Miscellaneous Forsyth County, North Carolina Obituaries
1999

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ALLEN
YADKINVILLE -- Mrs. Betty Carol Johnson Allen, 62, of Vestal Road, died Monday, November 1, 1999 at the Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home. She was born in Yadkin County to the late R.F. and Ozelle Hutchens Johnson. She was a loving mother and homemaker. Mrs. Allen was a member of Victory Chapel Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by a son, Marty Allen. Surviving are her husband, Charles G. Allen of the home; two sons, Michael G. Allen and Lynn Allen both of Yadkinville; and two brothers, Ronnie Johnson and Stoney Johnson both of Hamptonville. Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Wednesday at Gentry Family Chapel conducted by the Rev. Spencer King with burial at Flat Rock Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 7-9 p.m. Tuesday at Gentry Family Funeral Service of Hwy. 601 N. of Yadkinville. 

ANDERSON
Mr. Russell N. Anderson, 86, died Saturday, October 30, 1999 at the Nursing Center at Oak Summit in Winston-Salem, N.C. after a long illness. He was born May 12, 1913 at his family's home in Califon, N.J. to Olive Reger and William E. Anderson. Most of his youth was spent in Kenvil, N.J. at his family's home and hardware store. He attended Roxbury Public Schools in Succasunna, N.J. He worked with his father in the radio business. Mr. Anderson enlisted in the U.S. Army and rose to rank of Sergeant. During World War II he was a radio man in the Signal Corp in Europe, North Africa, and the Pacific. He belonged to the Veteran of Foreign Wars and the American Legion. He married Marge Anderson from Yakima, Wash. in 1947 and they moved into the home he built on Mountain Ave. in Mendham, N.J. He worked as a carpenter for the Morris County (N.J.) Park Commission. His nickname was the ''Swede''. He retired from there in the late 1970's. Russ and his wife retired to Weymouth Rd. in Winston-Salem, N.C. His wife, Marge, died in 1979. He belonged to the Sertoma Club in Winston-Salem. In his wood shop in his basement, Russ made many footstools, tables, plant stands, roll top desks, and wood products. Some of his wares he sold though the Crickets' Nest in Winston-Salem. But many he gave away to friends, family, and anyone he met. His brother C. Walter Anderson (Walt) from Succasunna, N.J., died in 1993. His sister, Nellie A. Cornine from Washington, N.J., died in 1997. Surviving are three nieces, Sue Anderson of Succasunna, N.J., Elaine Bearley of Shavertown, Pa., and Ann Houde of Selah, Wash.; two nephews, Lee Anderson of Succasunna, N.J. and Wayne Anderson of Tucson, Ariz.; a brother-in-law, Harold Anderson of Yakima, Wash.; and a sister-in-law, Mrs. Gladys Houde of Selah, Wash. A graveside service will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday at Westlawn Gardens of Memory with military rites by District 11 Memorial Honor Guard. The family will receive friends from 7-9 p.m. Tuesday at Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel. 

BOVENDER
Mr. Joseph Ross Bovender, Sr., 82, of Winston-Salem, died Sunday, October 31, 1999 at his home. He was born December 13, 1916 in Yadkin County to William R. and Percy Poindexter Bovender. Mr. Bovender was a member of Crestwood Baptist Church and retired from Smith Transfer Company January 1, 1997. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Iola Smith Bovender in 1957. Survivors include his wife, Angela of Winston-Salem; two daughters, Joan Vreeland and husband, Dr. Walling D. Vreeland, Jr. of Mocksville and Kathie Sebastian and husband, David Sebastion of Winston-Salem; four grandchildren, Joseph R. ''Jody'' Bovender III, Christie Martin, Chad Sebastian, and Douglas Vreeland; five great-grandchildren; and a special friend and caregiver, Ramona Williams of Winston-Salem. A graveside service will be conducted Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. at Parklawn Memorial Gardens by Rev. J. Marion Rector. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 7:00 until 9:00 p.m. at Vogler & Sons Main Street Chapel. Memorial may be made to Home Meals on Wheels of Davidson County, 935 North Main Street, Lexington, N.C. 27292. 

BYNUM
A Memorial Service for Mrs. Elizabeth Harnies Bynum, who died September 28, 1999, will be held at St. Paul's Episcopal Church at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 4, 1999. 

COOPER
WILMINGTON -- Mrs. Zoe Contos Cooper of Wilmington, N.C., died Sunday, October 31, 1999 at her residence. She was born in Winston-Salem, N.C. on February 22, 1925, the daughter of the late Nicholas Contos and Ethel Richardson Contos and was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Cooper and her sister, Katherine Fields. Mrs. Cooper was a nurse having retired from Forsyth Memorial Hospital, Winston-Salem, N.C. and was a member of the Green Street Methodist Church, Winston-Salem. Surviving are her son, Johnie Davis and wife Sharyn of the home; three grandchildren, Charles Christopher Davis and wife, Cindy of Wilmington, Julie Ann Davis, and Jillian Cecile Davis; two sisters, Helen Rike and Nicki Lane and husband, William, and a brother, John N. Contos all of Winston-Salem; and several nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, November 3, 1999 at Andrews Mortuary Valley Chapel, 4108 South College Road, Wilmington, by the Rev. Dr. Robert Bankhead. Interment will be in Winston-Salem. Memorial gifts may be made to the Lower Cape Fear Hospice Care Center, 1406 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, N.C. 28401 or to the New Hanover County Humane Society, 2405 N. 23rd St., Wilmington, N.C. 28401. 

