Mr. Lester Barnes (Nov. 14, 1958 – Aug. 30, 2015)
Mr. Lester Carroll Barnes, 56, of Rush Branch Road, Sugar Grove, passed away Sunday afternoon, August 30, 2015 at his home. Lester was born November 14, 1958 in Watauga County. He was a member of Antioch Baptist Church. Before retirement, he worked as a custodian at Watauga High School and in food services at Appalachian State University. Lester’s greatest joy was spending time with his family. He enjoyed farming, especially raising and selling tobacco and riding and working his horses.
Lester is survived by wife, Patricia Coffey Barnes; three daughters, Tequila Gilreath and husband, Butch, of Mountain City, TN., Jennifer Barnes of Sugar Grove and Anna Price and husband, Michael, of Mountain City; three sons, Kenny Lunceford of Lenoir, Robert Wagoner and wife, Nikki, of Boone, and Earl Barnes and wife, Leslie, of Millers Creek; eleven grandchildren; his mother, Katie Glenn Barnes of Sugar Grove; sister, Nellie Oakes and husband, Ira, of Mountain City; and two brothers, George Barnes and wife, Julie, and J. C. Barnes, all of Sugar Grove.
Sixteen nieces and nephews also survive. He was preceded in death by his father, William Earl Barnes.
Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday afternoon, September 2, 2015 at 2 o’clock, at the Austin & Barnes Funeral Chapel, officiated by Rev. Donald Yates. The family will receive friends Wednesday afternoon from 1 until 2 o’clock, prior to services, at Austin & Barnes. Graveside services will follow in the Glenn-Ward Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Austin & Barnes Funeral Home to help the family with expenses.
Online condolences may be shared at the website austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the Barnes family.
Betty Osborne Eggers (Oct. 11, 1946 - Aug. 29, 2015)
Betty Osborne Eggers, 68, of Old U.S. Highway 421 Zionville, passed away Saturday afternoon, August 29, 2015 at her home.
Mrs. Eggers was born October 11, 1946 in Watauga County, a daughter to the late Voley Dean Osborne and Esther Preston Miller Osborne. She was a homemaker, and a former employee of TRW/IRC. She was a member of Zionville Baptist Church.
Mrs. Eggers is survived by her husband, R.D. Eggers, of the home; one son, David Eggers and wife Judy of Boone; one daughter Debbie Dollar and husband Danny of Zionville; one granddaughter, Rebecca Eggers and fiancé Jesse Triplett of Jefferson; one grandson, Matthew Eggers of Boone; one brother, Dean Osborne and wife Judy of Zionville; one brother-in-law, Steve Eggers; two sisters-in-law, Cathie Farmer and Betty Church; and a special aunt, Irene Greene of Ohio. She is also survived by a number of nieces and nephews, including Travis Osborne and wife Debi of Zionville.
A memorial service for Mrs. Betty Osborne Eggers will be conducted Thursday, September 3, 2015 at 1:00 o’clock at Mabel United Methodist Church. Pastor Katherine Cornell will officiate. The family will receive friends from 12:00 until 1:00 at the church, one hour prior to the service. At other times, friends may call at the home of the daughter, Debbie and Danny Dollar, 164 Miller Lane, Zionville, North Carolina.
Flowers are appreciated, or memorials may be made to the Betty Eggers Family, 5663 Old US 421, Zionville, North Carolina, 28698. Online condolences may be sent to the Eggers Family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com.
Pauline Ellen “Polly” Henson (June 29, 2015 – Aug. 29, 2015)
Pauline Ellen “Polly” Henson, 95, of Crossnore passed away on Aug. 29, 2015 at Cannon Memorial Hospital.
She was born June 9, 1920 a daughter of the late Benjamin and Elizabeth Hollander Rolfe.
Polly loved flowers, hummingbirds and enjoyed singing in the church choir.
Along with her parents, Pauline was preceded in death by her: husband Guy Henson; son Sam Henson; brothers Jesse Rolfe, Barry Hollander, Edward Cullom and sister Willie Mae Gragg.
Pauline has left to cherish her memory her: daughters Delores Henson Banner of Vilas, NC and Ramona Sturgill and husband John of Linville, NC; son Dennis Henson of Crossnore, NC and daughter-in-law Ann Henson of Crossnore, NC; 10 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral services for Mrs. Henson will be conducted on Monday, August 31, 2015 at Crossnore Baptist Church with Rev. Lander Hefner and Rev. Lonnie Barnes officiating. Interment will be held on Tuesday, September 1, 2015 in Cuthbertson Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Monday, August 31, 2015 at Crossnore Baptist Church.
Pall Bearers will be Polly’s grandsons. Honorary pall bearers will be Polly’s great-grandsons.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Avery Medi-Home Hospice.
Words of comfort and memories may be shared with the family and viewed at www.rsfh.net.
Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home of Newland is serving the Henson family.
Ellayna Townsend (Jan. 18, 1961 – Aug. 29, 2015)
Ellayna Hopson Townsend, 54, of Matney died on August 29, 2015 after a long illness of cancer.
A native of Avery County, Ellayna was born January 18, 1961 a daughter of Evin and the late Hildred McCkinney Hopson.
She was preceded in death by her mother Hildred McCkinney Hopson.
Ellayna has left to cherish her memory her: father Evin Hopson; husband Bruce Townsend; sons Jonah Townsend and Alan Townsend and wife Nikki; daughter Carrie Townsend Carpenter and husband Steve; grandchildren Harley, Mariah and Anna Townsend and Hope, Zoe and Kayden Carpenter; brothers Danny Hopson and wife Betty and D.L. Hopson and wife Tammy; sisters Gail Hughes and husband Danny, Vickie Hughes and husband Delbert, Kathy Sargent and husband Wesley and Lorana Greene and husband Stephen; special mother in law Ruth Townsend; special friends Darlene Townsend and Jennifer Jennings; several nieces and nephews and many friends.
