The following are recent obituary notices from Austin and Barnes and Hampton funeral homes in Boone and Reins-Sturdivant in Newland
Eddie Paul Carlton
July 14, 1959 ~ May 10, 2026
Eddie Paul Carlton of Blowing Rock, North Carolina, passed away on Mother’s Day, May 10, 2026 at Glenbridge Health and Rehabilitation Center. He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul Ellis Carlton and Carolyn Cook Carlton; brothers-in-law Henry Thomas Barber (Tom) and James Dexter Coffey (Jim); and nephew Anthony Edward Coffey.
Eddie Paul is survived by his four sisters: Karen Carlton Coffey and Brenda Carlton Barber with Marcus Royal, Colleen Carlton Lisk with Craig Lisk, and Toni Carlton with Mark Skenes. He also leaves his longtime dear friend, Janet Thrower. He is further survived by two nephews, Matthew (Bradley) Bettini and Sharon, Henry Thomas Barber II (Geeb), and one niece, Marticia Moody Robertson (Tish) and husband Jimmy, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and numerous great-nieces and nephews.
Born in Boone, North Carolina, Eddie Paul was a skilled carpenter and musician. He loved music, cars, motorcycles, playing golf, foosball, and tennis, and he delighted in feeding the deer, birds, and his favorite groundhog. He had a particular fondness for ice cream and cookies.
Eddie Paul was recently diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia.
The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff of Glenbridge and Medi Home Hospice.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, May 14, at 3:00 PM at the Austin & Barnes Funeral Home Chapel, with family receiving friends from 2:00 until 3:00 PM prior to the service. Reverend Jennifer Moore will be officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Medi Home Hospice or to support research and care for Lewy Body Dementia.
Online condolences may be made at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com.
Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Carlton family.
Betty Belle (Perry) Boyd
December 12, 1938 ~ May 16, 2026
Betty Belle (Perry) Boyd passed away Saturday, May 16, 2026. Arrangements for Mrs. Boyd are pending at this time. Please visit our website again on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 for full funeral arrangements.
James “Jimmy” Bridges Blanchard
November 13, 1974 – May 7, 2026
James (Jimmy) Bridges Blanchard entered to rest on May 7, 2026, in Jefferson, NC. Jimmy was born in Augusta, GA on November 13, 1974. He was the son of Whit Blanchard and Stepmother Lisa (Augusta, GA) and Mother, Hattie Bridges (Evans, GA). Jimmy graduated from Lakeside High School and attended Liberty University. Over the years, Jimmy lived in Augusta GA, Woodstock, GA. and Boone, NC. He had recently relocated to Jefferson, NC. Jimmy had worked as a cook for numerous restaurants and as a clerk at various locations in the Boone area.
He is survived by his mother and father, brother Scott Blanchard and wife Jenny, Charlotte, NC, three nieces, Emily, Vivienne and Elodie and brother Zachary Blanchard, Las Vegas, Navada, half-sisters, Whitney Conrad, Maryland and Cathrine Fegert, Martinez, GA.
Jimmy loved his family and was so proud of his three nieces. At a later date, a celebration of life will be scheduled in Georgia.
We will miss Jimmy.
Services will be held at a later date.
Online condolences may be sent to the Blanchard family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com
Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.
Joyce Miller Rhymer
February 1, 1939 – May 11, 2026
Joyce Miller Rhymer, age 87, of Deep Gap, North Carolina, passed away on Monday, May 11, 2026. Joyce was born on February 1, 1939. She was the daughter of Grant and Ida Miller.
Joyce lived a life rooted in faith, service, creativity, and deep love for her family and community. She was an amazing cook whose kitchen was a place of warmth, comfort, and togetherness. Joyce also had a creative spirit and greatly enjoyed crafting, always finding joy in making things by hand. Joyce loved growing flowers in her yard, finding peace and beauty in nurturing her garden.