DEAL
Lucille McNeil Deal, 77, of N. Minton Road, Millers Creek, died Monday, November 1, 1999 at her home. She was born April 28. 1922 the daughter of Thomas E. and Fairy Huffman McNeil. Mrs. Deal was a member of Pilgrim Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by a sister, Louise McNeil Deal. Surviving are her husband, Mr. Sloan Deal of the home; two daughters, Mrs. Harold (Linda) Dancy of Thomasville and Mrs. Danny (Sandra) Smith of Millers Creek; two sons, Bobby M. Deal of Millers and Randy Deal of Wilkesboro; three sisters, Willa Mae Lankford of Millers Creek, Ruby Gottheld of Ellicott City, Md., and Aline Cheatwood of Winston-Salem; eleven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. A funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Wednesday at Pilgrim Baptist Church conducted by Rev. Dennis Love, Rev. Earl Adams, and Rev. Jim Rhoades. Burial will be in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home in North Wilkesboro from 6:30 to 8:30 Tuesday night. Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to Hospice of Wilkes, P.O. Box 609, North Wilkesboro, N.C. 28659. 

DINGUS
THOMASVILLE -- Mr. William Derek Dingus, 35, a resident of 6729 Old Greensboro Road, died Sunday, October 31, 1999 at Lexington Memorial Hospital. he was born in Randolph County, October 14, 1964 a son of William H. Dingus and Barbara Ann Hightower Dingus and had been a resident of Davidson County for 23 years. He was a graduate of Ledford Senior High School where he was in the Bet Club and a member of the basketball, Cross country, and baseball teams. He was also a recipient of the DAR Citizenship award. He attended North Carolina State University and graduated from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro with a BS in Finance. He was employed with Wachovia Bank in Winston-Salem as a vice president with Wachovia Investments. He attended Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church and Pine Woods United Methodist Church and was a member of Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church. Surviving is his father, Rev. William H. Dingus of the home; a sister, Mrs. Steve (Maria) Carter of Kernersville; and his paternal grandmother, Mrs. Grace Dingus of Kingsport, Tenn. He was preceded in death by his mother, Mrs. Barbara Ann Dingus who died August 13, 1998. Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday at 3 p.m. at Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church by Dr. Michael Leatherwood, the Rev. Ardis Payne, and the Rev. Lee Roy Hunt. Burial will be in the church cemetery. The body will remain at J.C. Green & Sons Funeral Home until placed in the church 30 minutes prior to the service. The family will be at the funeral home Tuesday from 6:30 to 9 p.m. ant other times at the residence. Memorials may be directed to the Davidson County Heart Association, c/o Teresa Coble, 304 Homestead Drive, Lexington, N.c. 27292, the American Cancer Society, 4-A Oak Branch Drive, Greensboro, N.C. 27407, or to Mount Pleasant United Methodist Church, 6729 Old Greensboro Road, Thomasville, N.C. 27360. 
 

FLINCHUM
Mrs. Bessie Brown Joyce Flinchum, 81, of 2286 Amostown Road, Sandy Ridge, N.C. died Monday, November 1, 1999 at Britthaven of Madison. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clyde and Lemma Amos Joyce and her husband, Carl Ray Flinchum. Mrs. Flinchum was a graduate of Guilford College and High Point College. She retired from the federal government with 35 years service and was employed 10 years with Macfield Industries. Mrs. Flinchum was a member of Oak Ridge Baptist Church where she served as pianist for over 50 years. She was politically active and served as the Senior Citizens Secretary for the Democratic Party of North Carolina, and she traveled extensively. She is survived by two brothers, Wesley Joyce and wife, Francisca of Sandy Ridge and Walter Joyce and wife, Grace of Bermuda Run; nieces, Virginia Joyce Campbell and husband, Alan and Maria Joyce Smith and husband, Randy; nephews, Antonio Clyde Joyce and wife, Barbara and Walter Clyde Joyce and wife, Maryanne; and numerous great-nephews and nieces. A memorial service will be held 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 3, 1999 at Oak Ridge Baptist Church. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 7-9 p.m. Tuesday, November 2, 1999 at Colonial Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to Oak Ridge Baptist Church Cemetery Fund, 4162 N.C. Hwy. 704 E., Sandy Ridge, N.C. 27046. 