Funeral services for Ellayna Hopson Townsend will be conducted on Tuesday, September 1, 2015 at 1:00 pm in Grandfather Chapel of Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home with Rev. Chuck Campbell officiating. Interment will follow in Townsend Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 11:00 am until the service hour at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the funeral home to help with expenses.
Words of comfort and memories may be shared with the family and viewed at www.rsfh.net.
Harley D. Foster (May 20, 1995 – Aug. 28, 2015)
Harley Dakota Foster, 20, a native of Newland, died suddenly and tragically in an automobile accident on Friday, August 28, 2015. Harley was the beloved son of Scott Foster. Harley left a legacy of love. He was known for his infectious smile, love for all he encountered and gentle spirit. His untimely passing is deeply mourned by all who knew this wonderful young man.
Harley attended Avery High School, graduating in 2014. While attending Avery High, Harley excelled in golf and football. Harley also enjoyed fishing, hunting, and riding his dirt bike. Most of all, Harley enjoyed life, especially spending time with his friends and family. Harley was dearly loved and loved others in return. His spirit now dwells in a place of pure love.
In addition to his parents, Harley is survived by half brothers Delaney Thomas and Shawn Queen and half sister Brittany Worley; his grandparents, Samuel Foster of Newland and Frieda Julian Briggs and her husband Craig of Pinehurst, N.C.; his Uncle Kevin Foster and Aunt Arlene Foster of Newland; Aunts Lisa Eudy of Charlotte, NC; Laura Foster of Asheville, NC; Uncle Kevin Eudy of Dahlonega Ga. Aunts Penny Hodge and her husband Joey Hodge of Newland and Crystal Gallion and her husband John of Jonas Ridge; cousins Trevor and Ansley Eudy; Cooper and Lilly Foster; Halley Puckett; Cole Storie; Gage and Jack Gallion; Ashley Erwin. His nieces Summer and Autumn Queen, Andrea Worley, and Adalyn Thomas; and nephew Luke Worley.
Others include Great Aunts Betty Johnson and family; Mary Ellen Estep and family; and Kaye Treadway and family; Glenda Rensi and family; Great Uncles Terry Julian and family; Fred Julian and family; Adrian Julian and family as well as a loving extended family and his countless close friends.
The family will receive friends Monday, August 31, 2015 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Elk Park Christian Church. A celebration of life service will begin promptly at 8:00 p.m. in the church.
Online condolences may be shared with the Foster family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com.
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Foster family.
Mrs. Betty K. Hayes (Feb. 1, 1928 – Aug. 26, 2015)
Betty Krider Hayes, affectionately known as Mama Betty, age 87, of Boone, passed away Wednesday, August 26, 2015 at Glenbridge Health & Rehabilitation. Born February 1, 1928 in Todd, she was a daughter of the late Dick and Ada Krider. She was a loving wife and homemaker to her late husband Buck Hayes and their children.
Betty was a member of Mount Vernon Baptist Church where she served wherever she was needed. She loved children and served in the nursery for years. She also kept children in her home and they all called her Mama Betty.
She is survived by two sons, Larry Hayes and wife Fay of Hendersonville, NC and Tim Hayes and wife Lisa of Wichita, Kansas; two daughters, Deanna Wilkerson of Forest City, NC and Sarah Hayes and husband Bill Sullivan of Wellfleet, Massachusetts; a sister, Joan Weaver of West Jefferson, NC; a brother Jasper Krider of Washington state; nine grandchildren, several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband Buck Hayes, her parents Dick and Ada Krider; a grandson, Todd Hayes; four brothers: James, Charles, Tom & Jack Krider; and by two sisters, Irene Miller and Nell Eller.
Funeral Services for Betty Krider Hayes will be conducted Saturday, August 29, 2015, at 11:00 AM at Mount Vernon Baptist Church. Officiating will be Rev. Bud Russell. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 10 until 11:00 AM at Mount Vernon Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Caldwell Hospice & Palliative Care, 902 Kirkwood Street, NW, Lenoir, NC 28645, or to Mount Vernon Baptist Church, 3505 Bamboo Road, Boone, NC 28607.
Online condolences may be shared with the Hayes family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com.
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Hayes family.
Cecil Clayton Eller (Aug. 31, 1947 - Aug. 25, 2015)
Cecil Clayton Eller, 67, went home to be with His Lord on August 25, 2015.
Cecil was born in Millers Creek on August 31, 1947 to Thomas C. and Opal Stoltz Eller.
He served in the United States Army Security Agency from 1966 to 1971. He retired from Appalachian State University where he worked as Operations Manager in Information Technology Services. Cecil is a member of Beaver Dam Baptist Church where he taught Sunday School and sang in the choir. He loved to play golf and to work in his garden and mow grass. He loves his Lord. He was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather.
Cecil is survived by his wife of 20 years, Cynthia Gail Eller, of the home; two daughters, Victoria Elgin and husband Tim of Moravian Falls, NC and Wendy Bowers and husband David of Greenwood, IN; one step-son Kevin Stewart and wife Felicia of Lenoir, NC; two step-daughters, Crystal Porter and husband Brad of Goose Creek, SC, Candace Yu and husband James of Raleigh, NC; one sister, Anne Stalling and husband Ken of Purlear, NC; two brothers T.C. Eller of Miller’s Creek, NC and John Clinton Eller of Ocala, FL; one grandson, Christopher Eller of Greenwood, IN; three granddaughters, Katherine Eller and Alexandra Lawson of Moravian Falls, NC and Isabella Lawson of West Jefferson, NC; seven step-grandsons, Dakota and Noah Stewart of Lenoir, NC; Brandon and Benjamin Porter of Goose Creek, SC; Max, Daniel and Cassidy Yu of Raleigh, NC; one step-granddaughter, Brianna Porter of Goose Creek, SC; a brother-in-law Michael Norris of Trade, TN and a sister-in-law Deborah Norris of Vilas, NC. He is also survived by a number of nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, Richard, James and Troy Eller and one sister, Rose Ellen Ellis.
