(January 28, 2021 Issue)

The Asmuth family, Gaston County and planet Earth lost a sweet and loving spirit on Friday, January 8, 2021.  Stephanie Marie Collins Asmuth, beautiful wife, loving mother of two, and an inspiration to so many unexpectedly went home to heaven at the age of 48.  She was born September 12, 1972 in Fort Dodge, Iowa to Steven and Carole Collins and moved to Gaston County shortly after.
She met, fell for and married the man of her dreams, Kip Asmuth on January 4, 1992 at the age of 18.  She was a loving, devoted and active mother to Kenny and Kyle. As the boys grew to young men, her pride and love for them, if even possible, grew greater. Stephanie will be most remembered for the way she loved and treasured Kip and her sons.
She spent most of her professional career building on downtown commerce through her entrepreneurship and as an advocate for Downtown Belmont.  Stephanie loved to travel, explore, reflect, laugh, sing, dance and spend time with her family and friends.  She loved it when she could experience all of the above with others.  Her free spirit was contagious.  Her fascination with life was so liberating to be near.  To say she loved to grill, barbecue and cook would be like saying the ocean is moist.  This girl could cook!  Her skills with a piece of red meat were legendary.  Even the simplest of meals would generate different tones of oohs and aahs from its beneficiaries.
Speaking of the ocean- Stephanie’s love for the coast, the unobstructed views of the sunrises, the majesty of the sunsets and the freedom of the seas seemed to recalibrate and revive her soul.  She put such an effort into catching every sunrise and sunset that now her memory is attached to them.  Her smile was truly monumental and would light up a room no matter the burden.
Her insight was tasteful, flavorful and unique.  Where we may frown upon the thought of a Monday - she referred to them as “fun-day Monday”; where we might not sing out loud in public - she would - while dancing too; while we celebrate our “birthday” - she celebrated her “birth-month”; where we might take a friendship for granted - she would make it a point to make you feel special; where we might post a misspelled, single syllable status update on fb - she would somehow use words and expressions in her posts that you’d still be thinking about tomorrow.  Her 48 year presence on this earth was indeed a gift to us. We remember you, Stephanie, and we do not take you, or what you taught us for granted!
Left to cherish her multi-million memories is her family that she absolutely adored:  her loving and devoted husband of 29 wild years Kip; her loving and loyal sons Kenny Asmuth of Wilmington and Kyle Asmuth of Belmont; her mom and step-dad Carole and Tony Frisina of Gastonia; sister Alison Worley; brother Ryan Farmer; step sister Kristen Frisina. She is also greatly missed by her four legged companions Ted and Eleanor, who to say the least, were well taken care of; and many extended family members, close friends and acquaintances.
Due to the Covid pandemic, there won’t be a formal gathering celebrating Stephanie’s way-too-short life. There’s no way she would want to risk exposing Kip to the crud! Rather, in the spirit of sharing and expression, you are encouraged to visit her public Facebook page and share your memories and photos with her.
In honor of her compassion for dogs, memorials in Stephanie’s name may be made to Double N Kennels, 10442 Moores Chapel Road, Charlotte, NC 28214.
McLean’s of Belmont is assisting the Asmuth family.  www.mcleanfuneral.com

(January 7, 2021 Issue)

Martha Ann Wray Deal, age 80, of Crestview Drive, Lincolnton passed away on Sunday, December 27, 2020.
Mrs. Deal was born on February 4, 1940 and was the daughter of the late Wymer Bryant and Dora Spring Bynum Wray.  Martha was a successful business woman having started in retail, moving to store manager and later becoming a district supervisor with Pic-N-Pay Shoes.  She was also a charter member of the Belmont Historical Society.
She is survived by her husband, Reginald A. Deal; her son, Roger A. Deal; her daughter, Janet D. Marx and husband, Robert; two grandsons, Randy A. Deal and wife, Rachel and Roger C. Deal and wife, Krystal; two granddaughters, Dr. Emily C. Marx and Olivia S. Marx; one great-grandson, Luke T. Deal.
A memorial service for Mrs. Deal will be held at a later date.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1901 Brunswick Avenue, #100, Charlotte, NC 28207.
Warlick Funeral Home in Lincolnton is serving the Deal family.

