, Andy Cagle, Kelley Merrill Rector, Daniel Merrill, Elizabeth Merrill MacKinnon, Courtney Merrill, Travis Merrill, Bradley Merrill, and Shelby Merrill; great-grandchildren, John Huckabee, Tristan Hammond, Seth Scholl, Dakota Merrill, Tyler Rector, Addison Rector, and Hudson MacKinnon; and brothers, Jerry and Bob Merrill, both of Morganton.

In addition to his parents, Charles was preceded in death by his wife, Sarah Dale Merrill, and two brothers, Warren and Stewart Merrill.

The funeral will be held at 4:00 p.m., Monday, May 24, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Reverends Larry Cline and David Order officiating. Burial will follow in Pleasant Hill Baptist Church Cemetery with military honors provided by Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312, Sarah Merrill Library, c/o Broughton Hospital, 1000 South Sterling St., Morganton, NC 28655, or to the National Kidney Foundation of NC, 5950 Fairview Road, Suite 704, Charlotte, NC 28210.

Randy Eugene Nations, 51, of Clark Loop, Morganton, NC died Saturday, May 22, 2010 at his residence. Born in Catawba County, NC on June 17, 1958, he was the son of Faye Nations of Spartanburg, SC and the late Rev. Clyde Nations, Jr. Randy lived his early life in Bryson City, NC. He was a graduate of Swain County High School and remained a devoted fan of its football team, the Maroon Devils. Randy worked for many years in the commercial construction industry as a specialist in heating and air conditioning. He worked with the rebuilding program in Iraq with K.B.R., including Abu Ghraib prison and hospital. He loved hunting pheasant in South Dakota and was an avid fan of southern gospel music, the U.T. Vols, and flea-markets. He loved traveling with his wife.

In addition to his mother, Randy is survived by his wife, Diane Lane Nations of the home; a son, Bradley Nations and his son, Landon Nations, of Lexington, NC; a step-son, Josh Blackburn of Morganton; sisters, Teresa Page and husband, Buddy, Carla Glover and husband, Rick, Hope Houchins and husband, Clayton, and Leigh Nations, all of Spartanburg, SC; seven nephews; two nieces; two great-nephews; a special little friend and Jeff Gordon companion, Brayson Buff; and canine companions, Courtney Madison, Zoey Rose, and Lily Mae.

A celebration of Randy’s life will be held at 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 25, 2010 at Missionary Ridge Baptist Church with Rev. Donald Lovelace and Mr. Clayton Houchins officiating. The family will receive friends in the church’s Life Enrichment Center from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Turning Point Services’ Christmas Party, 1001 S. Sterling St., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Leatrice Gott Charlet, 84, of Britthaven and formerly of Jenkins Rd., Morganton, NC went to be with her Heavenly Father on Sunday, May 23, 2010 at Britthaven following a period of declining health. Born in Madison County, KY on June 26, 1925, she was the daughter of the late Joe Gott and Grace Reagan Gott. Leatrice was a retired employee of the Kentucky Fried Chicken stores in Morganton and a member of Missionary Ridge Baptist Church.

Leatrice is survived by sons, John W. Charlet, III, Don Charlet and wife, Gail all of Morganton, NC, Ronnie Charlet and wife, Doris, of Lexington, KY; grandchildren, Johnny Charlet and wife Christi, Christy Lingerfelt, Robyn Waycaster and husband Jeff, Dereck Charlet, Marlena Charlet, Casey Charlet and wife, Lindsey, Jeana Taylor and Deana Edelmann; 13 great grandchildren; brother, Billy Gott and wife, Carol of Lexington, KY; sisters-in-law, Becky Gott and Bessie Gott of Lexington, KY; and a number of nephews and nieces.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, John Walker Charlet, Jr.; son, Tommy Charlet; and brothers, Robert and J.B. Gott.

The funeral will be held at 5:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 26, 2010 at Missionary Ridge Baptist Church with Rev. Donald Lovelace officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service in the church Life Enrichment Center. Memorial contributions may be made to Missionary Ridge Baptist Church, 5612 John Watts Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Harold F. Brown, Jr., 80, of Harris Dr. in Morganton died Sunday, May 23, 2010 at Burke Palliative Care Center following a period of declining health. He was born February 6, 1930 in Richmond Co., NC, and was the son of the late Harold Fowlkes Brown, Sr. and Marie Honeycutt Brown. Harold was a US Navy veteran of the Korean War, and served as a radar man for 4 years on the USS Radford in the Pacific theatre. He graduated from Chowan College with a degree in graphic arts, and then taught at the college for 5 years. Harold relocated to Morganton in 1961 where he taught graphic arts, printing, and photography at the North Carolina School for the Deaf until his retirement in 1991. While at NCSD, his school newspapers and yearbooks won numerous awards for their excellent craftsmanship. Harold was a stickler for details and never settled for anything less than perfect. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Morganton where he served as a Deacon and secretary/treasurer of the Hord-Hogshead-Brown Sunday school class. Harold enjoyed woodworking, and crafted several heirloom “rocking horses” and cradles. He was an avid lifelong golfer, and a charter member of Quaker Meadows Golf Club. He especially enjoyed the senior golf league.