A celebration of his life will be held Saturday afternoon, August 29, 2015, at Beaver Dam Baptist Church. The body will lie in state, at the church, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. Officiating will be Pastor Keith Brown and Reverend Derick Wilson. Military graveside rites and burial, provided by the United States Army, American Legion Post 130, and Disabled American Veterans Chapter 90, will follow in the Upper Beaver Dam Cemetery.
The family will receive friends Friday evening, from 6:30 until 8:30 pm, at Hampton Funeral Service. At other times friends may call at the home.
Flowers are appreciated or donations may be made to Medi Home Hospice, 400 Shadowline Drive, Suite 102, Boone, North Carolina, 28607.
Online condolences may be sent to the Eller family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com.
Jack Ray Hughes (Jan. 19, 1947 – Aug. 25, 2015)
Jack Ray Hughes, 68, of Placida, Florida, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, August 25, 2015 at his Summer home in Newland.
Jack has been a painter for well over fifty years; but beyond that he has worked, and excelled, in many mediums.
In 1988 Jack’s work caught the eye of, then, White House Curator Rex Scouten, who brought Jack to the attention of President and Mrs. Reagan: the Hughes family was invited to visit the Reagans at the White House. Jack eventually carved a pair of life-sized swans for them. Under the Reagans, his work was installed in the White House. His carvings are also included in many important American, European, and Asian private collections.
Shortly after President and Mrs. G.H.W. Bush entered the White House, in 1989, Mrs. Bush organized the Faberge egg exhibition. She invited 100 of the very best American artists to participate and Jack was among them. His two ‘eggs’ toured with the Smithsonian exhibit and are in the permanent collection.
From 1990 until 2001, Jack fabricated award-winning jewelry. In 2001 he and his family moved from Maryland to Florida and opened an art gallery (Hughes Gallery) in Boca Grande (FL), where Jack currently paints and sculpts his ‘dreamscapes.’
His works have been the subject of several magazine articles, including Country Home and Early American Life and have been featured in several books.
Jack had a one-man show at the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art in Kansas City, Missouri, which opened December 5, 2009 and hung for two months. The works for The Kemper Museum had been created over the past three years (2005-2008), and were specifically for his show; these are the works he will exhibit at Hughes Gallery, beginning Thursday & Friday, March 5-6, 2009.
Memorial services will be held at a later date in Florida.
Mr. George W. Hooks, III (Feb. 14, 1940 – Aug. 24, 2015)
Mr. George Washington Hooks, III, age 75, of Teaberry Hills, Boone, passed away Monday, August 24, 2015 at Glenbridge Health & Rehabilitation. Born February 14, 1940 in Wake Forest, he was a son of the late George Washington Hooks, Jr., and Ella Gill Hooks. Mr. Hooks was retired from GTE, where he worked as a Regional Director, and was a US Navy Veteran. He was an active member of the Elks Lodge, where he had previously held the office of National Vice President. George was also a member of the Moose Lodge. He was an avid Harley rider, and member of the Gold Wing Club.
He is survived by his wife, Mary Hooks, one son, George Washington Hooks, IV, of Durham, one daughter, Sonja Hooks Blake and husband Jerry of Youngsville, one step-son, Timothy Joseph “Skip” Watts and wife Beth of Boone, grandson, Jeremey Blake and wife Shannon of Youngsville, step grandson, Alden Watts of Boone, great grandson, Jackson Lee Blake of Youngsville, and one brother John Lewis Hooks and wife Barbara of High Point.
Memorial services for Mr. George Hooks will be conducted at 3pm on Sunday, August 30th at the Moose Lodge in Boone, NC.
A celebration of life will follow.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Seby Jones Cancer Center & Cardiology Center of Appalachian, 336 Deerfield Road, Boone NC 28607, 828-265-5509 or the Moose Lodge of Boone, 607 Deerfield Rd., Boone, NC 28607, 828-264-3804.
Online condolences may be shared with the Hooks family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the Hooks family.
Harold David Cook (Sept. 24, 1939 – Aug. 24, 2015)
Harold David Cook, age 75, of Martha Drive, Boone, passed away Monday afternoon, August 24, 2015, at Watauga Medical Center.
David was born September 24, 1939 in Watauga County, a son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Jordan Vilas Cook. He worked as a rock mason with his brothers, Stewart and Dee Cook, most of his lifetime. He also was very talented with his hands, and built countless things, including black powder guns, custom crafted knives, and miniature scale log cabins.
David is survived by four brothers and sisters, George Henry and Louise Cook, Franklin D. and Wilma Cook, Shirley and Ken Triplett, Janice and John Tester, all of Boone, Stewart Daniel and Betty Cook and Jeanette and Arthur Greene, all of Blowing Rock, Naomi and Jimmy Greene of Winston-Salem, and Joseph Morris Cook, Sr. and Charlotte Cook of Deep Gap. He is also survived by many special nieces, nephews, and cousins, and one brother-in-law, Paul Carlton.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Jordan Wheeler Cook and his wife Betty Sue, and two sisters, Ellen and her husband Neil Ashley, and Carolyn Carlton.
A private family memorial service will be conducted at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, in care of Brian Barker, 441 Daniel Drive, Boone, North Carolina, 28607.
The family respectfully requests no food. Online condolences may be sent to the Cook family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com.
Mrs. Becky D. Combs (Nov. 10, 1949 – Aug. 23, 2015)
Rebecca “Becky” Davis Combs, 65, of Silverstone Road, Zionville, passed away on August 23, 2015 after a courageous battle against Pancreatic Cancer. She was surrounded by family and love.
