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Watauga, Avery Obituaries – Nov. 21, 2017

The following are recent obituary notices from Austin and Barnes and Hampton funeral homes in Boone and Reins-Sturdivant in Newland.


Canaan Rae Hughes (Feb. 3, 1975 – Nov. 20, 2017)

Hughes

Canaan Rae Hughes, 42, of Newland, NC, the Altamont Community, passed away on Monday, November 20, 2017.

She was a daughter of Thelma McClellan Laws of Altamont and the ate Kenneth Hughes.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory, her mother, Thelma Laws, and her husband, Billy, of Altamont; children, Hunter and Zander, both of the home; brother, Travis Hughes; step sister, Renetta Laws; along with a host of friends.

Arrangements for Canaan Hughes are incomplete at this time, but will be announced by Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home of Newland.

Ruth Bernice Ford (July 3, 1928 – Nov. 19, 2017)

Ford

Ruth Bernice Ford, age 89, of Blowing Rock, passed away Sunday morning, November 19, 2017, at The Foley Center in Blowing Rock.

Ruth was born July 3, 1928 in Beckley, West Virginia, daughter of the late Jesse Bynum Ford and Jessie Miller Ford. She was a retired employee of Chesapeake & Potomic Telephone Company.

Ruth is survived by a nephew, Tim Ford and wife Ansley of Vermont; two sisters-in-law, Ann Ford and Shirley Ford, and a cousin and caregiver, Jean Taylor. She is also survived by a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by three brothers, Jay, J.C., and Frank Ford.

Graveside services and burial for Ruth Bernice Ford will be conducted Tuesday afternoon, November 21, 2017, at 1:00 o’clock, at Woodlawn Cemetery in Blowing Rock. Officiating will be Dr. Daniel Featherstone.

Online condolences may be sent to the Ford family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.

Rosa Lee Hicks Townsend (Jan. 24, 1927 – Nov. 18, 2017) 

Townsend

Rosa Lee Hicks Townsend, age 90, Burl Brown Road, Vilas, passed away Saturday morning, November 18, 2017 at Watauga Medical Center in Boone. Born January 24, 1927 in Watauga County, she was a daughter of John Wesley and Ellen Lucinda Dugger Hicks. Mrs. Townsend was a member of Vanderpool Baptist Church. After 30 years employment, she retired from Shadowline of Boone. Rosa Lee loved family above all. She enjoyed quilting, gardening, canning, and cooking for her family and community. Her pride and joy in life was her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Mrs. Townsend is survived by her sons, Roger Glenn Townsend and wife, Becky, of Vilas and Bennie Lee Townsend and wife, Brickie, of Mountain City; daughter, Martha Townsend McGinnis and husband, Gary, of Vilas; eight grandchildren; Linda Hicks and husband, Chris, and Jimmy Townsend, all of Vilas, Tony Townsend and wife, Tonya, of Mountain City, TN, Bradley Townsend and wife Sage, of Navarre Beach, FL, Hadley Townsend and wife, Amy of Elizabethton, TN, Matthew McGinnis and wife, Tracy, of Bass Lake CA, Mitchell McGinnis and friend, Kim Baumgardner, of Zionville; and Aaron McGinnis and wife, Kristen, of Vilas; and sixteen great-grandchildren; sisters, Allie Brown and husband, Burl, of Vilas and Christine Stansberry of Bennett, Idaho; and sister-in-law, Lena Hicks of Boone. She was preceded in death by her husband, Benjamin Ray Townsend; sisters, Josephine Isaacs and Ellen Bell; and brothers, Ray, Troy, Darrell, Dick, Ed and Johnny Hicks. 

Funeral services will be conducted Tuesday afternoon, November 21, at 2 o’clock at Vanderpool Baptist Church, officiated by Pastor Andy Watson, Rev. Thomas Brown and Rev. Ray Greene. The family will receive friends from 1 until 2 o’clock, prior to services, at the church. Burial will follow in the Clark’s Creek Baptist Church Cemetery. 

The family suggests memorials to the Clark’s Creek Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, in care of Rachel Townsend, 2840 Clark’s Creek Road, Banner Elk, NC 28604 or to the Alzheimer’s Foundation at Duke University Medical Center, PO Box 2914, Durham, NC 27710. 

Online condolences may be shared at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com.

Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Townsend family.

Charlotte Frost (April 1, 1924 – Nov. 18, 2017)

Frost

Charlotte Frost, age 93, of Banner Elk, passed away peacefully with family, Saturday, Nov. 18, 2017, at Watauga Medical Center.

Charlotte Cruickshank Larson Frost was born April 1,1924 in Seattle Washington. She grew up on a dairy farm in eastern Washington. During the early part of World War II she trained as an instrument panel specialist and as soon as she turned eighteen, she joined the Women’s Army Air Corp where she worked mostly on B-17’s. While serving her country she met and married Nils Fredrick Larson. They had four daughters: Lorna, Grace, Andra, and Sharlie.

After raising her children in Winston-Salem she moved to Valle Crucis and then in 1975 she started Charlottes Greenhouse with Benjamin Frost. Throughout her full and gracious life her hospitality and sincere caring of others was well-known and appreciated by many.

