CHERRYVILLE – Mr. Billy Donald Waters, 89, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 17, 2023 at his residence.
Bill was born on April 18, 1933 in Rutherford Co., N.C., son of the late CJ Waters and Myra Greene Waters. Bill worked with Rutherford Electric Membership Co-op for 41 years until retirement. He was a faithful member of First Baptist Church until his health kept him from attending.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Doris Dotson Waters.
He is survived by his daughter, Teresa Waters Hopper and fiancé, Fred Rudder, of Kings Mountain, N.C.; grandson, Trent Hopper and wife, Kristen, of Chapel Hill; and great-grandchildren, Sophie, Eli, and Lila Hopper.
The family would like to express a special thank you to Giny Wells who has taken wonderful care of Bill for the last three years.
Visitation was from 12:45 to 1:45 p.m., on Monday, March 20, 2023 at First Baptist Church in Cherryville.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m., on Monday, March 20, 2023 at First Baptist Church with the Rev. Dr. Vince Hefner officiating.
Burial followed the service in City Memorial Cemetery in Cherryville.
Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 301 E. First St., Cherryville, NC, 28021, or to Hospice of Cleveland County, 951 Wendover Heights Dr., Shelby, NC, 28021.
A guest register is available at www.stameycherryvillefuneralhome.com.
Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home & Cremation Service served the Waters family.

LAWNDALE – Michael “Mike” Franklin Lineberger, 58, of Lawndale, passed away on Sunday, March 5, 2023 at Atrium Health – Cleveland, Shelby.
Born in Catawba County, on Dec. 24, 1964, he was a son of Franklin Arthur Lineberger and Ellene Bingham Lineberger of Lawndale. He was employed by Westmoreland Printing as a graphic designer.
Survivors include his wife of 36 years, Cindy Short Lineberger; son, Steven Lineberger and Mysteria Herron of Cherryville; daughter, Laura Lineberger and Dyllion Costner of Lawndale; two brothers, Marcus Lineberger and Tracy Riddle of Lawndale and Marty Lineberger and Bruce McKay of Spencer; sister, Paula Eaker and husband, Terry of Lawndale; two grandchildren, Michael Thomas Lineberger and Levi Darrell Costner; brother-in-law, Michael Short and wife, Lori of Hickory; niece, Abby Potter and husband, Shawn; and two nephews, Jesse Johnson and wife, Michelle, and Zion Short.
The family received friends on Thursday, March 9, 2023, from 2 to 3 p.m., at Stamey – Tysinger Funeral Home.
The funeral service was be held on Thursday, March 9, at 3 p.m., in the Stamey – Tysinger Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Jerry Lail officiating.
Burial followed the service in the Cherryville City Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, at www.stjude.org.
A guest register is available at www.stameytysingerfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Stamey – Tysinger Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Inc., Fallston, N.C.

CHERRYVILLE – Mr. William Edward “Bill” Houser, 87, died Feb. 26, 2023, at Carolina Care Health and Rehabilitation Center in Cherryville.
He was born March 21, 1935, in Cherryville, NC, to late parents Dr. Forest M. Houser and Blanche Evangeline Duey Houser. Bill attended Cherryville schools and was active in all areas of student life, playing trumpet in the marching band, earning academic honors, and with superlatives “Most Likely to Succeed” and “Most Intellectual.” In 1958 he graduated with a B.S. in Pharmacy from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. While at UNC, he was active in the Lutheran Student Association as President of the Southeast Region of the United States. He lettered as a member of the Varsity Track team and sang with the university Glee Club where his beautiful bass voice earned him a part in numerous performances. In 1958 he returned to Cherryville and married his high school sweetheart, Judy Ford, and accepted employment as a pharmacist at Houser Drug.
Active in community affairs and in St. John’s Lutheran Church, Bill sang in the choir, taught Sunday School, served as youth advisor, chaired the Music and Worship Committee, and was elected to the Church Council. He was also a member of the Cherryville School Board, President of the Lion’s Club, and recipient of the Distinguished Service Award given by the Chamber of Commerce.
After opening Medical Center Pharmacy in Cherryville in 1965 with his late partner Bill Allen, he retired from pharmacy in 1981 and began teaching Math and Chemistry at Cleveland Community College where he taught for 17 years. Popular with his students, one once shared with the administration, “I never understood math until I had Mr. Houser for a teacher. He was totally devoted to the job.”
As his favorite pastime, Bill loved working in his wood shop, making all sorts of creative items. Numerous homes in the region proudly display his grandmother, grandfather, and mantel clocks. His second favorite pastime was boating and water skiing. Along with his wife and three children, friends often accompanied the family to their cottage on Lake Hickory, built by Bill. He was a traveler, visiting all 50 states, Egypt, Canada, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, England, Mexico, and many European countries. With fortitude, he lived a full and happy life.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Forest M. Houser and Blanche Evangeline Duey Houser; stepmother, Pat Pharr Houser; an infant brother; sisters, Evangeline Houser McMahan and Mary Grace Houser Hull and husband, Lt. Col C.A. Hull; mother-in-law, Aldena Parker Ford; father-in-law, Howard Ford; and beloved son, Forest Howard “Frosty” Houser.
Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Dr. Judith Ford “Judy” Houser; children, William Todd Houser and wife Amanda Shelton Houser, Melanie Houser Gentile and husband Robert Gentile, grandchildren Anna and Shelton Houser, Maria Gentile, Kiersten Houser and wife Megan Houser, great-grandson Forest Boone Houser, sister-in-law Susan Ford Heavner and husband Eddie, brother-in-law Ed McMahan and wife Sally McMahan, many cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, and special caregiver Nancy Kohli.
The family received friends from 1:30 to 2:45 p.m. on Sunday, March 5, 2023 at St. John’s Lutheran Church.
A Celebration of Life service was held at 3 p.m., on Sunday, March 5, 2023 at St. John’s Lutheran Church with Pastor G. Scott Homesley officiating.
Burial followed in the church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 100, Cherryville, NC, 28021.
A guest register is available at www.stameycherryvillefuneralhome.com.
Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home & Cremation Service served the Houser family.

CHERRYVILLE – Dr. Solomon Lee Willis, 45, passed away on Monday, Feb. 20, 2023 at his residence.
Solomon was born on July 8, 1977 in Lincoln County, N.C., the son of Eddie Lee Willis and Brenda Powell Willis. He was a member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Cherryville. Solo-mon was a 1995 graduate of Cherryville High School. He re-ceived his Doctorate in Education from Liberty University. Solomon was a former math teacher at Gaston Day School and was currently employed as the Mathematics and Educa-tion Department Chair at Cleveland Community College. He was a very avid Dolly Parton fan and had a large collection of her items. Solomon also enjoyed going with his mother on trips to Dollywood, Disney, and Broadway plays.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Debra Lynn Willis; his maternal grandparents, Yates and Annie Haynes Powell; and paternal grandparents, Leroy and Inez Willis.
In addition to his parents, Eddie and Brenda Willis of the home, survivors include his sister, Beth Plotts and husband Tim of Asheville; two nieces, Krista Brooke Weaver and hus-band Jason, and Casey LuAnn McDonald and husband Jon. Also surviving are great-nieces, nephews; and several aunts and uncles.
The family received friends from 12:30 to 1:45 p.m., on Sat-urday, Feb. 25, 2023 at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Cher-ryville. Funeral services were held at 2 p.m., on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023 at Mt. Zion Baptist Church with the Rev’s. Keith Huss and Steve Putnam officiating. Burial followed the ser-vice at City Memorial Cemetery in Cherryville.
Memorials may be made to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Li-brary at www.donate.imaginationlibrary.com.
A guest register is available at www.stameycherryvillefuneralhome.com.
Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home & Cremation Service served the Willis family.

CHERRYVILLE – Marvin Andrew Kiser, 69, of Carroll Dr., passed away Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2023, at his residence. He was born Sept. 20, 1953, in Lincoln County to the late Luther and Jane Carpenter Kiser.
Marvin had several hobbies including woodworking, fishing, gardening, and watching Western movies. He also enjoyed motorcycles and listening to Elvis. Marvin loved his family dearly and will be missed.
He was preceded in death by several brothers and sisters.
Survivors include his wife, Linnie Laws Kiser; sons, Bill Tilley (Leeanne), and Chad Kiser; daughters, Shar Kiser, and Ashley Kiser; niece, Melenda Osbourne; six (6) grandchildren; and five (5) great-grandchildren.
His family received friends from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023 at the home of Bill Tilley, located at 101 Linda Dr., Cherryville, NC, 28021.
A Celebration of Life was held at 12 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023 at the home of Bill Tilley with Rev. Jeremy Carson officiating.
Memorials may be made to Linnie Kiser at 101 Linda Dr., Cherryville, NC, 28021.
Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.
Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services served the family of Mr. Kiser.

LAWNDALE – Blary Gene Brittain, 80, of Lawndale, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2023 at Hospice at Wendover, Shelby.
Born in Cleveland County on Feb. 17, 1942, he was a son of the late Jim Devon Brittain and Vacie Mitchell Brittain. He was retired from textiles and was a member of Plainsview Baptist Church.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Geter Brittain and three sisters: Bonnie Brittain, Ann Reece, and Florence Fisher.
Survivors include two brothers, Dice Brittain, and Alexander Brittain and wife, Audrey, all of Fallston; and two sisters, Peggy Childers of Blacksburg, SC, and Irma Goforth Cunningham of Gastonia.
The family received friends on Sunday, Feb. 12, 2023 from 2 to 3 p.m., at Plainsview Baptist Church.
A Celebration of Life service was held on Sunday at 3 p.m., at Plainsview Baptist Church with Rev. Wayne Key officiating.
Burial was private.
Memorials may be made to Hospice Cleveland County, 951 Wendover Heights Dr., Shelby, NC, 28150.
A guest register is available at www.stameytysingerfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Stamey – Tysinger Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Inc., Fallston, NC.