Harold is survived by his wife, Ella Smith Brown of the home; a son, David W. Brown and wife, Pam of Morganton; a daughter, Nannette Isaacs and husband, Jim of Marion; a granddaughter, Meagan Isaacs of Marion; his sister, Betsy Easter of Hamlet, NC; nephews, Joseph Easter of Charlotte, NC, Mark Easter of Tapahannock, VA, and Timothy Easter of Burlington, NC; and an uncle, Stanford Honeycutt of Anderson, SC.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, May 25, 2010 at the First Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr. officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 1:00 until 2:00 pm in the church parlor. At other times, the family will be at the residence. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Jerry Claude Hamby, 65, of Curtis St. in Morganton died Sunday, May 23, 2010 at his residence following a period of declining health. He was born November 9, 1944 in Burke County, and was the son of the late Claude Harold Hamby and Annie Mae Webb Hamby. Jerry was a member of Catawba Valley Baptist Church. He served as a RA (Royal Ambassador) leader, and played the drums for the Ambassador Quartet at the church. He was a past member of Bible Baptist Church where he had been ordained a deacon. Jerry enjoyed woodworking, furniture carving, and playing golf.

He is survived by his wife, Diane Louise Causby Hamby of the home; sons, Tracy Claude Hamby and wife, Jennifer, and Rodney Lynn Hamby, all of Morganton; grandchildren, Taylor Claude Hamby, Christian Donald Hamby, McKenzie Dawn Hamby, Hunter Lynn Hamby, Katie Margaret Hamby, and Emily Jeanne Hamby, all of Morganton; step-grandchildren, Allison and Andrew Tew, and Taylor Fender; sisters, Lorene P. Lane and husband, Elbert, of Morganton, and Sandra Kay McGinnis and husband, Harlan, of Rutherfordton, NC; nephews, Scott Brown of Forest City, and Martin Lane of Morganton; and close friends, Donna Robinson and Dana Price, both of Morganton, and Dawn Fender of Valdese.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 26, 2010 at Catawba Valley Baptist Church with the Reverend Dr. Mike Odom, Rev. Clyde Buckner, and Mr. Tommy Sain officiating. Burial will follow at Hopewell Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour before the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Catawba Valley Baptist Church Building Fund, PO Box 1580, Morganton, NC 28680. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Clarence Edward Greenway, 78, of Grace Ridge in Morganton died Monday, May 24, 2010 at the Grace Ridge Health Care Center following a period of declining health. He was born September 6, 1931 in Guilford County, and was a son of the late John Wanamaker Greenway, Sr. and Mattie Lee Delk Greenway. Clarence grew up in High Point, NC, graduated from Allen Jay High School, and went on to serve with the US Army in Germany. Clarence was a graduate of U.N.C. Chapel Hill. He received his undergraduate degree in Business Administration, his M.B.A, and was a member of Phi Beta Kappa. For the rest of his life, he remained a devoted and avid Tar Heel fan. He started his professional career with Westinghouse in Pennsylvania, and then moved back to High Point where he worked for Drexel-Heritage Furnishings. He and his family moved to Morganton in 1970 where Clarence continued his employment with Drexel-Heritage. Clarence was Vice President of Graphic Design, producing the catalogues and other printed materials for the company. He received numerous industry and Pica Awards for his work.

Clarence was a devoted member of the First United Methodist Church where he loved singing with the church choir. He also performed with the Morganton Combined Choir at Christmas. He was a member and past President of Morganton Kiwanis Club, and was presented with many awards from Kiwanis International. Clarence enjoyed playing tennis and golf, and he played for several years in the Heritage Classic Pro-Am at Hilton Head, SC. He enjoyed attending events at COMMA, and was an accomplished artist and craftsman including handcrafted musical instruments.