(January 7, 2021 Issue)

1930 – 2020

Mt. Holly NC – Frances Worthey Stringer, 90, passed away on Thursday, December 31, 2020 in her Daughter Sandy’s home in Inman SC of cancer. Frances was born on October 21, 1930 in Cherryville, NC and the only daughter of the late Jack and Georgia Worthey. She was pre-deceased by her three brothers, Bob, Carl and Danny and was the widow of Norman Stringer.
Survivors include two daughters, Betty (Joel) of Birmingham, Al; Sandy (Harlan) of Inman, SC; and a son, Eric (Debbie) of Gastonia, NC. Frances has six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.  Frances was a daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and trusted friend, but most of all a child of God. She was always known for her kindness and generosity along with a fun, cleaver sense of humor. Frances was a Charter Member of Grace Baptist Church in Mt. Holly, NC where she was active for most of her life. She was also well-known and loved in the community. Some of her community involvement included: Meals on Wheels, crossing guard at Mt. Holly Elementary School, caring for elderly friends, and later in life she was active at The Tuckaseegee Community Center.  The Funeral Services were held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, January 2, 2020 at Grace Baptist Church 300 Westland Farm Rd., Mt. Holly, NC. Rev. Jonathan Chaney conducted the service. The Family received friends immediately after the service at the church. Social distancing was observed during both the service and visitation.  In lieu of flowers, please make donations to either Grace Baptist Church, 300 Westland Farm Rd., Mt. Holly, NC 28120 or Hospice of Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System 686 Jeff Davis Dr. Spartanburg SC 29303.  The Stringer Family is being cared for by Woodlawn Funeral Home of Mt Holly NC.

(January 6, 2021 Issue)

Belmont, NC – Kenneth Donald “Don” Chatman, 57, left this earth December 28, 2020 at Robin Johnson Hospice House to be with his Lord and savior. He was born October 3, 1963 in Mecklenburg County, a son of the late Nathan and Norma Orton Chatman.  Don was also preceded in death by his sister June Chatman Drum.
Don served in the U.S. Marine Corps for six years and served in the first Gulf War - Desert Storm.  He was the recipient of numerous awards including the Meritorious Unit Commendations (3), the Combat Action Ribbon (2), the Commanding General Letter of Commendation (2), as well as many others. He received his B.S. in Finance from UNC Charlotte.  After military service, Don began employment with Wachovia Bank as a Branch Manager and later, became an Assistant Vice President with Lincoln Bank of N.C.
He will be missed deeply by his son, Kenneth D. Chatman, Jr. of Iwakuni, Japan; daughter Katelyn Chatman of Columbia, SC; sister Sandra Chatman Guy (Robert) of Ocean Isle Beach, NC; brother Jimmy Chatman (Beth) of Scottsboro, AL; nephew Grayson Drum and grandchildren Lennox and Liam.
A graveside service was held at 11am Tuesday, January 5, 2021 at Hillcrest Gardens, Mount Holly, NC.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Disabled Veterans Association, www.secure.dav.org.
Condolence messages may be sent online at www.McLeanFuneral.com. McLean Funeral Directors of Belmont is serving the Chatman family.

(December 31, 2020 Issue)

