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Watauga, Avery Obituaries – Oct. 24, 2017

Susan “Susu” Anderson (Nov. 30, 1979 – Oct. 23, 2017)

Susan “Susu” Vardell Anderson, age 37, of Boone, passed away Monday, October 23, 2017, at her home.

She is survived by her Mother, Missy Anderson, her Father Andy Anderson, one brother Tripp Anderson, one sister Clarke Osborne, one brother-in law Nick Osborne, two nieces Hollis Anderson and Frankie Osborne, one nephew Harry Osborne, and Her beloved cat Tog. Aka Gray. She is also survived by many Aunts, Uncles, and cousins. 

Susan was the brightest light. Beautiful, passionate and pure of heart, with a smile that never failed to lift your spirit. Susan not only made the world a better place with her presence but fervently believed that a better world was out there to be made.

Susan loved a chai latte and if she was coming over to your house would always ask if you wanted one too. She was a dedicated yogi, loved a retreat and if she could get to Wanderlust she was there. She was a captivating writer and blogger. A foodie who loved seeking out the best fruits and vegetables and who made the most delicious organic banana, raspberry and blueberry vegan ice cream you’ll ever taste. You could find her every Saturday at the farmers market looking for the freshest of flowers for her house and then often going home and painting them to canvas. 

After graduating from U.N.C, she took a gap year and moved to Vail, Colorado. At heart Susan, who grew up in Blowing Rock, was always a mountain girl who loved nature and a good hike. However, after a year of skiing and listening to one too many band in one too many dive bar, she packed up and moved to D.C where she earned her Juris Doctorate from American University, following her father Andy’s footsteps into the Law. Susan, being Susan, spurned the big bucks of a white shoe law firm and instead moved to Asheville where for the next five years she worked for Pisgah Legal Services, a non-profit for economically disadvantaged persons, where she represented battered women. Ever modest about her work and the courage it required to do, she made the lives of countless women better with her tireless advocacy.

Susan loved a good, robust debate as well as a late-night game of poker where she would quietly and methodically rake up everyone’s chips. She was passionate about the causes she believed in and one of those was the environment so she moved out west and earned her MLB (masters in law and business) in environmental law and natural resources law and policy from the University of Denver.

After working in Denver for a few years, Susan found herself drawn back to the Blue Ridge Mountains. It was here she spent her last years, made all the better by being so close to Missy, her beloved mother.

Susan was a devoted daughter to Missy & Andy, a wonderful sister to Clarke and Tripp, a loyal and loving friend, the funnest & coolest aunt any niece and nephew could ask for, just ask Hollis, Harry & Frankie. She is going to be desperately missed by us all. 

A Celebration of Susan’s Life will be held Sunday afternoon, October 29, 2017, at 1pm Rumple Memorial Presbyterian Church in Blowing Rock. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bestfriends.org at https://bestfriends.org/donate or to Everytown for Gun Safety at https://everytown.org/

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

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


Christopher D. “Chris” Honeycutt (March 29, 1969 – Oct. 22, 2017)

Christopher D. “Chris” Honeycutt, 48, of 150 Honeycutt Drive, Todd, passed away Sunday, Oct. 22, 2017, at Watauga Medical Center.

Chris was born March 29, 1969 in Watauga County, a son of Lucille Canter Honeycutt and the late Gene Honeycutt. He was employed in the shipping department of Thomasville Furniture and Charleston Forge.

Chris is survived by his wife, Donna Brown Honeycutt of the home; two sons, Patrick Honeycutt and Dylan Honeycutt, of Todd; two brothers, Danny Honeycutt and wife Judy of Lenoir, and Michael Honeycutt and wife Dana of Hudson; one sister, Loretta Hale and husband Jeff of Oklahoma, and his mother, Lucille Canter Honeycutt of Todd. He is also survived by 6 nieces and nephews, and 4 great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother-in-law, Mary Laws, and his maternal grandmother, Belle Canter.

Funeral services for Christopher D. “Chris” Honeycutt will be conducted Thursday afternoon, October 26, 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 Fred Stapleton. Burial will follow in Pleasant Valley Cemetery.

The family will receive friends Thursday afternoon, from 1:00 until 2:00 o’clock, at the funeral home, prior to the service.

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

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


Patricia O. Harper (June 17, 1930 – Oct. 21, 2017)

Patricia O. Harper, 87, of Cobbs Creek Road, Boone, passed away Saturday evening, Oct. 21, 2017, at Watauga Medical Center.

Patricia was born June 17, 1930 in Miami, Florida, daughter of the late Amy Belle Martin O’Neill. She was a retired Library Administrator for Appalachian State University.

Patricia is survived by one daughter, Kathleen Harper Hineman of Boone; three granddaughters, Holly Hineman of New Orleans, Louisiana, and Amanda Harper and Haylee Hineman, both of Boone; one brother, John O’Neill of Sebring, Florida, and a daughter-in-law, Cindy Harper of Boone.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Wesley Harper, and her son, Ricky Harper.