FULLER
MOORESVILLE -- Mrs. Fairye Matthews Fuller, 70, of River Hwy., Mooresville, died Sunday, Oct . 31, 1999 at Lake Norman Regional Medical Center, Mooresville. Born on Jan . 31, 1929, in Yadkin County, she was a daughter of the late General Dewey and Stacie Waugh Matthews. Mrs. Fuller was a self-employed flag car driver. She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles E. Fuller and a brother, Sherrill Matthews. Mrs. Fuller was survived by her sons, Doug Fuller and wife, Paula, Randy Fuller, and Tim Fuller all of Mooresville, and Marty Fuller and Marty Fuller and wife, Mitzi of Landis; sisters, Ann Kinsey, Kate Sparks, and Landa Brown all of East Bend, and Rosa Wilhelm of Jonesville; and her grandchildren, Matthew Fuller, Charles Fuller, Marteia Fuller, Andrew Fuller, and Stacie Fuller. Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Nov . 3, 1999, at Iredell Memorial Gardens, Statesville with Rev. Dan L. Freeman officiating. Family will receive friends from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov . 2, 1999 at Cavin Funeral Home, Mooresville. Memorials may be made to the Shriner's Children's Hospital, c/o Oasis Temple, P.O. Box 560666, Charlotte, N.C. 28256. Cavin Funeral Home, Mooresville is serving the family of Mrs. Fuller. 

GILBERT
FERGUS FALLS, MINNESOTA -- Eric Luther Gilbert, 26, of Fergus Falls, died Friday, October 29, 1999 at his home. He was born August 26, 1973 in Anchorage, Alaska, the son of William Oscar Gilbert III and Kathryn Skoglund Gilbert. He was a 1991 graduate of Coon Rapids High School where he was active in the marching band, choral groups, speech, debate, and the Drama Club. He was a member of Boy Scout Troop 317 of Coon Rapids and became an Eagle Scout in August 1991. He graduated from Williams College in Williamstown, Mass. in 1995 where he was actively involved in the Theater and Dance Departments. While in Fergus Falls, he worked at Mr. C's, AmericInn and Lakes Radio while pursuing his dream to write screenplays and become a director in theater. He was active in the Center for the Arts and Federated Church's Quest contemporary service. He directed community theater in Fergus Falls, Alexandria, and Warroad. He was adjunct professor of theater at the FFCC during the fall quarter of 1996. He is survived by his parents, Bill and Kathy of Fergus Falls; a brother, Capt. Kevin Gilbert of Minneapolis; grandparents, Luther and Emily Skoglund of Alexandria; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. he was preceded in death by his grandparents, Audrey and William O. Gilbert, Jr. of Advance, N.C. and an uncle S. Sgt. John R. Gilbert. Visitation will be Tuesday from 4 to 8 p.m. with a prayer service at 7:30 p.m. at the Glende-Johnson-Nelson & Nilson Funeral Home in Fergus Falls and resumes one hour prior to the service at the church. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at Federated Church in Fergus Falls conducted by the Revs. Kent Groethe and Ron Henely with burial at 3 p.m. Wednesday at Pike Lake Covenant Cemetery, Kensington. 

GREENE
RICHMOND, VA. -- Vernon Bradley Greene, 66, of Richmond, went to his rest October 31, 1999. Born in Churchland, N.C., where he will be interned in the Churchland Baptist Church Graveyard alongside his parents, Stokes W. and Leona Greene and other relatives. He is survived by his wife, Linda brothers, Edward F. of Wilkesboro, James N. of Moravia, N.Y., and Gordon L. of Winston-Salem, N.C.; a sister, Evelyn G. Arndt of Hickory, N.C.; and several nieces and nephews. He came to Richmond with Lowe's Company in 2959 and was manager of the 4502 W. Broad Street store from 1970 until his retirement in 1987. Prior to coming to Richmond, he served in th U.S. Army for two years and during his tour of duty was one of the observers of the Yacco Flats, Nev., atomic blast in August, 1957. After retiring from Lowe's, he founded his own business, Vernon Greene, Inc. and remained active in that firm until his death. He was a former member of the Jaycees and an active member of the West Richmond Businessman's Association, the Presidents and Managers Club, the Lodge of Strict Observance #207, A.F.& A.M., and the Hermitage Country Club. he had many interests, including, traveling and meeting and making new friends. He was stayed in touch with many of these friends who are located throughout the world. His remains rest at Parham Chapel, Woody Funeral Home, 1771 Parham Rd., where the family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday. Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. Thursday, November 5, 1999 at Churchland Baptist Church. Interment will be in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Bon Secours Hospice Program. 