Becky was born on November 10, 1949, to Lewis and Ella Davis in Zionville, NC. She was the oldest of three children and was a great big sister.
Becky began a forty-four year career in banking at Northwestern Bank, First Union, Wachovia, Wells Fargo, and LifeStore in 1968. She worked in various areas of the bank, serving as a branch manager, in consumer lending, and mortgage lending. She was the neighborhood personal banker for so many people and loved her work. She retired from Wells Fargo in 2006 as a Vice President Financial Specialist, Senior Leader and retired a second time from LifeStore in 2011.
She married Tony Combs, the love of her life, on September 12, 1968. They built a beautiful life together for forty-seven years, raising two children, Kevin and Christy, and were proud grandparents of five beautiful girls, Meghan, Colby, Brittany, Jordan, and Maggie. She recently became a great grandmother to a beautiful baby girl, Ella. Becky was the quintessential mom and grandmother to so many people through the years and was an amazing caregiver to so many.
In the years after her retirement, she and Tony enjoyed spending time together riding motorcycles with friends, gardening, and spending the colder months in Florida where they enjoyed gardening and fishing. She loved flowers and enjoyed making arrangements with the beautiful flowers from her and Tony’s gardens. They always found activities they could do together from skeet shooting to golfing, fishing, and various other hobbies. She was also an excellent cook and her family and friends always called on her for great recipes and guidance through our cooking adventures.
She was a member of Mabel United Methodist Church where she enjoyed playing the piano and organ, leading choir, teaching Sunday school, and various other activities in the church. She was a devout Methodist woman and strong in her faith. She shared the love of Christ with all who knew her and left a legacy of love wherever she went.
Becky was preceded in death by her parents, Lewis Davis, and Ella Greer Davis.
Becky is survived by her husband, Tony, son Kevin Combs and wife Tracie of Boone, daughter Crystal “Christy” Combs Cody and husband Stephen of Denver, NC; brother Rick Davis and wife Brenda of Boone, sister Jan Ellison and husband Gary of Todd; grandchildren Meghan Combs Davis and husband Will of Mount Pleasant, SC, Colby Combs of Zionville, Brittany and Jordan Cody of Denver, NC, Maggie Ruth Combs of Boone; and great grandchild Ella Elizabeth Hamby of Zionville. Sixteen nieces and nephews, ten great nieces and nephews. She is also survived by brothers-in-law Terry Combs and wife Wanda of Sugar Grove, Chris Combs and wife Sally of Durham, NC, Steve Combs and wife Denise of Sugar Grove, and sister-in-law Charlie Combs Cole of Boone.
Although she had an immense love of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made to: Pancreatic Cancer Action Network at pancan.org/donate or through the mail at 1500 Rosecrans Ave., Suite 200, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266. Please designate your gift in memory of Becky Combs when you make your donation. We are passionate that a cure should be found for this disease and this organization continues to Wage Hope in the fight and support patients and families affected by this disease.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, August 26, 2015 at 1:00PM at Mabel United Methodist Church. Officiating will be Reverend Katherine Cornell and Judy Eury. The family will receive friends and celebrate Becky’s life at Tony and Becky’s home after the service at 1695 Silverstone Road, Zionville, NC.
Online condolences may be sent to the Combs family at austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Combs family.
Melinda L. Fletcher (May 03, 1952 – Aug. 23, 2015)
Melinda (Lee) Wallace Fletcher, age 63, of Tampa, FL. Passed away Sunday, August 23, 2015 at the home of her sister and brother-in-law, Emily and Gary Childers of Boone, NC. Melinda grew up in Mt. Airy, NC and lived for a short time in Stanley, N.C. before moving to Tampa, FL. In Tampa she worked with Federal Express for several years then went back to school and earned a pharmacy technician degree. Follow the receipt of her degree she was employed by the James A. Haley Veterans Hospital in Tampa from where she retired as a Pharmacy Technician.
She was known and loved for her many wonderful qualities. Some of those were her pervasive and unique sense of humor, quick wit, love of all people, and a deep abiding affection and loving care for animals. She had a very gentle, kind soul and would help anyone she could in any way she could. Her interests were varied with the following toping the list; a special love for working outdoors, listening to good music, and taking care of the elderly in her neighborhood. She was also very active in the Girl Scouts through her high school years and remained a life long supporter of that organization.
She was preceded in death by her parents, William H. and Ruby Lee Dellinger Wallace, Sr., and a brother, William H. Wallace, Jr. In addition to her sister and brother-in-law, she is survived by her partner and soul mate of 26 years, Jackie Bass of Tampa, Fl. A niece, Carrie Childers and her son Kai Godwin; and a nephew, Matthew Childers, his wife Kaleen, and their son, Dean of Medfield, Mass.
A celebration of life service will be conducted Wednesday, August 26, 2015 at 4 p.m. in the Austin & Barnes Funeral Home Chapel. Rev. Luke Edwards of Boone United Methodist Church will be officiating the ceremony.
Online condolences may be shared with the Fletcher family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com. Memorials may be made to The Humane Society of Tampa Bay at humanesocietytampa.org/ or the Watauga Humane Society at www.wataugahumanesociety.org/.
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Fletcher family.
Tim Nelson (Jan. 15, 1967 – Aug. 23, 2015)
Tim Nelson, 48, of Pineola passed away on August 23, 2015 at Charles A. Cannon Memorial Hospital.
A native of Avery County, he was born January 15, 1967 a son of Jack and Marie Nelson of Newland.
He was a member of Oak Grove Baptist Church and worked for Classic Stone Works.
Tim enjoyed hot rods, loved his 1969 Z28, street and trail motorcycles, mowing and working on old cars.
Tim was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Deputy Glenn Hicks and his special niece, Mary Elizabeth Nelson.