The family will receive friends Thursday evening, October 26, 2017, from 6:00 until 7:00 o’clock, at Hampton Funeral Service. 

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

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


Mr. Eugene H. Reece, Sr. (March 17, 1936 – Oct. 21, 2017)

Mr. Eugene H. Reece, Sr., age 80, of Big Hill Road, Boone, passed away Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017 at Glenbridge Health & Rehabilitation. Born March 17, 1936 in Carter County, Tennessee, he was a son of the late Martin Luther and Wilma Heaton Reece.

Gene was a retired woodworker. 

He is survived by his wife, Elaine Moretz Reece, Tina L. Whitenite, Eugene H. Reece, Jr., Joy Bozeman, and grandchildren, two step children, Andrew Moretz and wife Joann of Banner Elk and Pamela Nederhoff and husband Dwayne, two sisters, Maxine Price and Margaret Wallace and husband Larry of Mountain City, TN, two brothers, Bill Reece and wife Glenda and Gary Reece and wife Roseletta of Trade, TN, two sisters-in-law, Phyllis Reece and Carolyn Reece of Trade, TN, several nieces and nephews and special friends. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a daughter, Mary Reece Barker and a son, John Martin Reece, and two brothers, Johnnie and Tommie Reece and two infant brothers.

A Celebration of Life service for Gene Reece will be conducted Wednesday, October 25, 2017 at 3 PM at Bethany Lutheran Church. Officiating will be Pastor Laura Weant. The family will receive friends following the service. The family respectfully requests no flowers. Memorials may be made to Bethany Lutheran Church, 1030 Big Hill Road, Boone, NC 28607 or to Caldwell Hospice & Palliative Care, 902 Kirkwood Street, NW, Lenoir, NC 28645. The family would like to thank the staff at Glenbridge and Caldwell Hospice & Palliative Care for their compassionate care.

Online condolences may be shared with the Reece family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com

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


Don Richardson (Dec. 31, 1947 – Oct. 20, 2017)

Don Richardson, 69, of Baird’s Creek Road, Vilas, passed away Friday morning, Oct. 20, 2017, at his home.

Don was born December 31, 1947 in Caldwell County, a son of the late Dallas Paul Richardson and Mae Taylor Richardson. He was a retired employee of ABF Freight Company.

Don is survived by his wife, Rebecca Baird Richardson of the home; one daughter, Sandra Marsh and husband Jason of Wilmington, North Carolina; one son, James Richardson and wife Shannon of Cherryville; three grandsons, Kyle Richardson and Devan Richardson, both of Cherryville, and Johnathan Marsh of Wilmington; one granddaughter, Chloee Marsh of Wilmington; one great-granddaughter, Rhylee Richardson of Cherryville; one niece, Madison Baird of Vilas, and two brothers, Jerry Richardson and wife Texie of Vale, North Carolina, and David Richardson and wife Shirley of Vilas. He is also survived by a number of nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Don Richardson will be conducted Sunday afternoon, October 22, 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 Pastor Wynn Greer. Burial will follow in Proffitt’s Grove Baptist Church Cemetery.

The family will receive friends Sunday afternoon, from 1:00 until 2:00 o’clock, at the funeral home, prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Medi Home Hospice, 400 Shadowline Drive, Suite 102, Boone, North Carolina, 28607, or to the Wounded Warriors Project, PO Box 758517, Topeka, Kansas, 66675-8517.

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

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


Elbert E. Davis (Jan. 7, 1923 – Oct. 20, 2017)

Elbert E. Davis, age 94, of Buchanan Street, Boone, passed away Friday afternoon, October 20, 2017, at The Foley Center in Blowing Rock.

Elbert is survived by his wife, Violet Lee Rahm Davis of Boone; one daughter, Laurie Vierheller of Boone; one son, Tommy Scott and wife Myreta of Lake City, Colorado; two granddaughters, Sarah Hackenbracht of Seattle, Washington, and Rachel Vierheller of Boone, and two grandsons, Peter Davis, and Tristan Davis and wife Nichole, all of Hollywood, California.

Funeral arrangement for Elbert E. Davis are incomplete at this time.

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

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


Wilton F. Potter (Feb. 6, 1928 – Oct. 21, 2017)

Wilton F. Potter, age 89, of Mabel School Road, Zionville, passed away Saturday morning, October 21, 2017, at Watauga Medical Center. 

Wilton was born February 6, 1928 in Johnson County, Tennessee, a son of the late Marvin Daniel Potter and Ivalee Miller Potter. He was a retired superintendent for Beaman Corporation and served in the United States Army. Wilton was a member of Zionville Baptist Church, where he served as superintendent for 10 years and enjoyed singing in the choir. 

Wilton is survived by his wife, Sally Faye Wilson Potter of the home; three sisters, Bernice Reece of Trade, Tennessee, Helen Pardue, and Louise Pardue and husband Jimmy, all of Mountain City, Tennessee; one brother, Luther Martin of Beckley, West Virginia; two sisters-in-law, Georgia Pardue and husband Edgar of Zionville, and Irene Potter of Trade, and one brother-in-law, Clay Wilson of Zionville. He is also survived by a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Sherry Potter; one brother, Bruce Potter; one step-granddaughter, Arwen Burns, and one sister-in-law, Lola Martin.

