Connie B. Morris, 74, went to be with her Lord on June 1, 2010. She was born in Cleveland County on July 18, 1935 and was a daughter of Edley and Lula Hoyle Brackett. Mrs. Morris was a member of New Home United Methodist Church and was a retired employee of Western Carolina Center Education Department.

Surviving are her husband of 58 years, Robert L. Morris, Jr.; son, Robert E. Morris and his wife, Rachel; daughter, Pam Mauney and her husband, Van Mauney; grandsons, Jacob and Caleb Mauney, and Robbie Morris; and great-grandchildren, Marlie Jane Mauney and Elijah Morris.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, June 4, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Reverends Steve Beaty and Chris Emory officiating. The family will receive friends one hour before the service. The burial will be held at 4:00 p.m. Friday at New Home United Methodist Church Cemetery, Casar, NC. Flowers will be appreciated or memorial contributions may be made to New Home United Methodist Church Building Fund, 422 Moriah School Rd., Casar, NC 28020 or to a charity of one’s choice.

On June 2nd, 2010, George Bruce Moyers, 73, passed quietly into eternal life at the Wake Forest University Medical Center in Winston Salem, N.C.

Life began for George in Claiborne County, Tennessee. He was the son of the late Clifton L. Moyers and Helen Bruce Moyers. An early marriage to his high school sweetheart, Mattie L. Goin, lasted 50 years. Together they raised 3 children in Morganton, N.C., two sons, Herman Bruce and Andrew Wesley, and a daughter, Karen Elaine. George is survived by his wife Mattie L. of Morganton, N.C., son Herman B. who resides in Sopot, Poland, son A. Wesley who resides in San Diego, California, daughter Karen E. of Morganton, brother John C. Moyers and Evelyn Moyers (wife) of Oak Ridge Tennessee, two sisters-in-law, Jeanette Smith of Harrogate, Tennessee and June Rowlette of Jonesboro, Georgia, and nieces and nephews.

After graduating from the Duke University School of Forestry in 1960, George resided continuously in Morganton, N.C. and was employed his entire working career as the Western NC division managing forester for the Crescent Land and Timber Corporation (a subsidiary of Duke Power Company). As a career forester, George will always be remembered for his great love and talent for growing trees. After retiring from Crescent Land and Timber Corporation in 1999, George continued his love for growing trees with a successful one-man shrubby business located near Lake James.

George will be greatly missed by his family and friends and always remembered for this contribution to making the world a more beautiful place.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, June 6, 2010 from 7:00 until 8:30 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center’s Palliative Care Center, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157.

Ann Ward McGalliard, 88, of Morganton, and a former Drexel resident, died Wednesday, June 2, 2010 at Morganton Long Term Care following several years of declining health. She was born May 13, 1922 in Burke County, NC, and was the daughter of the late William Leith Ward and Hettie Elizabeth McGalliard Ward.

She was a member of Drexel First Baptist Church.

Ann is survived by a son, Bill “Billy” McGalliard of Jonas Ridge and formerly of Drexel; a grandson, Matthew Blake McGalliard and his mother, Robin Ramsey Berthalot; and a brother, Charles Ward and wife, Penny of Morganton.

In addition to her parents, Ann was preceded in death by her husband, Francis H. McGalliard; and brothers, Joe and L. A. Ward.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, June 5, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Tito Madrazo officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour before the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Drexel First Baptist Church, PO Box 308, Drexel, NC 28619.

Evelyn Law, 81, of Walton Rd., Morganton, NC died unexpectedly on Wednesday, June 2, 2010 at her residence. Born in Buncombe Co., NC on March 17, 1929, she was the daughter of the late Harry Arthur Owensby and Blanche Murdock Owensby. Evelyn was a member of the First United Methodist Church. She worked in several local clothing stores including: Hallies, Burand’s, John Graham, Spainhours, and Lazarus.

Evelyn is survived by her daughters, Debbie Whetstone and husband, Dave, of Hickory, NC, Ann Law of Durham, NC, and Susan Law of Morganton; grandchildren, Jaime Matheson, Heather Belton, Will Whetstone, Christopher Sellers, Ashley Grzeslo, Dillon Law, Dessie Law, Chandler Law, and Evie Grace Law; great-grandchildren, Tanner, Brittney, and Brianna Matheson, Jordan Morettie, and Laken and Piercen Whetstone; and a special feline companion, Arista.

In addition to her parents, Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband, James Parker Law, and a grandson, Adam Wood Whetstone.

A celebration of Evelyn’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, June 6, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Robert Roach officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home following the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Sipes Orchard Home, 4431 County Home Rd., Conover, NC 28613 or to the Western Piedmont Humane Society, Burke County Div., 132 Pearson Dr., Morganton, NC 28655.

Marc J. Ransbottom, 53, of Morganton passed away Thursday, June 3, 2010 at his residence. He was born December 26, 1956 in Norwalk, OH, and was a son of Guy Ransbottom of Camarillo, CA, and the late Joan Miller Getz. Marc joined the US Army in 1974 and served as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Specialist until his retirement in 1989. He lived in Florida for five years where he was employed at Longwood Fire and Rescue as a paramedic and firefighter. Marc moved to Morganton in 1993 where he graduated from WPCC, and then was employed at WPCC as a drafting and design engineering instructor from 1999 until 2005. Marc was an avid bowler at Mimosa Lanes. He was a loving and devoted husband, son, father, and grandfather.

In addition to his father, Marc is survived by his wife, E. Jane Moses Ransbottom of the home; daughters, Brandi Ransbottom Spears and Ashley Ransbottom, and grandchildren, Sydnee Spears and Kaleb Howard, all of Morganton; a brother, Gary Miller of Sanford, NC; and a nephew, Gary Ransbottom.

Funeral services will be held at 4:00 p.m., Sunday, June 6, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Donald Lovelace officiating. Military honors will be conducted by the US Army Honor Guard unit from Ft. Bragg immediately following the service at the funeral home. The ashes will be interred at Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Black Mountain at a later date. The family will receive friends Sunday from 3:00 until 4:00 pm at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Kidney Cancer Association, PO Box 3516, Oak Brook, IL 60522.

