Obituaries

Clark "Sandy" Alexander Lawing

Clark "Sandy" Alexander Lawing

Jan 10, 2025



Clark “Sandy” Alexander Lawing, 69, of Old Fort, went to be with the Lord on Friday, January 10, 2025 at Pardee Hospital in Hendersonville.

 

He was born in McDowell County on April 13, 1955 to the late Nolan Hubert Lawing and Jean Hoyle McKoy Lawing. 

 

Clark spent his professional years as a heavy equipment operator and diesel mechanic, dedicating himself to his...

Timmy Lee Powell

Timmy Lee Powell

Jan 10, 2025



Timmy Lee Powell, 75, of Nebo, passed away Friday, January 10, 2025 at Charles George VA Medical Center.

 

A native of Burke County, he was born August 14, 1949 to the late Robert Lee Powell and May Belle Webb Powell. He was also preceded in death by four siblings, Ted, Robert, Bill, and Clara; and a step-daughter, Brenda.

 

Timmy was a proud...

Diane B. Gallman

Diane B. Gallman

Jan 10, 2025

Diane B. Gallman, age 66, of Marion, departed this life on the morning of Friday, January 10, 2025 while at her residence. 

 

A native of McDowell County, she was born January 2, 1959. Diane enjoyed working jigsaw puzzles as well as crosswords. She loved listening to music and watching old movies. Spending time outdoors with her family brought her great joy....

Debra Lynn Willis

Debra Lynn Willis

Jan 8, 2025



Debra Lynn Willis, of Old Fort, passed away on her 63rd birthday, January 8, 2025 at her home.

 

She was born in Miami-Dade County, Florida to the late Pat Willis and Bertie Ellen Roland Willis. Debbie was a very family-oriented person. She absolutely adored her grandson, Atticus, and she had a special bond with her sisters. She had a humorous personality...

Jimmy Augustus Parker, Sr.

Jimmy Augustus Parker, Sr.

Jan 8, 2025

Jimmy Augustus Parker, Sr., 88, of Marion, went to be with the Lord surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, January 8, 2025

He was a native of McDowell County born on May 28, 1936 to the late Spurgeon Parker and Grace Proctor McGuigan. He is also preceded in death by his sister, Jane Crouse and his grandson, Timothy C. Parker.

Jimmy...

Cathy Ann Stancil Ruffle

Cathy Ann Stancil Ruffle

Jan 7, 2025

Cathy Ann Stancil Ruffle, 52, of Marion, passed away Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at Mission Hospital McDowell.

 

She was born in Buncombe County on February 17, 1972 to Bobby and Linda Barker Stancil. She was a beloved wife, mother, sister, and grandmother who loved vacationing with her family to the beach. Cathy like collecting owl figurines. She attended Livingstones Church of...

Ava Mae Lawing Jenkins

Ava Mae Lawing Jenkins

Jan 7, 2025



Ava Mae Lawing Jenkins, 82, of Marion, departed to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at the CarePartners Hospice Solace Center.

 

A native of Marion, she was born on September 2, 1942 to the late Ben Lawing and Annie Reel Lawing. Having come from a large family, Ava was also preceded in death by ten siblings, as well...

Linsey Desaray Burns

Linsey Desaray Burns

Jan 5, 2025



Linsey Desaray Burns, 21, of Marion departed this life unexpectedly on Sunday, January 5, 2025.

 

She was born in Rutherford County on December 8, 2003. Linsey worked as a patient care technician where her compassion and dedication shone brightly. She touched the lives of her family members and many friends with her kindness and infectious humor. She had a wonderful sense...

Jack Rector

Jack Rector

Jan 5, 2025



Jack Rector, 74, of Marion, passed away Sunday, January 5, 2025 at Mission Hospital in Asheville.

 

A native of McDowell County, he was born March 10, 1950 to the late Ralph Alexander Rector and Ann Elizabeth Arrowood Rector.

 

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Donna Rector, of the home; one son, Ravi Rector (Yesenia) of Marion; three grandchildren, Phoenix...

Terry Bryon Good

Terry Bryon Good

Jan 5, 2025



It is with great sadness we announce the Homegoing for Terry Bryon Good. Terry was preceded in death by his loving parents, "Buck" Reid Good Jr. and Sarah Caroline Good and his son Travis Bryon Good. Terry is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Hawkins, her husband Dusty Hawkins, is the proud Grampy to their daughter Hailey Hawkins and Travis' daughter...