Charlotte is survived by three daughters, Lorna Larson Zametkin and husband Michael of Astoria, Oregon, Andra Larson and husband John Berens of Greenville, South Carolina, Sharlie Siegmund and husband Paul of Valle Crucis; five grandsons, Nick and Alex Zametkin of Astoria, Oregon, Sean O’Connell of Beaufort, South Carolina, Fred Siegmund of Valle Crucis, and Brendan Frost of Fountain, North Carolina; one great-grandson, Hans Frost of Sanford, North Carolina, and a son-in-law, Ned O’Connell of Beaufort, South Carolina.

Charlotte was preceded in death by her parents George and Grace Cruickshank of Marlin, Washington, her sister Helen Margaret Phillips of Newport Washington, her first husband Nils Larson, her second husband Ben Frost , and her daughter Grace Larson.

Memorial Services for Charlotte Frost will be conducted Friday afternoon, November 24, 2017, at 1:00 o’clock, at Holy Cross Episcopal Church in Valle Crucis. Officiating will be Father Allan McCaslin. Interment will follow in the Memory Garden.

The family will receive friends at a reception, in the Skiles Hall, following the interment.

The family requests that donations be made in Charlotte’s name to the charity of their choice or the Charlotte Frost Memorial Fund at Highland Union Bank, 1013 Highway 105, Boone, North Carolina, 28607. 

Online condolences may be sent to the Frost family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.

Mary Evelyn Bear Greene (Aug. 26, 1937 – Nov. 18, 2017)

Greene

Mary Evelyn Bear Greene, age 80, of 161 Birch Drive Extension, Blowing Rock, passed early Saturday morning, November 18, 2017, at the Foley Center.

She was born August 26, 1937 in Wyandot County, Ohio, the daughter of Ralph and Ruth Bear. She was raised on a small Ohio farm, attended Bluffton College in Ohio, and when she met and married her husband Robert “Pug” Greene of Blowing Rock, they lived and traveled the world together. She taught school, ministered in various churches in Ohio, North Carolina, and Germany. She and her husband were appointed missionaries to the International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention 1969 and served in Taiwan for 23 years, and 6 more years in Japan, and Macau. She loved hosting people in her home, teaching Sunday school, and teaching English as a Second Language, especially to young people. She retired with her husband to Blowing Rock and in retirement was active with the Woman’s Missionary Union of North Carolina.

Mary is survived by two sons, Joel Greene and wife Rebecca of Vienna, Virginia and Michael Greene and wife Monica of Hickory; two daughters, Debbie Adams and husband Mike of Caswell Beach, NC, and Annette Greene of Blowing Rock; nine grandchildren, Hannah, Julia, and Noah Padgett, Phillip and wife Kenzie Adams, and Kathleen Adams, Dylan Greene, Tiffany Whittington, and Tabitha and Jacob Dring; three great grandchildren; and one sister Marie Dillman of Spring Arbor Michigan. She also is survived by two bothers-in-law, and one sister-in-law, and a number of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; a sister, Elnora Heckathorn, and a brother, Glenn Bear.

The family will receive friends at Hampton Funeral Home on Tuesday afternoon from 2 o’clock to 3 o’clock with funeral service to follow at 3 pm. Burial will be at the Woodlawn Cemetery in Blowing Rock. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Woman’s Missionary Union of North Carolina, P.O. Box 18309, Raleigh, NC, 27619-8309.

Online condolences may be sent to the Greene family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.

Edward Wilkie (1950 – 2017)

Obituary written by Nate Harris

Wilkie performing in front of the old Boone Drug, where the F.A.R.M. Cafe is currently located. Photo by Jesse Wood

Edward Wilkie was a poet. Edward Wilkie was a friend. Edward Wilkie could have run for mayor and won. On one side of Edward was an outspoken man always full of jokes, stories, and songs. On the other side was a man who lived a simple life in his home with his dog Taylor in Sugar Grove, NC. For nearly thirty years he lived in the Boone area, making music and friends and playing countless shows. Establishing himself as a folk musician, Edward could sing and play mandolin, guitar, banjo, upright bass, fiddle, fingerpick, and demonstrate the art of Tuvin throat singing. He could entertain with long, drawn out story-style jokes, and always kept several other North Carolina-based singer/songwriter songs in his great song bag.

Born in Hendersonville, North Carolina, Edward was raised on a small farm along with his sister and brother. He graduated high school in Hendersonville and attended Isothermal Community College in Spindale, North Carolina. After graduating there, Edward completed his education by hitch-hiking and back packing across the country, picking up songs and following the Folk duo of Robin and Linda Williams. After traveling, he settled down in the city of Charlotte, North Carolina. There he worked for the City Transit for almost fifteen years and met his late wife, Elizabeth. When she passed away, Edward was left without a muse. To make a new start, he moved up here to Boone, where the old-time stories and luthiers of the mountains called to him. He opened a music store on King Street in the heart of downtown Boone, all the while making hundreds of friends and playing lots of music. Edward loved to camp, hike, fish, write, read and above all else play music.

Toward the later part of his life he could only sit and play tenor mandolin on King Street, usually outside of the former Boone Drug storefront, now the F.A.R.M. Cafe. There, he would set up every morning and he became fast friends with the F.A.R.M. cafe staff. Ever the outspoken man, Edward never gave up the opportunity to talk with anyone that had a problem or an ear to listen. He was equal parts humor and wisdom.

On Friday, November 17, 2017 Edward Wilkie passed away quietly at a medical facility just outside of Boone. He will be remembered as a musician with a larger than life personality. He was 67 years old.

We love you Edward, you will be missed.