Lenzy G. Golds, 70, of Oak Hill Dr., Morganton, NC went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, June 3, 2010 at Caldwell County Hospice following a lengthy battle with cancer. Born in Forsyth Co., NC on June 10, 1939, he was the son of the late Willie Jackson Golds, Sr. and Nona Lucille Priddy Golds. Lenzy was a member of Hartland Baptist Church. He had worked at Western Carolina Center, was a manager at the Gate Station, and was a sergeant with Griffin Security and was stationed at Great Lakes Carbon Plant. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, NASCAR races, and gardening.

Lenzy is survived by his daughters, Regina Golds Smith and husband, Tommy, Rená Golds Courtney and husband, Grover, Kimberly Golds Jackson and husband, David, all of Lenoir, and Valerie Golds of Morganton; sisters, Helen Gordon of Winston-Salem, NC and Mary Ann McNeil of Granite Falls, NC; a brother, Joseph Matthew Golds, Sr. and wife, Sylvia, of Lenoir; a sister-in-law, Beulah Golds of Morganton; five grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. In addition to his parents, Lenzy was preceded in death by his wife, Loretta Poarch Golds; a son, Michael Golds; a daughter, Wendy Golds Wilson; a brother, Willie Jackson Golds, Jr.; and a sister, Jeanette Stafford.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, June 6, 2010 at Hartland Baptist Church with Rev. Matthew Grindstaff and Dr. Steve Parker officiating. Burial will follow in Hartland Missionary Methodist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends Saturday evening from 7:00 until 8:30 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the funeral hour. At other times the family will be at the home of Regina Smith, on Beverly Circle, Lenoir. Memorial contributions may be made to Sisters Medical Fund, c/o Rená Golds Courtney, First Citizens Bank, 115 Blowing Rock Boulevard, Lenoir, NC 28645-4401.

Y. Ellis Spake, 71, of Riverside Drive, Morganton, NC died Friday, June 4, 2010 at the Burke Palliative Care Center following an extended illness. Born in Guilford County, NC on April 24, 1939, he was the son of the late Yates Ellis Spake, Sr. and Alberta Butler Spake. Ellis was a member of First Baptist Church. He graduated from Mars Hill College and N.C. State University. He was a civil engineer/consultant relating to waste water design. Ellis had also worked for the N.C. Dept. of Transportation and Moore Gardner Associates, which later became Black and Veatch. Ellis had many projects he was proud of, but he was proudest of the desalinization plant in Dare County which he helped design. He later retired from Municipal Engineering Service in Boone.

Ellis is survived by his wife, Joyce Houston Spake of the home; a son, Carl Yates Spake and wife, Mary, of Lexington, NC; daughters, Susan Spake Alsup and husband, Rick, of Kernersville, NC, Laura Spake and special friend, Bobby, of Gibsonville, NC, and Heather Glazebrooks of Morganton; grandchildren, Dylan Spake, Gavin Spake, Job Spake, Garrett Spake, Melissa Alsup, Houston Spake, JoAnna Montgomery, Zachary Montgomery, and James Melton.

A celebration of Ellis’ life will be held at 5:00 p.m., Sunday, June 6, 2010 in the chapel of First Baptist Church with Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr. officiating. The family will receive friends in the church parlor from 4:00 until 5:00 p.m. prior to the service. Interment of the ashes will follow in Forest Hill Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690 or to the American Diabetes Association, Always and Forever Memorial Program, P.O. Box 13067, Alexandria, VA 22312. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Jerry “Cotton” Huffman, 68, of Persimmon Rd., Connelly Springs, NC died Saturday, June 5, 2010 as a result of injuries in an auto accident. Born in Burke County, NC on May 14, 1942, he was a son of the late Forrest and Eva Pruitt Huffman. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Swink Huffman, two brothers and a sister. For forty years Jerry was employed by Drexel-Heritage Furnishings. He was a member of the Bens Knob Beagle Club.

Surviving are a son, Randy “Jake” Huffman and his wife, Sandy of Connelly Springs; a daughter, Peggy Willis and her husband, Mack of Rutherford College, NC; granddaughters, Jessica and Amber Huffman and Anna Willis; great grandsons, Rhylen and Eastyn Huffman and Brayden Willis; a brother, Larry Huffman of Connelly Springs; and a sister, Wanda Robinson of Connelly Springs.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 8, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with the Rev. Buddy Sizemore officiating. Burial will follow in the Swink Family Cemetery, Connelly Springs, NC. The family will receive friends from 7:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m., Monday at the funeral home. At other times the family will be at the home of Peggy and Mack Willis, Rutherford College, NC.

Johnny Guy Propst, 76, of Morganton, NC passed away surrounded by the love of his family on Sunday, June 6, 2010. He was born June 7, 1934 to the late Cullen and Emma Propst of Morganton. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Woodrow Propst; brothers, Clyde Propst, Melvin Propst, Leroy Propst, and Marvin Propst; and a sister, Clarissa Propst Watts.

Johnny had a lifelong love of tractors and spent his days fixing them, riding them, or telling stories about them. He was an avid fan of the Atlanta Braves, rarely missing a chance to watch a televised game, although rarely stayed awake long enough to see the end. He met the love of his life in 1968 and spent his last 42 years by her side raising their family and enjoying spending time with all of those they loved.

Johnny is survived by his wife, Janis Jones Propst of Morganton; sons, Clint Propst and wife, Annye, of Charlotte, NC, Jason Propst and wife, Marta, of Charleston, SC, and Mark Propst of AR; daughters, Kimberly Propst Stidham and husband, Keith, of Travelers Rest, SC and Susan Morgan of Kingman, AZ; ; grandchildren, Joey Reid, Shannon Reid, and Sarah Morgan; a great-granddaughter, Isabella Morgan; and a sister, Cleo Watts, and husband, Will, of Morganton.

A celebration of Johnny’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, June 11, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Burl Sain officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690, to a hospice of the donor’s choice, or to the American Cancer Society, 4-A Oak Branch Dr., Greensboro, NC 27407.

Shirley Russ Williams of Morganton, NC went home to be with the Lord on Monday, June 7, 2010 at Mission Hospital in Asheville, NC. She was born August 26, 1939 in Cleveland County, and was a daughter of Ruby Verlene Johnson Russ of Morganton, and the late William Lee Russ.