One of Joyce’s greatest joys in life was being “Mamaw” to her beloved grandchildren, Caroline and Carter. She cherished every moment spent with them and took great pride in their lives, offering unconditional love, encouragement, and gentle wisdom.
For nearly 30 years, Joyce dedicated herself to her career at Appalachian State University, as administrative assistant in the Department of Sociology, where she was a valued and respected employee. Beyond her professional life, she gave generously of her time through volunteer work with Samaritan’s Purse, reflecting her servant’s heart and commitment to helping others.
She was an active and faithful member of Laurel Springs Baptist Church, where her presence and kindness were well known. She was also involved in her community through the Ruritan Club, forming lasting friendships and remaining socially engaged throughout her life.
She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Sonja Rhymer Garland, her parents Grant and Ida Miller, and 11 brothers and sisters.
Joyce is survived by her husband of 69 years, Stewart Rhymer, son, Randy Rhymer, and his wife, Andria; her cherished grandchildren, Caroline Rhymer and Carter Rhymer; and her son-in-law, John Garland.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., prior to the funeral service at 3:00 p.m., at Laurel Springs Baptist Church in Deep Gap, North Carolina.
Memorials may be made to Laurel Springs Baptist Church or Laurel Springs Baptist Church Cemetery Fund.
Joyce will be remembered for her generosity, her steady faith, her strong work ethic, and the love she poured into her family and community. Her life leaves behind a legacy of kindness, service, and devotion that will continue to live on in all who knew her.
Online Condolences may be sent to the Rhymer family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com
Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service in charge of the arrangements.
Lillian Marie Moody
May 2, 1943 – May 11, 2026
Lillian Marie Moody, age 83, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026, at the Foley Center in Blowing Rock, North Carolina.
She was born on May 2, 1943, in Elizabethton, Tennessee, and lived a life marked by quiet strength, steady faith, and a deep love for her family and community.
Lillian is survived by her daughter Nicole Barker and Nicole’s husband, Buddy Barker; her grandchildren Katelyn Callahan and her husband Forrest Johnson, Haylee Barker, James Barker, and Katherine Barker; and her three great-granddaughters Kyla Johnson, Rose Johnson, and Lucky Johnson, each of whom brought her immense joy.
She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Robert Moody, her parents George and Anna Mae Montgomery, and her two brothers, Ernest Montgomery and Lynn Montgomery.
Lillian lived a life rooted in simple joys. She loved taking long walks, reading her favorite books, and listening to Christian music. She was a devoted member of First Baptist Church of Blowing Rock, where her gentle spirit and faithful heart were felt by many.
For many years, Lillian and her husband owned and operated Village Antiques in downtown Blowing Rock. Together, they poured their hearts into their business, creating a welcoming space filled with stories, history, and the charm she so naturally embodied.
Her family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of the Foley Center for their exceptional care and kindness during her final days, and to her nephew Chris Limbacher, whose devoted support and nurturing presence meant so much.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 15th at 2:00 o’clock at the First Baptist Church in Blowing Rock. Pastor Rusty Gunther will officiate.
The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00, prior to service.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites loved ones to honor Lillian by insert Baptist children home P.O. Box 338 Thomasville, North Carolina 27360.
Lillian will be remembered for her kindness, her unwavering faith, and the love she gave so freely. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is reunited with those who went before her, and that her gentle legacy will continue in the lives she touched.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com
Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.
Mark Glenn Ford
October 5, 1952 – May 11, 2026
Mark Glenn Ford, age 73, of 389 Pine Branch Road passed away on Monday, May 11, 2026, at his home after a three-and-a-half-year courageous battle against cancer.
Mark was the son of Marion Glenn Ford and Brooke Stanbery Ford. He attended Appalachian State University and graduated with a teaching degree in Industrial Arts. He taught Industrial Arts at Watauga High School for two years. Mark began his career in construction in 1976 and was a founding partner of two different construction companies prior to founding his own company, Mark G. Ford Construction, Inc. in May 2000. For the last 26 years, he prided himself on providing his customers with the highest quality products while showing more concern for their interests than his own. Homes throughout Watauga County display his excellent craftsmanship.