You can find his music at CDBABY.com, or drop by F.A.R.M. Cafe on King Street in downtown Boone, North Carolina.

Agnes H. Neal (Dec. 23, 1923 – Nov. 17, 2017)

Agnes Neal passed away peacefully on the morning of November 17, in the presence of family. She was 93.

Agnes Chiapel Neal was born in St. Louis, Missouri on December 23, 1923 to Mary Brundies and James Chiapel, and raised in that city with her brothers, Nick, Sonny, and Ray. She attended the Ursuline Academy in the Ozarks, where she made lifelong friends and fondly remembered playing on the basketball team. After high school Agnes studied and worked in accounting.

During the war she met John W. (Bill) Neal of Walnut Cove, and they were married in 1947. After first living in Burlington, Agnes and Bill settled in Winston-Salem, where they lived for almost thirty years. During those years they had four children and formed a strong family. Agnes was an active member of St. Leos parish, and under her firm guidance all her children completed their education in parochial primary and secondary schools. She was a supportive parent in all their school activities. Agnes and Bill were proud that all four children graduated from college.

Agnes and Bill found the lakehouse in Kernersville, and, after extensive reconstruction on the property, moved there in 1976. Agnes joined Holy Cross parish and made many new friends in the community. Agnes especially enjoyed the quilting club, which often met at the lakehouse, and remained in touch with her fellow quilters over the years.

In 2004 Agnes and Bill retired to Valle Crucis to be closer to their children and grandchildren. They made new friends in the mountains while keeping up with those they knew in Winston-Salem and Kernersville.

Agnes is survived by all four children – John Jr. (wife, Arlene) of Pacifica, California, Mary (Tuney) Neal Henson of Valle Crucis, David (wife, Julie) of Valle Crucis, and Robert (wife, Maureen Thora) of Western Australia – and her grandchildren, Baker Henson, Chad Henson, Naomi Neal, Jack Neal, and Lucy Neal, and great-grandchildren Gemma Henson, Casher Henson and Maxwell Henson. Agnes is reunited in the afterlife with husband Bill and grandson Jordan Henson.

These paragraphs fail to convey the true spirit of Agnes Chiapel Neal. Agnes was a great human being, a wonderful mother, a loving wife, and a solid friend. She was very intelligent and wise, and a source of good counsel. Her sweetness, generous nature and corny humor will be missed by all who were fortunate to know her. For her family, Agnes is the last of the greatest generation to pass. God bless her soul and comfort those who love her.

A funeral mass in memory of Agnes Neal will be held at Holy Cross Church in Kernersville, on Friday, December 1st, at 3 PM. Private interment beside Bill will be in Walnut Cove in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Watauga County Hunger & Health Coalition, one of her favorite charities, are suggested.

Online condolences may be shared with the Family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com. Austin & Barnes is serving the Neal Family

Herman Coffey (Jan. 8, 1929 – Nov. 16, 2017)

Coffey

Herman Coffey, age 88 of Newland, North Carolina passed away on Thursday, November 16, 2017 at Cannon Memorial Hospital in Linville, NC.

He was born on January 8, 1929 in Avery County, North Carolina, a son of Daniel and Jodie Coffey.
Herman was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He enjoyed his blue grass music, hunting and fishing and Nascar.

He was preceded in death by his Father, Daniel Coffey, Mother, Jodie Coffey; Son, Gene Coffey, Grandson, Scotty Coffey, many brothers and sisters. 

Herman leaves behind to cherish his memory his: Wife of 39 years ; Virginia Fulk Coffey of Newland, NC; Granddaughter, Brandi Coffey Williams (Richard) of Hickory, NC., Stepson, Wayne Tuttle of Elkin, NC, Stepdaughters, Sandra (Gary) Shaw of King, NC, Teresa (Alvin) Ingram of Newland, NC, Daughter-in-law, Kerri Coffey of Hickory, NC. Sister, Irene Woodie of Jonas Ridge, NC, Sister, Margie Gragg of Marion, NC, Granddaughters, Shannon (Tyron) Burrus of Hickory, NC, Jennifer (Grant) Trivette of Yadkinville, NC, Whitney (Michael) Styles, Elk Park,NC. Grandsons,Gary (Kalan) Shaw, Jr. of King, NC, Daniel (Heather) Shaw of Lewisville, NC, Coty (Ashley) Ingram of Newland, NC, Thirteen Great-Grandchildren, Numerous Nieces and Nephews.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to the band members and fans for the support and turnout through the years. 

The family will receive friends beginning at 1:00 pm on Sunday, November 19, 2017, at Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home. 
Celebration of Life will begin at 2:00 with Pastor Ron Green officiating. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home 296 Ash Street, Newland, NC 28657.

Words of Comfort and Memories may be shared with the Coffey family by visiting our websitewww.rsfh.net.

The care of Herman and his family has been entrusted to Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home of Newland.

Clarence Daniels (Aug. 30, 1940 – Nov. 16, 2017)

Daniels

Clarence Daniels of Little Plumtree Creek on Thursday, November 16, 2017 after a brief but courageous battle with stomach cancer. The Daniels Family does appreciate the compassionate and caring staff of Cannon Memorial Hospital in Linville, NC where he spent his final days.