BESSEMER CITY – Kathy Gilchrest Brannan, 76, of Bessemer City, passed away Thursday, Feb. 9, 2023, at Atrium Health Cleveland. She was born March 19, 1946 in Newport, Rhode Island, the oldest of 13 children to the late Raymond and Aileen Gilchrest. Kathy loved animals. She was an amazing roller-skater and ice skater. Kathy enjoyed reading, especially true crime and mystery novels. She also loved gardening. 
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, John Edward Brannan; and brothers, Raymond and Timothy.
Survivors include her daughter, Tammy McCarthy and husband, Leonard of Eureka, CA; son, Jason Brannan and wife, Natalie of Crouse, NC; grandchildren, Leina Moore, Lizzie Brannan, and Caleb McCarthy; siblings, Linda, Ellen, Francis, Robert, Michael, Marilyn, Tommy, Dianna, Christopher, David and their families.
A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m., Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023, at Salisbury National Cemetery Annex, located at 501 Statesville Blvd., Salisbury, NC, 28144.
Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.
Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family of Mrs. Brannan.

CHERRYVILLE – Patrick Lance Hallman, 51, of Cherryville, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2023. He was born Oct. 8, 1971, in Gaston County to Libby Hallman and the late Gary Robert Hallman. Lance was formerly employed as a machinist in manufacturing and also worked for 10 years with the Department of Corrections. He was an avid sports fan who especially loved NASCAR, Carolina Tarheels, and the Dallas Cowboys. He loved Rock N’ Roll music and was also known for his ability to calculate any equation in his head. He was loved deeply by many and will be missed by all.
In addition to his mother, Libby Hallman, he is survived by his children, Kayla Libbeth Hallman and Patrick Logan Hallman; grandson, Macklin Hallman; siblings, Suzanne Wallace (Daryle), Paige Green (Jason), and Blake Hallman (Wendy); nephews and niece, Jordan, Payne, Chandler (Emily), Clay (Taylor), and Kelsey; and a great-niece, Ella Grace Lyles.
Funeral services were held Saturday, Feb. 11, 2023, at 4 p.m., at Carpenter – Porter Funeral & Cremation Services with Rev. Dr. Dennis Bean officiating. Burial was private. The family received friends Saturday from 2:30 to 3:45 p.m., prior to the service at the funeral home.
Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.
Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services served the family of Mr. Hallman.

CHERRYVILLE – Shirley Whitaker Fisher, 88, of Cherryville, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2023, at Carolina Care Health and Rehabilitation Center. She was born April 29, 1934, in Gaston County, NC, to the late Ellis and Mildred Bost Whitaker.
Shirley was a devoted member of First Baptist Church and a charter member of the Chronological Bible Study Class. She spent her career in banking and retired from BB&T, where her coworkers remained her friends throughout the years. She enjoyed an active social life and could often be found dining out with friends and family.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Bob Fisher; beloved daughter, Debbie Fisher Payseur; and brother, Rick Whitaker.
Survivors include her grandchildren, Ben Payseur (Jennifer) and Jenny Payseur Emerson (Brian); great-grandchildren, Wade, Eli, and Lizzy Payseur, and Mallie, Mikki Jane, and Meg Emerson; son-in-law, Mickey Payseur; brothers, Ronnie Whitaker (Trish), Randy Whitaker, Rocky Whitaker (Wanda), and Reggie Whitaker; and numerous nephews.
Funeral services were held Sunday, Feb. 12, 2023, at 2:30 p.m., at First Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Vince Hefner officiating. Burial followed at City Memorial Cemetery. The family received friends from 1:30 to 2:15 p.m., Sunday prior to the service in the dining hall at First Baptist. 
Memorials may be made to The Paula Takacs Foundation for Sarcoma Research, P.O. Box 78416, Charlotte, NC, 28271, or to First Baptist Church, 301 E. First St., Cherryville, NC, 28021.
 Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.
Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services served the family of Mrs. Fisher.

CHERRYVILLE – Mrs. Litha Qmy Dellinger Shull, 92, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2023 at Wendover Hospice House in Shelby.
Mrs. Shull was born on June 18, 1930 in Gaston County, NC, a daughter of the late Alfred Lee Dellinger and Dovie Chapman Dellinger. She was retired from Howell Manufacturing in Cherryville. Mrs. Shull was of the Baptist faith.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Bob Shull, Sr.; a daughter, Linda “Crockett” Talbert and a great-grandson, Ryan Seagle.
Survivors include a son, Bob Shull, Jr. of Cherryville; two daughters, Jane Wright of Maiden and Mary Ann Mayhew and husband Troy of Vale; 11 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren.
The family received friends on Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023 from 12:45 to 1:45 p.m., at Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home.
A celebration of life service was held at 2 p.m., on Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023 at Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home with Lisa Roach officiating. Burial was private.
Memorials may be made to Hospice of Cleveland County, 951 Wendover Heights Dr., Shelby, NC, 28150.
A guest register is available at www.stameycherryvillefuneralhome.com.
Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home & Cremation Service served the family of Mrs. Shull.

ROSWELL, GA – Florence Messick Farthing passed away at Magnolia Place in Roswell, GA, on Jan. 28, 2023 at the age of 93. She was born on July 21, 1929 in Winston-Salem, N.C., to Lola and Sel Messick. She graduated from Gray High School and Salem College and finished her undergraduate degree at Pfeiffer College as an English major.
After graduation, she was a lifelong educator and taught elementary grades primarily. She met Rhea Farthing at Old Town Elementary School in Winston-Salem, and they married in 1953. They were married for almost 62 years. They moved to Dade County, Florida and taught there until they retired in 1984. They had two daughters, Beth Farthing Rogers and Beckie Farthing Parker. They enjoyed their summers in Boone and built a house there in 1966. She and Rhea took a sabbatical year and she got her Masters in Reading in 1968-1969 at Appalachian State University. She and Rhea moved to Roswell, GA, in late 2014. She maintained an active lifestyle at Brookdale-Chambrell in Roswell until late 2020 when she moved to be near Beth at Sunset Beach, N.C. In late 2021, she moved back to Roswell to be near Beckie. She would light up when her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were around.
She is survived by her daughter, Beth (Michael) Rogers, their children, Jennifer (Michael) Philbeck of Cherryville, N.C., Meredith Edmister of Trent Woods, N.C., Laura Massey (Adam) of Lutz, FL., and Dillon (Kayla) Rogers of Midland, N.C. And by her daughter, Beckie (Danny) Parker; their children, Joel (Ifat) Parker of Tel Aviv, Israel, Sharon (Andrew) Nackashi of Tifton, GA, Brian (Jennifer) Parker of Woodbridge, VA, Neal (Deborah) Parker of Marietta, GA, and David Parker of Athens, GA. There are 23 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Sel and Lola Messick; her sisters, Lillian Essic and Norma Messick; and her brother, Lester and his wife, Barbara Messick; and her husband, Rhea Farthing.
Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory is serving the family of Mrs. Farthing.

VALE – Aaron Lee Boyd, 86, of Vale, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023 at his residence. He was born Nov. 18, 1936 in Lancaster, SC, to the late Leona Hudson and Jason Boyd.
Lee began boxing when he was 12 years old. After high school, he joined the Navy where he served on the “USS Thomaston” and fought for the Blue Jacket Boxing team.
During his career he was a Golden Glove boxer (winning in both 1956 and 1959), was chosen for the 1960 Rome Olympics, fought twice at Madison Square Garden, and one professional match ended in a split decision. His final Flyweight record was 150-13. Lee has been inducted into the North Carolina Boxing Hall of Fame and into the Lincoln County Sports Hall of Fame. After retiring from boxing, he worked for Carolina Freight Carriers in Cherryville for over 30 years as a driver, and retired from ABF Trucking.
Lee was a member of Reepsville Baptist Church where he served as Deacon for 31 years. He also served on 27 mission trips, taught Sunday School, sang in the choir, and was a loved member of the “Young At Heart” seniors group.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers: Marion Boyd, Jason W. Boyd, and Vernon Boyd, and sister, Ella May Purdy.
Survivors include his loving wife of 63 years, Ruth Hoover Boyd; one son, Tim Boyd of Vale; daughters, Andrea Brittain (Mark) of Vale, and Shaaron Boyd of the home; three grandchildren, Will Boyd, Liberty Brittain, and Meredith Brittain. He is also survived by one brother, Butch Boyd (Kathy); and three sisters, Tennie Issac (Steve), Emma Magee, and Delton Cozart.
A Celebration of Life was held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28, 2023, at Reepsville Baptist Church with Rev. Jeff Hull officiating.
Burial followed in the church cemetery with military honors.
His family received friends from 12:30 to 1:45 p.m. prior to the service at the church.
Memorials may be made to the Reepsville Baptist Church Mission Trip fund.
Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.
Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services served the family of Mr. Boyd.

SEVEN LAKES, NC – James Harold Homesley, 88, a resident of Seven Lakes, N.C., and formerly of St. Simons Island, GA, passed away Sunday, Jan. 15, 2023 at his home.
Mr. Homesley was born Sept. 30, 1934 in Gaston County, N.C., a son of the late James Thadeus and Thelma Margaret Hammitt Homesley. He had served his country in the U.S. Army and attended Wake Forest University. He began his career with AT&T in Charlotte, N.C., and retired as District Marketing Manager in Atlanta, GA. Following his retirement, he, and his wife, Barbara, owned and operated a real estate agency in St. Simons, GA.
Mr. Homesley is survived by his wife, Barbara Covington Homesley; sons, James Harold “Hal” Homesley, Jr. (Diane B.) and David Mitchell “Mitch” Homesley; grandchildren, James H. “Jamey” Homesley, III (Taylor Rae), Jessica Diane Homesley and David Mitchell Homesley, Jr. (Rachel Maxey); great-grandchildren, David Mitchell Homesley, III, Annison Lynne Homesley and Reagan Catherine Homesley; and a sister, Lynette Homesley Taylor (Paul).
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Carter Funeral Home of Rockingham served the family of Mr. Homesley.