In addition to her mother, Shirley is survived by her loving husband , Richard D. Williams of the home; children, Tammy Severt and husband, Paul of Valdese, and Mark Richard Williams and wife, Angie of Hildebran; grandchildren, Emily and Carrie Williams, and Andrew and Jonah Severt; brothers, Jack Russ and his wife Ailene, of Morganton and John Russ and his wife Katie, of Pinehurst, NC; a sister, Joyce Brittain and her husband Don, of Valdese and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Alex Williams.

She was a graduate of Morganton High School and Wingate and Lenoir Rhyne Universities. She worked many years as a bookkeeper with A & P grocery and later with Burke Pharmacy. She touched the lives of others in many ways through her work with Cub Scouts and children. She was a devoted wife, dedicated mother, and loving sister and daughter. Her greatest legacy will live on through those who knew her as their “Awesome Nana.”

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, June 10, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Bobby Hallyburton officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. A private family entombment will be held at the Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum. At other times the family will be at the home of Paul and Tammy Severt. Memorial contributions may be made to the Arthritis Foundation, P. O. Box 7669, Atlanta, GA 30357-0669 or to the Lupus Foundation of America, Inc., PO Box 631047, Baltimore, MD 21263-1047.

Edith Howard McCormick Brothers, 93, died peacefully at Hospice House on Wednesday, June 9, 2010 after years of declining health. The youngest child of Hugh Holmes and Edith Howard Allen McCormick of Charles Town, West Virginia, she decided at an early age to become a nurse and received her RN degree from Baltimore’s Union Memorial Hospital in 1939. She met and married J. Grayson Brothers at Duke Hospital, Durham in 1942 and they served in England during World War II, he as a hospital administrator and she as a U.S Army nurse. In 1953 they moved to Morganton and brought up three children, David, Susan, and Tom while Grayson was the administrator of Grace Hospital for 25 years.

Edith was down-to-earth, spunky, funny, and in her younger years, full of energy. She overcame great tragedy in her life but believed in giving back to her community: as a Pink Lady at Grace Hospital, the Morganton Public Library, the American Red Cross, and the soup kitchen. She served on the Deerfield Board, the Council on Aging, and the Morganton Recreation Board. She welcomed many to Morganton as the Welcome Wagon Hostess and served as a receptionist at Dr. Bill Kirksey’s office. As a staunch Episcopalian, she was a member of the Altar Guild, the Episcopal Church Women, and the vestry. Edith was a founding member of Mountain House, later known as Grace Ridge and served on its first board. She also was one of the founders of Burke Hospice and Palliative Care where she served on its first board and for many, many years as a volunteer. Hospice was her passion.

Edith traveled extensively throughout the world and gained from these experiences a global point of view and the need to live simply. As a member of the Friendship Force she loved to host people from other countries and visit theirs.

Edith enjoyed hiking and bird watching. Many will remember her as a very brisk walker and would see her and Mary Adair Phifer flying down the streets of Morganton. Even in her early eighties she participated in the Senior Games. She was an avid reader and when she lost her sight to macular degeneration, she loved books on tape.

She is predeceased by her parents, two brothers, her husband and two sons. She has one surviving daughter and her husband, six grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. Edith was a woman of faith, character, and vision. She possessed a unique personality and was loved by many. She will be sorely missed.

The funeral will be held at Grace Episcopal Church on Wednesday, June 16, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. followed by her interment in the Memorial Garden, and a reception in the parish hall. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690 or to Grace Episcopal Church, 303 S. King St., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Her family would like to thank the staffs of Grace Ridge, Burke Hospice, her friends, and church for their love and care.

Joseph “Joe” Fowler, 49, of Morganton died Thursday, June 10, 2010.

A funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, at Smart’s Grove Baptist Church with the Rev. Charles Lewis officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

David Alan Abee, 48, of Gouge Ave., Morganton, NC died Friday, June 11, 2010. Born in Burke County, NC on July 5, 1961, he was the son of Gladys Ann Lail Abee and the late David Delain Abee. David was a member of Abee’s Grove Baptist Church. He worked as a corrections officer at the Western Youth Institute. He was an Eagle Scout and a member of the National Rifle Association.

In addition to his mother, David is survived by his wife, Sharon Shook Abee of Glen Alpine, NC; a son, Jeremy Alan Abee of Rutherford College, NC; a daughter, Jamie Elizabeth Abee and fiancée, Jesse McLean, of Rutherford College; a granddaughter, Amanda “Fireball” McLean; a brother, Barry Olin Abee and wife, Fern, of Morganton; and step-children, Krislyn and Clayton Huffman.

The funeral will be held at 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, June 15, 2010 at Abee’s Grove Baptist Church with Rev. Rudy Hayes officiating and honor-guard provided by corrections officers. 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 the American Diabetes Association, Charlotte Office, 222 S. Church St., Suite 336M, Charlotte, NC 28202. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Vera Beach Brittain, 82, of Denton’s Chapel Road, Morganton, NC went to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, June 13, 2010 at her residence. Born in Burke County, NC on August 20, 1927, she was the daughter of the late Fred Heath Beach and Cora Marie Neidig Beach. Vera was a member of Mt. Home Baptist Church. She walked and prayed every weekday with her precious friend, Rassie Duckworth. Vera loved all of her devoted friends and prayer partners in her Sunday school class. She loved to work and help others, especially by volunteering at the Burke United Christian Ministries (BUCM) Food Pantry. She was a terrific wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and daughter. Vera focused her life on knowing, loving, serving, and glorifying God. She loved the Lord and served Him faithfully.

She is survived by two sons, Bobby Ray Brittain and wife, Rebecca, of Granite Falls, NC and Jeffrey Coy Brittain and wife, Cynthia, of Morganton; a daughter, Connie Ashby and husband, Carlton, of Raleigh, NC; grandchildren, Bobbie Jo Brittain, Carolyn McMurray, Stephen Ashby, Jessica Brittain, Janaye Brittain, and Jenna Brittain; great-grandchildren, Pamela Goins, Caleb McMurray, Caleigh McMurray, and Carlton Stephen Ashby, IV; brothers, Ralph and Ruthven Beach, both of Morganton; and three sisters, Louise Brittain, Mary Tallent, and Sarah Copeland, all of Morganton.