Clarence remained under the tender and watchful care of his only surviving brother, Bob Daniels and wife, Elizabeth until the end. 
Born August 30, 1940, Clarence lived at home in Crossnore with his parents all of their lives and worked in the shrubbery business most of his adult life. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Martha Holtsclaw Daniels. Also preceding him was 4 sisters; Myra Daniels, Nettie Daniels, Elizabeth Keaton and Edna Benfield as well as 3 brothers; Frank Daniels, Claude Daniels and Junior Daniels all of Crossnore. Survivors include two sister in laws; Frances Trivette Daniels of Plumtree and Alice Vance Daniels of Newland as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, neighbors and too many friends to list. 

Clarence was an avid hunter, trout fisherman and he had a passion for beagle dogs and rabbit hunting. His hunting passions were supported and shared by close friend John Vance. Clarence was a charter member of Daniel Boone Bear Hunting Club where his favorite event is the Annual Father’s Day Fishing Tournament sponsored by Hunters for Kids.

Clarence had a special way of communicating with and understanding children. He was kind hearted, fun loving and adored by children, family members and friends through out his life. Clarence purchased hunting license and his brother Bob took him across Linville Mountain for the 2017 bear hunting season which was to be his last. Clarence will be missed by family, friends, neighbors, and all who knew him. 

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, November 19, 2017 at 8:00 p.m. in the Grandfather Chapel with the Rev. Ronnie Trivette officiating. The family will receive friends from 6pm until the service hour Sunday evening at the funeral home. Interment will follow on Monday morning at 11:00 am in the Daniels Cemetery. The family would thank Medi Home Hospice for the care given to Clarence, the nurses and Doctors at Cannon Memorial and to the many friends who visited.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Daniel Boone Bear Hunting Club of Newland, Medi Home Hospice of Avery County, PO Box 1357 Newland, NC 28657, or a charity of your choice.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.rsfh.net
The care of Clarence and his family has been entrusted to Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home of Newland.

Billy L. Bumgarner (Sept. 28, 1943 – Nov. 15, 2017)

Bumgarner

Mr. Billy L. Bumgarner, age 74, of Boone passed away, Wednesday, November 15, 2017.

Billy was born September 28, 1943 in Watauga County, a son of the late William and Edna Greer Bumgarner. He was a retired Calibration Specialist for IRC/TRW for 33 years and a member of Liberty Missionary Baptist Church. Billy served in the United States Navy.

Billy is survived by his wife, Jeannie Johnson Bumgarner of Boone, his brother, Johnny Bumgarner and wife Kitty of Hinton, Oklahoma, his twin sister, Betty Bumgarner Ward and husband Gene of Sugar Grove and one brother-in-law, Johnny B. Carroll and wife Shelby of Boone. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother and sister-in-law, Bruce and Opal Bumgarner, and one sister, Carolyn Bumgarner Carroll.

Funeral services for Mr. Billy L. Bumgarner will be conducted Saturday, November 18, 2017 at 2:00 o’clock at Liberty Missionary Baptist Church. Reverend Sonny Hagaman and Reverend Charles McCoy will officiate. The body will lie in state from 1:00 until 2:00 at the church. Interment will follow in Meat Camp Baptist Church Cemetery.

The family will receive friends Friday evening from 6 until 8 at Hampton Funeral Home Chapel.
Flowers are appreciated or memorials may be made to Caldwell Hospice and Palliative Care, 902 Kirkwood Street NW, Lenoir, North Carolina 28645. 
The family respectfully request no food.
Online condolences may be sent to the Bumgarner family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com
Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.

Melba Stamey McCloud (Feb. 24, 1932 – Nov. 15, 2017)

Melba Irene Stamey McCloud, 85 of Cranberry Gap, NC, went home to be with the Lord, peacefully, at home, surrounded by her family Wednesday, November 15, 2017. 

McCloud

A native of Avery County, she was born February 24, 1932, one of seven children, to the late Columbus and Dovie Stamey of Pyatte, NC. Melba was preceded in death by her husband of fifty six years, Jack McCloud, son Jerry McCloud, grandson Brad McCloud and great-grandson Brad Jones, brothers June Stamey and Calvin Stamey and sister Maxine Jones. 

Melba was an active member of Belview Baptist Church for most of her life, where she served as church treasurer for thirty five years. She loved her church family and friends. She was employed by the family business, McCloud Construction Company for many years. She enjoyed growing flowers and a garden, going to the movies, and shopping but her mission in this life was to feed her large, ever growing family. 

She’ll be most remembered for her pickled corn and the gravy and biscuits that graced her table every single morning for almost 70 years. 

Maw, as she was known to those closest to her, leaves behind to cherish her memory son Eugene McCloud (Shelia), daughter Pat Hoffer (Joel), daughter Carol Garland (Eddie), daughter Janice McCloud, daughter Kathy Lee, son Phillip McCloud (Mary Ann), sister Mildred Hart, sister Jean Hoffer, sister Susie Lyman (Ron) and special friends Burl Tolley, Lewie and Tonja Blalock. She was the beloved grandmother of Melanie, Casey, Corey, Genia, Brad, Michele, Stevie, Jamie, Amy, Jodi, Jim Bob, Jack, Jacqueline, Laiken, and Tyler. She had nineteen great-grandchildren and one great-great grandson. 

The family will receive friends Saturday, November 18, 2017 from 6-8 at Reins Sturdivant Funeral Home. Family and friends will celebrate her life at 2:00 November 19, 2017 at Belview Baptist Church. Internment will follow at Belview Cemetery. 