Mark loved his family and friends. He was fiercely loyal and devoted to their well-being. He was a man known for his integrity and honesty. He valued hard work and demonstrated that on a daily basis even as he continued to take cancer treatments. Mark spent many happy hours on his farm working with his cattle. It was not unusual to find him on a tractor in the hayfield after a day’s work on a jobsite. For more than a decade, he found great pleasure in traveling and watching his granddaughter, Lauren, compete in swimming all the way from club swimming to the University of Kentucky.
Mark was a life-long member of Laurel Spring Baptist Church, where he taught Sunday School and served on multiple church committees. He volunteered on a weekly basis tutoring children at the church. He was a supporter of local and church missions, both financially and with his time.
He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Gail Lentz Ford; a daughter, Erin Ford Patterson and husband John; and a granddaughter, Lauren Patterson, all of Boone. Mark had a special aunt, Betty Hughes and husband Doug of Boone. He is also survived by a nephew and several nieces.
Mark was preceded in death by his parents, and two sisters, Rebecca Ford Barkley and Marian Jean Ford.
A Celebration of Life reception will be held in the Laurel Springs Baptist Church fellowship hall on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 4:00-7:00 pm where the family will welcome stories, laughter, and fellowship to celebrate Mark’s life. A private burial will occur at the Laurel Springs Baptist Church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Laurel Springs Baptist Church Cemetery Fund or to Laurel Springs Baptist Church Children’s Ministry, 7504 US-421, Deep Gap, NC 28618.
Online condolences may be sent to the Ford family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com
Houston Smith Danner
February 18, 1932 – May 12, 2026
Houston Smith Danner, 94, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2026, at the Hospice House in Dobson, North Carolina. Born on February 18, 1932, in Watauga County, he was the son of the late Oscar Grady Danner, Sr. and Addie Presnell Danner.
Mr. Danner proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. Following his military service, he retired from the State of North Carolina after 30 years of dedicated service.
Houston was an avid gardener who took great pride in making his home and surroundings beautiful. He always enjoyed finding something to repair or fix and was known for his hardworking spirit.
He is survived by his son, Douglas Houston Danner and wife, Tina; grandson, Collin Danner; sisters, Betty Burleson, Bettina Ward, and Diane Burchill and husband, Monte; brother, Terry Danner and wife, Susan; and sister-in-law, Lillian Danner.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Theresa Drake; brothers, Oscar, Kenneth, Johnny, and Harold Danner; and sister, Barbara.
He will be lovingly remembered by his family and friends.
A graveside service will be conducted Saturday May 16, 2026, at Mount Lawn Memorial Park and Gardens. Pastor Allan Perry will officiate.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Joan and Howard Woltz Hospice Home 945 Zephyr Road, Dobson, North Carolina 27017.
Online condolences may be sent to the Danner family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com
Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.
Melissa Sue Smith
January 30, 1972 – May 13, 2026
Melissa Sue Smith age 54 of Deep Gap passed away Wednesday May 13, 2026, at Watauga Medical Center.
She was born January 30, 1972, in Caldwell County. The daughter of the late Lonnie Kanupp and Betty Sue Isaacs and was a homemaker.
She is survived by her husband Keith Smith of Deep gap; two daughters Cassandra Smith Pearson and husband Travis of Boone and Brittany Nicole Smith of Deep Gap; one son Roger Smith of Lenoir; two grandchildren Kaden and Karter Pearson of Boone; two brothers Mackie Isaacs and wife Shannon of Boone and Shane Isaacs and wife Alice of Mountain City; five nephews Jordan Isaacs and wife Anna of Fleetwood; Tyler Isaacs and wife Alaina of Boone; Brian Smith and wife Tiffany of Banner Elk; Timmy Smith, Jr, and wife Michaela of Banner Elk; David Smith and wife Nikki of Boone; two nieces Debra Rich and husband Joe of Blowing Rock and Amanda Smith of Boone; mother-in-law Debbie Lowrance and husband Roger of Deep Gap and father-in-law Bobby Smith and wife Lisa of Deep Gap; and two very special brothers-in-law, Robbie Smith and wife Kim of Vilas and Tim Smith of Boone.