SCOTTSDALE – It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of William (“Bill”, “Junior”) Russell White, Jr., who passed away at home in Scottsdale, Arizona on January 17, 2023 at the age of 90. Longtime residents of Northern Virginia, he and his wife, Rosette, moved to Scottsdale two years ago.
 He was born in Colfax Township in Rutherford County, NC, on June 6, 1932 to William Russell White (Sr.) and Nettie Belle Piercy. His grandparents were George Washington White, Sarah Toney White, Hattie Piercy and James Columbus “Lum” Piercy. Among other fond memories of his youth in Cherryville, he recounted working at the historic landmark Lester Theatre on Main Street, where he manned the concession stand and developed a camaraderie with the projectionist, exchanging cold beverages for watching movies from the projection booth in the middle of summer. At 16 years old, he was given the opportunity of a lifetime to try out for the Boston Red Sox, as he had a strong arm. It was an experience he would never forget. A veteran of the military, he then built a lifelong career in the U.S. State Department, which took him and his family all over the world. Upon retirement, he held the position of Deputy Director of the Executive Management Staff, Asia and the Near East/EMS for the USAID in Washington, DC.
 Bill White was predeceased by his cherished sisters Rosie Mae Sellers and Ruth Leonhardt of Cherryville, his brother Reeves White of Taylorsville, and an infant brother and sister.
Surviving family include his wife, Rosette, his son, Michael White, his daughters Terry Roberts, Patty White, and Grace Higa; grandchildren Jared Roberts, Layla Forrest-White, Lina Vignelli, Kyle Higa and Bianca Higa; two great grandsons, Cayden and Austen Roberts, and numerous nieces and nephews. Also surviving are his wife’s daughters from a previous marriage, Nathalie and Valerie VanHeusden, and their children Marina Keckhut and Alexandra and Sebastien Guillot.
 His family are planning to get together in June for a celebration of his life.
Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home served the family of Mr. White.

CHERRYVILLE – Robert Donald “Bob” Austell, 83, of Cherryville, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2023 at his residence. He was born March 20, 1939 in Gaston County, a son of the late James Petty Austell, Jr. and Nell McGinnis Austell Daggerhart. He was a 1957 graduate of Cherryville High School where he was selected Best Male Athlete.
Bob spent 38 years in management with Carolina Freight Carriers and retired as Vice President of Terminals. Bob is fondly remembered by the townspeople for his 10 consecutive years that he served as Mayor of Cherryville. He spent his life in service to others. He held many civic duties over the years, including coaching senior Little League baseball for eight years and was selected to the Cherryville Sports Hall of Fame. He was President of East Elementary PTA, President of Cherryville High School Boosters Club, Chairman of the Miss Cherryville Beauty Pageant, President of the Cherryville Jaycees, President of Cherryville Country Club, President of Cherryville YMCA, board member of Gaston County YMCA Metro-Board, board member of Gaston County Cancer Society, Chairman of Cherryville Economic Committee, board member of Cherryville Community Development Corporation, advisor to the Gaston College School of Nursing. He served 10 years on Lake Norman Rural Planning Board with two years as vice chairman and two years as chairman; 10 years on Centralina Council for Government with four years as an officer, Board of Gaston Together Strategic Council for Government, Gaston 2012 Board, co-chairman of Gaston 2012 Collaborative Partners Transportation Committee, and organized and served on the City of Cherryville Finance Committee.
Bob was also involved with a number of organizations where he held memberships with the following: Cherryville Masonic Lodge #505 A.F.&A.M, Scottish Rite of Charlotte, Oasis Shrine Temple of Charlotte, Battle of Kings Mountain SAR, and a longtime member of the NC State Wolfpack Club. He was awarded with the prestigious and exclusive “Order of the Long Leaf Pine.” Bob was a devoted Christian and active member of First United Methodist Church of Cherryville where he served as Chairman of the Staff Parish Committee, member of Parsonage Committee, President of Methodist Men, member of Church Administrative Board, and a counselor for the Methodist Youth Fellowship.
He was an individual of momentous personal accomplishment and public service. He was a kind and gentle man of sterling character, commendable personal attributes, and deep, abiding Christian faith. Bob was a natural-born leader, a man of vision, and was gifted with a determined spirit and phenomenal work ethic. He was a warm and personable man who was a model husband, father, grandfather, public servant, church leader, businessman, and friend to all. He enjoyed genealogy and truly treasured all his family; past, present, and future.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 38 years, Caryl Beam Austell; stepfather, Paul Daggerhart; and brother-in-law, David Spencer.
Survivors include his daughters, Teesie Smith (Danny), Kim Crane (Stephen), Amy Turner (David), and Elizabeth Shuford (Lee); grandchildren, Charlie Smith (Clare), Robert Smith (Danielle), Adam Crane (Rachel), Stephanie Crane (Jon), Kelly Setzer (Will), Dave Turner (Jamie), Rachel Turner, Riley Shuford, Henry Shuford, and Ella Shuford; great-grandchildren, Kate Setzer, William Setzer, Daniel Setzer, Ada Smith, Maggie Smith, Joel Smith, and Wilson Smith; sister, Mary Ann Spencer; niece, Sharon Ariosto; nephew, Dee Spencer; and brother-in-law, James L. Beam III (Becky).
A memorial service was held Sunday, Jan. 8, 2023 at 3 p.m., at First United Methodist Church with Rev. Zack Christy officiating. Burial followed at City Memorial Cemetery. The family received friends Sunday, from 1:30 to 2:45 p.m., prior to the service at the church.
Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, 601 N. Pink St., Cherryville, NC, 28021.
The family wishes to extend sincere thanks to the caregivers Kay Edmondson, Loretta Shull, Charlotte Cook, Sandra Bowen, Nadine Butler, Dee Patterson, Candace Brannon, Brenda Anthony, Leanne Morris, Kim Alexander, and Willietta, as well as Dr. James Greelish, Dr. Ronald Digby, and Dr. Charmaine Luvis for their excellent care over the years.
Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.
Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services served the family of Mr. Austell. 

CHERRYVILLE – Mr. Stowe Edwin Sellers, 67, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 29, 2022 at Atrium Health – Cleveland in Shelby.
Stowe was born on April 15, 1955 in Cleveland County, NC, son of the late Everette Webb “Monk” Sellers and Hattie Katherine Heavner Sellers. He was retired from Yellow Freight. Stowe attended First Baptist Church of Cherryville. He was an avid sports fan and loved his grandchildren.
Survivors include his wife of 35 years, Lu Ann Beam Sellers of the home; daughters, Kelly Maxwell and husband, Wes of Florida; Lutricia Bennett and husband, Kevin of Lincolnton; two sons, Ryan M. Freeman and wife, Jessica of Crouse; D.B. Freeman and wife, Jessica of Fort Mill, S.C.; six grandchildren, Elizabeth and Audrey Bennett, and Ava, Dylan, Bryan and Emma Freeman.
The family received friends from 1:45 to 2:45 p.m., on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023 at First Baptist Church in Cherryville.
Funeral services were held at 3 p.m., on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2023 at First Baptist Church with the Rev. Dr. Vince Hefner and Rev. Kevin Bennett officiating.
Burial followed the service in City Memorial Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 301 E. First St., Cherryville, NC, 28021.
A guest register is available at www.stameycherryvillefuneralhome.com.
Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home & Cremation Service served the family of Mr. Sellers.

CHERRYVILLE – Mrs. Blanche Beam Boies, 95, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 29, 2022 at Hospice at Wendover in Shelby.
Mrs. Boies was born on Aug. 12, 1927 in Lincoln County, N.C., a daughter of the late Walter Ray Beam and Emma Susie Huss Beam. She was a homemaker.
Mrs. Boies was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Cherryville and also attended St. Dorothy’s Catholic Church in Lincolnton with her late husband Frank. She was a volunteer with the American Red Cross. Mrs. Boies was an avid golfer and was recognized as the oldest female golfer with the Cherryville Country Club.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Jimmie Lee Boies; second husband, Frank E. Pragacz, Sr.; two sons, Joel Lee Boies and Michael Lee Boies; two sisters, Flo Mary Schad and Coleen Orr; and a brother, Paul M. Beam.
Survivors include a daughter, Yvonne Hinkley and husband, Mark of Cherryville; a son, Dana Lee Boies of Matthews; a sister, Beth Beam Wright of Cherryville; and three grandchildren, Vasilios John Nicopoulos, Jimmie Nicopoulos, and David Boies.
The family will receive friends from 1:45 to 2:45 p.m., on Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023 at St. John’s Lutheran Church.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 3 p.m., on Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023 at St. John’s Lutheran Church with the Rev. G. Scott Homesley officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Memorials may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 100, Cherryville, NC, 28021, or to Hospice of Cleveland County, 951 Wendover Heights Dr., Shelby, NC, 28150.
A guest register is available at www.stameycherryvillefuneralhome.com.
Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home & Cremation Service is serving the family of Mrs. Boies.

CHERRYVILLE – Mr. Bennett Clawson “Ben” Ballard, 87, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 25, 2022 at Atrium Health – Cleveland in Shelby.
Ben was born in Cherryville, NC, on Feb. 19, 1935, a son of the late David Ray Ballard and Emma Clawson Ballard. He was a 1953 graduate of Cherryville High School. Ben worked in the data processing department at Carolina Freight Carriers Corporation in Cherryville from 1954-1974. He retired from Lance Foods in 1997. Ben was a lifelong member of First United Methodist Church in Cherryville; and a charter member of the Cherryville Bassmasters and Cherryville Jaycee’s. He loved fishing, playing golf, camping, traveling, Christmas, Elvis music, the Duke Blue Devils, the Dallas Cowboys, New York Yankee’s and the Boston Celtics. Ben served in the U.S. Army from 1958-1960.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Carolyn B. Robinson, and Bobbie B. Beam Sorenson, and two infant twin brothers.
Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Elizabeth “Libby” Hoke Ballard of the home; two sons, Chris Ballard and wife, Bobbi, and Kent Ballard and wife, Rhonda; two grandsons, Colton Ballard (Anna) and Caleb Ballard; and one great-granddaughter, Charlotte Jean Ballard.
The family received friends from 1:45 to 2:45 p.m., on Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2022 at First United Methodist Church in Cherryville.
Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2022 at First United Methodist Church in Cherryville with Rev. Zack Christy officiating.
Burial followed in Cherryville City Memorial Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, 601 N. Pink St., Cherryville, NC, 28021.
A guest register is available at www.stameycherryvillefuneralhome.com.
Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home & Cremation Service served the Ballard family.