The family requests that memorials be made to Belview Baptist Church Youth Fund and would like to extend their gratitude to Medi Home Hospice of Avery County.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.rsfh.net
The care of Melba and her family has been entrusted to Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home of Newland.

 

Sandra Ollis Benfield (Nov. 14, 1956 – Nov. 15, 2017)

Benfield

Sandra Ollis Benfield went to be with the Lord on November 15, 2017 after a long battle with pulmonary fibrosis.

She is survived by her husband and the love of her life, Herman Benfield and their seven children: Johnny Ollis, Jennifer Ollis, Jessica Ollis Hughes and her husband Cory, Jacob Ollis, Lee Benfield and his wife Lisa, Diane Benfield, James Gill and his wife Miranda, and Nathanial “Dano” Vance. She had 24 grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents Sam and Carol Winters and two grand children: Kendra Ollis and Colton Ollis.

She was a Certified Nursing Assistant for 28 years, she loved taking care of the elderly and had a very giving and compassionate heart. She loved the Lord and was saved by his Grace. She loved to “loafer” and go “junking” with her husband. She also enjoyed crocheting, cooking, fishing, and singing. She loved all of her family unconditionally.

Funeral services for Sandra Ollis Benfield will be held at 7:00 pm on Monday, November 20, 2017 in the Grandfather Chapel of Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home with Pastor Steve Guinn and Pastor Allen Laws officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 pm until the service hour Monday evening at the funeral home.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.rsfh.net
The care of Sandra and her family has been entrusted to Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home of Newland.

Joseph Dock Cornell (June 14, 1932 – Nov. 14, 2017) 

Joseph Dock Cornell, 85, of Joe Shoemaker Road, Vilas, passed away Tuesday evening, Nov. l4, 2017 at Glenbridge Health & Rehab in Boone.

Dock

Born June 14, 1932 in Watauga County, he was a son of James Stewart and Mary Margaret Simmons Cornell. Dock was of the Baptist faith. After serving a tour of duty with U.S. Marine Corp in Korea, he returned to Boone and established Cornell Painting Company. He is survived by his sons, Garry Cornell and wife, Patti, of Morganton and J. Dale Cornell and wife, Penny, of Boone; daughter, Denise Cornell Campbell and husband, John, of Mountain City, TN; four grandchildren, Graham Cornell and girlfriend, Destiny Franklin of Morganton, Kendra Cornell Jackson and husband, Jason, of Boone, Joseph Campbell and girlfriend, Tausha Hobbs, of Bluff City, TN, and Ashlynn Campbell Tester and husband, Dustin, of Mountain City, TN; one great-grandson, Elliott Tester; brother, Jerry Cornell of Vilas; and sisters, Faye Greer of Boone and Margaret Hodges and husband, Melvin, and Diane Presnell and husband, Olen, all of Vilas. He is also survived by a number of nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Anna Mae Taylor Cornell; brothers, Ernest and Herbert Cornell; and sister, Veralee Cornell. 

Funeral services for Joseph Dock Cornell will be conducted Saturday morning, November 18, 2017 at 11 oclock at the Austin & Barnes Funeral Chapel, officiated by Rev. Delmar James and Rev. T. J. Jackson. Military graveside rites conducted by the American Legion Post 130 and the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 90 will follow in the Danner-Cornell Cemetery. 

The family will receive friends Friday evening from 6 until 8 oclock at Austin & Barnes. 

At other times, the family will be at the home of Dale Cornell, 293 Henry Winebarger Road, Boone. 

The family suggests memorials to Caldwell Hospice and Palliative Care, 902 Kirkwood Street, SW, Lenoir, NC 28645. 

Online condolences may be shared at austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com. Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Cornell family.

William David Nixon (Feb. 1, 1925 – Nov. 14, 2017)

William David Nixon passed away on Nov. 14, 2017 in Asheville, NC. David was born in Van Wert, Ohio on February 1, 1925. His parents were Frank E. Nixon and Marie Goyings Nixon of Paulding, Ohio.

Nixon

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Barbara Heller Nixon of Arden, NC, daughter Jane Nixon Dyndiuk of Sun Valley, Idaho, grandson William R. Nixon and wife Erin of Elizabeth City, NC, granddaughter Molly Nixon Hamilton and husband William of Fairview, NC, granddaughter Meredith Johnson of Jacksonville, FL, Mallory Curren of Burnsville, MN, and great grandchildren Anne Hamilton, Evva Hamilton, Hythe Hamilton, Steven Hamilton, David Nixon, and Logan Curren.
Mr. Nixon was preceded in death by his sons Steven Heller Nixon in 1986 and Frank David Nixon in 2005.

He served in the Army Air Corps as a 1st Lieutenant during World War II and saw action as a B-25 bombardier. Flying 37 missions over northern Italy and Germany for which he received the Air Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters. After graduating from Ohio State University in March of 1949, he was employed by the Aro Corporation, Bryan, Ohio from 1949-1963 becoming director of purchasing. During this period, he served on the Bryan City Council for six years, two as president.

From 1963 to 1987 he was employed by American Safety Razor Company, Stanton, VA, as director of materials. During this time, he served six years on the board of Staunton Redevelopment and Housing Authority. After retiring to Sugar Mountain, NC, he was elected to the Village Council from 1987 to 2004 followed by two years as Mayor. 