In addition to her father and mother she was preceded in death by her stepfather Gary Isaacs.
Funeral services for Melissa Sue Smith will be private.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Hampton Funeral Service to help the family with funeral expenses.
Online condolences may be sent to the Smith family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com
hampton Funeral and Cremation Service in charge of the arrangements.
Dwight Lamar James, III
August 11, 1946 – May 13, 2026
Dwight Lamar James III of Elk Park, North Carolina, passed away at his home May 13, 2026.
He was 79. Born on August 11, 1946, in Jackson, Mississippi, he was the son of the late Dwight
Lamar James, Jr. and Carnell Polk James.
Mr. James attended Virginia Polytechnic Institute (now Virginia Tech) from 1964-1968 where he proudly served in the Cadet Corp, eventually becoming Squadron Leader of Charlie “C” Company. He was also on the highly esteemed Drill Team. During the Vietnam War he was in
the Army Reserves.
The years following college saw Dwight’s career span the trucking industry, the food industry, and the financial industry. From trucker to financial advisor, he was a man of diverse talents. In 2004 he and his daughter, Jessy, relocated to this area that he had grown to love while a Cadet
at VPI. It was here in the Elk Park community that he was beloved because of his investment in the lives of all his neighbors near and far. Always ready to help in any way, never saying no to any request for help, he became affectionately known as the ‘the neighborhood teenager’, even
as he grew to be one of the oldest residents.
Dwight is survived by his son, Dwight L. James IV and wife Stacy; daughters Alexandra Dameron James and Jessy Carnell James; grandchildren Ninah Granoff, Dwight James V, Meg James, Taylor Hardin and Conley Hardin; brother Donn James and wife, Sally; sister Jennifer Misner and husband, David; and brother Dana James and wife, Connie.
He is also survived by 6 nieces and 2 nephews and 12 great nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be conducted 2:00 PM Saturday May 16, 2026, at Hampton Funeral Home Chapel.
The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00, prior to the service.
Online condolences may be sent to the James family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com
Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service in charge of the arrangements.
Jasper Lawrence Thomas
February 2, 1939 – May 14, 2026
Jasper Lawrence Thomas, age 87, passed away peacefully at his home on North Fork on May 14, 2026.
Born on the family farm that he dearly loved, Lawrence was the son of the late Clay and Wilmetta Thomas. He was also preceded in death by his loving wife, Lois Oliver Thomas, and his precious daughter, Denise Thomas Smith. As well as his father-in-law Rev. Barney L. Oliver and wife June Y. Oliver.
Lawrence proudly served his country in the United States Army. He was an avid fisherman and hunter who found great joy in the outdoors and especially treasured his life on North Fork. Returning home to the family farm and his birthplace was one of his greatest blessings. He was a faithful member of Union Baptist Church and lived a quiet, humble life that reflected his belief that less is always more. Through his gentle spirit and steady example, he showed kindness not through words, but through actions.
Those left to cherish his memory include his son, Daren L. Thomas of Washington, DC; daughter, Paula T. Hicks and husband Bobby Hicks of Vilas; son-in-law Michael Smith of Sugar Grove; grandchildren Lindsay Story and husband Logan of Zionville, Dylan Smith and wife Hannah of Sugar Grove, Abby Reese and husband Casey of Butler, and Luke Smith and wife Charlotte of Waxhaw. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Sadie Gray and Beau Story, Rydor and Maya Denise Smith, Willa June Reese, and Arlo Smith.