CLINTON, S.C. – Marion Benjamin Boozer, 80, of Clinton, S.C., was fully healed after a battle with dementia and scoliosis, when he went to be with the Lord on Dec. 25, 2022. 
He was preceded in death by his parents, David M. Boozer and Evelyn B. Boozer. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Brenda Boozer; his children, Mary Elizabeth (Boozer) Jones
(and son-in-law, Brent Jones) of Charlotte, NC, and David Boozer of Greenwood, SC; and two grandchildren, Andrew Jones and Langdon Jones.
Before scoliosis made it hard for him to walk and dementia confused his mind, Marion lived a full life. He was born in 1942 in Gaffney, S.C. His faith in Jesus Christ as his Savior became
vivid and exciting when he went to Peniel Bible Camp in New York state in his teen years. He was an Eagle Scout and loved exploring God’s creation. Singing was also one of his loves.
Marion graduated from Gaffney High School, Presbyterian College and then seminary.
During seminary, he did an internship in Georgia. Part of his work was with boys who had never been out of their own neighborhood. He loved introducing them to the ocean, the outdoors and camping, and enjoyed sharing the Good News of Jesus with them.
He was also passionate about building bridges and seeking to understand and respect people of other ethnicities. Once, during the Jim Crow era, when some Black friends of his were not
permitted to use a certain swimming area with him, he joined them in the area designated for Black swimmers rather than be separated from them; thus integrating that swimming area for
that moment in time. When serving in Winston-Salem, he found joy working with at-risk children.  “Released time” was also one of his greatest accomplishments; a program in which parents gave permission for their children to leave the school building during the school day and walk to church for Bible class.
During his decades in pastoral ministry, Marion served at Castania Presbyterian Church in Stanley, N.C; Westminster Presbyterian Church in Winston-Salem, N.C; Inman Presbyterian Church in Inman, S.C.; Welcome Presbyterian Church and First Presbyterian Church in Ware Shoals, S.C.; and Whitmire Presbyterian Church and McCullough Presbyterian Church in Whitmire, S.C.
Marion and Brenda moved to Gaffney when Marion retired, and later moved to Presbyterian Communities independent living in Clinton, S.C.
Marion knew that his disease, while debilitating, was only temporary. While we who love him will miss him dearly, we also take great comfort in his final healing, knowing he has crossed over from death to eternal life!
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to StoneBridge Church Community, 3700 Prosperity Church Rd., Charlotte, NC, 28269.
The family received friends at Blakely Funeral Home in Gaffney from 2 to 3 p.m., on Thursday, Dec. 29, after which there was a graveside service and burial – for all who wished to attend – at 3:30 p.m., at Oakland Cemetery in Gaffney. They will also receive friends from 3 to 4 p.m., on Sunday, Jan. 8 at Blakely Funeral Home in Gaffney, followed by a memorial service at 4 p.m. that is also open to friends and family. A memorial service will also be held at Presbyterian Communities in Clinton, S.C., later in January.
An online guest register is available at www.blakelyfuneralhome.com.
Blakely Funeral Home & Crematory, Gaffney, S.C., is serving the family of Mr. Boozer.

CHERRYVILLE – Betty Lou Canipe Lane, 83, of Cherryville, passed away Monday, Dec. 19, 2022 at her residence. She was born April 6, 1939 in Gaston County to the late Roy William and Sarah Ann Helms Canipe. Betty was a member of Riverview Baptist Church where she was very active with the hospitality group, assisting with baptisms, and helping with the meals. She was an excellent cook and an amazing caregiver.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, William Edward Wright.
Survivors include her husband, Roy Gary Lane; sons, Lewis Edward Wrights, Jr. (Becky), Gary Eugene Lane, and Michael Steven Lane (Nilsa); daughters, Janice Wright Stamey (Bill), Linda Wright Odor (Mike), and Brenda Ann Wright (Joe Sigmon); 13 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.
A funeral service was held Thursday, Dec. 22, 2022, at 1:30 p.m., at Riverview Baptist Church with Pastor Barry Brookshire and Pastor Ricky Brown officiating. Burial was private. The family received friends Thursday, from 12 noon to 1:15 p.m., prior to the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Riverview Baptist Church, 2230 Riverview Rd., Lincolnton, NC, 28092.
Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.
Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services served the family of Mrs. Lane.

Rose Mary Sturgill Swindall Navey, 76, of Cherryville, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022 with her daughters by her side. She was born Dec. 17, 1945, in Wise County, Virginia, to the late Dewey and Pearl Sturgill.
Rose was a loving mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend. She enjoyed spending time with her family. She always made time for everyone, providing support and love.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands, John Swindall and Charles Navey; granddaughter, Cortney Dover; six sisters, and three brothers.
Rose is survived by her daughters, Lisa Swindall Dover (Keith), and Joanna Swindall Greene (John); grandchildren, Greyson John Dover, Ashlyn Rose Presson, Matthew David Greene, and Joshua Ryan Greene; three brothers; one sister; and a multitude of nieces and nephews.
For those whose lives Rose touched, you are invited to her Celebration of Life on Saturday, Jan. 7, 2023 at 2 p.m., at Carpenter – Porter Funeral Home.
Memorials may be made to Make a Wish Foundation.
Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.
Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation service served the family of Mrs. Navey. 

CHERRYVILLE – Mr. Yates Ray McGinnis, 96, passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022 at his residence.
Yates was born on Oct. 8, 1926 in Gaston County, a son of the late Ervin S. McGinnis and Mae Bivens McGinnis. He served in the U. S. Army during the Korean Conflict. Yates served the City of Cherryville in various capacities including, chief of police for 13 years, recorders court judge, worked for the fire department and the Cherryville Rescue Squad, civil defense director and served as a city councilman. He was also a 60-year member of Cherryville Masonic Lodge #505 A.F. & A.M., Oasis Shriners, and Cherryville Shrine Club. Yates was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Cherryville.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Billy Wayne McGinnis.
Survivors include two sons, Todd McGinnis and wife, Cathy of Marshville; Doug McGinnis and wife, Nancy of Statesville; a sister, Corinne Mauney of Cherryville; a niece, Joan Fowler and husband, Louie of Cherryville; and an adopted son, Kevin Parker of Cherryville. Also surviving are numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A graveside service was held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 4, 2022 at City Memorial Cemetery in Cherryville with military honors and Masonic rites.
The family greeted friends following the service.
Memorials may be made to Hospice of Cleveland County, 951 Wendover Heights Dr., Shelby, NC, 28150.
A guest register is available at www.stameycherryvillefuneralhome.com.
Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home & Cremation Service served the McGinnis family.

CHERRYVILLE – Mr. O.C. Parker, Jr., 91, passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2022 at Hospice at Wendover in Shelby.
O.C. was born in Cornelia, GA, on June 7, 1931, a son of the late Martha Traber Parker. He retired after 44 and a half years of service at Carolina Freight Carriers Corporation in Cherryville, working on the dock and as a local driver.
O.C. was a faithful member of First Baptist Church in Cherryville, where he served as a former deacon and Sunday school teacher. He was a member of Cherryville Masonic Lodge #505 A.F. & A.M. for over 60 years and a member of Oasis Shriners. O.C. was also an avid golfer and enjoyed telling jokes.
In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by two sisters: Alda Beam and Mildred Parker; and two brothers, Thomas and Dan Parker.
Survivors include his wife of 71 years, Deane Sneed Parker of the home; a daughter, Cathy Parker Safley of Lincolnton; a son, G. Clifton Parker and wife Kim; granddaughter, Natalie Becknell and husband Jared; two great-grandchildren, Parker and Reese Becknell, all of Lexington, SC; and a sister, Sarah Sigmon of Cherryville; two half brothers, John Wall of Atlanta, GA, and William Bishop of Macon, GA. Also surviving are a number of nieces and nephews.
The family received friends from 11 a.m., to 12:45 p.m., on Saturday, Dec. 3, 2022 at First Baptist Church and at other times the family will be at the home.
Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3, 2022 at First Baptist Church with the Rev. Dr. Vince Hefner officiating.
Burial followed the service at City Memorial Cemetery in Cherryville with Masonic rites.
Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 301 E. First St., Cherryville, NC, 28021, or to the donor’s choice.
Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home & Cremation Service served the family of Mr. Parker.

CHERRYVILLE – Vera Prue Sellers Eaker, 101, of Cherryville, passed away peacefully Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2022, at Carolina Care Health and Rehabilitation. She was born Aug. 22, 1921 in Gaston County. She was one of 10 children born to the late Grady and Cleo Sellers. She was a 1939 graduate of Tryon High School.
Vera grew up attending Mary’s Grove Methodist Church. She later joined the First United Methodist Church in Cherryville where she was a member for over 70 years. She was a member of the Mae Harrelson, Florene Styles, and June Medlin Sunday School Classes. She held many offices in her Sunday school classes as well as in the church, and was a member of the Vera Eaker Circle. She was a lifetime member of the Cherryville Chapter of the Eastern Star. 
Vera’s first job was working at the Roses Five and Dime starting out making 25 cents an hour. She later retired after working for 40 years at the Dora Yarn Mill where she was a member and president of the Dora Mill Women’s Club. Vera enjoyed traveling and cooking and was very talented in ceramics and quilting. She loved giving many of these items as gifts to family and friends. 
She was Cherryville Charity League Woman of the Year in 1993. Vera also belonged to the Cherryville Senior Citizen’s Club. She loved to tell her family, friends, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren stories and her history that she had collected over a century of her life. Her 100th birthday was attended by many friends and family and she loved celebrating a century of a life well lived for God, family, and community.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Alonzo Allen Eaker; son-in-law, Ronnie Anthony; siblings, Marvin Sellers, Ben Sellers, Edith Smith, Bertha Eaker, Jeanette Sellers, Alline Leonhardt, Ophelia Hamrick, and Doris Jones. 
Survivors include her son, Danny Eaker and wife, Judie; daughter, Pam Anthony; sister, Shirley Gunn; grandchildren, Valerie and Dwayne Keefe, Allen and Lisa Eaker, Heidi and Chad Cash, and Wes and Angie Anthony; great grandchildren, Austin Keefe, Noah, Katie, and Sarah Eaker, Alli and Alex Anthony; and numerous nieces and nephews. 
The family received friends Sunday, Dec. 4, from 1:30 to 2:45 p.m., prior to the service at the church. 
Funeral services were held this past Sunday, Dec. 4, 2022 at 3 p.m., at the First United Methodist Church with Rev. Zack Christy and Rev. Dr. Vince Hefner officiating. Burial was at Bethlehem Community Church Cemetery. 
Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, 601 N. Pink St., Cherryville, NC, 28021.
Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services served the family or Mrs. Eaker.