Joyce Moore

Joyce Moore

Jan 4, 2025

 Joyce “Joy” Ann Williams Moore, 85, of Memphis, Tennessee, passed away Saturday, January 4, 2025, at her residence.

 Joy was born in Detroit, Michigan, on June 28, 1939, to the late Nora Seal Williams and Alvin Williams. She was married to the late Billy Moore, Sr., her husband of forty-one years. For several years, Joy worked with the administrative staff at...

Jimmy Wilburne McElreath

Jimmy Wilburne McElreath

Jan 4, 2025

Jimmy Wilburne McElreath, born on June 8, 1944, in Buncombe County, North Carolina, passed away on January 4, 2025, at Mission Hospital McDowell. He was a cherished member of the community and will be remembered for his contributions as the owner and operator of J&R Woodworking, formerly known as Asheville Woodworking.Jimmy was a man of many passions. He enjoyed camping,...

Betty Jean Gregory Lamb

Betty Jean Gregory Lamb

Jan 4, 2025



Betty Jean Gregory Lamb, 87, of Nebo, passed from this life on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at Mission Hospital in Asheville. 

 

A native of McDowell County, Betty was born on June 23, 1937 to the late Laney Gregory. She was also preceded in death by one son, Charles Lamb; sister, Thelma Gregory; brother, Leroy Gregory; and a great-granddaughter, Kaylee Banks. 

 

Betty held...

Susan Michelle Williams

Susan Michelle Williams

Jan 4, 2025

Susan Michelle Williams, was born on August 11, 1971, in McDowell County. It is with deep sorrow that we announce her passing on January 4, 2025, at her residence. Susan was a devoted wife, mother, sister, and grandmother, whose love for her family and unwavering spirit had a profound impact on all who knew her.

She is survived by her beloved...

Samuel Steven Gibson

Samuel Steven Gibson

Jan 2, 2025



***Due to the weather forecast, the memorial service will be moved to Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Beam Funeral Service. Visitation will be one hour prior.***

Samuel Steven Gibson, 68, of Marion, passed away Thursday, January 2, 2025 at his home.

 

A native of McDowell County, Sam was born May 24, 1956 to the late Thomas...

Bennie Dean Macomber

Bennie Dean Macomber

Jan 1, 2025

Bennie Dean Macomber, dedicated family man, beloved inventor, and passionate cowboy, passed away on January 1, 2025, in Marion, North Carolina, at the age of 88. Born on May 3, 1936, in Chehalis, Washington, Bennie's life was a testament to ingenuity, love, and integrity.

Throughout his illustrious career, Bennie earned numerous awards and patents for his inventive spirit, showcasing his dedication...

Zelda Harris Childers

Zelda Harris Childers

Jan 1, 2025

On the evening of Wednesday, January 01, 2025, Zelda Harris Childers, 83, of Nebo, passed away at UNC Health Blue Ridge in Morganton. 

Zelda was a native of McDowell County, born on August 22, 1941 to the late William George Harris and Bonnie Hudgins Harris.  

Zelda worked and dedicated over 40 years of her life in the health care industry. She...

Peggy Ann Lane Sisk

Peggy Ann Lane Sisk

Dec 31, 2024

Peggy Ann Lane Sisk, 82, of Nebo, departed this life on Tuesday, December 31, 2024 at her residence in Nebo. She was a native of McDowell County being born on June 28, 1942 to her late parents, Nollie Lane and Tina Buchanan Lane. 

She was a faithful member of Trinity Methodist Church where she served as the pianist. She thoroughly enjoyed...

Juanita Wilds Brown

Juanita Wilds Brown

Dec 31, 2024

Juanita Wilds Brown, age 84, a beloved mother and grandmother, departed this life on December 31, 2024, at College Pines. Born on August 26, 1940, in Marshall, North Carolina. She was the loving daughter of the late Fred and Lala Wilds. She was the cherished sister to many, including her brothers Thomas, Kermit, Quinton, Richard, Elzie, Archie, Robert, and Conley...

Shirley Jean Riley Seltzer

Shirley Jean Riley Seltzer

Dec 26, 2024



Shirley Jean Riley Seltzer died peacefully at Amorem Hospice in Valdese, North Carolina on December 26, 2024. 

She was born to Daniel Riley and Eva Rae Sturdivant on August 5, 1944, in Hollywood, Florida. She was also preceded in death by one sister, Gayle Riley DeRogatis.

She is survived by her husband of 30 years, Edward J. Seltzer of Marion, North Carolina;...