A loving husband and father who adored his daughters, Tim has left to cherish his memory along with is parents: his wife, Janet Pittman Nelson of the home; daughters, Charli Marie Nelson and Sara Lynn Nelson of the home; sister, Donna McClellan and husband Matt of Newland; brothers, Mickey Daniels of Newland, Steve Nelson and wife Lisa of Linville Falls, Keith Nelson and wife Tabitha of Newland; father and mother in law, Charles and Linda Pittman of Pineola; five nephews and nieces; one great nephew.
Funeral services for Tim Nelson will be conducted on Monday, August 24, 2015 at 4:00 pm at the Oak Grove Baptist Church with Rev. Ron Greene officiating. Interment will follow in the Johnson Cemetery. Pall bearers will be; Jeffy Johnson, Steve Nelson, Brian Church, Mike Estep, Jeff Gragg and Matthew McClellan. Honorary Pallbearers will be; Tony Pittman, E.J. Byrd, Lewie Blalock, John Sturgill, Jim Love.The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. until the service hour.
Words of comfort and memories may be shared with the family and viewed at www.rsfh.net.
Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home of Newland is serving the Nelson family.
David Charles Gross (Dec. 19, 1961 – Aug. 22, 2015)
Mr. David Charles Gross, age 53, of Boone passed away Saturday, August 22, 2015.
Mr. Gross is survived by his mother, Carol Gross of Boone, his father, Stanley Gross and wife Julie of Boston, Massachusetts, two sisters, Elizabeth Gross of West Stockbridge, Massachusetts, Jennifer Gross of Chicago, Illinois and one nephew, Benjamin Gross.
A memorial service for Mr. David Charles Gross will be conducted Friday, August 28, 2015 at 4:00 o’clock at Hampton Funeral Home Chapel. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Hunger Coalition, P.O. Box 1837, Boone, North Carolina 28607.
Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.
Nancy Miller Randles (Dec. 23, 1935 – Aug. 22, 2015)
Mrs. Nancy Miller Randles, age 79, of Graggville Road, Boone, passed away Saturday afternoon, August 22, 2015 at Mountain Care Facilities.
Mrs. Randles is survived by one sister, Carolyn Thompson of Zionville, one brother, Mike Miller and wife Gay, of Blowing Rock, two uncles, Clyde Cole of Hickory and Arlton Cole and wife Harriett of Lawrenceville, Georgia, one aunt, Betty Jo Stanberry and husband Alvin of Boone and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Randles, her father and mother, Levi Frank Miller and Faye Melinda Cole Miller.
A memorial service for Mrs. Nancy Miller Randles will be conducted Tuesday, August 25, 2015, at 3:00 o’clock at Mabel United Methodist Church. Officiating will be Reverend Katherine Cornell. Burial will follow in the Mabel United Methodist Church Cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 2 until 3, one hour prior to the service, at the church. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Medihome Hospice, 400 Shadowline Drive, Suite 102, Boone, North Carolina 28607.
Online condolences may be sent to the Randles Family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com.
William R. Hutchins (March 23, 1919 – Aug. 22, 2015)
William (Bill) Reagh Hutchins, 96, formerly of Lexington Massachusetts, and Chapel Hill and Durham NC, passed away on August 22, 2015 in Boone NC. He was born in New York City on March 23, 1919, the only child of the late Leroy William and Mabel Reagh Hutchins.
After entering college at the age of 16, he received BA, BSEE and MSEE degrees from Columbia University, where he organized its first student broadcasting system, and was a member of the Sigma Xi scientific research society. During World War II he worked in the laboratory of Major Edwin Howard Armstrong, the inventor of FM radio, helping to develop the first continuous wave FM radar early warning system. He moved to Massachusetts in 1946 to design and direct the construction of the first FM radio station in New Bedford, WFMR. The remainder of his career was spent in the defense electronics industry, leading engineering and management teams at Raytheon, Aerospace Corporation, and Sanders Associates. Following his retirement he moved to Chapel Hill, NC, where he was active in the Quarter Century Wireless Association, and the Orange County Radio Amateurs.
He was married to Dorothea (Dot) Johnston Hutchins, a graduate of Barnard College and Columbia University, for 48 years; they had three children together. Several years after her death in 1993, he presented a talk on the early days of FM radio at a Raleigh, NC amateur radio club meeting. A woman who was in the audience realized that she recognized him as someone she had known in the early 1940s while she was a student at the Julliard School in New York. That serendipitous encounter led to his second marriage, in 1996, to Grace Coltrane Kilkelly, whom he had first met over 50 years earlier. Grace died in 2014, two weeks after her 100th birthday.
Mr. Hutchins is survived by his sons, James and wife Charlotte Erickson, of San Francisco CA; Robert and wife Paula Wittner, of Patagonia AZ; daughter, Janet and her husband Charles Baldwin, of Asheville NC; granddaughters, Rachel and Elizabeth Hutchins; and step-son, Gary Kilkelly and wife Joanie, and their family, of Boone NC.
At his request, no services will be held. Contributions in his memory may be made to the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) Foundation Scholarship Fund.
Online condolences may be shared with the Hutchins family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Hutchins family.
Betty Barnes Elliott (Nov. 14, 1931 – Aug. 22, 2015)
Betty Barnes Elliott, age 83, of Cottonwood Lane, Winston-Salem, a native and former resident of Boone, and formerly of Morrisville, passed away Saturday, August 22, 2015 at the Kate B. Reynolds Hospice House in Winston-Salem.
Betty was born and grew up on the family farm in Boone. She knew the value of education, and graduated from UNCG with a teaching degree, later augmenting this with a master’s degree from Appalachian State Teacher’s College. She then taught kindergarten through eighth grade for 31 years; most of this time was in the primary grades in the Watauga County school system.
She was a successful businesswoman, running the Black Bear Motel, an icon of the Boone area for many years, later changing it over to the Black Bear Apartments.