CHERRYVILLE – Carol “Bud” Hallman Beam, 90, of Cherryville, passed away on Sunday, Nov. 20, 2022 at Atrium Health – Pineville.
Born in Lincoln County on Dec. 23, 1931, he was a son of the late Cone Gaston Beam and Vera Hallman Beam. He was retired from Carolina Freight Carriers after 45 years and was a member of Bess Chapel United Methodist Church. Bud was also a retired apple grower and loved to carve. He served in the U.S. Army.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister, Edith Ellen Beam.
Survivors include his wife of 67 years, Berdene Lingerfelt Beam; son, Kevin Beam and wife, Barbara of Ocean Isle Beach; daughter, Kim Beam Santos and husband, Sergio of Cherryville; granddaughter, Jordan Beam Thompson and husband, Mark; two great-grandchildren, Bella Grace Davis and Caden Davis; and fur grandbaby, Reese.
The family received friends on Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2022 from 5 to 7 p.m., at Stamey – Tysinger Funeral Home.
A funeral service was held on Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022 at 3 p.m., at Bess Chapel United Methodist Church with the Rev. Randi Godfrey officiating.
The burial followed the service in the Bess Chapel United Methodist Church Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Bess Chapel United Methodist Church Digital Sign Fund, or to Bess Chapel United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund, c/o Linda Towery, 2357 Bess Chapel Church Rd., Cherryville, NC, 28021.
A guest register is available at www.stameytysingerfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Stamey – Tysinger Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Inc., Fallston, NC.

CHERRYVILLE – Mr. Billy Ray Alexander, 70, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, Nov. 19, 2022, surrounded by his family, after a 10-year battle with pancreatic cancer.
Billy was born in Cleveland County, NC, on April 9, 1952, a son of the late William S. “Will” Alexander and Ruby Jane Costner Alexander. He retired from AT&T as a facilities assignment specialist. Billy was a member of First United Methodist Church in Cherryville and a member of the Ethleen Dover Sunday school class.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a grandson, Ned Dellinger.
Survivors include his wife of 29 years, Linda Agner Alexander; two daughters, Danielle Smith and husband, Robert of Davidson; Haley Alexander of San Francisco, CA; two sons, Travis Dellinger and wife, Betsy of Cherryville; Alan Dellinger and wife, Emily of Charlotte; six grandchildren, Jack Dellinger, Rowen Dellinger, Reese Dellinger, Ada Smith, Maggie Smith and Joel Smith; a brother, Gerald Alexander and wife, Bonny of Cherryville; a sister, Melissa Hovis and husband, Bob of Lincolnton; an aunt, Frances Grigg of Shelby; an uncle, Joe Alexander and wife, Rachel of Cherryville; three nieces, Stacey Pruitt (Bryan), Aleia Watts (Travis) and Anna Goodson (Joe).
The family received friends from 1:30 to 2:45 p.m., on Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2022 at First United Methodist Church in Cherryville, and at other times the family will be at the home.
Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m., on Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2022 at First United Methodist Church with Pastor Zack Christy officiating.
A private burial was in City Memorial Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church 601 N. Pink St., Cherryville, NC, 28021, or to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network at www.pancan.org.
A guest register is available at www.stameycherryvillefuneralhome.com.
Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home & Cremation Service served the Alexander family.

ASHEVILLE – Alfred Billy Scronce passed away at home surrounded by his family on Sunday, Nov. 20, 2022.
A native of Lincoln County, Mr. Scronce (Bill) was born on July 3,1929 to the late Frank Little Scronce and Vernie Leonard Scronce. He moved with his wife to Asheville in 1955 where they raised their family. He was preceded in death by a son, Stephen Alfred Scronce, and brothers (five of whom served in World War II): Hal (Pauline), Wray (Lorraine), Ben (Jean), Lester (Margaret), Jack (Ponese), Dan (Mozelle), and a sister, Elizabeth Scronce Hoover (Charles).
Mr. Scronce is survived by the love of his life for 67 years, Christine; and two daughters, Teresa Clark (Brett) and Elizabeth Scronce (Bobby Gosnell). Bill was a most beloved grandfather to Rachel Barry Jackson, Christina Lemonis Evans, and Alfred (“AJ”) Lemonis and great-grandfather to Shelby and Nora Jackson. Mr. Scronce is also survived by his brother, Bob (served in the Korean war) and sister, Betty Jane (Neil) Sain. He was adored by many nieces and nephews.
After graduating from Union High School and Kings College, Bill served in the U.S. Air Force Airways Communications in the Korean War (three years in Germany and one in the United States). After deployment, he was transferred from Charlotte Ivey’s Department Store to Asheville.  He later went into the Oil business as the owner and operator of Allied Oil, from which he retired in 1989. He was active in numerous community organizations and coached Little League baseball. A favorite of the young folks, many knew him as “Coach” or “Mr. Bill”. Bill was an avid outdoorsman who loved to fish, hunt, golf, and work in the yard. He was a member of the Lutheran Church of the Nativity in Arden where a service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3, 2022. Family and friends will be received before the service from 1 – 1:30 p.m. A military graveside service will be held at 4 p.m. at his home church – Bethphage Lutheran Church, 4062 Hwy. 182, Lincolnton, NC, 28092.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Land of Sky Shriners, 39 Spring Cove Rd., Swannanoa, NC, 28778, or a charity of your choice.
The care of Mr. Scronce has been entrusted to Blue Ridge Funeral Service of Mars Hill.
How do you summarize 93 years of a life well lived?
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.blueridgefuneralservice.org.

CHERRYVILLE – Mark Richard Crowder, 67, of Cherryville, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022, at Atrium Health Cleveland. He was born Dec. 4, 1954, in Hill County, Texas, to the late Jack Melvin and Mary Huffman Crowder. Mark had a passion for music and was a talented fiddle player.
He incorporated that love into the name of his vineyard that he and his wife started in 2012, “Fiddler’s Vineyard.” Mark was also an entertainer and loved to make others laugh. You were guaranteed to leave his presence with a smile on your face.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Brad Crowder.
Survivors include his wife, Sherry Lynn Moore Crowder; daughter, Jamie Lynn Heisler; granddaughter, Adalyn Averie Speagle; brothers and sisters-in-law, Craig Crowder, Kirk and Kathy Crowder, and Patricia Crowder.
 In keeping with Mark’s wishes, the family will celebrate his life at a later date at Fiddler’s Vineyard.
 Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.
Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services

CHERRYVILLE – Franklin “Frank” Delnora Daves, 82, of Baxter Rd., passed away Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2022 at CaroMont Regional Medical Center. He was born May 26, 1940 to the late J.P. and Myrtle Newton Daves.
Frank’s favorite hobby was the game of golf. His family says that Pine Grove Golf Course was his second home.
He was preceded in death by his siblings: J.P. Daves, Jr., Billy Daves, Clyde Daves, John Bennett Daves, Patsy Ruth Daves, Betty Neill, and Linda Pow.
Survivors include his loving wife of 53 years, Rita Kay McNeely Daves; daughter, Ginger McGee; son, Brad Daves (Nikki); grandchildren, Tyler Carpenter, Stephen Daves, Christopher McGee, and Landon Daves; sisters, Reba Beam, and Sybil Bender; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Nov. 4, 2022 at City Memorial Cemetery with Rev. Keith Huss officiating.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.
Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services served the family of Mr. Daves.

KINGS MOUNTAIN – Mr. Dennis Ray Arrowood, 68, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2022 at his residence.
Dennis was born on May 29, 1954 in Cleveland County, NC, a son of the late Odus Alfred Arrowood, Sr. and Jeanette Hayes Arrowood. He was of the Baptist faith. Dennis was retired from the furniture industry and continued to do upholstery work at his home.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Phillip Craft; one sister and two brothers.
Survivors include his wife of 48 years, Jane Woods Arrowood of the home; two sons, Bryan Craft and wife, Danielle; John Craft, all of Cherryville; a daughter, Holly Alexander and husband, Chris of Matthews; two sisters, Sue Lovelace of Kings Mountain and Ann James of Ellenboro; a brother, Eugene “Bucky” Arrowood of Ellenboro; 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews.
A graveside service was held at 3 p.m., on Sunday, Nov. 6, 2022 at Shady Grove Baptist Church Cemetery in Cherryville with Rev. Ronnie Lackey officiating.
The family greeted friends following the service.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105.
A guest register is available at www.stameycherryvillefuneralhome.com.
Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home & Cremation Service served the Arrowood family.