In the summer of 2000, Gaston Together began a program for school children to enhance the awareness of Gaston County and grow Community Pride.  By building on the study of the community in the third grade, Gaston Together worked with Gaston County Schools to develop the “Pride in Gaston Traveling Tour” field trip for all third graders in the county, including both public and private school students.  As of the 2020 - 2021 school year, over 50,000 students have participated in this program since its inception.
Just like much of the rest of year 2020, this year’s tour was different.  It went virtual!  With the help of Gaston County Travel & Tourism, we were able to provide a virtual tour that showcased all sixteen sites in the Pride in Gaston Traveling Tour Activity Book.  In addition two of the sites traditionally visited on the field trip tour, the Schiele Museum and the Gaston County Museum of Art & History, created customized videos for the students.
The virtual tour and classwork components were conducted in November.  Although very different, the virtual format did provide advantages for the overall program.  First, the teachers had more flexibility in scheduling the program for their class.  They usually have to follow a fixed calendar due to scheduling over 2500 students with the tour locations.  Also, using the virtual summary video overview gave the students an opportunity to see something of each site featured in the Activity Book.
Each student participating in the program receive a Pride in Gaston Activity Book.  The 2020 Activity Books were graciously sponsored by Times Oil/T.E.A.M. Foundation and Alliance Bank and Trust.  The books now feature 16 sites of interest throughout Gaston County.  New sites were added to the book last year including: the Loray Mill and MLK Plaza both located in Gastonia as well as Goat Island Park located in Cramerton.  Some of the other sites in the activity book are the Hoyle House, the C. Grier Beam Truck Museum and the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.  The Activity Book features a pen and ink drawing of each site, a few facts about the site and additional space where the students can add other information.  All of the pictures in the book were drawn by Gaston County native, Lucy Penegar.  The cover design was created by Image Mark Business Services.
The “Pride in Gaston” Traveling Tour program is free of charge to the students thanks to the generosity of community sponsors.  The 2020 Corporate Gold sponsor was Mann+Hummel Filtration Technology. Program partners include:  Dominion Energy and Tindol Ford Subaru ROUSH.
Following the tour, the students are asked to write an essay entitled, “Why I am Proud to Live in Gaston County.”  These essays are entered into Gaston Together’s “Proudest Kid in Gaston County,” essay contest.  The individual school winners and the overall county winner are announced later in the spring at Gaston Together’s annual Community Leadership Award event.
The “Pride in Gaston Traveling Tour” has proven to be a valuable tool in building community pride in our students.  It has allowed them to experience first-hand some of the heritage of Gaston County through these wonderful points of interest.  With the experience learned through this program, it is hoped that as adults these students will one day want to make Gastonia their home.
Founded in 1997, Gaston Together’s mission is to create a Community of Excellence by bringing people and resources of Gaston County together to address Big Community Challenges.  The purpose is implemented through the principles and best practices of collaboration, facilitation, promotion and the anticipation of possibilities.  Current focus areas are Community Pride Building programs (Community Leadership Awards, Pride in Gaston Traveling Tour and Proudest Kid in Gaston County Essay Contest), Faith-Based Leadership (Gaston Clergy & Citizens Coalition), Civic Engagement Leadership process and Creating a Culture of Wellness (Gaston Together Healthcare Commission, Gaston Controlled Substances Coalition, Health in All Policies Team and Healthy Gaston initiative).  Steven Long is serving as the 2020 Board Chair.

(December 30, 2020 Issue)

Gastonia - Eloise Armstrong Buthe, 88, passed away on December 23, 2020.   Eloise was born in Gaston County on July 2, 1932.  She was the daughter of Ralph M. Armstrong (Buck) and Louise Gaston Armstrong.   In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by husbands, Hugh Allen Mullis and Egon Buthe and siblings, Ralph M. Armstrong, Jr. and Betty Jean Armstrong.  
Eloise graduated from Belmont High School in 1950 and attended Berea College, Presbyterian Hospital School of Nursing (Registered Nurse), and UNC-Greensboro (Nurse Practitioner). Her nursing career was primarily at Presbyterian Hospital and Burlington Industries.
Her greatest joy in life was found in God, family, and nursing, along with later opportunities to teach others her hobby of sewing and quilting. Her life’s desire was to donate her body for the advanced study of medicine.
She is survived by her children, Alan (Mari) Mullis of Leachville, Arkansas, Lisa (Steve) Carrigan of York, South Carolina, and Molly (Mark) Whitehouse of Blacksburg, Virginia, six grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. Also, surviving is a faithful and special friend, Ted Reece.
Because of the current health crisis, no funeral services will be held. A Remembrance Service may be held at a later date.
A special expression of gratitude is extended to the phenomenal staff of Brookdale New Hope and Hospice and Palliative Care of Lincoln County who provided loving and compassionate care to our mother and grandmother.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of Lincoln County, 900 Dontia Drive, Lincolnton, NC 28092.
Due to the Covid-19 outbreak, if you would like to send a card or phone call to the family will be appreciated.
Condolences may be made to www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com
Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia is serving the Family.