Mr. Nixon was a Master Gardener and spent many enjoyable hours with his hobby. Active for many years in Scottish affairs, Mr. Nixon was a FSA Scot and a charter member of the Armstrong Clan Society where for a number of years he served as a director. 

Mr. Nixon was a member of the Banner Elk Presbyterian Church. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 18 at 11 am at the Benner Elk Presbyterian Church, 420 College Drive, Banner Elk, NC, with a reception to follow. 

Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home, Newland, NC, is assisting the family and condolences may be sent to the website at www.rsfh.net. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Banner Elk Presbyterian Church.

Ned Lyons, Jr. (Dec. 3, 1929 – Nov. 13, 2017)

Lyons

Dolph Ned Lyons, Jr., age 87, of Boone, passed away Monday afternoon, November 13. 2017 at Watauga Medical Center.

Born December 3, 1929 in Watauga County, he was a son of Dolph Lyons, Sr. and Grace Moretz Lyons. Ned served in the US Army during the Korean Conflict. Before retirement, he and his brother, Archie owned and operated Dixie Cleaners in Boone for 40 years and for the past 20 years, worked as a funeral assistant at Austin & Barnes Funeral Home. Ned was a longtime member of Grace Lutheran Church. He was a 32 degree Mason, served as past master of Snow Lodge 363, a member of the Scottish Rite, and a Shriner with the Oasis Temple in Charlotte. Ned was a retired Boone Fireman and a life member of the Watauga County Rescue Squad. When living in Avery County, he served as Mayor of Newland. 

Ned is survived by his wife of 37 years, Mary Moore Lyons; sons, Harry Lyons & wife Susan of Vilas, Danny Lyons & wife, Danna, of Boone and Michael Lyons and wife Judy of Mechanicville, MD; daughters, Carol Shaw & husband, Morgan, of Zionville and Anna Lyons of Bethel; step-sons, Randall Keller and wife, Kathy of Deep Gap and Eric Keller and wife, Laura of Boone; 10 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, 3 step-grandchildren and 3 step-great grandchildren; brother, Archie Lyons and wife, Joann of Boone; and sisters, Lillie McConnell of Hickory and Linda Lyons and husband, Phil Minor of Florida. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Leatrice Norris. 

Funeral services for Ned Lyons will be conducted Friday morning, November 17th at 11 AM at Grace Lutheran Church. Officiating will be Rev. Stephen Troisi and Rev. John Bollinger. Military Honors provided by American Legion Post 130 and Masonic Rites provided by Snow Lodge # 363 will follow at Mount Lawn Memorial Park & Gardens. The family will receive friends Thursday evening from 6-8 p.m. in the Austin & Barnes Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to the Shriners Children Hospital in care of Randy Vines, 1005 George Wilson Road, Boone, NC 28607 or to Grace Lutheran Church, 115 East King Street, Boone, NC 28607. 

Online condolences may be shared at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com.

Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Lyons family.

Helen Ellis (May 13, 1936 – Nov. 11, 2017)

Helen Ellis, 81, of Elk Park, North Carolina passed away on Saturday, November 11, 2017 at Life Care Center of Banner Elk in Banner Elk, NC.

Ellis

She was born on May 13, 1936 in Avery County, North Carolina to John Wesley Ellis and Bessie Hampton Ellis.

She was preceded in death by her Parents; Husband, Albert Leon Schapiro; Two Brothers, Clark Ellis, J.D. Ellis; and Two Infant Sisters.

She was a member of Heaton Christian Church. She enjoyed playing Bingo, Cooking, Gardening, Animals and spending time with Family and Friends. She also enjoyed listening to Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash and to any Southern Gospel.

Helen leaves behind to cherish her memory her: Daughter, Mindy (Paul) Thomas of Bakersville, NC, Daughter, Debra Cohen of Kissimmee, FL, Daughter, Kim (Steve) Chancey of Benton, TN, Sister, Mary Evelyn (Curtis) Martin of Elk Park, NC, Granddaughters, Jennifer (Adam Bruse) Cohen of Kissimmee, FL and Ashlyn Kirkpatrick of Bakersville, NC; Great-Granddaughter, Paige Dixon of Kissimmee, FL and several nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life Service for Helen Ellis will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Avery or Mitchell County Senior Center; or Avery or Mitchell County Animal Rescue.

The Family would like to offer a special thank you to all the friends and family that have reached out during this difficult time.

Words of Comfort and Memories may be shared with the family by visiting our websitewww.rsfh.net

George F. Regan (Aug. 24, 1947 – Nov. 10, 2017)

George F. Regan, age 70, of Mount Dora, Florida, and Blowing Rock, passed away Friday, November 10, 2017, at Forsyth Medical Center in Winston-Salem.

George is survived by his wife, Judith Potter Regan of the home; one daughter, Amy Jackson and husband David of Dunnellon, Florida; one son, Wade Regan and wife Heather of Winter Springs, Florida; one brother, William Regan and wife Kim of Lake County, Florida; one sister, Laura Duddles and husband Tom of Warner Robbins, Georgia, and a half-brother, John Regan, Jr. of New York. He is also survived by five grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, John and Dorothy Guest Regan, and a brother, Charles Wolf.

Memorial Services for George F. Regan will be conducted Wednesday, November 15, 2017, at 2:00 o’clock, at Bass Lake in Blowing Rock.

Online condolences may be sent to the Regan family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.