Funeral services for Wilton F. Potter will be conducted Tuesday afternoon, October 24, 2017, at 2:00 o’clock, at Zionville Baptist Church. The body will lie in state, from 12:00 until 2:00 o’clock. Officiating will be Reverend Dwayne Tester, Military graveside rites and burial, provided by American Legion Post 130 and Disabled American Veterans Chapter 90, will follow in the Reece Cemetery.

The family will receive friends Tuesday afternoon, from 12:00 until 2:00 o’clock, at the church, prior to the service.

Flowers are appreciated, or memorial contributions may be made to the Reece Cemetery Fund, in care of Chuck Cook, 730 Slabtown Road, Zionville, North Carolina, 28698.

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

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


Mr. Maurice B. Marcum (May 9, 1936 – Oct. 20, 2017)

Mr. Maurice Benton Marcum, 81, of Perkins Street, Boone, passed away Friday morning, Oct. 20, 2017 at Caldwell Hospice & Palliative Care.

Born May 9, 1936 in Ewing, Virginia, he was a son of the late Henry Benton and Bonnie Ayers Marcum. Maurice was a member of Alliance Bible Fellowship and a US Army Veteran. He was a clinical social worker for 41 years and had worked for New River Behavioral Healthcare. 

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Elizabeth Londeree Marcum, three children; Carol Isaacs and husband Jim of Boone, Joy Marcum of Winston-Salem and Charles Marcum of Deep Gap, two grandchildren, Laine Isaacs of Bristol, VA, Ben Isaacs of Ronda, NC one step granddaughter, Brianna Shepherd of Elizabethtown, NC, two great grandchildren, Ariah and Levi Isaacs, two step great grandchildren Andrew and Kara Shepherd, and one brother, Harold Marcum and wife Helen of Jonesville, VA. 

Funeral services for Mr. Maurice Marcum will be conducted Monday, October 23rd at 2 PM at Alliance Bible Fellowship. Officiating will be Pastor Scott Andrews. Burial will follow at Mount Lawn Memorial Park & Gardens. Flowers are accepted or memorials may be made to Alliance Bible Fellowship Building Fund, 1035 NC Hwy 105 Bypass, Boone, NC 28607.

The family will receive friends Sunday evening at Austin & Barnes Funeral Home from 6 PM until 8 PM. Online condolences may be shared with the Marcum family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com.

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


Loyce Minton Edmisten (June 4, 1936 – Oct. 20, 2017)

Loyce Minton Edmisten, age 81, of Emberwood Drive, Winnabow, North Carolina, a native and former resident of Watauga County, wife of William L. “Bill” Edmisten, Sr., passed away Friday morning, October 20, 2017, in Wilmington, North Carolina.

Like most who grew up on family farms, Loyce had a strong work ethic. She married her high school sweetheart and started a family, putting all her heart in to homemaking, gardening and preserving, sewing and cooking. Her home was always a place of order and routine, creating a loving place for her growing family. 

Loyce was a person of abiding Faith, active in her church, bible study and prayer. She taught children’s Sunday school and summer bible school; founded and lead a Sunday school program for special needs children; and remained active in church throughout her life. 

As partners Loyce and Bill managed a successful construction company for many years, later returning to their farming roots growing Christmas trees, raising goats, vegetable gardening, growing apples, grapes and blueberries. Her joy was cultivating the beauty of God’s creation through a wonderfully diverse flower garden. 

Above all Loyce loved her husband and family. She was selfless and always put others first. A loving mother and grandmother (Meme), she always made each child of the family feel they were the most special. 

Loyce is survived by a daughter, Mary E Coffey and husband, Dennis of Dunn, North Carolina; a son, William L Edmisten, Jr and wife, Teresa of Decatur, Georgia; three granddaughters-Leslie Harrell and husband, Michael of Leland, North Carolina, Sarah Gould and husband, Troy of Raleigh, and Heather Wullenweber and husband, Josh of Charlotte; two grandsons-Bradford Coffey of Raleigh, Wesley Edmisten of Decatur, Georgia; one great-grandson, Kamden Harrell of Leland, North Carolina, and two sisters, Joyce Proffitt and husband, Bill of Spruce Pine, and Gail Elliott and husband, Bill of Mountain City, Tennessee. A number of nieces and nephews and her constant companion, Precious also survive.

She was preceded in death by her husband William L. Edmisten, Sr, one daughter- Sandra Trexler; her father & mother, Claude W Minton, Sr & Blanche Hayes Minton; one brother Claude W. Minton, Jr, and one nephew Forrest L Minton.

Funeral services for Loyce Minton Edmisten will be conducted Wednesday afternoon, October 25, 2017, at 1:00 o’clock, at First Baptist Church of Boone. The body will lie in state, at the church, from 12:00 until 1:00 o’clock. Officiating will be Reverend Curtis D. Privette. Burial will follow in Mount Vernon Baptist Church Cemetery.