 (December 3, 2020 Issue)

Howard Deual Roberts “Jelly Man”, 90, of Salisbury passed away, November 19, 2020 at his home after a period of declining health.
He was born August 17, 1930 in Belmont, NC to the late Bernard Roberts and Monnie Davis Roberts.
Howard served his country for over 22 years in the Army, he was first served in Japan, then the Korean war started, he enjoyed his military service, while serving he received a Purple Heart amongst other medals and awards, he retired during the Vietnam war.
He was preceded in death by a son Bryan Roberts, and 2 step sons, Christopher and James, one sister, Cleo Broughman, four brothers, Hoyt Roberts, Joseph Roberts, Clyde Roberts, and Worth Roberts.
Those left to cherish his memory, his wife Debbie Norris Roberts, three daughters, Crystal (Kris), Terry (Bill) and Gina, all of Columbia, SC, two sisters, Rachael Henley (Bill) of Gastonia Dorothy Adams of Belmont, and six grandchildren.
Funeral service was held at 12:30 PM Tuesday, November 24, at Whitley’s Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Ronnie Brown officiating, burial was at 10:00 AM on Friday, November 27, at Salisbury National Cemetery.
Visitation will be from 11:00 to 12:00 on Tuesday, at Whitley’s Funeral Home, prior to the service.
Online condolences may be left at www.whitleysfuneralhome.com.

(November 19, 2020 Issue)

Retired Missionary Hoyt Mason Roberts, 92, of Pasadena, Texas, stepped into heaven and into the arms of Jesus on November 1, 2020.
Hoyt was born September 7, 1928 to the late B.P. and Monnie Lee Roberts in Belmont, North Carolina. He served in the U.S. Army from 1947-1949, as a member of General MacArthur’s private band playing the french horn. Hoyt married the love of his life, Martha Louise Poole, December 20, 1948.  He graduated from Gardner Webb Junior College, Carson Newman College, and Southern Seminary.
Hoyt started the First Southern Baptist Church of Huntingburg, Indiana as pastor in 1954.  He served as pastor of Cherokee Hills Baptist Church in Morristown, Tennessee and during this time he felt called to missions. Hoyt and Louise were appointed as missionaries to Honduras in December 1962 starting many churches through out Honduras. They served faithfully until retirement in October 1992.
 Upon retirement, they moved to Texas and joined First Baptist Church in Pasadena, Texas where he was an active member of Roland Hill’s Sunday school class, played French horn in the orchestra (especially enjoyed playing in  Pops and Praise and the Singing Christmas Tree), attended Missions at Night, lead Bible studies at Mission Centers of Houston and Keenagers being ever so serious at mexican train.  He was an enthusiastic bowler, enjoyed every sport, and loved Blue Bell ice cream.
Hoyt was preceded in death by his “honey babe”, wife of 50 years, Louise Roberts, parents B. P. and Monnie Roberts, siblings, Cleo Boughman, Clyde Roberts, Joe Roberts, Worth Roberts, also two great grandsons, Gideon Stegner, and Imani Parker.
He is survived by his children:  daughter Linda Louise Law (husband Tom), son Hoyt Dale Roberts (wife Lisa), daughter Rebekah Lee Parker (husband James).  He was “papaw” to his grandchildren, their spouses, and great-grandchildren.  He is also survived by two sisters Dorothy Adams, Rachel Henley, (husband Bill), one brother Howard Roberts, (wife Debbie), nieces, nephews and many beloved missionary nieces and nephews.
Hoyt loved his Lord, sharing with everyone “you must be born again to receive Jesus as your personal Savior”. In recent years he believed one of the most overlooked people groups are the deaf people who need to know Jesus Christ.
Memorial donations can be made to the missions of your choice.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, November 21, at 11:00am., in the Sanctuary of First Baptist Church Pasadena, TX. 7500 Fairmont Parkway Pasadena, TX.
He will be laid to rest with his wife at the Houston National Cemetery, Texas.