CHERRYVILLE – Mr. Thomas Larry Summer, 85, passed away peacefully on Monday, Oct. 24, 2022 at his home surrounded by his loving family.
Larry was born on March 6, 1937 in Lincoln County, NC, a son of the late Thomas Carlyle Summer, Jr. and Eva Catherine Beam Summer. He attended Cherryville High School and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Forestry from North Carolina State University. After graduation, he returned to Cherryville to work with his father at Dixie Lumber Company. Upon the untimely death of his father in 1961, he became the President of Dixie Lumber. In 1988, he formed Progressive Builders of Cherryville with his son, Tom, and in the later part of his professional life continued local development projects under Summer Construction, LLC. He and his wife Carolyn also built, owned, and managed Cherryville and Lincoln Self Storage facilities.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Janice Summer.
Survivors include his wife of 67 years, Carolyn Turner Summer of the home; a son, Tom Summer and wife, Sharon of Gastonia; two daughters, Cindy Summer of Cherryville and Cathy Smiley and husband, Jeff of Denver; four grandchildren, Brittany Summer Gregory and husband, Matt, Thomas Carlyle Summer, Grace Smiley and Graham Smiley; a great-grandson, Jack Gregory; two brothers, Garry Summer and wife, Connie of Shelby, and Oren Summer and wife, Ann of Cherryville.
A lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Cherryville, Larry not only built a strong faith within his family but was dedicated to serving his church family. He served numerous terms on the church council, was Sunday School superintendent, treasurer and served on numerous committees.
Larry was truly dedicated to the town of Cherryville and its residents. He took enormous pride in the work he was able to do to serve his hometown. He was a founding member of the Cherryville Rescue Squad and volunteered for both the Rescue Squad and the Fire Department for over 25 years. He served on the Zoning Board and Board of Adjustment, the Economic Development Commission, the Cherryville Community Development Corporation, the Rotary Club – where he was a Paul Harris Fellow, and was selected in 2017 by the Chamber of Commerce as their Man of the Year. He was instrumental in many community initiatives and in bringing business and industry to Cherryville and Gaston County.
In addition, to his own professional career, Larry dedicated himself to further the progress of the building industry on local, state, and national levels. He was a member of the Gaston County Home Builders Association where he served in various offices and eventually as President of the association. In the North Carolina Home Builders Association, Larry was a Life Director, held various offices and served as President of the state association.
In 1990, he was selected as North Carolina Builder of the Year and in 1994, he was one of two inductees in the first class of the North Carolina Housing Hall of Fame. Larry was one of the founding members of the Builders Mutual Insurance Trust and served on the Board of Directors and as its Chairman for 15 years. On the national level, he was on the Executive Committee of the National Home Builders Association for 8 years and served as a Life Director. He provided unselfish service to promote affordable housing and was the Chairman of the National Affordable Housing Committee for 3 years where he testified before the United States Congress for the continuation of the Affordable Housing Bill. His passion for affordable housing was put into action in the local community as well where he developed and built several affordable housing communities in Cherryville and the surrounding area.
All of his noteworthy accomplishments aside, Larry was most proud of his family, his 67-year marriage to the love of his life and his children and grandchildren. He provided them an amazing example of faith, selflessness, and unconditional love.
The family received friends from 1:30 to 2:45 p.m., on Sunday, Oct. 30, 2022 at St. John’s Lutheran Church.
A Celebration of Life service was held at 3 p.m., on Sunday, Oct. 30, 2022 at St. John’s Lutheran Church with the Rev. G. Scott Homesley and Rev. David Crane officiating.
Inurnment was in St. John’s Lutheran Church Columbarium.
Memorials may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church, 310 W. Church St., Cherryville, NC, 28021.
A guest register is available at www.stameycherryvillefuneralhome.com.
Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home & Cremation Service served the family of Mr. Summer.

CHERRYVILLE – Caryl Beam Austell, 74, of Cherryville, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 25, 2022 at her residence. She was born Feb. 16, 1948 in Gaston County, a daughter of the late JL and Lola Stroupe Beam. She graduated Valedictorian in 1966 from Cherryville High School. Caryl went on to graduate from High Point University and earned her Master of Counselor Education at Gardner Webb University. She taught nine years at Jamestown Junior High in Guilford County during the 1970s. She was then the school counselor at West Lincoln High School for four years and Love Memorial Elementary for 16 years. Caryl received the Counselor of the Year Award for Lincoln County. Caryl also worked for Duke Power in Hickory and at corporate offices in Charlotte for five years. She was a founding board member of Cherryville High School Education Foundation and served as a board member of Hospice of Cleveland County. Caryl was an active member of First United Methodist Church of Cherryville where she served on church council, trustee, chairman of education committee and parsonage committee, member of Aunt Pearl Circle, and Ethleen Dover Sunday School Class. Her greatest joy in life was getting to be the loving grandmother and babysitter to Riley, Henry, and Ella.
Survivors include her husband of 38 years, Bob Austell; daughter, Elizabeth Shuford (Lee); grandchildren, Riley Shuford, Henry Shuford, and Ella Shuford; stepdaughters, Teesie Smith (Danny), Kim Crane (Stephen), and Amy Turner (David); grandchildren, Charlie Smith (Clare), Robert Smith (Danielle), Adam Crane (Rachel), Stephanie Crane (Jon), Kelly Setzer (Will), Dave Turner (Jamie), Rachel Turner; great-grandchildren, Kate, William, Ada, Maggie, Joel, Wilson, and Daniel; brother, Jim L. Beam III (Becky); nieces, Lindsey Beam and Paige Hartman; and sister-in-law, Mary Ann Spencer.
A memorial service was held Saturday, Oct. 29, 2022 at 3 p.m., at First United Methodist Church with Rev. Zack Christy officiating. The family received friends from 1:30 to 2:45 p.m., prior to the service at the church. 
A private burial took place at Cherryville City Memorial Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, 601 N. Pink St., Cherryville, NC, 28021, or Hospice of Cleveland County, 951 Wendover Heights Dr., Shelby, NC, 28150.
The family wishes to extend sincere thanks to their caregivers, Kim Alexander, Kay Edmondson, Loretta Shull, Charlotte Cook, Sandra Bowen, and Nadine Butler. They would also like to thank Hospice Nurse Regina Clewell and Hospice of Cleveland Care for their love and care shown to the family.
Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.
Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services served the family of Mrs. Austell.

LAURINBURG, NC – Geraldine Brooks Stephens, 75 of Laurinburg, went home to Jesus on Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2022. Born June 7, 1947 in Scotland County, she was the daughter of Lacy Lee Brooks, Sr. and Mary Magdalene (Maggie) Brooks. Geraldine was a 1966 graduate from Cherryville High School. She loved spending time with her friends and family and enjoyed painting and crafting. In addition to her parents, Geraldine was preceded in death by her sisters, Peggy Brazelton and Becky Brittan.
Geraldine is survived by her husband, Ronald Smith, of Laurinburg, NC; daughter, Angela McDowell (Doug), of Mount Holly, NC; daughter, Sandy Mosteller (Roger), of Lincolnton, NC; two grandchildren, Wesley Mosteller, of Lincolnton, NC; and Kelsey Boitnott (Bryan) of Wilmington, NC; her siblings, Edna Rigby, Georgia Watts, Lacy Brooks Jr., and Arthur Brooks; and her three ‘grand-dogs’, Lucy, Ripples and Oliver.
Memorial services were held Sunday, Oct. 16, 2022 at Mt. Beulah Pentecostal Holiness Church in Rockingham, NC.
Simple Service of Gastonia served the family of Mrs. Stephens.

CHERRYVILLE – Charles Steven “Steve” Morgan, Sr., 80, of Cherryville, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2022 at his residence surrounded by his family. He was born Feb. 9, 1942 in Cleveland County to the late Clarence and Annabell Page Morgan.
Steve was a veteran of the United States Air Force. He worked as a rate analyst at Carolina Freight for 28 years and then another 10 years with Watkins. Steve was a faithful member of Cherryville Missionary Methodist Church where he served as Treasurer for 46 years, among various other roles. He enjoyed wood-crafting and building model planes. Steve enjoyed going to the beach and cherished every moment spent with his family.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Dewey Morgan, Eugene Morgan, and Audrey “Gale” Morgan.
Survivors include his beloved wife of 58 years, Addie “Lavonne” Timmons Morgan; son, Charles S. Morgan II and wife, Nikki; daughter, Gaye Morgan Almasi and husband, John; grandchildren, Brett Noles, Zack Noles, Casey Cain, Matt Cain, and Charlie Morgan III; sisters-in-law, Margaret Setzer, and Dot Morgan; special nieces and families, Beth Vaca, Aleta Setzer, Andrea and Brian Pruett, Liz, Patrick, Victoria, Donnie Morgan, Ginger Morgan Cash, Christy Reimann (Craig), and Ashley Ann Smith (Ryan).
A memorial service was held at 2 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 16, 2022 at Missionary Methodist Church with Rev. Bobby Holtsclaw officiating. Burial was private. The family received friends from 1 to 1:45 p.m., prior to the service at the church.
Memorials may be made to Missionary Methodist Church Building Fund, 318 W. Ballard St., Cherryville, NC, 28021.
Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.
Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services served the family of Mr. Morgan.

OAKBORO – Billy Wayne Hinson, 86, of Oakboro, passed away Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022, at Atrium Health Cabarrus Hospital in Concord.
Bill was born Nov. 10, 1935, in North Carolina to the late John Spurgeon Hinson and the late Annie Mae Hinson.
He was also preceded in death by wife, Janice Carol Hinson; daughter, Cynthia Dawn Howell; brother, Boyd Lee Hinson and sister, Jane Lorch
The family received friends from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 13, 2022, at Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle. The funeral service was held on Thursday, Oct. 13, at 2 p.m., at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Oakboro, officiated by Rev. Dr. Shad Hicks. Burial followed at the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Cemetery at 17236 Frog Pond Rd., Oakboro.
Mr. Hinson was married to his wife, Janice for 64 years until her passing in 2020, and they raised two children, Mark and Cynthia. He spent over 40 years being a coach, teacher, and administrator in NC and SC schools, from elementary to college. He was fortunate enough to be with the student athletes at Aycock High School, Stanfield High School, West Stanly High School, Cherryville High School, Spartanburg High School, USC Upstate, South Stanly High School, and Stanfield School. He coached many good teams and great players, including those that developed professional careers in MLB, the NFL, and NBA. In retirement he continued his love for golf and became the US senior games horseshoe national champion for 70- to 75-year-old men in 2014. He enjoyed the opportunity to compete and will be missed by his friends and family in the places mentioned above and especially in his hometown of Oakboro, NC.
Survivors include son, Mark (Sue) Hinson of Folly Beach, SC, granddaughters, Taylor (Elliot) Marshall and Montana Hinson, and grandson, Rivers Hinson.
Donations may be made to the Stanly County, NC Retired School Personnel Organization (NCRSP), at 807 Sylvania Ave., Albemarle, NC, 28001.
Online condolences may be made to www.hartsellfh.com.
Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle served the Hinson family.