The family will receive friends Tuesday evening, from 6:00 until 8:00 o’clock, at First Baptist Church of Boone.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for Foreign Missions – First Baptist Church, 375 W. King Street, Boone, NC 28607 or Samaritan’s Purse, PO Box 3000, Boone, North Carolina, 28607.

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

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


Mr. Wayne Grogan (April 18, 1948 – Oct. 19, 2017)

Mr. Gary Wayne Grogan, age 69, of Boone, passed away Thursday morning, October 19, 2017 at Glenbridge Health & Rehabilitation. Born April 18, 1948 in Ashe County, he was a son of the late Elmer and Nellene Canter Grogan. Wayne worked in the furniture industry. 

He is survived by his special friend, Judy Lambert and her daughter, Christy of Vilas, one son, Tony Shane Grogan of Boone, three grandchildren, Jessie, Mikayla and Kelby, and six great grandchildren, two sisters, Brenda Combs and husband Cecil of Zionville and Judy Greer and husband Gary of Fleetwood, two brothers, Roy Grogan and wife Reba of Wilkesboro and Roger Grogan of Sugar Grove, and a number of special nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a daughter, Misty Dawn Grogan.

Memorial services for Wayne Grogan will be conducted Sunday, October 22, 2017 at 2 PM at the Beaver Creek Christian Church. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to family to help offset expenses.

Online condolences may be shared with the Grogan family at austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com.

Austin & Barnes Funeral Home is serving the Grogan family.


Charles Edmond Chafin (Nov. 16, 1934 – Oct. 18, 2017)

Charles Edmond Chafin, 82, of St. Augustine, Florida and Sugar Mountain, passed away Wednesday evening, Oct. 18, 2017, at Johnson City Medical Center in Johnson City, Tennessee.

He is survived by his daughter Elizabeth Chafin of Burbank California and nephews Charles and Stewart Chafin. 

Born in Marianna Florida on November 4, 1934 and moved to Tallahassee a few weeks there after. He graduated from Leon high school and attended FSU for a short while before enlisting in the US Marine Corp in 1953. He was honorably discharged as a sergeant three years later. He attended Woodberry college in Southern California graduating cum laude as a California CPA. He then went to work for Arthur Andersen in LA specializing in Taxes. In 1963 relocated to Hawaii to join the Dillingham corporation a major NYSE public company with international operations. He retired as group V.P. In 1982 and relocated to Florida. He has served on several corporate and civic Board of Directors. 

No public service will be held any donations should be made to a charity of your choice.

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

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


Macie Diane Trivette (D. Oct. 18, 2017)

Macie Diane Trivette, infant daughter of Daniel Joseph Trivette and Tiffany Presnell Trivette, passed away Wednesday, October 18, 2017.

In addition to her parents, Macie is survived by two sisters, Grace and Lacie Trivette, and one brother Tanner Trivette. her maternal grandparents, Tim Presnell and his wife Emma of Vilas, and Judy Presnell of Winston-Salem; her paternal grandparents, Johnny Trivette and wife Tina of Deep Gap; her maternal great-grandparents, Olen and Diane Presnell of Vilas, and Willie Rachel Norwood of Banner Elk, and her paternal grandmother, Nancy Kerhoulas of Deep Gap.

Funeral services for Macie Diane Trivette will be conducted Monday afternoon, October 23, 2017, at 2:00 o’clock, at Baird’s Creek Baptist Church. Officiating will be Reverend Jerry Lee Pennell. Burial will follow in the Danner Cemetery.

The family will receive friends Monday afternoon, from 1:00 until 2:00 o’clock, at the church, prior to the service.

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

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


Sam Cartner (Oct. 7, 1920 – Oct. 21, 2017)