(November 12, 2020 Issue)

Belmont, NC - Betty Faye Moffitt Armstrong, age 85, passed away November 2, 2020 at Stanley Total Living Center. She was born February 24, 1935 in Gaston County, daughter of the late Fannie Moffitt Saxon.  She was also preceded in death by her loving husband James Dale Armstrong; brother Kermit Moffitt.
Betty was a long-time and active member of South Point United Methodist Church.  She retired from Playtown Nursery and Daycare which she owned and operated for many years, receiving the 1995 TEDDY Award as the Daycare of the Year in Gaston County.  Betty was an avid gardener and was active with the Belmont Community Organization.
Left to cherish her memories are her sons Mark Mitchell Armstrong and spouse William Brandwein of Silver Spring, MD., Kelly Lee Armstrong and wife Deborah of Upper Marlboro, MD; as well as several nephews.
A graveside service was held at 1:00 pm, Monday, November 9, 2020 at South Point United Methodist Church Cemetery with Rev. Tony Owens officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to South Point United Methodist Church, 510 SouthPoint Church Road or to BCO, 91 Catawba St., Belmont, NC 28012.
Condolence messages may be sent online at www.mcleanfuneral.com. McLean Funeral Directors of Belmont is serving the Armstrong family.

(October 8, 2020 Issue)

High Point – Larry Charles Martin, 85, passed away Thursday, September 24, 2020.
Born December 7, 1934, in Cramerton, NC, Charlie was the son of the late Larry Pitts Martin and Kathleen Hanna Martin. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Ann Helderman Martin and his second wife, Julia Broadway Martin. Charlie was a veteran of the US Army, where he toured Germany behind Elvis Presley. He later graduated from East Carolina University and loved going to football games to cheer on the Pirates. Charlie was an avid golfer and had the opportunity to travel twice to Scotland to play at Saint Andrew’s. He loved watching sports and Westerns and spending time with his beloved family.
Charlie was a devout member of Green Street Baptist Church where he formerly was on the Deacon Committee. He worked for Burlington Industries, and later was the Assistant City Manager for the City of High Point for nearly 25 years.
Charlie is survived by two daughters, Pam Martin and Amy Martin, both of High Point; step children, Everette Furr and Wendy Beck (Randy), both of Thomasville; granddaughters, Stephanie Riggs Loflin (Jon) and Faith Riggs; a great grandson, Charles Jay Loflin; and four step children, and five step great grandchildren.
Graveside service will be held at a later date at Gaston Memorial Park Cemetery in Gastonia.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to The Mended Hearts, Inc. Resource Center, Merry Acres Executive Building, 1500Dawson Rd, Albany, GA 31707.
Online condolences can be made at www.cumbyfuneral.com. Arrangements by Cumby Family Funeral Service in High Point.

(October 8, 2020 Issue)

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Charles “CJ” Golden, Jr., 24, born June 8th, 1996, and passed on September 6th, 2020 Belmont, NC (formally of WV and MD).
CJ is survived by his parents Rachel (Wolfe) Golden, Charles Golden Sr. and his sisters Haileigh, Layla and Sydney Golden of Inwood, WV. He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
CJ was a graduate of Hedgesville High and attended Potomac State College.
CJ’s best times were spent with his pet companion Gunnar. He enjoyed trips to the beach, canoeing, karaoke, and spending time with his true friends.
Even through his many trials and tribulations CJ lived his life to the fullest.
CJ’s parents and immediate family held a celebration of life on September 20th, 2020. CJ is resting peacefully and is no longer suffering.

Elena Margarita Pacanins de Aizcorbe,  born March 20, 1932, passed away on September 11, 2020 in Gastonia, NC. A native of Venezuela, Elena and her late husband came to the U.S. in 1959 from where they lived in Habana, Cuba to escape the Castro regime.
In 1964, the Aizcorbe Family decided to make Belmont their permanent home where Elena was a mother of four, a homemaker and worked with her late husband, Dr Raul C Aizcorbe, as his bookkeeper for many years. In the early years, Elena was team mom for the Belmont Abbey soccer team, was active in her church and served with Belmont Community Action. She was a patron of the arts, loved traveling, but above all loved her family. She was self-appointed family historian and made certain that her children were familiar with the extended family tree.
Elena is survived by son, Raul Cesar Aizcorbe, Jr. of Evans, GA; daughter Maria Elena Bowling and husband Mark, of Lamar,SC; son, Carlos Luis Aizcorbe and wife Christy of Gastonia, NC; son Francisco Tomas Aizcorbe and his wife Abbie of Huntersville, NC; grandchildren Michelle Peterson, Christopher Aizcorbe, Nicholas Aizcorbe, M.D., Regina Hope Aizcorbe, Tomas Aizcorbe, Jimmy Moody, Aaron Crumbley and wife Jaci, and four great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her loving husband of 66 years, Raul Cesar Aizcorbe M.D., parents Francisco Pacanins Acevedo and MariaTeresa Gil de Pacanins; brother Carlos Pacanins and sister Dolores Pacanins de Gómez.  
A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 2:00 pm, Wednesday, September 16, 2020 at Queen of the Apostles Church with Father Paul Buchanon officiating. The family received friends 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm prior to the service. Burial followed in Belmont Abbey Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Holy Angels, 6600 Wilkinson Blvd., Belmont, NC 28012.
Condolence messages may be sent online at www.mcleanfuneral.com. McLean Funeral Directors of Belmont is serving the Aizcorbe family.