In addition to her parents, Vera was preceded in death by her husband, Coy Millard Brittain; a brother, Worth Beach; and sisters, Mary Virginia Beach, Ethyleen Murphy, and Blanche LeFevers.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, June 15, 2010 at Mount Home Baptist Church with Rev. Jerry Gamble officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Monday evening from 6:30 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to BUCM Food Pantry, 305-B West Union St., Morganton, NC 28655 or to the Mt. Home Baptist Church Graceful Giving Fund, 2272 Mt. Home Church Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.

Betsy Arrowood, 67, of Morganton gave up her courageous battle with cancer on Monday, June 14, 2010 and went to be with her Lord. She was born November 29, 1942 in Burke County, and was the daughter of the late Ernest “Country” Arrowood, Sr. and Carrie Smith Arrowood. Betsy was first employed at the North Carolina School for the Deaf, Kathy Hosiery in Valdese, and later worked as a secretary at Masterpiece Art and Frame. She received her Certified Nursing Assistant license, and worked for Foothills Detox and several nursing homes.

Betsy is survived by a son, David Gary Throneburg, Jr. and wife, Sandy of Morganton; a daughter, Selena Wagner and husband, Mike of Morganton; grandchildren, Trey, Caitlyn, and Trevor Throneburg, and Zack and Heather Wagner; a brother, Richard S. Arrowood and wife, Norida of Morganton; nephew, Brian Arrowood; nieces, April Henderson, Sonya Carpenter, and Angela Williams; her former husband and the father of her children, Gary Throneburg, Sr.; and her faithful canine companion, Bandit.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Ernest Arrowood, Jr.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, June 19, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Doug St. John officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends Saturday one hour before the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke County Friends for Animals, PO Box 1884, Morganton, NC 28680.

James F. Penley, 83, of Valdese, and formerly of Ponderosa Rd. in Morganton died Tuesday, June 15, 2010 at Valdese Hospital following a period of declining health. He was born May 3, 1927 in Burke County, and was a son of the late Julius Penley and Florence Franklin Penley. James was a faithful member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, and a retired employee of Drexel-Heritage Furnishings with 40 years of service.

He is survived by children, Dwight Penley and wife, Frances, Hazel Causby, and Naomi Buff and husband, Major, all of Morganton; grandchildren, Tammy Farris and Heather Brown; and great-grandchildren, Emily Farris, Macray Brown, Raelyn Brown, and Kerrigan Brown.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his wife, Lola Carswell Penley; brothers, Howard, Bill, Oscar, Robert, and John Penley; sisters, Ruby Smith, Myrtle LaFevers, Johnsie Watson, and Essie Thompson; and a son-in-law, Kenneth Causby.

Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, June 17, 2010 at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church with Dr. Larry Cline officiating. Burial followed in the church cemetery. The family received friends Wednesday from 7:00 until 8:30 pm at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body remained until placed in the church thirty minutes before the funeral hour. Memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant Hill Baptist Church Building Fund, 2396 Enola Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.

Arnold Carswell, 74 died June 15, 2010. The graveside service is 4:00 p.m., Wednesday at Carswell Memorial Baptist Church Cemetery. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting.

Lamont Tilden Harris, 76, of Drexel, NC died Thursday, June 17, 2010 at Burke Palliative Care Center. He was born July 26, 1933 in Burke County, and was the son of the late John Tilden Harris and Donnie Jane Powell Harris. Lamont was a member of Enon Baptist Church where he served as a R.A. leader, a lifetime deacon, a Sunday school teacher, a member of the building and grounds committee, a member of the brotherhood, was choir director for 13 years and a lifelong member of the church choir. He was a long time employee of Sigmon Electric and owned and operated with his wife M & M Seamers for 30 years. He was a U.S. Navy Veteran. He served on the Drexel Fair Board.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Moleta Baker Harris of the home; son, Monty Harris, of the home; daughters, Shelia McKenzie and husband, Kevin, Michelle Harris, Donna McGuire and husband, Tim all of Drexel, and Pamela Richards and husband, Barry of Vale; brothers, Cecil Harris and wife Mary Juan of Lufkin, TX and Kenneth Harris and wife, Pat of Drexel; sister, Diann Epley and husband, Larry of Drexel; grandchildren, Brandon Richards, Benjamin Richards, Jessica Christian, Dusty McGuire, Mindy Blackwell, Alicia Barlowe, Molly McKenzie and Tyler McKenzie; and great grandson, Kaysen Lucas.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, June 19, 2010 at Enon Baptist Church with the Reverends Gary Garner and Ernie Richards officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 12:30 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the church. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Enon Baptist Church Building Fund, 2059 Enon Rd., Morganton, NC 28655 or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

Irene Bowman Woodie, 72, of Seitz Rd., Morganton, NC died Thursday, June 17, 2010 at her residence following a courageous, 3 year battle with cancer. Born in Burke County, NC on May 14, 1938, she was the daughter of the late Harvey Andrew Bowman and Elva Blackburn Bowman.

Irene was a member of Pleasant View Baptist Church where she was a choir member and a Sunday School teacher. She worked for many years in the children’s department. She was a graduate of Drexel High School and had just celebrated her 54th reunion. She and Rodney were married during their senior year. Irene worked for many years in the cafeteria at Drexel Primary School. In 1997 she retired from Broughton Hospital.

Irene loved to play sports. She was a star player on the Drexel High School girls basketball team and played softball. She was an avid Tarheels basketball fan and also loved walking on the beach.

Irene is survived by her husband, Rodney A. Woodie of the home; sons, Bruce Woodie of Connelly Springs, NC and Kevin Woodie and wife, Kecia, of Iron Station, NC; a daughter, Dea Lloyd and husband, Dean, of Drexel, NC; grandchildren, Michael Lloyd, Taylor Woodie, Zachary Lloyd, and Maddie Woody; brothers, Harvey “H.A.” Bowman of Baltimore, MD, Richard Bowman of Morganton, and Gary Bowman and wife, Janice, of Morganton; a sister, Juanita Staley and husband, Bob, of Richmond, VA; and a number of very special nephews and nieces.

A celebration of Irene’s life will be held at 4:00 p.m., Sunday, June 20, 2010 at Pleasant View Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Burt Wilbur officiating. The family will receive friends in the church fellowship hall following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Pleasant View Baptist Church, 1834 US 70 East, 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.

