Obituaries
Parker Elijah Simmons
Aug 22, 2025
Parker Elijah Simmons, born on February 22, 2001, in Burke County, North Carolina, peacefully departed from this world on August 22, 2025, at the Memorial Mission Campus. He was 24 years old. Parker was a beloved son, brother, boyfriend and friend who touched the lives of many with his infectious spirit.
Growing up in a loving household, Parker was the cherished...
Leatha Patton Kelley Tripp
Aug 22, 2025
Leatha Patton Kelley Tripp, 87, of Marion, went to be with the Lord on Friday, August 22, 2025 with her family by her side. Born on March 26, 1938 in Morganton, NC to the late Horace Graham Patton and Florence Ellen Reed Patton, she was a devoted mother and loving nana. She was a faithful member of the Church of...
Joseph Frederick Grant
Aug 21, 2025
Joseph Frederick Grant, a beloved member of the Old Fort community and proud U.S. Air Force veteran, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on February 2, 1937, in McDowell County, NC, Joseph was known for his infectious sense of humor and engaging personality that brought joy to those around him.
He was a dedicated...
Faye Leone Watkins
Aug 21, 2025
Faye Leone Watkins, a cherished member of her community and a devoted family matriarch, passed away peacefully at her residence on August 21, 2025, at the age of 94. Born on July 30, 1931, in Mitchell County, North Carolina.
A very active member of the Parkers Chapel Baptist Church, Faye was known for her warm spirit and welcoming demeanor. She embraced...
Robert Dale Williams
Aug 21, 2025
Robert Dale Williams, a beloved figure in his community and a man of many talents, passed away peacefully at his residence on August 21, 2025, at the age of 71. He was born on March 23, 1954, in McDowell County, North Carolina, to Robert Edgar Williams and Ruby Hollifield Williams, both of whom preceded him in death. His sister Donna...
Johnny Hall
Aug 21, 2025
Johnny Hall, a beloved member of his community, passed away peacefully at his residence on August 21, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on September 1, 1946, in McDowell County, Johnny spent his life dedicated to his family and his faith.
He was a devoted husband to Betty Hall, with whom he shared 44 wonderful years. Johnny is also survived...
Kevin Dwayne Reel
Aug 20, 2025
Kevin Dwayne Reel, 45, of Marion, passed away Wednesday, August 20, 2025 at UNC Hospital in Chapel Hill.
A native of McDowell County, Kevin was born March 17, 1980 to Frances Conner Reel and the late Rev. David Junior Reel.
Kevin was a skilled automotive mechanic, and he also formerly worked at the Hook & Anchor. He was a big music fan...
Brenda Kay Elkins
Aug 20, 2025
Brenda Kay Elkins, born on April 2, 1947, in McDowell County, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2025, at Mission McDowell. She is remembered as a hardworking woman whose dedication and strength left an indelible mark on the lives of those around her.
Brenda was an exceptional single parent, devoted to raising her son with love, integrity, and resilience....
Theresa Mace Craig
Aug 15, 2025
Theresa Mace Craig, 67, of Marion, formerly of Asheville, passed away Friday, August 15, 2025 at Laurels of Summit Ridge.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Estelle Holland Rhinehart
Aug 15, 2025
Estelle Holland Rhinehart, 90, of Marion, passed away Friday, August 15, 2025, at Willow Ridge Health and Rehabilitation in Rutherfordton.
Estelle was born in McDowell County, NC on December 9, 1934, to the late Louis Franklin Holland and Hattie Vaughn Holland. She was married to her husband of 58 years, Lawrence Rhinehart, who passed away in 2013....
Michael James "Moose" Marsh
Aug 15, 2025
Michael James “Moose” Marsh, a loving husband, father, brother, and grandfather, passed away on August 15, 2025, at UNC Health Blue Ridge, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and dedication. Born on December 16, 1958, in Christian County, Illinois, Michael lived a full and meaningful life, marked by his commitment to both his family and his profession.
For over 40 years,...
Michael Guy Cheek
Aug 14, 2025
Michael Guy Cheek, 69, of Nebo, NC, passed away August 14, 2025, at the home of his sister in Morganton, NC.
He was born December 9, 1955, in Shelby, NC, to the late Ben Guy Cheek and Pauline Collins Cheek. Known to his friends as “Mike,” he was always “Mickey” to his family. A lifelong resident of...
Sandra Ann Hammond
Aug 14, 2025
Sandra Ann Hammond, cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2025, in her residence. Born on August 14, 1954, in McDowell County, Sandra lived a life full of love, devotion, and care.
For many years, Sandra served as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), demonstrating her unwavering commitment to helping others with compassion and kindness. Her gentle...
Eric Carnell Hensley
Aug 13, 2025
Eric Carnell Hensley, born on June 25, 1975, in Burke County, North Carolina, passed away on August 13, 2025, at Mission Hospital McDowell. He will be deeply missed and remembered for his vibrant personality and passion for life.