Belmont – Madeline “Mackie” McConnell Ray, 74 went to be with the Lord on August 31, 2020 at Atrium Health - Pineville, NC.
Mackie was born in Charlotte, NC to the late Walter Alexander McConnell and Margaret Elmena Grice McConnell.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Ronnie McConnell.
Mackie was an active member of Park Street United Methodist Church for over 40 years.  She served with the UMW and other groups at church.  She was a graduate of Mt. Holly High School where she played on one of the schools’ first girls basketball teams.  Mackie was one of the original employees of McDonalds in Belmont and continued to frequent there as a customer with her husband Wayne. She was a feisty and sweet lady and greatly enjoyed helping others.  Mackie never met a stranger and spent much of her time talking with “anyone that would listen” – she will be greatly missed by all.  Mackie loved the outdoors and worked in her flower beds and gardens up until her death.  She and Wayne loved their birds.  They knew all the species and could identify most of them by name. More than anything, she treasured time spent with family and friends.
Mackie is survived by her soulmate and best friend of 57 years, Wayne Ray; her sons, Steve Ray and wife Dana, Alan Ray and wife Heather; her beloved grandchildren, Hayden, Davis, Cooper, Devin, Cole, Kara, and Kendall; her brother, Walter McConnell and his wife Vicki, and sister-in-law, Carolyn McConnell; and brother-in-law Lanny Ray and wife Lancy.
Services will be private.  In lieu of flowers, please make memorials to the Belmont Community Organization (BCO) located at 91 Catawba St, Belmont, NC 28012.  (704) 825-4526
Due to the Covid-19 outbreak, a card or phone call to Wayne, Alan and Steve will be greatly appreciated.
Please visit www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com to share your condolences and memories.
Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia (704) 864-5144 is serving the Family.

GASTONIA - Yates Edward Abernethy, 88, passed away on Saturday, August 29, 2020 at his home, surrounded by family. He was born in Gaston County, son of the late Everette Roy Abernethy and Connie Smith Abernethy. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Marie Foster Abernethy; and his brothers, Jerry Abernethy and Troy Abernethy.
Mr. Abenethy was a graduate of Belmont High School and played on the inaugural Red Raider football team. He was an avid South Point football fan. Mr. Abernethy served his country as a member of the U.S. Navy during the Korean era. He was a founding member of the Belmont Historical Society and a lifelong member of Centerview Baptist Church. He was retired from the City of Charlotte at Charlotte Douglas Airport.
Mr. Abernethy is survived by his children, Sheila A. Thrower and husband, David, Sharon Kaye Abernethy, and Trina A. Deaton and husband, Mark; his grandchildren, Jonathan Thrower, Emily Thrower, Christopher Deaton and wife, Hannah, Justin Deaton and wife, Anna, and Leah Deaton; his great-grandchildren, Malek Deaton and Abagail Deaton; and his best buddy, Baxter.
The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 3, 2020 at Centerview Baptist Church, Belmont. A service to celebrate his life well lived will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday at the church.
Memorials may be made to Gaston Hospice by visiting www.gastonhospice.org.
Condolence messages may be sent to the family by visiting www.woodlawnfuneral.org. Woodlawn Funeral Home of Mount Holly is caring for the Abernethy family.