Winston “Sonny” Wilson, 94, of Harris Drive, Morganton, NC died Friday, June 18, 2010 at the Burke Palliative Care Center in Valdese, NC. Born in Burke County, NC on October 28, 1915, he was the son of the late S. E. Wilson and Gertrude White Wilson. Sonny attended Snow Hill United Methodist Church. He was a U.S. Army infantry veteran of WWII. He participated in D-day and received the Purple Heart for being wounded on Thanksgiving day while serving in Germany. Sonny retired from the Morganton Post Office after 20 years of service.

He is survived by his wife, Inez Carswell Wilson of the home; brothers, Charles E. Wilson and wife, Katherine, and Andrew W. Wilson and wife, Loree, all of Morganton; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Sonny was preceded in death by three sisters, Virginia Warlick, Edith Hope Wilson, and Sue Widenhouse.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, June 21, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Gary Leonard officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Hill 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. At other times the family will be at the residence. Memorial contributions may be made to Snow Hill United Methodist Church, 5425 Snow Hill Church Road, Morganton, NC 28655.

Johnsie Puett, 75, of Bristol Creek Avenue, Morganton, NC went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, June 19, 2010 at Grace Hospital. Born in Burke County, NC on October 18, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Clyde Cicero Costner and Elsie Margaret Lambert Costner. Johnsie was a member of Hartland Baptist Church where she was active in the quilting ministries. She loved flowers and hummingbirds and retired from Drexel Heritage.

Johnsie is survived by her husband of 59 years, Edward ‘Ed” Puett of the home; sons, Robert E. Puett and wife, Debbie, of Marion, NC and Randy A. Puett and wife, Barbara, of Lenoir, NC; grandchildren, Heather Nyman, Bethany Powell, Kimberly Owenby, Robbie Puett, and Amber Massey; eleven great-grandchildren; a brother, J.C. Costner of Charlotte, NC; and a sister, Merlene Long of Hickory, NC.

The funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, June 22, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Matthew A. Grindstaff officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the funeral home for one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Hartland Baptist Church, 3730 Hartland Road, Morganton, NC 28655.

Tracy James McNeely, of Durham, NC died Saturday, June 19, 2010. He was born in Catawba County on April 22, 1960 and was the son of J. B. and Gay Avis Rector McNeely of Valdese. Tracy graduated from NC State School of Engineering in 1983 with an EE degree and was formerly employed as a software engineer at Northern Telecom and Tekelec in the Research Triangle Park in Durham. He loved to travel and see the world and had worked for 1 year in Japan and for 2 years in England. Tracy holds a U. S. Patent for Methods and Systems for Testing Communication Network Components. As an avid outdoorsman, Tracy enjoyed the beach, deep sea fishing, scuba diving, water and snow skiing, and going on family vacations just like the “Griswolds.”

In addition to his parents, Tracy is survived by his sister, Jamie McNeely, of Morganton; an aunt, Nancy Clark and her son, Shane Clark, of Morganton; and a number of other aunts, uncles, and cousins.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 23, 2010, at Drexel First Baptist Church with Rev. Tito Madrazo officiating. The family will receive friends following the service in the church fellowship hall. Graveside services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday at Drexel Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Malone McNeely, Bradley Hicks, Michael Hicks, Mike Hicks, Hal Hallman, and Monty Harris; and honorary pallbearers will be Ray Benfield, Billy Hubbs, Reid Scott, Fons Giles, Odell White, Greg Shull, and Eric Byrd. Memorial contributions may be made to Drexel First Baptist Church Food Ministry or Drive Thru Building Fund, PO Box 308, Drexel, NC 29619. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Nancy Watts Myrick, 89, of Drexel died Monday, June 21, 2010 at Frye Regional Medical Center in Hickory, NC. She was born February 16, 1921 in Burke County, and was a daughter of the late D. A. Watts and Mary Carswell Watts. Nancy attended Celebration Family Worship Center, but was a charter member of Amherst Baptist Church. While a faithful member of Amherst Baptist, she sang in the choir, taught Sunday school, and was also a G. A. teacher. Nancy was a wonderful Christian wife, mother, and grandmother.

She is survived by a son, Jim W. Myrick, Jr. of Asheville, NC; daughters, Rebecca Myrick Poteat and husband, Robert of Drexel, and Shirley Hise of Morganton; grandson, T. Hamilton Ward of Raleigh, NC; a brother, Donald Watts of Morganton; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, James W. “Jim” Myrick, Sr.; and a number of brothers and sisters.

Funeral services will be held at 4:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 23, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Rocky McLendon and Rev. Michael Riley officiating. The family will receive friends following the service at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Amherst Baptist Church, 1024 Amherst Rd., Morganton, NC 28655, or to the Celebration Family Worship Center Building Fund, P.O. Box 2058, Morganton, NC 28680.

John Laxton Logan, Sr. 87, died Monday, June 21, 2010 following a brief illness. He was born in Rutherford County, N.C. on November 11, 1922 and was a son of the late Clifford M. and Minnie Beam Logan. Mr. Logan was a U. S. Air Force veteran of World War II where he served in India. He retired from Bernard Pontiac-Cadillac where he was manager of the parts department for 35 years. As a life-long member of Calvary Baptist Church, John was a Deacon, Sunday School teacher, and served as outreach coordinator for several years. He enjoyed gardening, traveling, and the company of children.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Betty Yelton Logan; his son, John L. Logan, Jr. and his wife, Jeongok, of Chapel Hill, N.C.; his daughter, Cynthia L. Logan, of Morganton; and several nieces and nephews.In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by brothers, Frank D. and Clifford Logan and by sisters, Sarah B. Logan and Nancy L. Edwards.

The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 26, 2010 at Calvary Baptist Church with Rev. Larry Thompson officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 7:00 until 8:30 p.m. Friday at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church 30 minutes before the funeral hour. At other times, the family will be at the home.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 29690 or to Calvary Baptist Church, 407 S. Green St., Morganton, NC 28655.