LEAK
Willie Thomas Leak, Sr., age 71, formerly of 2541 Beechmont Street, passed away Saturday, October 30, 1999 at his daughter's home after an extended period of illness. He was born in Wadesboro, N.C. on February 23, 1928. Willie was the son of the late Noal Luther Leak and Dezzie Taylor Leak. He was preceded in death by a son, William Leak, in 1996; and two sisters, Annie Bell Reed and Josephine Leak. He served in the Korean War. He retired from R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., with over 30 years of service. He was also the owner of a cement business and one of the founders of Pleasant Abyssinia Baptist Church (formerly Pleasant Hill). He leaves to cherish his memories a devoted aunt, Annie Mae Medley of Winston-Salem; four daughters, Joyce and husband, Richard Dukes, of Winston-Salem, Beatrice and husband, Ronnie Brown, of Cheraw, S.C., Deborah and husband, Dean Richardson, of Manchester, Conn., and Brenda Leak, of Virginia; three stepdaughters, Cheryl Peoples, of Winston-Salem, Jacqueline and husband, Donnell Allen, of Greensboro, and Deborah Williams, of Winston-Salem; three sons, Alfred and wife, Chrisogene Leak, of Winston-Salem, Willie T. Leak, Jr. and wife, Sylvia, of Cheraw, S.C., and Reginald Leak, of Winston-Salem; three brothers, Rev. Charles Leak, of Winston-Salem, Luther Leak and wife, Marie, of Winston-Salem, Robert Leak and wife, Jackie, of Winston-Salem; 20 grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; a devoted friend, Myrtle Hash; and three loyal friends, James Perkins and Woodrow Graham, of Winston-Salem, and Lucy Lunn Marshall, of Baltimore, Md. Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday, November 3, 1999 at 2:00 p.m. at Clark S. Brown and Sons Funeral Home, 727 N. Patterson Avenue. The family will receive friends from 1:30-2:00 p.m. at the funeral home. The family requests that all floral tributes be sent to Clark S. Brown & Sons Funeral Home. 

McFIELD
Josephine Lee McField, 99, of Winston-Salem, died Sunday, October 31, 1999. She is survived by her daughter, Lorene McField of the home. The family request no services. Arrangements by Memorial Funeral Chapel. 

MERRITT
Mr. Ronnie Lee ''Jed'' Merritt, Sr., 48, of Winston-Salem, died Monday, Nov . 1, 1999 at Forsyth Medical Center. Ronnie was born on June 7, 1951 in Forsyth County a son of Harvey W. and Virginia H. Newman Merritt. He was a Marine Veteran of the Vietnam War and a self-employed Painter. He is survived by his wife, Kelly Bennett Merritt of Midway; two sons, Ronnie lee Merritt, Jr. of Lewisville and Jed Merritt of Lexington; his father and step-mother, Harvey and Barbara Merritt of King; his mother and step-father, Virginia N.M. Harrell (Bill) of Jonesville; two grandsons, Tristan and Garron Merritt of Lewisville; two sisters, Peggy M. Floyd (Jim) of Winston-Salem and G.R. Merritt of Jonesville; and three brothers, Tony Merritt (Brenda) of Rural Hall, Jamie Merritt of King, and Michael Harrell (Beverly) of Jonesville. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday, Nov . 3, 1999 at Foster Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 7-9 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. 

MILLER
CHESAPEAKE, Va. -- On Wednes day, October 27, 1999 at Ports mouth Naval Hospital in Ports mouth, VA., God took a ray of his sunshine back to heaven, and Mrs. Tarsha Love Miller, of 700 Johnstown Road, Chesa peake, Va., went home. Tarsha was born in Winston-Salem on April 27, 1965 to Deatra Love and Charles Gardner. She graduated from North Forsyth High School in 1983. She attended A & T State University for two years prior to enlisting in the United States Navy. Tarsha served in the U.S. Navy for twelve years until she medically retired in November of 1998. She was an active member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Chesapeake, Va. and Holy Trinity Full Gospel Baptist Church in Winston-Salem. She leaves to cherish her memory, her loving and devoted husband, Minister Richard C. Miller, Jr.; and niece, Yveathus Love, both of the home; her mother, Deatra (Robert) Lynch; her father, Charles (Brenda) Gardner; her grandmother, Mrs. Allie Love; her grandmother-in-law, Mrs. Sarah Miller; in-laws, Pastors Richard C. (Ernestine) Miller, Sr., of Winston-Salem, Christine (Samuel) Denson, of Maryland; two sisters, Venus Love and Tonya Lynch; two brothers, Charles Love and Kevin Gardner; one stepsister, Ashante Lowery; four sisters-in-law, Olympeia (Rick) Howell, Valeria, Trenia, and Aquilla Miller; one brother-in-law, Minister Joseph (Nicole) Miller; four nieces; and five nephews, all of Winston-Salem; three devoted friends, Joyce (Casseaus) Nelson, Bernita (Tony) Thompson, and Leslie (Demetrius) Stitmon, all of Virginia; her favorite Buncos Buddies of Virginia; and many aunts; uncles; cousins; relatives; and friends. Homegoing services will be held Tuesday, November 2, 1999 at 11:30 a.m. at Holy Trinity Full Gospel Baptist Church, with Minister Richard C. Miller, Sr. presiding. Interment will be in Salisbury National Cemetery with full military rites. (RUSSELL) 