Known as an avid sports fan, Eric particularly had a soft spot for basketball, proudly cheering for the UNC Tarheels. His infectious sense...
Anthony Thomas Moran
Aug 12, 2025
Anthony Thomas Moran, affectionately known as “Anthill,” 33, of Nebo, passed away unexpectedly in a tragic motorcycle accident on the morning of Tuesday, August 12, 2025.
He was born in Valdese on August 27, 1991 to Michael Anthony Moran and Lori Elaine Moran.
Anthony worked in the custom cabinet business alongside his father, Michael, who loved him very much and taught him...
Winston Lee "Jr" Dalton
Aug 10, 2025
Winston “Jr” Lee Dalton, 81, of McDowell County, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2025 at Mission Hospital in Asheville.
He was born on November 19, 1943, at Rutherford Hospital to the late Alvin and Beth Dalton.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Steve and Terry Dalton; his first wife, Ivarea Ledbetter Dalton; and great-grandsons Winston and Stetson Vess;...
William "Danny" Long
Aug 10, 2025
William “Danny” Long, 77, of Marion, passed away Sunday, August 10, 2025 at CarePartners Hospice Solace Center in Asheville.
A lifelong resident of McDowell County, Danny was born on December 21, 1947 to the late Earl Edward Long and Edna Nancy Norton Long.
Danny obtained an Associate Degree from Nashville Auto Diesel College, and he spent his career as a welder. He...
Cecil Max Owenby
Aug 9, 2025
On the morning of Saturday, August 9, 2025, Cecil Max Owenby, age 91, of Marion, passed away at Frye Regional Medical Center.
A native of McDowell County, Cecil was born September 20, 1933 to the late Christopher Eli Owenby and Fannie Elizabeth Crawley Owenby.
Cecil worked in the grocery business his entire life. He formerly owned and operated Big Bonus as well...
Paula Jean Barber Elliott
Aug 9, 2025
Paula Jean Barber Elliott, 76, of the Glenwood Community, passed away Saturday morning, August 9, 2025 at her home with her family by her side.
A native of McDowell County, she was born on June 9, 1949 to Jean Wilson Barber and the late Paul Barber.
Paula worked nearly 45 years at Collins & Aikman. Her family meant the world to her,...
Kathy Renee Nelon
Aug 5, 2025
Kathy Renee Nelon, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on August 5, 2025, at the Mission Campus, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. Born on December 29, 1959, in Buncombe County, North Carolina, Kathy filled the lives of those around her with joy and warmth.
She was a devoted and loving wife to Danny Nelon,...
Parker Elijah Simmons
Aug 22, 2025
Parker Elijah Simmons, born on February 22, 2001, in Burke County, North Carolina, peacefully departed from this world on August 22, 2025, at the Memorial Mission Campus. He was 24 years old. Parker was a beloved son, brother, boyfriend and friend who touched the lives of many with his infectious spirit.
Growing up in a loving household, Parker was the cherished...
Leatha Patton Kelley Tripp
Aug 22, 2025
Leatha Patton Kelley Tripp, 87, of Marion, went to be with the Lord on Friday, August 22, 2025 with her family by her side. Born on March 26, 1938 in Morganton, NC to the late Horace Graham Patton and Florence Ellen Reed Patton, she was a devoted mother and loving nana. She was a faithful member of the Church of...
Joseph Frederick Grant
Aug 21, 2025
Joseph Frederick Grant, a beloved member of the Old Fort community and proud U.S. Air Force veteran, passed away peacefully on August 21, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on February 2, 1937, in McDowell County, NC, Joseph was known for his infectious sense of humor and engaging personality that brought joy to those around him.
He was a dedicated...
Faye Leone Watkins
Aug 21, 2025
Faye Leone Watkins, a cherished member of her community and a devoted family matriarch, passed away peacefully at her residence on August 21, 2025, at the age of 94. Born on July 30, 1931, in Mitchell County, North Carolina.
A very active member of the Parkers Chapel Baptist Church, Faye was known for her warm spirit and welcoming demeanor. She embraced...
Robert Dale Williams
Aug 21, 2025
Robert Dale Williams, a beloved figure in his community and a man of many talents, passed away peacefully at his residence on August 21, 2025, at the age of 71. He was born on March 23, 1954, in McDowell County, North Carolina, to Robert Edgar Williams and Ruby Hollifield Williams, both of whom preceded him in death. His sister Donna...
Johnny Hall
Aug 21, 2025
Johnny Hall, a beloved member of his community, passed away peacefully at his residence on August 21, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on September 1, 1946, in McDowell County, Johnny spent his life dedicated to his family and his faith.
He was a devoted husband to Betty Hall, with whom he shared 44 wonderful years. Johnny is also survived...
Kevin Dwayne Reel
Aug 20, 2025
Kevin Dwayne Reel, 45, of Marion, passed away Wednesday, August 20, 2025 at UNC Hospital in Chapel Hill.
A native of McDowell County, Kevin was born March 17, 1980 to Frances Conner Reel and the late Rev. David Junior Reel.