Christopher Scott Herrick, 21, of Fort Hood, TX, and formerly of Denton’s Chapel Rd. in Morganton died Sunday, June 20, 2010 in Killeen, TX as a result of an auto accident. He was born October 6, 1988 in Burke County, NC, and was a son of Angel Brown Saunders and Bradley Herrick both of Morganton. Christopher was a member of Denton’s Chapel United Methodist Church and an avid hunter and fisherman. He was a US Army serviceman, and very proud to serve his country. Christopher loved his family and his church family.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his step-father, Larry Saunders, and his step-mother, Robin Herrick, both of Morganton; siblings, B.J. Herrick, Rosalie Herrick, Rainey Herrick, and Grace Saunders, all of Morganton; grandparents, Betty Herrick, Shelby Jean Fox, James and Shirley Saunders, all of Morganton, and Julius Roy Brown, II of Midland, NC; great-grandmother, Ethel Brown of Morganton; a nephew, Malakai Robinson; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Christopher was preceded in death by grandparents, Benjamin “Buck” Herrick, and Robert and Hope Watts.

Funeral services will be held at 3:30 pm, Sunday, June 27, 2010 at Denton’s Chapel United Methodist Church with Rev. Alan Wilson officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends Sunday from 2:00 until 3:30 pm in the church fellowship hall. Memorial contributions may be made to Denton’s Chapel United Methodist Church, 5358 Denton’s Chapel Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Allen Coffey, 55, of Coffey Lane in Morganton died unexpectedly Wednesday, June 23, 2010 at his residence. He was born July 31, 1954 in Prince George, MD, and was a son of Phyllis Bennett Coffey of Morganton, and the late Henry Ray Coffey. Allen was also preceded in death by a brother, Edward Ray Coffey. Allen was of the Baptist faith. He was very concerned with the needs of other people, and served 5 years on the Board of Human Rights Committee at Broughton Hospital. He enjoyed outdoor activities such as gardening, and taking care of both plants and animals in his environment. Allen dearly loved his family.

In addition to his mother, Allen is survived by a brother, Clifton Coffey, a sister, Christina Coffey, and a nephew, Daniel Dolinger, all of Morganton; and two great nephews and two great nieces.

Funeral services will be held at 5:00 p.m., Friday, June 25, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Jerry Rogers officiating. 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.

Anna Lee Kent, 60, of Benfields Landing Road, Nebo, NC, formerly of Venice/Nokomis, FL, went home to be with her Heavenly Father on Wednesday, June 23, 2010 at the Burke Palliative Care Center on Wednesday, June 23, 2010. Born in Sarasota County, FL on October 17, 1949, she was the daughter of Juanita Turner Anderson and the late Arthur Lawrence Anderson. Anna was a member of First Baptist Church in the Pines in Florida and worked as a food service manager for the Sarasota County School Board.

In addition to her mother, Anna is survived by her daughter, Laurie Jones and husband, Wayne, of the home; grandchildren, Josephine L. Williams, Dee Blanchard, Bryan Blanchard, Taylor McCurdy, Wayne Jones, II and wife, Krista, Michael Jones, and Brandie Jones; a great-grandchild, Kailey Jones; and canine companions, Alley, Snippy, and Paco.

In addition to her father, Anna was preceded in death by her brother, Arthur “Larry” Anderson and her former husband, Ronnie E. Kent.

The family will receive friends Friday evening from 7:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. A memorial service will be held at a later date in Sarasota, FL. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.

Captain William Anton Brown, 93, of Camelot Drive, Morganton, NC died Wednesday, June 23, 2010 at Grace Hospital following a lengthy illness. Born in Baltimore, MD on March 13, 1917, he was the son of the late William Anton Brown and Josephine Brown.

Captain Brown was a native of the Baltimore area and attended Poly Tech High School and John Hopkins University where he received a degree in engineering. He served as a pilot in the pacific theater of WWII and was then recalled to serve during the Korean War. He then returned to Pan American Airlines where he was an overseas pilot and later served in many administrative capacities until his retirement. Cpt. Brown was very involved in the development and testing of the Boeing 747. He relocated from Fairfield, CT to Morganton in 2004.

An avid reader, Cpt. Brown loved gardening and was well informed and outspoken on all things political. He was particularly stressed about the fact that he felt our country is moving away from our traditional values and morals. He will be missed as a wonderful man and a true patriot.

Cpt. Brown is survived by a son, Don Brown of Colorado Springs, CO; daughters, Marion Brown of Fort Collins, CO and Barbara Brown of Colorado Springs; a step-daughter, Hannah Goutierre of Washington Depot, CT; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and nephews and nieces; a long-time companion and best friend, Betty McGowen Butler; his beloved McGowen family; and by his dear adopted family, Debra Calfee and Sherman Buff, who were always there to help and give support.

The family will receive friends Sunday, June 27, 2010 from 7:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Sossoman Funeral Home. A memorial service for the family will be held at the McGowen Beach House at Cape Lookout at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Autism Society of North Carolina, 505 Oberlin Rd., Suite 230, Raleigh, NC 27605.

Garland Theodore Mull, 91, died Friday, June 25, 2010 following a brief illness. He was born in Burke County on October 5, 1918 and was a son of the late John Henry and Margaret Ellen Lefevers Mull. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife of 44 years, Eleanor Cowan Mull and by a son Judge John Ray Mull. He was also predeceased by brothers, James Edgar Mull, John Jackson Mull, and Dewey William Mull; and by sisters, Bessie Marie Hefner, Princess Elizabeth Coulter, Ruby Irene Cuthbertson, Esther Raye Scott, and Lillie Mae Grady.

Mr. Mull was an honor student of his graduating class at Glen Alpine High School, a U. S. Army veteran of World War II, and a retired employee of Henredon Furniture Company. A lifelong resident of Burke County, Garland was also a faithful and lifelong member of First Baptist Church in Glen Alpine, where he was a member of the Senior Men’s Sunday School Class. Garland was also an avid hunter and a productive gardener.

Surviving are a son, Richard Theodore Mull, M. D. and his wife, Sonya, of Bluefield, WV; grandchildren, John Mull, Jr. and Matthew Mull both of Glen Alpine; Rebecca Mull of Myrtle Beach, SC; Richard Mull and William Mull of Asheville, NC; and Connor Theodore Mull and Avery Margaret Mull of Bluefield; and great-grandchildren, Damon, Skyler, and Zoey Mull.

“My father was a man of absolute integrity, who believed in his family, his friends, his church, and his community. He is the only person I have ever met who has never told a lie.” said Dr. Mull. “Burke County lost one of its truest and most faithful sons when Garland left us.”

The funeral will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, June 28, 2010 at First Baptist Church, Glen Alpine with Rev. Michael Brown and Mr. Garland West officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park with military honors conducted by Valdese American Legion Post 234. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 6:30 p.m. Sunday at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church 30 minutes before the funeral hour. Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, PO Box 557, Glen Alpine, NC 28628.