MILLS
MT. AIRY -- Mr. Samuel Leonard Mills, 79, of 237 Jackson Rd., Mt. Airy, N.C., husband of Mrs. Doris Parks Mills, passed away Sunday evening, October 31, 1999 at the Nash General Hospital in Rocky Mount, N.C. Mr. Mills was born February 4, 1920 in Surry County, son of James Anderson Mills and Lula C. Mann Mills. He is a member of Central United Methodist Church. Before retirement, he traveled for over 30 years for Tickle Jobber Supply, a wholesale automotive parts distributor. He served five years in the U.S. Army during World War II and was wounded in combat in Germany. He is a recipient of the Purple heart and other medals. Mr. Mills is a member of the D.A.V. and a member of VFW Post 2019. He is a member and past Master of Renfro Masonic Lodge #691 AF and AM. he is a member and past Patron (which he served three times) of Mount Airy Chapter #18, Order of the Eastern Star. He has also served the Grand Chapter as District Deputy Grand Patron for 15 years in Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Iredell, Wilkes, Yadkin, and Surry counties. Mr. Mills has been active in Boy Scout Troop 538 of the First Baptist Church serving as their Advancement Chairman. He was presented a engraved plaque by Troop 538 in appreciation of his time and efforts for over 14 years. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Doris Parks Mills of the home; a son, Gary Leonard Mills and a daughter-in-law, Wayburn and Monetz Mills of Wilson, N.C.; a grandson, Jason Christopher Mills of Chapel Hill, N.C.; a granddaughter, Diana Elizabeth Mills of Wilson, N.C.; two sisters, Doris Mills Holyfield of Charlotte, N.C. and Thelma Mills Coe of Sanford, N.C.; one sister-in-law, Ruth Bruner Mills of Mt. Airy; and several nieces and nephews. Mr. and Mrs. Mills celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary on June 15, 1998. Mr. Mills was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Franklin Mills; and one sister, Ovila Mills Briggs. Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 3, 1999 at Central United Church conducted by Rev. Phillip Cole and Mr. Charles Vaughn. Burial will be held in Oakdale Cemetery with full masonic rites conducted by members of the Renfro Lodge #691 AF and AM with District Deputy Grand Lecturer of the 50th District, C. Dwight Blackburn, Past Master of Trap Hill Lodge #483 AF and AM officiating as Master. The family will receive friends 7-9 p.m. Tuesday night at Moody Funeral Home of Mt. Airy where Mr. Mills will remain until carried to the church for the service. At other times the family will receive friends at the home, 237 Jackson Rd., Mt. Airy, N.C. Flowers will be accepted or memorials may be made to the Central United Church or to Oxford Orphanage, Oxford, N.C.

BASS
LAKE JUNALUSKA, N.C. -- Rev. Billy Edward Bass, Sr, 67, of Lake Junaluska, N.C., passed away October 31, 1999 at Davis Medical Center, Statesville. He was born to the late Rev. and Mrs. R.L. Bass on May 26, 1932 in Elmwood, N.C. He is a graduate of Shelby High School in 1950. He attended Brevard College where he played football in the last year it was a sport there. He then went to Wofford College where he received his B.A. degree. He received his Master of Divinity from Duke University. He was a much beloved minister in the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church, serving 42 years in active ministry. His pastorates included: Shelby, Oxford, Asheboro, Charlotte, Statesville, Wadesboro, Winston-Salem, and Salisbury. His last appointment before retirement was District Superintendent of the Albemarle District. Surviving are his wife of 44 years, Marjorie Ann Singleton Bass of the home; his son and daughter-in-law, Billy Edward and Krista Bass, Jr. of Statesville; two daughters, Patricia Kay Bass of Charlotte and Katherine Leigh Bass Carr of Statesville; grandsons, Derek Thomas Bass, Kyle Edward Bass, and Zackary Simpson Carr; two sisters, Mary Lou Bigler of Seattle, Wash. and Sara Tolbert of Greensboro, N.C.; and a number of nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Robin Denise Bass. Funeral services are scheduled for Wednesday, November 3, 1999 at his home church, Lafayette Street United Methodist Church in Shelby, N.C. Interment will follow at Sunset Cemetery in Shelby. Memorials may be made to Juvenile Diabetes Assoc., Local Chapter or Blanton Scholarship Fund, c/o Lafayette Street United Methodist Church, 420 S. Lafayette St., Shelby, N.C. 28152. Clay-Barnette Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. 