Clark "Sandy" Alexander Lawing

Clark "Sandy" Alexander Lawing

Jan 10, 2025



Clark “Sandy” Alexander Lawing, 69, of Old Fort, went to be with the Lord on Friday, January 10, 2025 at Pardee Hospital in Hendersonville.

 

He was born in McDowell County on April 13, 1955 to the late Nolan Hubert Lawing and Jean Hoyle McKoy Lawing. 

 

Clark spent his professional years as a heavy equipment operator and diesel mechanic, dedicating himself to his...

Timmy Lee Powell

Timmy Lee Powell

Jan 10, 2025



Timmy Lee Powell, 75, of Nebo, passed away Friday, January 10, 2025 at Charles George VA Medical Center.

 

A native of Burke County, he was born August 14, 1949 to the late Robert Lee Powell and May Belle Webb Powell. He was also preceded in death by four siblings, Ted, Robert, Bill, and Clara; and a step-daughter, Brenda.

 

Timmy was a proud...

Diane B. Gallman

Diane B. Gallman

Jan 10, 2025

Diane B. Gallman, age 66, of Marion, departed this life on the morning of Friday, January 10, 2025 while at her residence. 

 

A native of McDowell County, she was born January 2, 1959. Diane enjoyed working jigsaw puzzles as well as crosswords. She loved listening to music and watching old movies. Spending time outdoors with her family brought her great joy....

Debra Lynn Willis

Debra Lynn Willis

Jan 8, 2025



Debra Lynn Willis, of Old Fort, passed away on her 63rd birthday, January 8, 2025 at her home.

 

She was born in Miami-Dade County, Florida to the late Pat Willis and Bertie Ellen Roland Willis. Debbie was a very family-oriented person. She absolutely adored her grandson, Atticus, and she had a special bond with her sisters. She had a humorous personality...

Jimmy Augustus Parker, Sr.

Jimmy Augustus Parker, Sr.

Jan 8, 2025

Jimmy Augustus Parker, Sr., 88, of Marion, went to be with the Lord surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, January 8, 2025

He was a native of McDowell County born on May 28, 1936 to the late Spurgeon Parker and Grace Proctor McGuigan. He is also preceded in death by his sister, Jane Crouse and his grandson, Timothy C. Parker.

Jimmy...

Cathy Ann Stancil Ruffle

Cathy Ann Stancil Ruffle

Jan 7, 2025

Cathy Ann Stancil Ruffle, 52, of Marion, passed away Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at Mission Hospital McDowell.

 

She was born in Buncombe County on February 17, 1972 to Bobby and Linda Barker Stancil. She was a beloved wife, mother, sister, and grandmother who loved vacationing with her family to the beach. Cathy like collecting owl figurines. She attended Livingstones Church of...

Ava Mae Lawing Jenkins

Ava Mae Lawing Jenkins

Jan 7, 2025



Ava Mae Lawing Jenkins, 82, of Marion, departed to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at the CarePartners Hospice Solace Center.

 

A native of Marion, she was born on September 2, 1942 to the late Ben Lawing and Annie Reel Lawing. Having come from a large family, Ava was also preceded in death by ten siblings, as well...

Linsey Desaray Burns

Linsey Desaray Burns

Jan 5, 2025



Linsey Desaray Burns, 21, of Marion departed this life unexpectedly on Sunday, January 5, 2025.

 

She was born in Rutherford County on December 8, 2003. Linsey worked as a patient care technician where her compassion and dedication shone brightly. She touched the lives of her family members and many friends with her kindness and infectious humor. She had a wonderful sense...

Jack Rector

Jack Rector

Jan 5, 2025



Jack Rector, 74, of Marion, passed away Sunday, January 5, 2025 at Mission Hospital in Asheville.

 

A native of McDowell County, he was born March 10, 1950 to the late Ralph Alexander Rector and Ann Elizabeth Arrowood Rector.

 

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Donna Rector, of the home; one son, Ravi Rector (Yesenia) of Marion; three grandchildren, Phoenix...

Terry Bryon Good

Terry Bryon Good

Jan 5, 2025



It is with great sadness we announce the Homegoing for Terry Bryon Good. Terry was preceded in death by his loving parents, "Buck" Reid Good Jr. and Sarah Caroline Good and his son Travis Bryon Good. Terry is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Hawkins, her husband Dusty Hawkins, is the proud Grampy to their daughter Hailey Hawkins and Travis' daughter...