Wilburn Buel McCall, 84, loving husband, father, and grandfather, died Saturday, June 26, 2010 following a period of declining health. He was born in Bryson City, NC on January 13, 1926 and was a son of the late Dewey and Freda Gunter McCall. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Ellen Stephens McCall; brothers, Obie and Otis McCall; and by a sister, Cleta Conner. Mr. McCall was a U. S. Army veteran of World War II.

Surviving are two sons, Edward Lee McCall and his wife Frankie, along with Steve Larry McCall and his wife Lisa, all of Morganton. Also surviving are two daughters, Rhonda Kay McCall of Kiev, Ukraine and Nancy Karen McCall of Morganton and the mother of his children from his first marriage, Hildred Gregory McCall of Morganton; sisters, Audrey Culbreth of Wilmington, NC and Freda Edmonds of Asheville, NC; nine grandchildren; and twenty-three great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 7:00 p.m. Monday, June 28, 2010 at Sossoman Funeral Home. The funeral will be held at 7:00 p.m. Monday in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home.. Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday at the Gunter Family Cemetery, Bryson City, NC.

Herbert “Whitey” Franklin, 82, died Saturday, June 26, 2010. He was born in Madison County, NC on June 16, 1928 to the late Grant and Ada Mace Franklin. Mr. Franklin was a member of Faith Temple Church. For many years he operated his own heavy equipment company and really enjoyed operating his bulldozers. “Whitey” was very active in his community where he worked with the Brindletown Fire Department and the neighborhood watch. He was also an avid fisherman and loved helping others in his community.

Surviving are his wife, Martha Blankenship Franklin and his children and their spouses, Stephen and Martha Franklin, Michael and Thelma Franklin, Debbie and Jerry Lourcey, and Karen and Thomas Moody all of Morganton. He is also survived by five grandchildren, Jonathan and LeManda Franklin, Wendy Roper, Maggie Moody, and Jimmy Bumgarner; and eight great-grandchildren. His brother, Taylor Franklin and sisters, Mildred Proffitt and Eula Wheeler all live in Mars Hill.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by grandchildren, Thomas Lee Moody, III and Michael McKinley Franklin; and by a great-grandson, Austin Trenten Franklin.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 29, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Mr. Floyd Thomas officiating. Burial will follow at Faith Temple Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 7:30 p.m. Monday at Sossoman Funeral Home.

James “Harry” Ross, 94, of Morganton NC died Sunday, June 27, 2010 at Grace Heights Health Care Center. Born in Burke County, NC on November 25, 1915, he was the son of the late J. M. Ross and Alice James Ross. Harry was a member of First United Methodist Church. He was a US Army veteran of the pacific theater of WWII. He worked in the Charlotte area as a construction worker.

Harry is survived by his nephew, John W. Beach and wife, Elizabeth Lowe Beach, of Morganton, and a great-niece, Aggie Elizabeth Beach of Morganton.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Uncle Harry’s extended family at Grace Heights Health Care Center.

In addition to his parents, Harry was preceded in death by his sisters, Abigail Ross and Ruth Ross Beach, and brothers, Lee McCall Ross and William J. Ross.

A graveside service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, June 30, 2010 at Forest Hill Cemetery with Rev. Todd McCullough officiating. The family will receive friends at the graveside following the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Grace Heights Health Care Center, 109 Foothills Drive, Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Lettie Walker Rader, 88, of Mt. Airy, NC formerly of Morganton died Monday, June 28, 2010. She was born in Burke County on February 3, 1922 and was a daughter of the late Michael Walker and Rosa Lee Brittain Walker Duckworth. Mrs. Rader moved to Mt. Airy several years ago following the death of her husband of 58 years, Eugene Blackwell Rader with whom she owned and operated the former Gene’s Drive-In in Morganton. She also worked at Drexel-Heritage Furnishings and Belk. Lettie was devoted to her family and was a member of the Eastern Star. She was a life-long member of Mt. Home Baptist Church and attended Central United Methodist Church in Mt. Airy.

Surviving are her two sons and their wives, Mike and Cindy Rader of Mt. Airy and Robert and Megg Rader of Raleigh. Lettie is also survived by her four grandchildren, Mary Heidenreich and her husband, David of Wilmington, Michael Rader of Chapel Hill, and Mary Stiles Rader and Rob Rader of Raleigh; and great-grandchildren, Walker and Louise Heidenreich.

In addition to her parents and her husband, Mrs. Rader was preceded in death by brothers, Robert E. Walker and William Roy Walker and by a sister, Annie Lee Walker Duckworth.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 30, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Jerry Gamble officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery. The family will receive friends Wednesday at the funeral home from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 1, 2010 at Central United Methodist Church with Rev. John Ferree officiating. The family will receive friends at 10:30 a.m. at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Home Baptist Church, 2272 Mt. Home Church Rd., Morganton, NC 28655 or to Central United Methodist Church, 1909 N. Main St., Mt. Airy, NC 27030.

Vergie Moore Cook, 91, of Enola Rd. in Morganton died Monday, June 28, 2010 at Burke Palliative Care Center in Valdese following a period of declining health. She was born May 9, 1919 in Burke County, and was a daughter of the late Joseph William Moore and Barbara Jane Cook Moore. Vergie was a lifelong and faithful member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church where she worked for many years in the children’s department and the WMU. She was a member of the church’s senior group, The Sunshine Club. Vergie was an outstanding cook and flower gardener. She was a godly woman who lived her Christian heritage, and devoted her life to her family.

She is survived by children, Jerry W. Cook and wife, Mary of Morganton, Jayne C. Wise of Morganton and son-in-law, David Wise of Parker Rd., Morganton, and Connie L. Cook of Morganton; grandchildren, Jeff Cook and wife, Pam, Chris Cook and wife, Stephanie, and Robin Wise, all of Morganton; great-grandchildren, Kayli, Kasey, and Eli Cook; Robin’s godchildren, Thomas and Emmannuel Wright; and a brother, J. C. Moore of Morganton.