Betty was interested in genealogy and her Scottish heritage, and served as area representative, secretary and registrar of the Clan Lindsay Association USA at various times. She made several trips to Scotland—one of the 27 or so countries she visited during her life—and was a strong supporter of the Scottish arts, particularly music.
She loved the many dogs and cats she had over the years, she loved the mountains where she grew up and she enjoyed visiting the beach. Active, undaunted and independent, she was very intelligent and enjoyed books, crosswords, board games and intellectual challenges of all sorts. She had a fondness for card games, especially bridge.
Betty loved many and was loved by many. Her faith was a source of comfort and inspiration to her and she made many friends through the churches she attended. She kept in touch with her high school graduating class and with her college roommates for more than 60 years after graduation. Betty made a profound, positive impact on many people as a mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, friend and fellow Scot. She supported her three children (two of whom survive) and her two grandchildren in all of their endeavors. Those who had the opportunity to know her are certainly the richer for it.
Memorial services will be conducted Friday, August 28th, at 2 PM at the Austin & Barnes Funeral Chapel, officiated by Rev. Jeff McLean. The family will receive friends Friday from 1 until 2 o’clock, prior to services, at Austin & Barnes. Family and friends are invited to a memorial dinner at the Daniel Boone Inn at 5:00 PM following the service. Please come, and bring a story about Betty to share with the rest of those who knew and loved her.
In lieu of flowers, donations to an anti-tobacco organization such as www.thetruth.com or www.tobaccofree.org in honor of Betty are encouraged.
Online condolences may be shared at the website austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Elliott family.
Bonnie Fortune (Jan. 16, 1928 – Aug. 21, 2015)
Bonnie Fortune, 87, of Newland passed away on August 21, 2015 at Mission Hospital in Asheville, NC with her family and friends by her side.
A native of Avery County, she was born January 16, 1928 a daughter of the late Wilburn and Maggie Hartley Johnson.
She was a devoted Christian, loving mother, grandmother and friend to all. Bonnie never met a stranger and opened her heart, home and especially her kitchen to many people. Bonnie enjoyed the birds and watching the flowers grow. She was often found praying with her little white bible.
Along with her parents, Bonnie was preceded in death by her: husband, Carl Arthur Fortune, 4 sisters and 5 brothers.
Bonnie has left to cherish her memory her: daughters, Janice Pyatte and husband Bobby of Newland, NC and Kathy Parlier of Newland, NC; son Ricky Fortune, NC; granddaughters Bobbie McClellan of Altamont, NC, Kim Storie of Ingalls, NC, Sabra Pritchard of Newland, NC and step-granddaughter Carletta Eastman of Hendersonville, NC; great grandsons Jordan and Josh McClellan of Altamont, NC, Cody Smith of Elk Park, NC, Johnny Bowman, Jr. of Ingalls, NC and Sean Arnold, Jr. of Johnson City, TN; great granddaughters Kelsey Smith of Elk park, NC and Kathran Smith of Crossnore, NC; sister Ruby Bell of Jonas Ridge, NC and special niece Judy Clark of Jonas Ridge, NC.
Funeral services for Bonnie Fortune will be conducted on Monday, August 24th at 8:00 p.m. in the Grandfather Chapel of Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home with the Rev. John McCoury and John Crom officiating. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until the service hour. Interment service will be held on Tuesday, August 25th at 2:00 p.m. in the Ledford Cemetery.
Words of comfort and memories may be shared with the family and viewed at www.rsfh.net.
Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home of Newland is serving the Fortune family.
Newland H. Bush (Dec. 12, 1937 – Aug. 21, 2015)
Mr. Newland Heath Bush, age 77, of Fort Washington, Md. and Blowing Rock, N.C., passed away Friday, August 21, 2015 in Annapolis, Md.
Funeral Arrangements for Mr. Bush are incomplete at this time.
Online condolences may be shared with the Bush family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com.
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Bush family.
Edward Lee Hayes (Dec. 23, 1926 – Aug. 20, 2015)
Edward Lee Hayes, 88, of Jack Hayes Road, Boone, passed away Thursday morning, August 20, 2015, at Glenbridge Health & Rehabilitation in Boone.
Born December 23, 1926 in Watauga County, he was a son of Thomas B. and Blanche Williams Hayes. After serving in the US Army during WWII, Lee returned to the family farm to raise tobacco, cabbage, cattle, horses, and put up hay for his needs and for others. After retiring from the physical plant at ASU, he enjoyed organizing and riding the wagon train with grandchildren and neighborhood kids, and raising fox dogs, coon dogs and beagles.
Mr. Hayes is survived by his wife of 67 years, Iva Lee Jones Hayes; son, Joseph Edward Hayes and wife, Jerry Sue, of Boone; daughters, Judy Greene and husband, Dean, of Deep Gap and Evelyn (Sissy) Moore and husband, George Marshall, of Boone; five grandchildren, Chris Hayes, Brandy Eldreth, Ronald Moore, Melissa Cook, and Nicole James; eight great-grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren. Also surviving are sister, Grace Greene, and brother, Jack Hayes and wife, Glada, all of Boone and a number of nieces and nephews also survive.
He was preceded in death his parents; one sister, Faye Ragan; and one brother, John Hayes.
Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, August 22, 2015 at 3:30 PM at the Austin & Barnes Funeral Chapel, officiated by Rev. Delmar James and Rev. Burl Greer. The family will receive friends Saturday afternoon from 2 until 3:30, prior to services, at Austin & Barnes. Graveside services will follow at Mount Lawn Memorial Park & Gardens.
The family wishes to express their deep appreciation to the entire Glenbridge staff for Lees loving and professional care.
Online condolences may be shared at the website austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the Hayes family.