Barbara McCloskey (April 16, 1937 – Nov. 9, 2017)

Mrs. Barbara McCloskey, 80, of Boone, passed away Thursday, November 9, 2017 at Watauga Medical Center.

Barbara is survived by five sons, Asby Carper, III of Rocky Mount, North Carolina, Steve Carper of Centerville, North Carolina, Douglas Carper and wife Lisa of Johns Creek, Georgia, Dan McCloskey of Florida, and Tom McCloskey of Raleigh, and one sister-in-law, Margie Cane of Columbia, South Carolina. She is also survived by several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a number of nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her father and mother, Richard Ray Cone and Jane Elizabeth Davis Cone; her second husband, Jim McCloskey, and two brothers, John and David Cone.

There will be no services for Mrs. Barbara McCloskey.

Online condolences may be sent to the McCloskey family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.

Anna Jolly Goodman (Dec. 22, 1941 – Nov. 9, 2017) 

Goodman

Anna Jolly Goodman, age 75, of Lynn Hill Road, Boone, passed away Thursday morning, November 9, 2017 at Wake Forest Medical Center in Winston-Salem.

Anna was born December 22, 1941 in Danville, VA. She retired from the Patient Account Department at Watauga Medical Center. Anna loved spending time with family. In the early years, she enjoyed water skiing and after retirement, she treasured her ‘alone time’. Anna was a long time member and Deacon at First Baptist Church in Boone and served as Sunday School Director, in the church choir, and remained active in children ministries.

Mrs. Goodman is survived by her husband, Billy Joe Goodman; daughter, Karen Goodman Macias and husband, Gregory Jason; six cousins; Lorena Goodman, Debra Harden, Lora Lecka, Regina Tipton, David Greene and Billy Joe Greer; and step-sister, Patricia Shands of Knoxville, TN. She was preceded in death by her mother, Pauline Nolan Thomas. 

Memorial services for Anna Jolly Goodman will be conducted Sunday afternoon, November 19th, at 2 o’clock at the First Baptist Church in Boone. A reception will follow services at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Building 31, Room11A-16, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892. 

Online condolences may be shared at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com. Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Goodman family.

Mark Benjamin Calhoun (Feb. 13, 2001 – Nov. 9, 2017)

Calhoun

Mark Benjamin Calhoun, 16, of Newland, North Carolina passed away on Thursday, November 9, 2017.

He was born on February 13, 2001 in Linville (Avery County), North Carolina, the son of Kenny Calhoun and Kim Carpenter Calhoun of Newland. 

Mark was proud to be a student at Mayland Early College, where he excelled academically and was a member of the National Honor Society. He enjoyed being outdoors, riding his four-wheeler, weightlifting, restoring small engines, woodworking and was a blue belt in Shito-Ryu karate.

Mark was a baptized believer in his Savior, Jesus Christ and enjoyed attending Foscoe Christian Church. He had a servant’s heart and watched for opportunities to help a neighbor or the community, not only volunteering, but leading others around him in projects with a steady hand.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Earl Carpenter Jr. and uncle, Ferrell (Barbara) Calhoun.

In addition to his parents, Mark leaves behind to cherish his memory his sisters, Jennifer (Zack) Deyo of Hillsborough, NC, Laura (Aaron) Berryman of Newland, NC, Sarah Calhoun of Raleigh, NC; niece, Brenna Berryman of Newland; nephews, Malachi Berryman of Newland, Lucas Deyo of Hillsborough; maternal grandmother, Mildred Carpenter of Newland; paternal grandparents, Carlos and Evelyn Calhoun of Newland; aunt, Wanda Pritchard of Newland; uncle, Stanley (Nena) Carpenter of Newland.

A Celebration of Mark’s Life will take place at the Foscoe Christian Church’s current meeting site, 141 Leigh Ln, Boone, NC 28607 beginning at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 18, 2017. 

The family will receive friends at the church from 12:00 noon until 1:45 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Foscoe Christian Church Building Fund, 8834 North Carolina Highway 105 Boone North Carolina 28607 or by visiting the church website 
http://foscoechristianchurch.com/building-for-tomorrow/

Words of Comfort and Memories may be shared with the Calhoun family by visiting our websitewww.rsfh.net. The care of Mark and his family has been entrusted to Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home of Newland.

Joseph Arthur Browde (June 9, 1922 – Nov. 7, 2017)

Browde

Dr. Joseph Arthur “Joe” Browde, Sr., 85, previously of Boone, passed away Tuesday morning, November 07, 2017, at Wake Medical Center, Raleigh, NC.

Joe was born June 9, 1932 in Brooklyn, NY. Prior to his retirement, Dr. Browde was an Associate Professor of Education and Chairman of the Department of Education at Meredith College in Raleigh, NC. He also taught at the University of North Carolina (Chapel Hill), Greensboro College, and Columbia College in SC. He received his Doctorate in Education from Syracuse University and bachelor’s degree in history from Rutgers University. He was also a graduate of the Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary. In his retirement, Joe and wife Barbara moved to the Boone area where they enjoyed the cool mountain air, performed voluntary community work, and actively participated in the Church and Sunday school at First Presbyterian Church in Boone. For many years, Joe also served as a substitute pastor for several churches in the area. Following a triple by-pass surgery in 2015, Joe and Barbara relocated to Raleigh in order to be closer to their family. 