Sam Cartner, 97, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2017 at his home with lifelong friends, family and loving caregivers at his side. 
Sam was the son of William and Inez Cartner and grew up in Mocksville, Davie County, NC. The Cartner family earned their livelihood farming mainly tobacco, cotton, corn and small grains. Sam graduated from Lees-McRae Junior College in Banner Elk, NC in 1941 and transferred to North Carolina State College in Raleigh. Immediately after the bombing of Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, Sam enlisted in the Army Air Corps and served as a B -24 tail gunner until the end of the war. He returned to NC State and graduated in 1946. At the time of his death, he was the oldest WWII veteran in Avery County. 
His first job was as the Assistant Agricultural Extension Agent in Madison County. While there, he worked with the TVA Family Farm Development Program. Most importantly, he met Margaret Corbin who was an Assistant Home Demonstration Agent in Haywood County. Sam was transferred to Ashe County in 1948 the same year that he and Margaret were married. They were life-long partners for 60 years. Margaret died August 2008. 
In 1949, Sam and Margaret moved to Avery County. For the next 21 years Sam was the Avery County Agriculture Extension Agent. He is attributed as one of the major promotors of crops that provide the best return for small family farms and supported and assisted farmers in growing Fraser fir Christmas trees. In 1959 he was instrumental in organizing the NC Christmas Tree Growers Association. Sam also had a major role in organizing the Avery County Farm Bureau. He served as president of the State Agricultural Extension Agents Association. While Sam would give others credit for leading the way, he was unquestionably a pioneer in the field of Christmas tree production and marketing. Sam was a pragmatist who often worked behind the scenes to demonstrate new technology and improved practices whether it was soil fertility studies or shearing methodology. 
A part of his job that Sam enjoyed was working with youth through the 4-H program. He taught young people about agricultural production with an emphasis on Christmas trees. In 1964, the Avery County 4-H team won the State Forestry competition on “How to Shear a Christmas Tree”. He is especially remembered by many Avery County boys for the summer 4-H camps he organized and attended with them. 
The Newland Presbyterian Church was a very important part of Sam’s life. He served as an Elder and in various roles for 60 years. To Sam, God and family were the cornerstones of his life such that any accomplishment he made, these two things were put foremost in his decisions and actions. 
Sam was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Christmas Tree Association, and inducted into the Western NC Agricultural Hall of Fame. However, the award that he most cherished was the Avery County Citizen of the Century award.
Sam is survived by his three sons David (Virginia) , Jim (Jane), Sam (Agnes) ,8 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. The family is deeply appreciative of the loving care provided to their father by close friends and a host of dedicated caregivers.
A memorial service will be held at the Newland Presbyterian Church at 3 PM on Saturday, December 2, 2017 with a reception to follow. 
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Newland Presbyterian Church in Memory of Sam Cartner, PO Box 579, Newland, NC 28657.
Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home of Newland is serving he Cartner family. Condolences and memories may be shared and viewed at www.rsfh.net


Tnellia Bertha McCoury Young (Feb. 4, 1948 – Oct. 20, 2017)

Tnellia Bertha McCoury Young, 69 of Newland, North Carolina passed away on Friday, Oct. 20, 2017 at Saint Joseph Campus in Asheville, North Carolina.

She was born on Feb. 4, 1948 in Avery County, North Carolina, a daughter of the late Eddie C McCoury and the late Anna Roth McCoury.

Bertha graduated from Cranberry High School in Cranberry and Sacred Heart Belmont Abby in Charlotte. She received her master’s in education from Appalachian State University, Boone, NC.
She retired from North Carolina Public Schools after 30 plus years. She was a 5-year volunteer with Vista (A division of the Peace Corp). She was a home bound school teacher. 

he began the handicap program in Avery County and was the first teacher in Avery County to teach the multi-handicapped. Bertha worked with Mayland Community College in the GED program for many years. 

She enjoyed life and will be missed by so many.She especially enjoyed visiting and playing with her nieces and nephews or working in the outdoors making rock gardens.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her Three Sisters, Colleen McCoury Martincak, Barbara McCoury Ward, Sheila McCoury Perry; Four Brothers, Tommy McCoury, TY McCoury, Eddie McCoury, Jr., David McCoury Sr.

Bertha leaves behind to cherish her memory her: Husband of 35 years, Dale Young of Newland, NC; Sister, Mary (Roberto) Perez of High Point, NC, Sister, Rosa (John) King of Lebanon, IN; and a host of nieces and nephews, including her best friend and nephew David McCoury, Jr. 

The family will receive friends at Rein-Sturdivant Funeral Home, Sunday, October 22, 2017 from 5:30PM to 10:00PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am Monday, October 23, 2017 at Saint Bernadette Cathalic Church in Linville, North Carolina with Father Christopher Gober officiating. Interment will follow in the Upper Roaring Creek Cemetery

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Yellow Mountain Enterprises- P.O. Box 548 , Newland, NC 28657;<http://www.yellowmountainenterprises.org/>, or St. Lucien Catholic Church : 695 Summit Ave., Spruce Pine, NC 28777.

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


Jean Ogburn Graves (Oct. 24, 1927 – Oct. 16, 2017)

Jean Ogburn Graves, age 89, formerly of Charlotte, passed away Monday, October 16, 2017 at Deerfield Ridge Assisted Living in Boone, NC. She was a native of Pageland, SC, daughter of the late Robert Earl and Odessa Caroline Ogburn. 

Jean was preceded in death by her husband Blake S. Graves, a son, Timothy L. Graves, a grandson, Michael W. Graves, her brothers James and Paul Ogburn, and a sister, Opal Ogburn.

Surviving to cherish her memory are her sister, Elaine Davis of Mt. Pleasant, SC, son, Reginald Graves and wife Debra of Tucson, AZ, daughter, Jill Hauser of Fuquay-Varina, NC, and daughter-in-law, Belinda Graves of Monroe, NC. Six beloved grandchildren also survive: Jennifer Graves, Abigail Graves, Katy Graves, Deborah Waechter, Mary Hauser and Clint Graves.

A graveside service will be scheduled at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to Medi Home Health and Hospice, 400 Shadowline Drive, Suite 100-B, Boone, NC 28607. Online condolences may be shared with the Graves family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com. Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory of Boone is serving the Graves family.