Joyce Moore

Joyce Moore

Jan 4, 2025

 Joyce “Joy” Ann Williams Moore, 85, of Memphis, Tennessee, passed away Saturday, January 4, 2025, at her residence.

 Joy was born in Detroit, Michigan, on June 28, 1939, to the late Nora Seal Williams and Alvin Williams. She was married to the late Billy Moore, Sr., her husband of forty-one years. For several years, Joy worked with the administrative staff at...

Jimmy Wilburne McElreath

Jimmy Wilburne McElreath

Jan 4, 2025

Jimmy Wilburne McElreath, born on June 8, 1944, in Buncombe County, North Carolina, passed away on January 4, 2025, at Mission Hospital McDowell. He was a cherished member of the community and will be remembered for his contributions as the owner and operator of J&R Woodworking, formerly known as Asheville Woodworking.Jimmy was a man of many passions. He enjoyed camping,...

Betty Jean Gregory Lamb

Betty Jean Gregory Lamb

Jan 4, 2025



Betty Jean Gregory Lamb, 87, of Nebo, passed from this life on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at Mission Hospital in Asheville. 

 

A native of McDowell County, Betty was born on June 23, 1937 to the late Laney Gregory. She was also preceded in death by one son, Charles Lamb; sister, Thelma Gregory; brother, Leroy Gregory; and a great-granddaughter, Kaylee Banks. 

 

Betty held...

Susan Michelle Williams

Susan Michelle Williams

Jan 4, 2025

Susan Michelle Williams, was born on August 11, 1971, in McDowell County. It is with deep sorrow that we announce her passing on January 4, 2025, at her residence. Susan was a devoted wife, mother, sister, and grandmother, whose love for her family and unwavering spirit had a profound impact on all who knew her.

She is survived by her beloved...

Samuel Steven Gibson

Samuel Steven Gibson

Jan 2, 2025



***Due to the weather forecast, the memorial service will be moved to Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Beam Funeral Service. Visitation will be one hour prior.***

Samuel Steven Gibson, 68, of Marion, passed away Thursday, January 2, 2025 at his home.

 

A native of McDowell County, Sam was born May 24, 1956 to the late Thomas...

Bennie Dean Macomber

Bennie Dean Macomber

Jan 1, 2025

Bennie Dean Macomber, dedicated family man, beloved inventor, and passionate cowboy, passed away on January 1, 2025, in Marion, North Carolina, at the age of 88. Born on May 3, 1936, in Chehalis, Washington, Bennie's life was a testament to ingenuity, love, and integrity.

Throughout his illustrious career, Bennie earned numerous awards and patents for his inventive spirit, showcasing his dedication...

Zelda Harris Childers

Zelda Harris Childers

Jan 1, 2025

On the evening of Wednesday, January 01, 2025, Zelda Harris Childers, 83, of Nebo, passed away at UNC Health Blue Ridge in Morganton. 

Zelda was a native of McDowell County, born on August 22, 1941 to the late William George Harris and Bonnie Hudgins Harris.  

Zelda worked and dedicated over 40 years of her life in the health care industry. She...

Peggy Ann Lane Sisk

Peggy Ann Lane Sisk

Dec 31, 2024

Peggy Ann Lane Sisk, 82, of Nebo, departed this life on Tuesday, December 31, 2024 at her residence in Nebo. She was a native of McDowell County being born on June 28, 1942 to her late parents, Nollie Lane and Tina Buchanan Lane. 

She was a faithful member of Trinity Methodist Church where she served as the pianist. She thoroughly enjoyed...

Juanita Wilds Brown

Juanita Wilds Brown

Dec 31, 2024

Juanita Wilds Brown, age 84, a beloved mother and grandmother, departed this life on December 31, 2024, at College Pines. Born on August 26, 1940, in Marshall, North Carolina. She was the loving daughter of the late Fred and Lala Wilds. She was the cherished sister to many, including her brothers Thomas, Kermit, Quinton, Richard, Elzie, Archie, Robert, and Conley...

Shirley Jean Riley Seltzer

Shirley Jean Riley Seltzer

Dec 26, 2024



Shirley Jean Riley Seltzer died peacefully at Amorem Hospice in Valdese, North Carolina on December 26, 2024. 

She was born to Daniel Riley and Eva Rae Sturdivant on August 5, 1944, in Hollywood, Florida. She was also preceded in death by one sister, Gayle Riley DeRogatis.

She is survived by her husband of 30 years, Edward J. Seltzer of Marion, North Carolina;...