In addition to her parents, Vergie was preceded in death by her husband, Stacy L. Cook; brothers, Walter, Cossie, and Paul Moore; and sisters, Sudie Walker, Donnie Tolbert, Mary Childers, Anne Stewart, and Alma Moore.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Thursday, July 1, 2010 at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Larry Cline 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 where the body will remain until placed in the church thirty minutes before the funeral hour. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690, or to Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, 2396 Enola Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.

Cathy Crawley Clark, 58, died Tuesday, June 29, 2010 at her residence surrounded by her family following a nine year battle with cancer. She was born in Burke County on June 25, 1952 and was a daughter of William and Oma Carswell Crawley of Morganton. Cathy was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and aunt. Her kindness and generosity were evident to all who knew her. She was a member of Bethlehem Baptist Church and attended Nowlings Chapel Freewill Baptist Church.

Surviving in addition to her parents are her husband, Johnny Clark, of Morganton; daughters, Stacey Fisher Coffey and her husband, Derrick, of Hickory and Brandi Fisher Clark and her husband, Eric of Morganton. She also leaves her beloved granddaughters, Reid Katherine and Shelbi Caroline Coffey; her sisters, Christine Bolin and her husband, Mike, of Shelby, Wanda McGuire, and Tammy Lane and her husband, Gary, all of Morganton; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Cathy was preceded in death by a sister, Gilda Shell.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, July 1, 2010, at Bethlehem Baptist Church with Rev. Darvy Hensley and Rev. Jesse Carr officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at Sossoman Funeral Home where the body will remain until placed in the church 30 minutes before the funeral hour.

Jack E. Abernathy, Sr., 83, died Tuesday, June 29, 2010 following a period of declining health. He was born in Burke County on September 29, 1926 and was a son of the late Adolphus A. and Nettie Mae Simpson Abernathy. Jack was a veteran of World War II where he served with the U. S. Navy Seabees.

Surviving are his children, Barbra Abernathy Taylor and husband, Bo, of Glen Alpine, Gary A. Abernathy and wife, Christi, of Arden, and Eddie Abernathy of Raleigh. Also surviving are grandchildren, Bo Taylor, Jr. and wife, Tammy, Brent Taylor and wife, Meredith, Kirt Abernathy, Gretchen Whisnant and husband, Chuck, and Corey, Taylor, and Marissa Stockstad; and great-grandchildren, Bo III, Bryan, Braeyon, Abby, and Ella Taylor, Cassie Johnson, and Ava Whisnant.

In addition to his parents, Jack was preceded in death by his wife, Louise Lane Abernathy.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 until 1:00 p.m. Thursday at Calvin Heights Baptist Church Fellowship Hall. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to “DAV Chapter 43”, C/O Robert Mill, PO Box 572, Morganton, NC 28655, or to “Calvin Heights Baptist Church, Bridge 42”, 107 Calvin Heights St., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Nancy Jane Pearson, 65, died June 28, 2010. She was born on August 4, 1944 in Burke County and was a daughter of Helen Jeanette Greene Smith and the late Willie Robert Smith.

Surviving are her children, Robert Pearson and wife, Penny of Valdese, Leonard Pearson and Bobby Pearson both of Morganton; and Mary Pearson of Hickory; her siblings, Sue Fritts and husband, Harvey, Linda Smith, Margie Messer, Robert Smith and wife, Ruth, and Roy Smith all of Morganton, and Irene Tomlin of Tennessee; and a number of grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

In addition to her father she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Pearson, two brothers, and five sisters.

The funeral will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, July 1, 2010 in the Colonial Chapel of Sossoman Funeral Home with Rev. Roy A. Smith officiating. Burial will follow at McDowell Presbyterian Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour before the service.

Reno R. Theriault, 85, of Morganton died Tuesday, June 29, 2010 at Grace Hospital. He was born May 13, 1925 in Eagle Lake, ME, and was a son of the late Leon Theriault and Catherine Cormier Theriault. Reno was a corporal in the US Army 8th Infantry Division, and served in Europe during World War II. As a civilian, he worked as a machinist for the Department of the Army Watervliet Arsenal. Reno attended the First Assembly of God Church, Morganton, NC.

He is survived by his wife, Jeanette Marie Michaud Theriault of the home; children, Linda T. Dunn of Black Mountain, NC, Gail Mitchell and husband, John of Burnt Hills, NY, and Philip Theriault and wife, Lori of Cody, WY; grandchildren, Jared, Jason, and Jonathan Dunn, Felice Ford, Claudia Mitchell, Nikolaus and Joshua Pieper and their father, Herbert Pieper, Eric and Adam Theriault; great-grandchildren, Kyree Dunn, J. Maximilian Percent, and Logan Mitchell-Rosa; and two brothers and seven sisters.

In addition to his parents, Reno was preceded in death by daughters, Doreen Theriault and Paula Pieper; and one brother and one sister.

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, July 23, 2010 in the chapel at Western North Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Black Mountain. Military rites will be conducted by the Buncombe County Veterans Council Memorial Team. Memorial contributions may be made to The Christian Outreach Center, 510 E. Fleming Dr., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Clyde A. Randall, 86, went home to be with his Heavenly Father on Wednesday, June 30, 2010 following an extended illness. He was born in Cleveland County on July 30, 1923 and was a son of the late Victor Marvin and Ivey Cook Randall. Mr. Randall was a U. S. Navy veteran of World War II and a retired insurance agent with Western-Southern Insurance Company. Following his retirement he worked at Wal-Mart. Clyde was a member of Asheville Street Baptist Church where he had served as a Deacon.

Mr. Randall is survived by his daughter, Kaye Randall, of Morganton and his siblings, Ray Randall and his wife, Pat, of Morganton and Marilyn Cooke, of Maiden. Also surviving are a granddaughter, Beth Crawford, of Martinsville, VA; great-grandchildren, Alex and Will Crawford; a son-in-law, Don Bateman, of Bristol, VA; special friends, Elaine Dale, Shirley Jordan, and Brenda Helms; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Clyde was preceded in death by his wife, Kathleen “Kat” Randall; a daughter, Sandra Bateman; brothers, Flay and Howard Randall; and a sister, Dora Stilwell.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, July 3, 2010, at Asheville Street Baptist Church with Rev. Douglas Goforth officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park with military honors conducted by Valdese American Legion Post 234. The family will receive friends one hour before the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Asheville Street Baptist Church, 107 Colony Dr., Morganton, NC 28655 or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Morganton, NC 28690. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.