BLALOCK
ANGIER -- Zela Mangum Blalock, 95, of Brookfield Retirement Center of Lillington, died Saturday, October 30, 1999. She was a member of the Angier Memorial United Methodist Church for over 60 years. She was preceded in death by her husband, Floyd Pierce Blalock and her son, Milton Cheek Blalock. She is survived by her daughters, Sylvia B. Elliott of Summerfield and Evelyn B. Walters and husband, Marvin L. Walters of Raleigh; son, Donald R. Blalock and wife, Ann P. Blalock of Colfax; a daughter-in-law, Ramona M. Blalock; seven grandchildren, Andy E. Blalock, George Elliott, Johnna Ruth Elliott, D. Flay Blalock, Doyle F. Blalock, Tanya W. Williams, and Teresa W. Adams; and six great-grandchildren, Andrea Blalock, Jennie Elliott, Alex Williams, Jeremy Williams, Colton Williams, and Jacquelyn Mann. Funeral Services were held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, November 2, 1999 at the Angier Memorial United Methodist Church with burial at Montlawn Memorial Park in Raleigh. Memorial contributions may be made to the Angier Memorial United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 1748, Angier, N.C. 27501. 

BOVENDER
Mr. Joseph Ross Bovender, Sr., 82, of Winston-Salem, died Sunday, October 31, 1999 at his home. He was born December 13, 1916 in Yadkin County to William R. and Percy Poindexter Bovender. Mr. Bovender was a member of Crestwood Baptist Church and retired from Smith Transfer Company January 1, 1977. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Iola Smith Bovender in 1957. Survivors include his wife, Pauline Barrett Bovender of the home; one son, Joseph Ross ''Buddy'' Bovender, Jr. and wife, Angela of Winston-Salem; two daughters, Joan Vreeland and husband, Dr. Walling D. Vreeland, Jr. of Mocksville and Kathie Sebastian and husband, David Sebastion of Winston-Salem; four grandchildren, Joseph R. ''Jody'' Bovender III, Christie Martin, Chad Sebastian, and Douglas Vreeland; five great-grandchildren; and a special friend and caregiver, Ramona Williams of Winston-Salem. A graveside service will be conducted Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. at Parklawn Memorial Gardens by Rev. J. Marion Rector. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 7:00 until 9:00 p.m. at Vogler & Sons Main Street Chapel. Memorial may be made to Home Meals on Wheels of Davidson County, 935 North Main Street, Lexington, N.C. 27292. 

BOVENDER
Rev. Ruth Fortson Bovender, went home to be with the Lord Monday, Novmeber 1, 1999. She was born in Royston, Georgia, June 8, 1924. She was the daughter of the late Reverend L.H. Fortson and Josie Barton Fortson. She attended Em manuel and Holmes Bible Col leges . She received a Bachelor of Bible Theology from the Interna tional Bible Institute and Sem inary, a Master of Bible Theology and an Honorary Doctor of Divinity from United Theological Sem inary in Orlando, Florida in 1983. She was ordained March 4, 1956 by her father through the Interdenominational Association of Atlanta, Georgia. She served as Pastor of Central Tabernacle for 43 years from 1956 to present where her parishioners lovingly called her ''Sister Ruth''. She was privileged to have ministered to many, holding revivals in her home state of Georgia as well as in South Carolina and in Jamaica, where a sister church has been established. Her sermons have been broadcast on WLXN Thomasville, WAIR & WBJF Winston-Salem, and the Caribbean Beacon, West Indies radio stations. The Ruth Bo vender Story, a message of her ministry, was featured in the Oral Roberts Abundant Life Magazine in 1961. She has served as a Pastoral Counselor for the N.C. Christian Endeavor Association and as a guest minister to open the Board of Alderman meetings with an invocation. She was on the Board of Hospice and a participating Chaplain at Forsyth Memorial Hospital. To the many whose lives she touched, she was pastor, teacher, counselor, mentor, and friend. She was a compassionate mother and loving ''Ama'' to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She will be missed by all. She is survived by a son, W. Lee Bovender and wife, Nancy of Winston-Salem; two daughters, Kaye Hester and husband, Kenneth of Clemmons and Sandra Bovender of the home; four grandchildren and their spouses, Kent and Lisa Bovender, Johnny and Hope Slate, Keith and Shanna Hester, and Brian and Kelli Stoup; four great-grandchildren, Erica Parrish, Kayla Bovender, Christopher Slate, and Hunter Hester. Also surviving are four sisters, Mrs. Jessie Price of Texas, Mrs. Jeanette Ennis, Mrs. Geneva Kiser, and Mrs. Faye Tilley all of Winston-Salem. She was preceded in death by four brothers, Clarence and Edward Sanders, and Thurmond and Howard Fortson; two sisters, Janie F. Brim and Jewel F. Wallschlager. Funeral Services will be Friday, November 5, 1999 at 2:00 p.m. at Central Tabernacle Church by Rev. Bob Parmley and Rev. Steve Tilley. Burial will be in Oaklawn Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends from 7-9:00 p.m. Thursday at Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel. Memorials may be made to Central Tabernacle Church, P.O. Box 12003, Winston-Salem, N.C. 27117-2003. 