Eloise B. Melton (June 13, 1914 – Oct. 16, 2017)

Eloise Bateman Camp Melton, 103, passed away Monday, October 16, 2017 at Twin Lakes Health Care Center surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in Portsmouth, VA on June 13, 1914 to the late Jesse Gray Camp, Sr. and Gertrude Eloise Bateman Camp, and grew up in Ahoskie, NC. Eloise attended East Carolina Teachers College (ECU) and later earned a Masters Degree in Library Science. She was a public school teacher and librarian, and in 1947 became the State School Library Advisor in the NC Department of Public Instruction.

In 1950 she married Jack Robert Melton, and moved to Boone, NC. In 1974 Mrs. Melton retired after 20 years as an Assistant Professor of History at Appalachian State University. She was a dedicated and long-time member of Boone United Methodist Church. Mrs. Melton moved to Twin Lakes Community in 1994 and transferred her membership to Elon United Methodist Church. At Twin Lakes, she enjoyed playing bridge and serving on the Auxiliary Scholarship Committee. Throughout her life, Eloise was known for her friendliness, keen intellect, faith, strength, and love for her family.

Mrs. Melton is survived by her son, Robert W. Melton and husband, Victor Cardell of San Diego; her daughter, Mary Gray M. Leonard and husband, Ralph H. Leonard, Jr. of Chapel Hill; grandson, Brooks H. Leonard and wife, Jean of South Orange, NJ; granddaughter Laura K. Leonard of Roanoke, VA; great grandsons, Henry and Charles Leonard; brother-in-law, George E. Melton, Sr. and wife, Anne Ramsay; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; brothers, Bernard G. Camp, Charles M. Camp and Jesse G. Camp, Jr.; and sister, Delores C. Atkins.

The funeral service will be conducted at 2:00 PM Friday, October 20, 2017 in the May-Foley Chapel at Twin Lakes by Father Mark Menees and Rev. Manuel Wortman. The family will receive friends following the service with a reception in the Pepper Tree Café. The graveside service will be conducted by Pastor David Mielke at 2:00 PM Saturday, October 21, 2017 at Mount Lawn Memorial Park in Boone, NC. The family is indebted to the Orchard Staff at Twin Lakes Health Care Center for the professional and dedicated care provided to their mother and grandmother.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Auxiliary of Twin Lakes Community, 3701 Wade Coble Drive, Burlington, NC 27215, or to Duke University c/o Duke Department of Neurology Parkinsons Disease Research Fund, Attention: Holli Gall, 701 W. Main St., Suite 200, Durham, NC 27701. You may sign the online register book at www.lowefuneralhome.com.

Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is announcing these arrangements.


Larry O’Neal Whitman (July 9, 1938 – Oct. 16, 2017)

Larry O. Whitman, 79, of Newland, North Carolina passed away on Monday, Oct. 16, 2017 at his home
He was born on July 9, 1938 in Iredell County, North Carolina, a son of Ross W Whitman and Inez Nesbit Whitman.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his Sister, Janice Bumgarner.
He proudly served in the U.S. Navy.

Larry was a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church. After retiring from National Linen he worked for Avery County Solid Waste at the Three Mile Site. He enjoyed yard work and working with wood.

Larry leaves behind to cherish his memory his: Wife Linda Whitman of Newland, NC; Daughter, Teresa (Larry) Benz of Concord, NC, Grandson, Justin (Deanna) Benz of Autryville, NC, Granddaughter, Heather Benz of Concord, NC.

Services for Larry Whitman will be held on Friday, October 20, 2017 beginning at 1:00PM from the Grandfather Chapel with Rev. Joe Ingham officiating.
The family will receive friends beginning at 12:00PM on Friday October 20, 2017 at Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home.

Interment will follow in the Woodlawn Cemetery with military rites provided by the U.S. Navy and the Pat Ray Post of the V.F.W.

The family will like to extend a Special Thanks to Medi Home Hospice.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Medi Home Hospice, P.O. Box 1357, Newland, NC 28657 and Emmanuel Baptist Church, 933 Millers Gap Hwy, Newland, NC, 28657.

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


Karen M. Lucas (Nov. 3, 1957 – Oct. 15, 2017)

Karen Moretz Lucas, 59, of Claremont passed away Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017 at her home. Born November 3, 1957 in Watauga County, she was a daughter of the late Clint Thomas Moretz and Gertha Stewart Moretz. 

She is survived by her husband, Paul Lucas, two daughters, Sarah Lindsey Bennett, and Allison Marie Collins, one step son, Eugene Lucas, six grandchildren, Hailey Marie Collins, Clint Thomas Collins, Grayson Propst, Jalen Lee Williams, Isiah Christian Bennett, and Mary Bennett, two sisters, Martha Ann Deal and Nancy Jane Silva, and two brothers, James Blair Moretz, Sr., and wife Rebecca Oaks Moretz and Roy Clint Moretz and wife Jill Marie Moretz. 