CHERRYVILLE – Gary Dean “Rocky” Bennett, 72, of Jane Street, passed away Monday, Oct. 10, 2022 at Atrium Health Cleveland. He was born Sept. 29, 1950 to the late Henry Wilson Bennett, Jr. and the late Juanita Huffstetler Bennett Hill.
Rocky was a proud veteran of the United States Army. He was the successful business owner of Bennett Insurance Group of Cherryville, which he founded in 2007. 
His love for baseball was evident in all of his years of service. Rocky was the head coach of the Cherries from 1984-1996. And, Rocky was the Baseball Commissioner for Area IV American Legion on multiple occasions. Moreover, he was the Post 100 Athletic Director for more years than we can count.
Rocky was inducted into the American Legion Hall of Fame in 2007. He was subsequently inducted into the Cherryville Sports Hall of Fame. Rocky later received the 2014 David Poole Service Award from the Gaston County Sports Hall of Fame.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Allison Lynn Bennett Hovis; brothers, Michael Jacob Bennett, and Robert Eugene Bennett; and brother-in-law, Mutt Hayes.
Survivors include his loving wife of 51 years, Lynn Leatherman Bennett, of the home; sons; Kevin Bennett and wife, Lutricia, Wesley Bennett and wife Kristen, and Kyle Bennett, all of Cherryville; granddaughters, Elizabeth Bennett, Audrey Bennett, Ragan Lynn Hovis, and Margaret “Meg” Jones; sisters, Sherry Hayes, and Mary Anne Bennett Jenkins and husband, T.J.; and son-in-law, Chris Hovis.
Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 22, 2022 at First Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Vince Hefner officiating. Burial will follow at City Memorial Cemetery.
His family will receive friends from 11 a.m., to 12:45 p.m., prior to the service in the church sanctuary.
Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 301 E. First St., Cherryville, NC, 28021.
Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.
Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family of Mr. Bennett.

CHERRYVILLE – Mr. David Ronald “Ron” Hovis, Sr., 79, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Oct. 9, 2022 at his residence surrounded by his family.
Ron was born in Lincoln County, NC, on Oct. 12, 1942 the son of the late James Ralph “Tom” Hovis and Angelita Hollifield Hovis. He was retired from the trucking industry having worked for Carolina Freight Carriers Corporation in Cherryville for 30 years. Ron was a faithful member of the First United Methodist Church in Cherryville and the Men’s Bible Class. He also served the church in various other capacities over the years. He was a member of Cherryville Masonic Lodge #505 A.F. & A.M. and Oasis Shriners. Ron had a passion for serving the City of Cherryville from his early days as he was a member of Jaycee’s and later would serve as a city councilman for Cherryville. He also served as a member of the Gaston County School Board, Board of Trustees for Gaston College and a member of the NC Beverage Control Board. Ron was an avid sportsman and played baseball in his youth and was drafted in the 1960’s to play for the Washington Senators. He was inducted into the Cherryville Sports Hall of Fame. He also had a love for golf and was a former club champion at Cherryville Country Club. Ron also served on the ElectriCities Board of Directors. He and his wife, Janice were the only husband and wife members to be awarded the Lifetime achievement award.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Janice Ruth Hovis Anthony.
Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Janice Ledford Hovis of the home; a daughter, Julie Dawn Lyles and husband, Tracy of Cherryville; a son, David Ronald Hovis, Jr. of Huntersville; a granddaughter, Mary Elizabeth Wyatt of Cherryville; a brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Steve and Patty Owens of Cherryville; a brother-in-law, Eddie Ledford of Gastonia. Also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews.
The family received friends from 5 to 8 p.m., on Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2022 at First United Methodist Church in Cherryville.
A Celebration of Life service was held at 11 a.m., on Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2022 at First United Methodist Church with Rev Zack Christy, Dr. Bill Lowe, and Rev. Jerry Lail officiating.
Masonic Rites were given by Cherryville Masonic Lodge following the service. Burial was private.
Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, 601 N. Pink St., Cherryville, NC, 28021.
A guest register is available at www.stameycherryvillefuneralhome.com.
Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home & Cremation Service served the Hovis family.

CHERRYVILLE – Damon Emil Fields, 39, of Westgate Dr., passed away unexpectedly on Sept. 30, 2022 at his residence. He was born Nov. 5, 1982 in New Hanover County to Brian Fields and the late Carole Putnam Fields.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Carole Putnam Fields.
Survivors include his father, Brian Fields of Wilmington, NC; sister, Kim Bivins (Ray) of Lawndale; brothers, Scott Carpenter, Deaver Carpenter; both of Shelby, and Chris Carpenter (Shelby) of Kernersville; and special friend, Polly Metcalf.
No formal services are scheduled at the time.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Gaston County Animal Shelter.
Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.
Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services are serving the family of Mr. Fields.

CROUSE – Oscar Franklin Sappenfield, 96, of Crouse, passed away Monday, Sept. 19, 2022 at Summit Place in Kings Mountain. He was born Nov. 2, 1925 in Gaston County to the late Oscar Lorenzo and Pearl Barrier Sappenfield.
Oscar was a WWII veteran of the United States Army Air Corps where he served as a mechanic. After the military, he attended Mars Hill College, and received his degree in auto mechanics from Nashville Auto Diesel Trade School in 1948. He was a devoted member of Crouse United Methodist Church.
Mr. Sappenfield was an agent with Western & Southern Insurance Company. He also owned and operated Merry Oaks Antiques for 25 years, along with his wife, Kathryn. Oscar served as the first Chief of Crouse Volunteer Fire Department. 
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 66 years, Kathryn Eliza Beam Sappenfield; sisters, Edith Hickey and Catherine McArthur; and nieces, Julee Wolfe and Susan Rhodes.
Survivors include his nieces and nephews: Jodi Adams, Carol McMahan (Danny), Lisa Hovis (Roger), Laura Lowery, Robert Rhodes (Shaye), and Cathy Rhodes Katz (Mark); 14 great-nieces and nephews; and 23 great-great-nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held Thursday, Sept. 22, 2022 at 3 p.m., at Crouse United Methodist Church with Rev. Troy Howard officiating. Burial followed at Hollybrook Cemetery. The family received friends Thursday, from 2 to 2:45 p.m., prior to the service at the church. 
Memorials may be made to Crouse UMC, 3311 Crouse School Rd., Crouse, NC, 28033.
Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.
Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services served the family of Mr. Sappenfield.

DALLAS – Darise Arlen Hartman, 89, of South Gaston St., went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, Sept. 15, 2022, at his residence in Dallas. He was born Oct. 12, 1932, in Cleveland County to the late Lois Alvin and Velma Pearl Smith Hartman.
Mr. Hartman was a veteran of the United States Army. He was retired from Gastex Inc., of Gastonia. He enjoyed weekly golf outings with Lee Nicholson, Albert Robinson, and Richard Nicholson. Darise was a press box scoreboard operator for both the American Legion and the Cherryville High School baseball games for more than 20 years. He also attended the American Legion World Series, each year, for the past 33 years.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his loving wife of 60 years, Shirley Elizabeth Beam Hartman; and his brothers, Herman, Ralph, and Bobby Hartman.
Survivors include his daughters; Teresa Parsons of Gastonia and Robin Nicholson (Lee) of Bessemer City; sister, Jean Hartman; sister-in-law, Mary Hartman; extended family, Richard and Libby Nicholson; close friends, Danny Eaker, Troy Thomas, and Albert Robinson; and several nieces and nephews.
A Service of Remembrance was held at 3 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 18, 2022 at Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services with Rev. Dr. Vince Hefner and Rev. Jeff Hicks officiating.
Burial followed in City Memorial Cemetery. The family received friends from 2 to 2:45 p.m., prior to the service at the funeral home.
Memorials may be made to Cherryville American Legion Post #100, 215 N Pink St, Cherryville, NC, 28021.
Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.
Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services served the family of Mr. Hartman.

CHERRYVILLE – Gertrude, “Gert, Trudy, BT” (Brooks) Washburn, 95, formerly of Cherryville, passed away Saturday, Sept. 10, 2022. She was born in Hall County, Georgia, Aug. 9, 1927 to Robert Addison Harlan Brooks and Cora Williams Brooks. After attending Cleveland County School systems, she married Robert Eugene Washburn in 1944. She later attended beautician school and started her private beauty salon, a business she owned and operated for over 30 years, all while being an attentive wife and mother to three.
She is survived by her youngest child, Trudy Smith (Wayne, dec.), Patricia Washburn (John, dec.); five grandchildren, Jason Washburn (Petra), Matthew Washburn (Holley), Josh Washburn (Tate), Cori Smith (Benjamin), Logan Smith (Katlyn); seven great-grandchildren, Shayna, Noah, Nick, Maddox, Lia, Scout, and Thomas.
She is preceded in death by husband, Robert Eugene Washburn; and sons, Robert Edward Washburn and John Datus Washburn; along with 5 siblings, 3 sisters and 2 brothers.
She will be remembered as an avid reader, a shrewd bridge player, and a forever Tar Heel supporter. She loved God, her family, and the town she called home for 63 years, Cherryville.
Memorial services will be held at 11:30 a.m., Monday, Sept. 26, 2022 at First Baptist Church of Cherryville with Rev. Dr. Vince Hefner officiating.
Her family will receive friends from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., prior to her service at the church.
Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 301 East 1st St., Cherryville, NC, 28021.
Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com.
Carpenter – Porter Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family of Mrs. Washburn.