Lawrence is also survived by his brother, Albert Thomas and wife Jewel Thomas; sisters Hilda Wilson and late Sonny Wilson, and Francis Phillips and husband Joe Phillips. He is further survived by sisters-in-law Libby Warren and the late Rev. Bill Warren, Connie Shore and husband Alton Shore; and brother-in-law Bud Oliver and wife Faye Oliver.
Mr. Thomas was dearly loved by many nieces and nephews, all of whom held a special place in his heart.
His family will remember him as a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose quiet strength, love of home, and kindness will never be forgotten.
Funeral services for Jasper Lawrence Thomas will be conducted 4:00 PM Sunday May 17, 2026, at Union Baptist Church. Interment will follow in Union Baptist Church Cemetery. Reverend Josh Phillips and Reverend Derick Wilson will officiate.
The family will receive friends from 2:00 until 4:00, prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Union Baptist Church Cemetery Fund in care of Roxanne Miller 6797 Old US Hwy 421 Zionville, North Carolina 28698 or Medi Home Hospice 400 Shadowline Drive Suite 102 Boone, North Carolina 28607.
Online condolences may be sent to the Thomas family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com
Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service in charge of the arrangements.
Marilyn Burnham Welch
October 11, 1942 – May 16, 2026
Marilyn Burnham (Francey) Welch, age 83 of Valle Crucis, passed away on May 16, 2026. Born October 11, 1942, in Suffolk MA, Marilyn was the daughter of Bill and Helen Burnham. Her early years were spent in Boston, MA and New York. She and her first husband, Bob Francey, moved to “The Valle” in their mid 20’s with their two children. After the passing of her husband, Marilyn married Bill Welch of Valle Crucis.
Marilyn had a strong faith and belief in God, which she carried with her throughout her life. Her dedication to family, friends, and community were evident through her generous gifts of time and volunteerism to church, school, and community functions such as the Holy Cross Church Bazaar, Valle Crucis School Chicken Supper, and the Valle Crucis Park Auction. She worked tirelessly to make each of these events a success each year. Her career was in Education, working at Lees McCrae College and Valle Crucis Elementary School, where she was a staple for 30+ years as a beloved secretary and Kindergarten Assistant.
She is survived by her son, Robert Francey (Sheri) and daughter Rebecca Francey (Johnny) and two grandchildren, Zac Francey and Danielle Walker.
She was preceded in death by her first husband and father of her children, Bob Francey and a grandson William Francey.
A service celebrating Marilyn’s life will take place on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at 11:00 am at Holy Cross Episcopal Church with a reception to follow in Skiles Hall.
Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Valle Crucis Elementary School or Holy Cross Episcopal Church.
The family wishes to express gratitude to Amorem Hospice, Compassionate Hearts Home Health Care, and the many people in “Marilyn’s Village” who helped care for her in her last years.
Online condolences may be sent to the Welch family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com
Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service in charge of the arrangements.
Lester Clinton Banner
February 10, 1947 – May 15, 2026
Lester Clinton Banner, 79 of Newland, passed away on May 15, 2026, at Amorem Hospice Facility in Valdese.
He was born February 10, 1947, in Avery County to Tom Walter Banner and Mae McKinney Banner.
Lester was a devoted shrubbery man, with over 60 years of experience. He loved listening to the radio and tending his garden before his health declined.
He is survived by his lifelong companion, Mrs. Louise Green, his sisters, Joyce Buchanan and husband Roger of Newland, Ms. Ardean Banner of West Jefferson. Brother Allen Banner and wife Brenda of Newland. He also leaves behind his dear cousins, Gary Banner and Roy Banner, who visited often and shared fond memories of old times.
Pastor Jim Shoupe will conduct a graveside service for Lester, Tuesday May 19, 2026, at 2pm, at the Tom Banner Cemetery on Turbyfill Road in Newland.
The care of Lester and his family has been entrusted to Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home, 296 Ash Street Newland, NC 28657.
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