Clarence is survived by his wife, Mary Ann Morrison Greenway of Ambler, PA; children, David Alan Greenway and wife, Sarah McCarthy of Salem, MA, Jill Greenway Whitesell and husband, David of Watkinsville, GA and Daniel Edward Greenway of Charlotte, NC; granddaughters, Mattie Jean Whitesell, Callie Ann Whitesell, Emma Beatrice Whitesell, and Julia Charlotte Candee Greenway; a brother, John W. Greenway, Jr. of Ocracoke, NC; a sister, Olivia Greenway Young and husband, Kenneth of Greensboro, NC; and sister-in-law, Mary H. Greenway of Virginia.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, May 27, 2010 at the First United Methodist Church with Rev. Sydnor Thompson officiating. The family will receive friends Thursday from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. at the church. Burial will be at 11:00 a.m., Friday at Floral Garden Memorial Park in High Point. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

James “Herb” Suttlemyre, 79, of Starmount Circle, Morganton, died May 25, 2010 after a period of decling health. Herb was born January 12, 1931 in McDowell County to the late Charles Greer Suttlemyre and Ruth Whitley Suttlemyre. He was a member of Oak Hill United Methodist Church and had retired from the US Postal Service. Herb coached several Pee Wee football and basketball teams and had also refereed high school football and basketball.

Herb is survived by his wife, Martha McClellan Suttlemyre; sons, Jay Suttlemyre and Eric Suttlemyre both of Morganton; grandchildren, Jadee Suttlemyre of Cary and Erika and Jamie Suttlemyre of Morganton; and a brother, Greer Suttlemyre of Morganton.

A celebration of Herb’s life will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, May 30, 2010 at Oak Hill United Methodist Church with the Rev. Neal Brantley, Jr. officiating. Burial will be at Oak Hill United Methodist Church Cemetery at a later date. The family will receive friends following the service in the church Fellowship Hall. Memorial contributions may be made to Oak Hill United Methodist Church Building Fund, 2239 North Carolina 181, Morganton, NC 28655.

Rev. Harold L. Sprinkle, 87, of Marion died Wednesday, May 26, 2010 at McDowell Hospital. He was a son of the late Leat and Amy G. Sprinkle. Mr. Sprinkle was a US Army veteran of World War II, and a graduate of N.C. State University. Rev. Sprinkle has pastored Baptist Churches for 55 years in Buncombe, Henderson, Gaston, McDowell, and Burke County.

He is survived by his wife of many years, Blanche J. Sprinkle; son, Scott of Marion; brother, Richard of Canton; one granddaughter; two great-grandchildren; two very special godchildren, Ryan Price and Rachel Tatum; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Mr. Sprinkle was also preceded in death by brothers, John, Andy, and Bill; and a sister, Gladys Brown.

Funeral services will be held at 3:30 p.m., Sunday, May 30, 2010 at Burkemont Baptist Church with Dr. David Mills, Rev. Dale Cable, Rev. Eddy Bunton, and Mr. Jack Beach officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday from 2:00 until 3:30 pm at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Burkemont Baptist Church, 4668 Burkemont Avenue, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Edward Charles Roberts, 81, of Morganton died Thursday, May 27, 2010 at the Kingston Residence of Hickory following a period of declining health. He was born March 17, 1929 in Hartford, Connecticut, and was the son of the late Omar Roberts and Ida Locroix Roberts. While living in California, Edward was very involved in various youth sports. He was an avid reader of newspapers, and was the Chief Financial Officer at Shadowline for many years. Edward distinguished himself by his character, integrity, determination, and his unswerving commitment to his family, friends, and work. He had a real sense of community and traditions.

Edward is survived by his wife, Jane W. Roberts of Morganton; sons, Edward Charles Roberts, Jr. of Sacramento, CA, Thomas Roberts of Riverside, CA, Brian Roberts of Valdese, and Douglas Roberts of McKinney, TX; step-children, Robert Somerville of Weaverville, NC, and Robin Lucas of St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, eight grandchildren, six great grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, and two step-great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a step-daughter, Lynne Somerville, and a sister, Ida Mae Kelly. Private services will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to a personal charity of choice. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Larry A. Mull, 69, of Rays Dairy Ave. in Morganton died Thursday, May 27, 2010 at Britthaven following a period of declining health. He was born April 12, 1941 in Burke County, and was a son of the late Vance Mull and Anneliza Gray Mull. Larry retired from Drexel-Heritage Furnishings after 30 years of service.

He is survived by brothers, Ken Mull and wife, Nancy of Morganton, and Harry Mull of Bristol, VA; his caregiver, Helen Buchanan of Morganton; two nephews and two nieces.

Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, May 30, 2010 at Bethel United Methodist Church Cemetery in Morganton with Rev. Kevin Crawford officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.