Gravesides services for Karen Moretz Lucas will be conducted Wednesday afternoon, October 18th at 2:30 PM at the Mabel United Methodist Church Cemetery. Online condolences may be shared with the Lucas family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com.

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


Stacey Roger Carson (July 4, 1968 – Oct. 15, 2017)

Stacey Roger Carson, 49, of Milton Moretz Road, Boone, passed away Sunday evening, October 15, 2017 at Watauga Medical Center. Stacey was born July 4, 1968 in Mecklenburg County. He was a 1986 graduate of Watauga High School and was employed at the Willow Creek Golf Course in Vilas. Stacey loved spending time with his girls, was a great soccer fan, and thoroughly enjoyed riding his motorcycles and reading. 

Mr. Carson is survived by his wife, Laura Lackey Carson; daughters, Katelyn Elizabeth Carson and Abby Christine Carson; parents, Doug and Phyllis Coffey Carson; and brother, William Christopher Carson, all of Boone. Numerous aunts, uncles and cousins also survive.

Memorial services for Stacey Roger Carson will be conducted Thursday afternoon, October 19th at 2:00 p.m. at the Boone United Methodist Church, officiated by Rev. Vern Collins. A reception will follow services at the church. 

Memorials may be made to the Western Youth Network, 155 Wyn Way, Boone, NC 28607 or to Queens University of Charlotte(Make a Wish S.A.A.C Foundation), 1900 Selwyn Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28274. 

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


Janice F. Watts (Oct. 6, 1954 – Oct. 15, 2017)

Mrs. Janice Kaye Faw Watts of Bare Road, West Jefferson, NC passed away Sunday night, October 15, 2017 at Avante of Wilkes.

Janice is the Widow of Claude Edward Watts and they were married 30 years. She was the daughter of Wade Virgil and Frances Carolyn Emmert Faw. Born in Wilkes County October 6, 1954. She was retired from Wade Faw Shoe Repair.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and an older sister Barbara Jean Faw (Bobbie).

Those left to cherish her memory are a brother: Billy Wade Faw and wife Carol of Millers Creek, two sisters: Peggy Faw Foster and husband Jimmy of Boomer and Ellen Faw Davis of Crumpler. Nephews and Nieces: Brain Faw, James Foster & wife Judith, Lori Davis Kopeski and husband Jack, Tonya Davis Roark and husband Holley and several great nephews and nieces: Madeline Joines, Kody Foster and wife Brittany, Kourtni Faw and husband Jeremiah, and Katelyn Foster and great great nephews: Brayden, Braxton, Noah, and Oliver.

Jan was greatly loved and will be missed by all who knew her.

Online condolences may be shared with the Watts family at our website www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com.

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


Franklin Mobley Hamilton (July 21, 1939 – Oct. 14, 2017)

Franklin Mobley Hamilton, known as Frank, of Panoramic Lane, Boone died on Oct. 14, 2017 at the Cranberry House in Newland at the age of 78.

Frank was born July 21, 1939 in Boone. He received his B.A. degree in physical education and minor in science from Appalachian State University. He enjoyed many jobs from teaching chemistry, working in the local kraut factory, serving as Watauga County Parks and Recreation pool manager and being a stay-at-home dad. Frank was a member at First Presbyterian Church in Boone where he served as a deacon and elder. Frank loved walking along the Greenway, on the ASU track, the sidewalks throughout town and inside the Boone Mall. He enjoyed tending a garden, caring for rose bushes and fruit trees, watching the birds, connecting with family by phone, letter or personal visit and having breakfast with friends at Boone Drug or McDonalds. 

Frank is survived by his wife, of 44 years, Diana Hamilton of Boone; daughters Renee Hamilton Marshall and husband Mike, and step-granddaughter, Nola Mckenzie of Murfreesboro, TN and Rev. April Hamilton Cranford and husband, Reed, of Fishersville, VA; and two granddaughters, River Grace and Haven Leigh. He was preceded in death by his parents Harry Mish Hamilton, Jr. and Lorene Miller Hamilton Parker and brother, Harry Stephen Hamilton. 

A graveside service will be held for family and friends at 12:00 p.m. Tuesday, October 17, 2017 at Mount Lawn Memorial Park & Gardens. A memorial service will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, officiated by Rev. Jeff Smith and Rev. April Cranford. A reception at the church will directly follow the memorial service.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to First Presbyterian Church, 131 Big Valley Street, Boone, NC 28607. The family wishes to share gratitude for the visits from the church, the support received from the Cranberry House staff and residents and the compassionate care shared by the Medi Home Hospice nurses and staff. 

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

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


Mrs. Rachel B. Woodring (Dec. 9, 1939 – Oct. 12, 2017) 

Mrs. Rachel Baird Woodring, 77, of Zionville and Sunset Beach, North Carolina, went to her heavenly home Thursday afternoon, Oct. 12, 2017. She died peacefully at her home in Zionville, surrounded by her family.