Glynda S. Valentine (June 12, 1941 – Aug. 19, 2015)
Glynda Sue Valentine died at home on Wednesday, August 19, 2015 surrounded by her loving family. A graveside service will be held to celebrate her life on Friday, August 21 at 3:00pm at Woodlawn Cemetery, Blowing Rock on Hwy. 321, near the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance.
Born of modest beginnings on June 12, 1941 to Thelma and Benjamin Franklin Valentine in Wisner, Louisiana, Glynda Valentine led a colorful and diverse life. An entrepreneur at heart, from a very early age, she pursued and succeeded in a number of businesses. Health, fitness and beauty were her passions. A pioneer in the field of fitness and well being, she and her various partners, opened and operated fitness facilities in several North Carolina towns before coming to Blowing Rock. In 1978 Glynda purchased Westglow, the circa 1917 mountain home of noted American painter and writer, Elliott Daingerfield. At the time of its discovery, the home had been vacant for years and was in serious disrepair. Undaunted, Glynda moved into the home with her family. Over the next ten years, she reared her teenage daughters there while restoring the building around them.
Westglow Spa was opened as a retreat for fitness, wellness and relaxation in 1991. Over time it gained members and national renown as a top destination for visitors and members. In 2005, spa members, Bonnie and Jamie Schaefer bought the spa and continued to develop it to become the renowned world class spa it is today. A fitting tribute to Glyndas legacy.
Until April of this year, Glynda served as the spa hiking director. In that role she continued to meet and make friends from around the globe. Through the years, the stories are legion about the lives she touched in simple and profound ways. Glynda will forever be remembered for her many acts of kindness and her secret acts of generosity.
Her loving acts were not only extended to people, but to animals-dogs, cats and other- who were rescued and brought back to health and well-being by her. The Watauga Humane Society was another passion and she worked countless hours helping them with their mission.
During her illness, Glynda was exquisitely cared for by her daughters, Deidre Chaney and Sydney McPheters, who kept vigil by her during her tribulations. She loved and was proud of her family. She is survived by her daughters, Deidre Chaney and husband, David of Cornelius; Sydney McPheters and husband, Blake Sellers, her daughter, Bentley Grace Higby of Huntersville; Crystal Valentine of Shreveport, Louisiana and her children, David Burns, Josh Burns and wife, Courtney and their daughter McKynlei Burns;Sarah Kendrick and Rachael McKee. Nephews Ken Roberts and wife Sunny of California and Kevin Noebel of Arizona and Erica Noebel. In addition Candice Norman of Todd and Anne Slocum of Blowing Rock and Delray, Florida and Mark David Bumgarner are extended family members.
Donations can be made to the Watauga Humane Society, PO Box 1835, Boone, NC 28607 or the Caldwell Hospice and Palliative Care, 902 Kirkwood Street, NW, Lenoir, NC 28645. Online condolences may be shared with the Valentine family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the Valentine family.
Eleanore V. Earp (March 22, 1932 – Aug. 19, 2015)
Eleanore V. Earp, age 83, of Luther Lane, Vilas, passed away Wednesday, August 19, 2015, at Watauga Medical Center.
Mrs. Earp was born March 22, 1932 in Bellaire, Ohio, a daughter of the late John Winnette McCormick and Margaret Kathrine Althar McCormick. She was a homemaker, and was the accountant for Hill Top Vacuum Center of Boone. She attended Baird’s Creek Baptist Church. Mrs. Earp is survived by three daughters, Kathleen “Kat” Burden and husband James of Vilas, Gina Lee Earp, and Sandra Earp-Evans of San Jose, California; one son, Bruce Earp of Vilas; ten grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, James Edward Earp, one son, John Luther Earp, one brother, Roy McCormick, and one sister, Geneva McCormick.
Funeral services for Eleanore V. Earp will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Watauga Humane Society, Post Office Box 1835, Boone, North Carolina 28607 or the Wounded Warrior Project, Post Office Box 758517, Topeka, Kansas 66675.
Online condolences may be sent to the Earp family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com.
Harold Dean Pardue (March 19, 1939 – Aug. 19, 2015)
Harold Dean Pardue, age 76, of Mabel School Road, Zionville, passed away Wednesday evening, August 19, 2015 at Davant Rehab & Extended Care Facility in Blowing Rock. Harold Dean was born March 19, 1939 in Watauga County. He was a member of Mabel Baptist Church. After retiring from Winkler Plumbing and Heating, he continued to work as a self-employed carpenter, cabinet maker and plumber. He enjoyed woodworking, collecting Lionel train sets, and fishing.
Mr. Pardue is survived by two daughters, Deana Lipford and husband, Coy, of Zionville and Beth Berry and husband, Jeff, of Boone; three grandsons, Kevin Roark of Deep Gap, and Matthew Rash and Ethan Lipford, both of Zionville; and two brothers, Burl Pardue of Zionville and Ernest Pardue of Boone. One niece and two nephews also survive.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Mae Pardue and his grandparents, Sam and Emma Pardue.
Funeral services will be conducted Sunday afternoon, August 23, 2015 at 2:30 at the Austin & Barnes Funeral Home Chapel, officiated by Rev. J. C. Greene. The family will receive friends Sunday afternoon from 1 until 2:30, prior to services, at Austin & Barnes. Graveside services and burial will follow at the Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Cemetery.
Flowers are appreciated or memorials may be made to Medi Home Health & Hospice, 400 Shadowline Drive, Suite 102, Boone, NC 28607.
The family wishes to extend a sincere thank you to the staff at the Davant Rehab & Extended Care and to the staff of Medi Home Health & Hospice for their professional and loving care.
Online condolences may be shared at the website austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com.
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Pardue family.
Joy G. Presnell (May 12, 1929 – Aug. 18, 2015)
Mrs. Joy Glenn Presnell, age 86, of Sugar Grove, passed away Tuesday afternoon, August 18, 2015 at Life Care Center of Banner Elk. Born May 12, 1929 in Watauga County, she was a daughter of the late Andrew and Sigal Glenn. Mrs. Presnell was a member of Antioch Baptist Church. She worked for a number of years for the Project on Aging as a cook.