Kevin was a skilled automotive mechanic, and he also formerly worked at the Hook & Anchor. He was a big music fan...
Brenda Kay Elkins
Aug 20, 2025
Brenda Kay Elkins, born on April 2, 1947, in McDowell County, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2025, at Mission McDowell. She is remembered as a hardworking woman whose dedication and strength left an indelible mark on the lives of those around her.
Brenda was an exceptional single parent, devoted to raising her son with love, integrity, and resilience....
Theresa Mace Craig
Aug 15, 2025
Theresa Mace Craig, 67, of Marion, formerly of Asheville, passed away Friday, August 15, 2025 at Laurels of Summit Ridge.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Estelle Holland Rhinehart
Aug 15, 2025
Estelle Holland Rhinehart, 90, of Marion, passed away Friday, August 15, 2025, at Willow Ridge Health and Rehabilitation in Rutherfordton.
Estelle was born in McDowell County, NC on December 9, 1934, to the late Louis Franklin Holland and Hattie Vaughn Holland. She was married to her husband of 58 years, Lawrence Rhinehart, who passed away in 2013....
Michael James "Moose" Marsh
Aug 15, 2025
Michael James “Moose” Marsh, a loving husband, father, brother, and grandfather, passed away on August 15, 2025, at UNC Health Blue Ridge, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and dedication. Born on December 16, 1958, in Christian County, Illinois, Michael lived a full and meaningful life, marked by his commitment to both his family and his profession.
For over 40 years,...
Michael Guy Cheek
Aug 14, 2025
Michael Guy Cheek, 69, of Nebo, NC, passed away August 14, 2025, at the home of his sister in Morganton, NC.
He was born December 9, 1955, in Shelby, NC, to the late Ben Guy Cheek and Pauline Collins Cheek. Known to his friends as “Mike,” he was always “Mickey” to his family. A lifelong resident of...
Sandra Ann Hammond
Aug 14, 2025
Sandra Ann Hammond, cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2025, in her residence. Born on August 14, 1954, in McDowell County, Sandra lived a life full of love, devotion, and care.
For many years, Sandra served as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), demonstrating her unwavering commitment to helping others with compassion and kindness. Her gentle...
Eric Carnell Hensley
Aug 13, 2025
Eric Carnell Hensley, born on June 25, 1975, in Burke County, North Carolina, passed away on August 13, 2025, at Mission Hospital McDowell. He will be deeply missed and remembered for his vibrant personality and passion for life.
Known as an avid sports fan, Eric particularly had a soft spot for basketball, proudly cheering for the UNC Tarheels. His infectious sense...
Anthony Thomas Moran
Aug 12, 2025
Anthony Thomas Moran, affectionately known as “Anthill,” 33, of Nebo, passed away unexpectedly in a tragic motorcycle accident on the morning of Tuesday, August 12, 2025.
He was born in Valdese on August 27, 1991 to Michael Anthony Moran and Lori Elaine Moran.
Anthony worked in the custom cabinet business alongside his father, Michael, who loved him very much and taught him...
Winston Lee "Jr" Dalton
Aug 10, 2025
Winston “Jr” Lee Dalton, 81, of McDowell County, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2025 at Mission Hospital in Asheville.
He was born on November 19, 1943, at Rutherford Hospital to the late Alvin and Beth Dalton.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Steve and Terry Dalton; his first wife, Ivarea Ledbetter Dalton; and great-grandsons Winston and Stetson Vess;...
William "Danny" Long
Aug 10, 2025
William “Danny” Long, 77, of Marion, passed away Sunday, August 10, 2025 at CarePartners Hospice Solace Center in Asheville.
A lifelong resident of McDowell County, Danny was born on December 21, 1947 to the late Earl Edward Long and Edna Nancy Norton Long.
Danny obtained an Associate Degree from Nashville Auto Diesel College, and he spent his career as a welder. He...
Cecil Max Owenby
Aug 9, 2025
On the morning of Saturday, August 9, 2025, Cecil Max Owenby, age 91, of Marion, passed away at Frye Regional Medical Center.
A native of McDowell County, Cecil was born September 20, 1933 to the late Christopher Eli Owenby and Fannie Elizabeth Crawley Owenby.
Cecil worked in the grocery business his entire life. He formerly owned and operated Big Bonus as well...
Paula Jean Barber Elliott
Aug 9, 2025
Paula Jean Barber Elliott, 76, of the Glenwood Community, passed away Saturday morning, August 9, 2025 at her home with her family by her side.
A native of McDowell County, she was born on June 9, 1949 to Jean Wilson Barber and the late Paul Barber.
Paula worked nearly 45 years at Collins & Aikman. Her family meant the world to her,...
Kathy Renee Nelon
Aug 5, 2025
Kathy Renee Nelon, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on August 5, 2025, at the Mission Campus, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. Born on December 29, 1959, in Buncombe County, North Carolina, Kathy filled the lives of those around her with joy and warmth.
She was a devoted and loving wife to Danny Nelon,...
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