Joe is survived by his wife, Barbara Jones Browde of Raleigh; one daughter, Barbara Wilson and husband Mike, their daughter Laura; three sons, Dr. Joseph (Joe) Arthur Browde, Jr. and wife Marcie of Petaluma, CA, their daughter Samantha Masicampo and husband Isaac of San Diego, CA, and their son Ryan and girlfriend Averil of Fair Oaks, CA; Stephen Carl Browde and wife Amanda of Raleigh, their son Stephen and wife Mary Beth, and great granddaughter Ava of Fuquay-Varina, their daughter, Sandy Brouse and husband Jim of Fuquay-Varina, one great grandson Jimmy; Thomas Browde and girlfriend Linda Latham of Knightdale, his two daughters, Rebecca Smith and husband Brad of Atlantic Beach, and Katherine Martin and husband Chris of Pikeville; one great granddaughter Faith and one great grandson Brendan. One stepbrother, James (Jim) Swalm, a stepsister Susan Schilke, and numerous nieces and nephews also survive Joe. 

He was preceded in death by his sister, Marian Peter, and one stepbrother Charles Swalm, Jr. 

A Celebration of Life for Joe Browde will be conducted on Saturday afternoon, November 18, 2017, from 1:00 to 3:00 o’clock, at First Presbyterian Church in Boone. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to support a public school teacher and classroom of your choice at https://www.donorschoose.org “To support a classroom. Build a future.”

Online condolences may be sent to the Browde family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.

Alan Dewayne Stepp (Feb. 21, 1959 – Nov. 7, 2017)

Alan Dewayne Stepp, 58, of Meadow Hill Drive, Boone, passed away November 7, 2017, at his home.

Alan was born Feb. 21, 1959 in Henderson County, NC son of the late Alice and Kimsey Stepp. Alan worked in the medical field as a Nurses’s Aide. 

Alan is survived by one sister, Nancy Pharao of Hendersonville, NC as well as many other friends. 

A memorial service for Alan Dewayne Stepp will be conducted Tuesday evening, November 28, 2017, at 6:00 o’clock, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Boone.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.

Dulus Robinson Thomas (April 29, 1922 – Nov. 7, 2017)

Thomas

Dulus Robinson Thomas, 95, of Ellicott City, Maryland, formerly of Boone, passed away Tuesday evening, November 7, 2017, at Encore at Turf Valley in Ellicott City, Maryland.

Dulus is survived by one daughter, Kalyn T. Hardy and husband Harold of Boone; two sons, Timothy L. Thomas and wife Sharon of Marriottsville, Maryland, and Michael L. Thomas of Billings, Montana; one grandson, Gregory T. Hardy of Boone; one granddaughter, Jessica Thomas of Marriottsville, Maryland; two sisters, Joy Todd of Greensboro, and Ann Scott and husband Scottie of Phoenix, Arizona, and one brother, Joe C. Robinson and wife Pat of Phoenix. She is also survived by a number of nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lewis A. Thomas; her father and mother, Clyde William Robinson and Mae Eggers Robinson; one sister, Dare Gibson; a brother, Paul Robinson, and one infant brother.

Funeral services for Dulus Robinson Thomas will be conducted Tuesday afternoon, November 14, 2017, at 2:00 o’clock, at Hampton Funeral Home Chapel. The body will lie in state, at the chapel, from 1:00 until 2:00 o’clock. Officiating will be Reverend Rick Cornejo. Entombment will follow in Mount Lawn Memorial Park and Gardens Mausoleum.

The family will receive friends Monday evening, from 6:00 until 8:00 o’clock, at the funeral home, prior to the service.

Flowers are appreciated or memorials may be made to:
Watauga County DSS Adult Protective Services Fund at 132 Poplar Grove Connector, Suite C, Boone, NC 28607 

Online condolences may be sent to the Thomas family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.

Ms. Darlene P. Turner (May 8, 1952 – Nov. 5, 2017)

Turner

Ms. Darlene Patricia Turner, age 65, of Church Street, Boone, passed away Sunday, November 5, 2017 at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital. Born May 8, 1952 in Watauga County, she was a daughter of the late Rodney and Pauline Grimes Turner. Darlene was retired from TRW and was a member of Boone Mennonite Brethren Church.

She is survived by one sister, Rhoda Gore of Knoxville, one brother, Lionel Turner of Boone, her caregivers, Chantella Bowman and husband Steve and Denise Dugger of Tennessee, and her special friends, Carolyn and Mitzi Grimes, and a number of nieces and nephews and cousins.

A service to celebrate the life of Darlene Turner will be conducted Saturday afternoon, November 11 at 1 PM at the Boone Mennonite Brethren Church. Officiating will be Rev. Mike Mathes. The family will receive friends prior to the service from noon until 1 PM. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Austin & Barnes Funeral Home to help offset expenses. Online condolences may be shared with the Turner family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com.

Austin & Barnes Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the Turner family.

JoAnna Stout (D. Nov. 4, 2017)

Stout

JoAnna Stout, from Mountain City, TN, passed away Saturday, November 4th 2017 at Johnson City Medical Center. She was 68 years old.

JoAnna worked for SunLife Sunrooms Spas & More (Formerly SQS – Hot Spring Spas) for more than 20 years, and was active in the High Country community. She had many friends & customers who will miss her terribly.

Her family is taking her back to Union Hill Cemetery in Chester County PA, to be laid to rest with her beloved husband Gervis. 

Condolences may be sent to her family in care of Mandi Hurt, 138 Oak Grove Dr, Madison Heights VA 24572.