She is survived by four daughters; Eunice Hicks and husband Jim of Sugar Grove, Linda Parlier and husband Jackie of Mountain City, Tennessee, Shirley Ellison and husband Robert of Deep Gap, and Theresa Cox and husband Chris of Boone, eleven grandchildren and several great grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Harmon Presnell, one son, Johnny Allen Presnell and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Funeral services for Mrs. Joy Glenn Presnell will be conducted Saturday at noon at Austin & Barnes Funeral Home Chapel. Officiating will be Rev. Jeffrey Wilson. Burial will follow in the Antioch Cemetery. The family will receive friends Saturday prior to the service from 11 oclock until noon. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Ebenezer Christian Childrens Home, PO Box 2777, North Wilkesboro, NC 28659. Online condolences may be shared with the Presnell family at austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com.
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the Presnell family.
Mildred Townsend Ramsey (April 1, 1931 – Aug. 18, 2015)
Mildred Townsend Ramsey, age 84, of Banner Creek Road, Banner Elk, passed away Tuesday evening, August 18, 2015 at her residence.
Mrs. Ramsey was born April 1, 1931 in Banner Elk, a daughter of the late Joseph Sidney “Joe” Townsend and Geneva Teaster Townsend. She was a homemaker and a retired Central Supply Tech at Cannon Memorial Hospital. She was a member of the Banner Elk Seventh Day Adventist Church.
Mrs. Ramsey is survived by her husband, Sidney Fred Ramsey of the home; three daughters, Sue Willis and husband O’Dell of Hampton, Tennessee, Glinda Yates of Banner Elk, and Brenda Ollis and husband Bo of Elk Park; one son, Steve Ramsey and wife Jan of Banner Elk; one daughter-in-law, Jeannine of Banner Elk; five sisters, Celia Norwood, Lucy Sword, Ethel Norwood, Barbara Ward and Mary Townsend; two brothers, Floyd Townsend and Jimmy Townsend; five granddaughters, Rene Byers, Christy Cannon and husband Kelvin, Jeannie Ollis, Mandy Ramsey and Jessie Ramsey; six grandsons, Russell Norman, Jake Norman and wife Amanda, Eric Ollis and wife Ruth, Jamie Willis, Lucas Ramsey and wife Miranda, and Jacob Ramsey; and sixteen great-grandchildren. She is also survived by a number of nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Eve Esther Ramsey; son, Rick Ramsey; son-in-law Steve Yates; and four brothers, Dayton, Buster, Vernon and Kenneth Townsend. Funeral services for Mildred Townsend Ramsey will be conducted Friday afternoon, August 21, 2015 at 2:00 o’clock at the Banner Elk Seventh Day Adventist Church. The body will lie in state, at the church, from 1:00 until 2:00, prior to the service. Officiating will be Pastor Mark Heisey and Pastor Ross Knight. Burial will follow in the Townsend Cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday evening, August 20, from 6:00 until 8:00 o’clock, at Hampton Funeral Service. Online condolences may be sent to the Ramsey Family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com. Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.
Beverette Price (April 15, 1923 – Aug. 16, 2015)
Beverette Middleton Price, 92, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, August 16, 2015.
A preacher’s wife, devoted mother, Bible teacher, pianist and prayer warrior, Bev felt called to be a mother and to minister hand in hand with her late husband, Dr. E.W. “Buddy” Price, Jr. They were married for 69 years.
Bev lived in Banner Elk, NC and is survived by son, Dr. Gordon Wesley Price and his wife, Barbara, of Washington D.C. and daughter Susan Price Clawson and her husband, Rev. Carl Clawson of Banner Elk. She is preceded in death by her other daughter, Carol Price St. Clair. Also surviving are her grandchildren, Dr. Scott St. Clair and wife, Cameron; Katie Garrett and husband, Bart; Rev. Jonathan St. Clair and wife, Catherine; Annie Clawson Marion and husband, Jessup; Jill Clawson McPhail and husband, Craig; Ginny Richardson and husband, Rob; Spencer Price and Harrison Price, as well as 12 great-grandchildren.
Bev was born to Gordon and Celia Middleton, missionaries to China in the Hunan Province. At age three, her parents returned to the states where her father taught Agronomy at North Carolina State University. She was the second of five children, David, Mary Sue, Gordon and Celia.
The family lived in Raleigh, NC where Bev graduated from Broughton High School. She met Buddy, her future husband, at age 16 in the Miracle Bible Club taught by her mother, Celia Middleton.
She attended Mars Hill Junior College after which she transferred to Meredith College. Bev majored in piano and graduated Summa Cum Laude.
She married Buddy Price the day after she graduated, May 30, 1944 and went to Washington, DC on their honeymoon and were in the nation’s capital on D-Day.
They returned to Raleigh where Buddy taught civil engineering at NC State. He was preaching on the side, going to prisons, and Bev accompanied him while playing the organ. He was called to ministry and they went to Fort Worth, TX to Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. While there Bev taught piano and had two children, Carol and Wes.
After seminary, they went to Weldon Baptist Church and had their third child, Susan. Buddy pastored in churches over the next 42 years, with 22 years dedicated to the congregation at Green Street Baptist Church in High Point, followed by eight years of service at Grace Baptist Church, also in High Point. Buddy and Bev retired to Banner Elk, North Carolina in 1997 where they continued to minister to many in the High Country community.
A memorial service will be held on August 30th at 3:00pm at Banner Elk Christian Fellowship. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Banner Elk Christian Fellowship at 140 Woods Lane, Banner Elk, NC 28604.
Words of comfort and memories may be shared with the family and viewed at www.rsfh.net.
Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home of Newland is serving the Price family.
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