Carl Rome Williams, 85, of Mount Holly, passed away on Saturday, August 22, 2020 at Caromont Regional Medical Center in Gastonia.  He was born in Gaston County, son of the late Jessie and Edith Wentz Williams.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by six siblings.  Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 63 years Sue Ingle Williams; children Karen Broome, Toni O’Donahue (Dean), and Carol Woodard; a sister Jane Williams; two grandchildren Emily Stowe (Koley) and David Felton (Mandy); as well as two great grandchildren Parker Felton and Hayden Stowe.  The family greeted guests from 2 until 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 26, 2020 at Catawba Heights Baptist Church (The Heights), 311 Belmont Mt Holly Road, Belmont.  A service to celebrate Carl’s life was held immediately following at 4:00 p.m. also at the church.
Arrangements are in the care of Woodlawn Funeral Home, Mount Holly.  Online condolences may be left at www.woodlawnfuneral.org. 

Katherine Lee Henry Fite, 72, of Gastonia, NC, passed away on Friday, June 12, 2020.
Born September 25, 1947 in Missouri, Kathy grew up in White Plains, NY. She was a 1965 graduate of White Plains Senior High School and 1967 graduate of Gardner-Webb College.
Kathy was employed with WBTV with the Betty Feezor Show and Top of the Day. She later opened The Needle and Brush in Belmont, NC. After retiring, she enjoyed gardening and singing with her church choir.
Kathy was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Stephen Fite, parents Raymond and Bernadine “Dean” (Miller) Henry of Gastonia, NC, and brother Gary Henry, Columbia, SC.
Local survivors include Kathy’s cousin Ann Lampley Pharr (Shelby, NC); former sister-in-law Susan Fite Lovelace and husband, Jerry, (Kings Mountain, NC) and other family members.
Arrangements are incomplete at this time.
Memorials may be made to her church, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 258 West Franklin Blvd, Gastonia, NC 28052.

Dillard “Don” William Hyde
Belmont - Dillard “Don” William Hyde, loving husband, father, and PopPop went home to be with his Lord and Savior on August 1, 2020 at the age of 83.

Don was a graduate of Belmont High School, Central Piedmont Community College and attended Charlotte College (now UNCC). After serving in the United States Army,  Don worked at Celanese Corporation in Charlotte for 30 years. He volunteered his time with the Athletic Department of his beloved Red Raiders at South Point High School where he and his wife, Nancy served for many years with the Big Red Booster Club.  In addition to volunteering at SPHS, Don served on the Gaston County Parks and Recreation Board along with the Belmont Optimist Club. One of his greatest honors was being a mentor to many young people in the Belmont community.  All those who knew him were touched by his generosity, graciousness, and loving spirit. He lived by the mantra “Give nothing of yourself to others and eventually there will be nothing worth giving.”
Don was a long time member of both First Baptist Church and South Point Baptist Church in Belmont where he served as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, and youth recreation advocate.
Don is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Nancy Buckner Hyde, two loving sons Kent (Cynthia) and Lee (Shelly), daughter Christy of Nashville, TN, and five beautiful granddaughters, Caroline, Olivia, Allie, Amy, and Alyssa. He is also survived by his brothers Ted of Belmont and Dennis of Spotsylvania, VA, and a sister, Betty (Carroll) of Belmont. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ned and Margie Hyde, brothers, Hubert and Edd, and sisters Eliza, Lexie, Ida, and Emma.
Mr. Hyde will lie in state for public viewing from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Wednesday, August 5, 2020 in the sanctuary of First Baptist Church, 23 North Central Avenue, Belmont, North Carolina.  Due to the pandemic, the family will NOT be present.
A graveside service will be at 10:00 AM on Thursday, August 6 at Greenwood Cemetery, Belmont with Pastor Joe Lawing and Pastor Andrew Renfroe officiating.  Military Honors will be provided by the North Carolina National Guard and Gaston Honor Guard.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to South Point High School Athletic Department “Big Red Booster Club”, 906 South Point Road, Belmont, NC 28012 or Cystic Fibrosis, Carolinas Chapter, Charlotte Office, 4600 Park Road, Suite 100, Charlotte, NC 28209.
Online condolences may be made at:  www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com
Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC  (704) 864-5144 is serving the Hyde family.a