BROWN
Mr. Samuel S. Brown, Jr., 48, a native of Forsyth County, attended Carver High School and graduated from Western Carolina University in 1974. He passed away on Friday, October 29, 1999 at Baylor Medical Center. Mr. Sam Brown resided, and was employed at R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company in Dallas, Texas since 1981. He is survived by his son, Mr. Reginal Brown; five sisters, Ms. Minnie R. Brown and Ms. Maggie Ferguson of Winston-Salem, Ms. Jo Ann Brown and Ms. Argie Wortham of Dayton, Ohio, and Ms. Carolyn B. Valentine of Richmond, Virginia; and several nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends on Friday, November 5, 1999 from 7:30-8:30 p.m. at Clark S. Brown & Sons Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 6, 1999 at 2:00 p.m. at St. John C.M.E. Church, Winston-Salem, N.C. Interment will be in Piedmont Memorial Gardens. CLARK S. BROWN & SONS FUNERAL HOME IS IN CHARGE OF ALL SERVICES AND ARRANGEMENTS. 

CHAMPION
KERNERSVILLE -- Mrs. Carrie Lee Champion, 71, of 321 S. Cherry St., died Tuesday, November 2, 1999 at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center. She was born in Guilford Co. on June 12, 1928, a daughter of Charles Wayne and Della Church Craddock. She was a member of Main Street Methodist Church where she was active in all affairs of the church. She was also a member of the Kernersville Business Women's Club. She was preceded in death by a son, Gary L. Collins of October 16, 1998. Surviving are two sons, Darrell Collins and William ''Billy'' and his wife, Sandra Collins all of Kernersville; a brother, Gene Craddock of Spartanburg, S.C.; and three grandsons, Brad Collins, Chris Collins, and Michael Collins. A funeral service will be conducted 2:00 p.m. Friday, November 5, 1999 at Main Street Methodist Church by Rev. Floyd Berrier. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends 7-9 p.m. Thursday at Hayworth-Miller-Cain Funeral Home, Kernersville. The family requests that memorials be directed to Leukemia Research Fund, c/o Dr. Bayard Powell, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University Medical Center, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, N.C. 27157-1082. 

DELSOLE
Mary A. Delsole, 87, of Roswell, died November 2, 1999. A memorial service will be held November 6, 1999 at 2 o'clock at Our Lady of Mercy in Winston-Salem, N.C. Survivors include her son, Robert and Jamie DelSel of Roswell; two grandsons, John and Paula Delsole of Kernersville, N.C. and Tim and Ellen DelSole of Silver Spring, Maryland; two great-grandsons, Robert and Michael; brothers, Joseph Marino of Casper, Wyoming, Newle Marino of Carson City, Nev., and Anthony Marino of South Glens Falls, N.Y. In lieu of flowers, contibutions may be made to the American Diabetes Assn. Cremation Society of the South 770-941-5352 

FINNEY
JONESVILLE -- Mr. Ned Watson Finney, 76, of 210 Oak Street, Jonesville, passed away Sunday, October 31, 1999 at Hugh Chatham Memorial Hospital in Elkin. Mr. Finney was born February 15, 1923 in Yadkin County to the late Watson B. Finney and Marjorie Burchette Finney. He was retired from Blum's Construction Company in Winston-Salem. He was a member of the First Baptist Church Jonesville. Mr. Finney was a veteran of World War II, serving in the Army Air Corps in the European Theatre, and was a member of the V.F.W. in Jonesville. Preceding him in death, in addition to his parents, was a son, Bruce Finney. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Pearl Roseberry Finney of the home; a son, Burt Finney of the home; a sister, Mrs. Mary Finney Blackburn of Jonesville; a former daughter-in-law, Mrs. Cynthia Finney of Winston-Salem; two grandchildren, Travis Finney of Winston-Salem and Scott and wife, Kelly Finney of Lewisville; two nephews; and three nieces. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday at First Baptist Church Jonesville, conducted by Dr. Maxwell Hill and Rev. Bill Byrd. The family will receive friends following the services in the santuary. Johnson Funeral Home in Elkin is in charge of arrangements. 

GEORGE
Mr. Walter Thomas George, 80, of 312 Cedar Street, High Point, died October 31, 1999 at High Point Regional Hospital. He was born August 10, 1919 in Stokes County to the late Edgar William and Susie France George. He completed his certification in welding at NCA&T University. He was a retired welder with Mickey Body, Inc. Mr. George was preceded in death, in addition to his parents, by his wife, Lake Virginia Mitchell George; his brothers, James Paul, Dowil, and Garfield George; a sister, Jessie Ann George Enoch; and a grandson, Charles Rainey, Jr. Surviving are his sons, Stuart T. George of High Point, and Master Chief James F. George USNR (Audrey) of Greensboro; his daughters, Ms. Betty G. Rainey, Mrs. Nellie Crews (James), Ms. Nancy G. Cole all of Greensboro, and Mrs. Delores Butler (Rhett) of Winston-Salem; a brother, Curtis Robert George of Elyria, Ohio; two sisters, Gladys G. Lindsay and Louise G. Clark both of Greensboro; fourteen grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, November 4, 1999 at Guilford Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at Hargett-Gilmore Funeral Service from 8:30-9:30 p.m. Wednesday, November 3, 1999 and other times at 816 Hilltop St. 