Born December 9, 1939, in Watauga County, she was the daughter of the late Ray and Allie Johnson Baird. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her two brothers, John William Baird and Clarence “Bud” Baird, her sisters-in-law, Ruby Woodring Idol and Pearl Woodring Watson, and her brothers-in-law Jimmy Hollars, Rabon Taylor, Odell Woodring, and Ronda Woodring. She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Earl Woodring; three children, Glenda Washburn and husband Bob of Boone, Brenda Miller and husband Ricky of Zionville, and Steve Woodring and wife Piper of Boone; six grandchildren, Matthew Washburn and wife Brittnai of Huntersville, Sarah Eggers and husband Braxton of Boone, Callie Crump and husband Matt of Vilas, Samuel Washburn of Boone, Ethan Woodring of New York, and Rebekah Washburn of Boone; two great-grandchildren, Graham and Davis Eggers of Boone; her sister, Mildred Hayes and husband Bobby of Arnoldsville, Georgia; her sisters-in-law Thelma Taylor, Wilma Sutherland, and Lona Woodring; her brothers-in-law Nulan Watson and Bill Idol, and a number of nieces and nephews. 

Rachel was a long-time member of Oak Grove Baptist Church, where she served in many roles, including as a preschool Sunday School teacher for over thirty years, as well as WMU leader and member. She worked at Shadowline for many years before working in the History Department at Appalachian State University. She retired from Samaritan’s Purse after more than twenty years. Rachel spent much of her time and energy serving others and enjoyed using her talents to do so. She was a hard worker who dedicated herself wholeheartedly to what the Lord asked of her and was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend to many. Her children and grandchildren loved going to “Grandmother’s” for Sunday dinner. She also enjoyed sewing, quilting, crafting, and decorating her home. She had a large flower and vegetable garden and often shared her bountiful harvest with others.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Saturday, October 14, 2017, at Austin and Barnes Funeral Home.

Funeral services for Rachel Baird Woodring will be conducted at 2:00 PM on Sunday, October 15, 2017, at Oak Grove Baptist Church in Boone. 

Graveside services and burial will immediately follow the service at the Oak Grove Cemetery.

Rachel loved beautiful flowers, so flowers are appreciated. On a recent trip to Kenya, she also became passionate about providing new facilities for students at the Makuuni Primary School in Kitui South, Kenya. If you prefer, you may donate to this school by check made payable to Samaritan’s Purse and mailed to: Samaritan’s Purse, PO Box 3000, Boone, NC, 28607. (Please make a note on the check that it is in Memory of Rachel Woodring.)

Online condolences may be shared with the Woodring family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com.

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


Jane Rivers (July 6, 1935 – Oct. 12, 2017) 

Lucinda Jane Rivers, died Thursday evening October 12, 2017 in Germantown, Tennessee.

She was the older daughter of Robert Campbell Rivers, Jr., former publisher of the Watauga Democrat, and Bonnie Jean Lewis Rivers of Boone. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her younger sister, Rachel Ann Rivers-Coffey.

Jane was born in Banner Elk on July 6, 1935. She attended Northwestern University and obtained a Bachelors of Science degree in Journalism in 1957. She worked in public relations and advertising in Atlanta and New York. She was employed by the US Postal Service in Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi, Conn, and D. C. She retired from the Washington, D.C. human resources regional office as an executive in 1995, after 31 years of service. 

Graveside services will be held on Friday October 20, 2017 at 10 AM at the Boone City Cemetery. Officiating will be The Reverend Cynthia Banks. 

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to St. Lukes Episcopal Church, 170 Councill Street, Boone, NC 28607. 

Online condolences may be shared with the Rivers family at www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com.

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


Leland H. S. Roblee, Jr. (Nov. 22, 1927 – Oct. 10, 2017) 

Leland Henry Scott Roblee, Jr., age 89, of West Jefferson, passed away Tuesday, October 10, 2017. He was a native of Chicago, Illinois and the son of the late Leland Henry Scott Roblee, Sr. and Virginia Langdon Roblee. He was a graduate of Purdue University with a Ph.D in Chemical Engineering. During his lengthy career, Leland was a Research Engineer for ESSO (now Exxon), VP of Research for the Selas Corporation in Dresher, Pa., VP of Research for Simplex Wire and Cable in Newington, NH, and was a Professor of Chemical Engineering at the University of Massachusetts.

He served as a 1st Lt. in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War.

Leland found enjoyment in painting, wood-working, karate, and held a private pilots license. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister and brother-in-law, Virginia and David S. Campbell.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Rachel H. Roblee.

Daughter, Jennifer Marcinek and husband Tom of High Springs, FL, two sons, Kyle Roblee and wife Erica of Lake Wylie, SC, and Christopher Roblee and wife Eileen of East Kingston, NH. One sister, Susan Carpenter of Ringwood, Ill. Six grandchildren also survive.

A family memorial service will be held at a future date.

No flowers or food please.

Memorial donations may be made to Alzheimers Foundation of America www.alzfdn.org. Online condolences may be shared with the Roblee family at our website www.austinandbarnesfuneralhome.com. Austin & Barnes Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the Roblee family.