Dawn “Dawnie” Starling Royal, of Pamplin, Va., peacefully departed her earth suit and her spirit entered the presence of her Lord on June 21, 2020. Dawn was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
Born January 11, 1949, in Charlotte, N.C., she was the daughter of Marie Brown Starling and the late Edgar L. Starling. She leaves to cherish her memory her husband of 52 plus years, W. Durwood Royal of Pamplin; a daughter, Tiffany Royal Powell and husband, Randy of Lyons, Ga.; a son, Andre Royal and wife, Jennifer of Appomattox, Va.; grandchildren, Roman Davis and wife, Nerlene of Tagbilaran City, Philippines, Justin Davis of Claxton, Ga., Hannah Royal of Harrisonburg, Va., and Grace Royal of Appomattox, Va.; great-grandson, Avalent Davis and his mother, Alishia Gay of Claxton, Ga.; and Dawn’s mother, Marie B. Starling of Belmont, N.C.
Dawn graduated from Western Illinois University. Her dream was to write children’s books but she never had one published. She loved English literature, and as she called it “nest building” with her family on her organic farm although the past few years she was not able to garden. She enjoyed traveling and was blessed to visit a lot of interesting places but always would say “there’s no place like home’. She was an accomplished pianist who taught her children and grandchildren how to read music and play the piano.
A graveside funeral service will be held at Greenwood Cemetery, Belmont, N.C. on Thursday, June 25, 2020, at 2:30 p.m., with Rev. Harry Davis officiating.
A memorial service will be held at a later date in Appomattox, Va.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in her memory to Christian Aid Mission, 1201 5th Street Extended, Charlottesville, VA 22902.
Robinson Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family. An online condolence may be sent by visiting www.robinsonfuneral.com.

Gail  Lane Tucker, 84, of Mount Holly passed away June 14, 2020. She was born January 10, 1936 in Gaston County, a daughter of the late Ewell Clayton Lane and  Nina Shetley Lane.

Gail was a homemaker and an amazing seamstress. She enjoyed crafting, cooking, baking, and anything chocolate. Gail was a breast cancer survivor and a member of Park Street United Methodist Church. She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother who will be missed by many.
Gail is survived by her sons, Greg Tucker and wife, Vicki of Gastonia, and Clay Tucker of Mount Holly; granddaughter, Dr. Emilee Tucker; and numerous nieces, nephews, friends, and caregivers. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Bobby Donald Tucker; sisters, Margaret Jolley, Faye McMahan, Dottie Warren, and Nancy Ottinger; brother, Frances Lane; and granddaughter, Sarah Elizabeth Tucker.     
Services will be private for family and friends. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Susan G. Komen, info-komen.org/site/Donation; 2316 Randolph Rd. Charlotte, NC 28207.
Condolence messages may be sent online at www.mcleanfuneral.com. McLean Funeral Directors of Belmont is serving the Tucker family.

Belmont – Robert “Bob” Sterling Coleman, 76, passed away on May 4, 2020 at Stanley Total Living Center.  He was born in Gaston County on July 10, 1943, the only son of the late Dalwin and Elsie Brewer Coleman.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Amanda Coleman.
Bob was a member of Park Street United Methodist Church Belmont.  He was a very loving husband and father.  Prior to his retirement, he was President of Dixon Ford Motor Company.  He always took pride in caring for his employee’s and his customers.  Throughout his life he volunteered his time to helping others through his church, the Red Cross, UMCOR, Shriners Tripsters, BCO and other community service organizations.  Bob cared for everyone; he was a kind and caring soul.  He will be remembered for his integrity and as a man that was respected by all who knew him.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Shirley Styers Coleman; son, Sterling Coleman; daughter, Sharon Coleman and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
The family would like to thank the staff of Stanley Total Living Center and especially the caregivers in the 400 unit who have been like family for the past two years.
Due to COVID-19, burial will be private with a Memorial Service and receiving of friends at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Bob’s memory to Park Street United Methodist Church, 120 Park Street, Belmont, NC 28012 and/or Shriners Hospitals for Children, 950 West Faris Road, Greenville, SC 29605.
Condolences may be made to www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com
Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia 704-864-5144 is serving the Family.