HARPER
Mrs. Irene Miller Harper, 85, of Clemmons, passed away Tuesday, November 2, 1999 at Forsyth Medical Center. She was born July 24, 1914 in Forsyth County to Henry V. and Nora Mock Miller. Mrs. Harper was a member of Warner's Chapel Church of Christ and attended the Joy Club. She was employed with the school systems for 27 years having been a secretary at Lewisville Elementary, Southwest High, and West Forsyth High School. Mrs. Harper was preceded in death by her husband, Mr. Andrew G. Harper in 1989; one sister, Mrs. Ruth Jarvis; and one brother, Mr. H. Uell Miller. Surviving are three sons, Mr. Robert (Kay) Harper of Lewisville, Mr. Richard (Lynette) Harper of Lewisville, and Mr. Miller ''Bud'' (Gaye) Harper of Kernersville; six grandchildren, Craig (Theresa) Harper, Lori (Scott) Compton, Andy Harper, Will Harper, Banks Harper, and Andrea (Rich) Walker; four great-grandchildren, Ashley and Rachel Harper and Harper and Weston Compton; one sister, Mildred Furches; and a sister-in-law, Evola (Edgar) Hepler. A funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Thursday at Warner's Chapel Church of Christ with Minister Denton Landon and Rev. David Cook officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 7-9 p.m. Wednesday at Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel. Memorials may be made to Warner's Chapel Church of Christ, 8999 Lasater Road, Clemmons, N.C. 27012. 

HOLSCLAW
YADKINVILLE -- Mr. Dennis Ray Holsclaw, 45, of Yadkinville, died Monday, November 1, 1999 at Forsyth Medical Center. He was born May 26, 1954 to Ray and Vona Coffey Holsclaw. He was an inspector with U.S. Air, a member of Peace Haven Baptist Church, where he was an usher, and he served in the U.S. Navy. Mr. Holsclaw was preceded in death by his father, Ray Holsclaw. Surviving are his mother, Vona Coffey Holsclaw of Lenoir, N.C.; his wife, Rachel Holsclaw Holsclaw of the home; and one brother, Darrell Holsclaw of Hudson. Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, November 4, 1999 at Peace Haven Baptist Church conducted by the Rev. Bruce Freeman and the Rev. Russ Pruitt. Burial will be in the church cemetery with full Military Honors by VFW Post #10346. The family will receive friends from 7-9 p.m. Wednesday at Peace Haven Baptist Church (Center and Booger Swamp Road, Yadkinville, N.C. Gentry Family Funeral Service of 601 N. Yadkinville is serving the family. 

JAMES
MOCKSVILLE -- Mr. Bailey Lee James, Sr., 58, of Hemlock Street, died Tuesday afternoon at his home. He was a retired postal worker. The body will remain at Eaton Funeral Home. Funeral arrangements are incomplete. 

LANE
MOCKSVILLE -- Rev. J.C. Lane, 72, of Sain Road, died late Monday night at his home. Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. Thursday in Dulin United Methodist Church with Rev. Zane Norton, Rev. Ray O'Ferrell, and Dr. Mike Leatherwood officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. The family will be at Eaton Funeral Home Wednesday night from 7:00 until 9:00 p.m. They request memorials be considered for Davie County Hospice, c/o Mrs. Janet Blair, P.O. Box 848, Mocksville, N.C. or to Cancer Services, 622 North Main Street, Mocksville, N.C. 27028. The body will be placed in the church 30 minutes prior to the service Thursday morning. Rev. Lane was born in Rutherford County, September 12, 1927 to the late Charles and Fushia Metcalf Lane and was a retired United Methodist Minister, and was a member of the Western North Carolina Conference with over 40 years of service. He was a graduate of Lees-McRae College and a graduate of Appalachian State Teachers College. He did graduate work at Emory University in Atlanta. He was also a graduate of the Nashville School of Automotive and Diesel Mechanics and had worked as a mechanic in Shelby, N.C. He had been a pitcher with the Chicago White Sox, a substitute teacher in the public schools, and a veteran of the U.S. Army as a military policeman during WWII. He as also a chaplain for the Davie County Hospice. He was preceded in death by a brother, James Lane. Surviving is his wife of fifty-one years, Margaret Handsel Lane of the home; four daughters, Cathy Motsinger and husband, Smitty of Midway, N.C., Patricia Anderson and husband, Robert of Marion, N.C., Carol Dobbs and husband, Dennis of Columbia, S.C., and Margaret Ann Lane of Mocksville; two sons, Bob Lane and wife, Lynn of Sparta and Chris Lane and wife, Robin of Kileen, Texas; six grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; one sister, Memir Waters of Forest City, N.C.; two brothers, W.L. Lane of Rutherfordton, N.C. and Elbert P. Lane of Henrietta, N.C.; and several nieces and nephews.


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