KANSAS CITY, MO – Eddie Nelson Upton, 76, died after a brief illness on Sept. 6, 2022. Eddie was born on Aug. 28, 1946, in Cherryville, N.C., to Joe J. and Mayzelle Upton. Following graduation from Cherryville High School, Eddie entered the Army and was stationed in Germany for two years, returning to the States in 1968. He then began his career as a salesman with American and Efird Thread, located in Gastonia, N.C.
Eddie was assigned the Midwest territory, which brought him to Kansas City in 1972. Eddie left American and Efird in 1986 to pursue other sales positions in the Kansas City area, finally retiring in 2009.
Eddie is preceded in death by his parents, Joe J and Mayzelle Upton; and two siblings, David Upton and LaVonda Upton McSwain.
Eddie is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Ellen Lee McCartney-Upton; his children, Danielle Upton Wright and Casey Upton, with his former wife Helen Milligan Upton; his grandchildren: Evan Wright, Avery Upton and Brooke Upton; his son-in-law, Shane Wright; and his daughter-in-law, Jennifer Blount Upton.
Eddie loved his family and friends and they will remember him for his sense of humor, easy-going style, devotion to the Kansas City Royals and Chiefs, as well as anything “North Carolina.” Eddie was also a sports participant, enjoying softball and golf throughout his twenties and thirties. He and Ellen Lee loved to travel to exotic beaches and were frequent visitors to Las Vegas and Walt Disney World. Eddie and Ellen Lee were successful gardeners throughout their marriage and took particular pride in their 20-year-old lemon tree.
The family invited colleagues and friends who knew Eddie to celebrate his life from 1 to 3 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 17 at White Chapel Funeral Home, 6600 NE Antioch Rd., Gladstone, MO, 64119.
White Chapel Funeral Home served the family of Mr. Upton.

Roger Leon Stroup, 76, of Waco, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2022 at Hospice at Wendover, Shelby.
Born in Cleveland County Dec. 10, 1945, he was a son of the late Arthur Boyd Stroup and Gladys Sellers Stroup. He was owner and operator of Stroup Farms and a member of Waco Baptist Church. Roger and his family were recognized as the Farm Family of the Year 2014.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by two brothers, Bruce Stroup and Gary Stroup; and a sister, Nancy Stroup.
Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Melinda Phillips Stroup; one son, Ted Stroup and wife Sandy of Waco; two daughters, Kimberly Lee and husband Robert and Amanda Vess and husband Darrell, all of Waco; two sisters, Brenda Rutherford and husband Bob of Mocksville, and Sara Zissimopulos and husband Guy of Tarpon Springs, FL; six grandchildren, Jonathan Stroup and wife Shonda, Jennifer Stroup and Colt Ratchford, Jessica Allen and husband Chris, Hunter Mills and husband Dustin, Jacey Stroup and Roger Harris Vess; and six great-grandchildren, Cooper, Waylon, Addy, Ceceilia, Sophia, and Kayden.
The family received friends on Friday, Sept. 2, 2022, at 6 to 8 p.m., at Stamey – Tysinger Funeral Home.
The funeral service was held on Saturday, Sept. 3, 2022 at 2 p.m., at Waco Baptist Church with Dr. Harold Fite and Dr. Rit Varriale officiating.
The burial followed the service in the Capernaum Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Waco Baptist Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 297, Waco, NC, 28169; Capernaum Cemetery, c/o Waco Baptist Church, P.O. Box 297, Waco, NC, 28169, Fund; or to Hospice Cleveland County, 951 Wendover Heights Dr., Shelby, NC, 28150.
A guest register is available at www.stameytysingerfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Stamey – Tysinger Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Inc., Fallston, who served the family of Mr. Stroup.

South Windsor, CT – On Sunday, Aug. 21, 2022, Gloria M. Juergens of South Windsor, passed away at the age of 90. She was born May 17, 1932 in Hartford to the late Alexander Joseph and Tessie Mae Stroupe Morris. Gloria’s mother, Tessie Mae, was a native of Cherryville.
Gloria graduated from Hartford Public High School in 1950 and for her first job, she worked in the accounts payable department, learning early IBM processing skills, at G Fox and Company.  She also worked for the US Department of Labor, where she met her future husband, Richard Juergens.
She was a loving mother to three surviving children, Richard, Timothy, and Marie. Gloria was a member of the East Hartford Woman’s Club; she mentored in the local school system and was a devoted communicant of St. Christopher’s Catholic Church in East Hartford. Her husband preceded her in death.
Gloria and her siblings were fascinated with and loved their family connection to the Stroups of Cherryville, N.C. Gloria’s mother, Tessie Mae, born in 1911, grew up on the Stroup family farm south of Cherryville. As fate would have it, in her early 20s, she was introduced to and married her husband of 36 years, a Russian immigrant who had come to the “Land of the Free” 10 years prior. The Morris family, including Gloria and her siblings, often visited Cherryville, Shady Grove Baptist Church, and never forgot their Stroup roots here. Just two weeks before her death, Gloria “attended” the 2022 Stroup Family Reunion by internet ZOOM and recounted to the reunion attendees her very fond childhood memories of the Stroups. Gloria specifically recalled that as children, she, her siblings, and Mom, Tessie Mae, would anxiously await the weekly arrival of the “Cherryville Eagle” by mail, bringing news from the “home” in Cherryville!
Mrs. Juergens was buried at Rose Hill Memorial Park in Connecticut. She will be missed.

CHERRYVILLE – Mr. Tommy Richard Stroupe, Sr., 70, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 30, 2022 at CaroMont Regional Medical Center in Gastonia surrounded by his family.
Tommy was born on Oct. 5, 1951 in Lincoln County, NC, a son of the late Lawrence W. Stroupe and Edna Greene Stroupe. He was retired as a regional manager for Interstate Brands of Charlotte. Tommy also worked a chief financial officer in his son’s company, TRS Consulting in Reston, VA. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Cherryville. Tommy was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Conflict and was stationed during that time at the Pentagon in Washington, DC.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Gary Stroupe and a sister, Linda Hastings.
Survivors include his son, Tommy Richard Stroupe, Jr. and wife Christina DiPalo Stroupe of Leesburg, VA; a sister, Patsy Randall of Cherryville; three grandchildren, Tommy Richard Stroupe, III, Audrey Elizabeth Stroupe and Olivia Jean Stroupe; a sister-in-law, Barbara Stroupe of Lincolnton; a brother-in-law, Jerry Hastings of Cherryville; and a special friend, Sheila Mims of Mt. Holly.
The family received friends from 4 to 6 p.m., on Friday, Aug. 5, 2022 at Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home.
A Celebration of Life Service was held at 1 p.m., on Satruday, Aug. 6, 2022 at First Presbyterian Church in Cherryville with Dr. Bill Lowe officiating.
Burial followed in Cherryville City Memorial Cemetery with military honors.
Memorials may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 107 W. Academy St., Cherryville, NC, 28021.
A guest register is available at www.stameycherryvillefuneralhome.com.
Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home & Cremation Service served the Stroupe family.

CHERRYVILLE – Mrs. Brenda Lee Sellers Sluder, 80, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 13, 2022 at CaroMont Regional Medical Center in Gastonia.
Brenda was born in Lincoln County, NC, on Feb. 23, 1942, a daughter of the late Max B. Sellers and Mildred Bridges Sellers. She worked with Head Start preschool program and also at other daycare centers and textile mills. Brenda was also a caregiver to many children that she considered as her own. She was a member of Cherryville Missionary Methodist Church. She was an avid reader, enjoyed working crossword puzzles, coloring and was the reigning family champion in Rummy.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Karen Sluder; a son, Jimmy Dean “Rusty” Sluder; three grandsons, Michael Chapman, Christopher Harris, and Michael Sluder; and a brother, Robert “Sonny” Sellers.
Survivors include her three daughters, Elayne Chapman and husband David; Dana Daves and Crystal Brittain; a sister, Debbie Fetner (Donnie); a special niece, Kay Sain; seven grandchildren, Holly Camp (Jonathan), Bruce Chapman (Tarra), Brandon Sluder, Jason Lowe (Tara), Danielle Hill (Chris), Jamie Harris and Charlotte Daves; 14 great-grandchildren, Vivian-Layne, London and Lilly Camp, Ethan, Lowe and Tucker Gilbert, Abigail, Logan and Amberlyn Harris, Jaxon and Eve Chapman, Sierra Daves, Marshall and Stephen Safrit.
The family received friends from 6 to 8 p.m., on Friday, Aug. 19, 2022 at Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home.
Funeral services were held at 1 p.m., on Saturday, Aug. 20, 2022 at Cherryville Missionary Methodist Church with Rev’s. Bobby Holtsclaw and Kyeth Lindsay officiating.
Burial was in Cherryville City Memorial Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Cherryville Missionary Methodist Church 318 W. Ballard St., Cherryville, NC, 28021.
A guest register is available at www.stameycherryvillefuneralhome.com.
Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home & Cremation Service served the family of Mrs. Sluder.

CHERRYVILLE – Mr. Harrill Ross Ellis, 83, passed away on Sunday, Aug. 14, 2022 at CaroMont Regional Medical Center in Gastonia.
Mr. Ellis was born on Dec. 17, 1938 in Cleveland County, NC, a son of the late Miller Ross Ellis and Ella Gertrude McSwain Ellis. He was retired from textiles. Mr. Ellis was a member of Bethel Baptist Church in Lincolnton where he served as a deacon, and he also served in various other capacities at the church. He also volunteered with Scout Troop Pack 72 in Lincolnton.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Donald Ellis; two brothers, Herbert Ellis and Billy Joe Ellis; two sisters, Vernie Bess and Louise Ward; and a stepdaughter, Karyn Jean Williamson.
Survivors include his wife of 12 years, Jean Lancaster Ellis of the home; two daughters, Nicki Huntsinger and husband, Rev. Douglas Huntsinger of Elgin, SC; Jodi Parker of Shelby; one stepdaughter, two stepsons and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held at 6 p.m., at Bethel Baptist Church in Lincolnton on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2022. The Rev’s. Rick Hensley and Richard Jenkins officiated. Burial was private.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, or to Bethel Baptist Church Youth Fund, 200 Bethel Church Rd., Lincolnton, NC, 28092.
A guest register is available at www.stameycherryvillefuneralhome.com.
Stamey – Cherryville Funeral Home & Cremation Service served the family of Mr. Ellis.