Obits 2

Victor Daniels Jr.

Wanchese – Victor Vain Daniels Jr. “pumped his boats” out for the last time the morning of Aug. 11 in Wanchese with his family by his side at the age of 73.

He leaves behind a “fine crew” of chilcren, Victor V. Daniels III of Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, Milah D. Elliot and husband Donald Gordon Elliot of Wanchese and Cookie D. Utz and husband,Jon Utz of nags Head, grandchildren Brent and Sarah Eliot and Chloe, Jackson and Jonson Utz who knew him as their beloved “Pop” as did many nieces and nephews.

He was the son of the late Capt. Vick and Edna Tillett Daniels. His sister,Maggie D. Cannady and great-niece Teann Dough, went on before him. His sister,Milah D. Dough and her husband, Bobby Dough live in Wanchese as well as another sister, Lillie “Button” Daniels. He had a long career on the open waters and truly enjoyed his family and friends while on land.

Vick was retired from Marytrans-Corp and was a member of Bethany United Methodist Church.

Funeral services were held Sunday, Aug. 14, at Bethany UMC with the Rev. Dr. Jerome Smith officiating. Burial followed at Cudworth Cemetery.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, assisted the family with arrangements. 

Mario Alleva

Kill Devil Hills – Mario Alleva, 96, of Kill Devil Hills died Wednesday, August 3, at his residence. Born in Philadelphia, Pa., he served his country in the U.S. Army during WW II and later worked as a carpenter. He was a member of The Carpenters District Council of Miami, Fla.. He served as president of the Florida State Council of Carpenters from 1977-1981. He was also a member of the Oleeta-West Dade Masonic Lodge No. 145, the Dare County Shriners and the American Legion, Fort Raleigh Post No. 26.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Ruth M. Alleva, son Joe Alleva, daughter Barbara Mannix and husband Tim; oldest son from a former marriage Frank Alleva and wife Nancy; two grandsons and one great-granddaughter. In accordance with his wishes, he will be cremated. Contributions in his memory may be made to the local SPCA.

Condolences to the family may be sent via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements.

Tommy Gautier

Manteo – Tommy Wilson Gautier, 62, of Manteo died Monday, August 8, at his residence. Born in Hatteras, he was the son of the late Louis Knight Gautier and the late Lettie Rollinson Gautier.

Tommy was a former commercial fisherman and carpenter. He enjoyed gardening, fishing, playing cards, and the company of his cat, Isabel.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, August 12, at 11 a.m. at Twiford Funeral Home, Manteo with the Rev. Roger Barnett officiating. Burial will be in Cudworth Cemetery.

Thanks to all of his special caregivers, family, and friends for being there for Tommy.

Twiford Funeral Homes’ Colony Chapel, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Nosh Sawyer

Elizabeth City - Nosh Abedet Sawyer, 88, of Elizabeth City died Monday, August 8, at the residence of his daughter, Sheila Sawyer. Born in Dare County, he was the son of the late Nancy Sawyer Ambrose, stepson of the late John Tom Ambrose and the widower of Katherine “Kate” Wilson Sawyer. He was a construction representative for the Department of Transportation and a U.S. Navy Veteran of WW II.

He is survived by two daughters, Nancy Cuningham and husband Henry, and Sheila Ann Sawyer all of Elizabeth City; two sons, Larry Sawyer and wife Cheryl of Elizabeth City,  and Frank Sawyer and wife Kimberly of Camden; seven grandchildren, Henry Cuningham III, and wife Wendy of San Jose, Calif., Sally Curtin and husband Randy of Huningtown, Md., Anna Sitterson and husband Ray of Elizabeth City, Lucy Cardwell and husband Steve of Camden, Katie Barker of Bretna, Va., Samantha Sawyer and Zachery Sawyer both of Camden; and seven great grandchildren, Henry Cuningham IV, San Jose, Calif., Kevin Curtin and Danny Curtin both of Huningtown, Md, Lee Bolinsky and wife Catherine of Elizabeth City, Thomas Pillow, Kaylee Barker and Carrie Barker all of Bretna, Va.; and a brother, Coy Ambrose and wife Jeannette of Mann’s Harbor. He was pre-deceased by two brothers, Dalvin Ambrose and Lawson Ambrose.

A funeral service will be Friday, August 12, at 3 p.m. at Mt. Zion United Methodist Church in East Lake with the Rev. Anthony Ralph officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the church and at other times at the residence of Sheila Ann Sawyer, 1015 Macey Jo Court, Elizabeth City.

Twiford Funeral Home, Memorial Chapel, 405 East Church Street, Elizabeth City, is serving the Sawyer family. You may express condolences to the family by visiting www.twifordfh.com.

Kathryn Kreps

Kill Devil Hills - Kathryn Fischer Kreps, 97, of Kill Devil Hills, died Friday, August 5, at Spring Arbor of the Outer Banks. Born in Sharpsburg, Pa., she was the daughter of the late Charles H. and Mary Kathryn Repine Fischer and the widow of William John Kreps. She was a member for over 50 years of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Charleston, W. Va., a volunteer for Sunrise Museum also in Charleston, a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Warrenton, Va., and a was active in various local garden clubs.

Mrs. Kreps is survived by three daughters, Carol Sackett of Durham, Mary Kathryn Kreps of Warrenton, Va., and Laura Kreps Smith of Nags Head; one son, Jeffry A. Kreps of Hudson, Ohio; seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

Twiford Funeral Homes’ Colony Chapel, Manteo, NC is assisting the family with arrangements.

Warren Chamberlain

Manteo – Warren George Chamberlin, 78, of Manteo, died Thursday, August 4, at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. Born in Abington, Pa., he was the son of the late Warren Chamberlin and the late Pauline Chamberlin Ambrose (nee Knox) and was the widow of Faye Ellen Chamberlin (nee McCurry). He was a retired general manager with Sanders Associates, attended Abingdon High School and Penn State University, was a former fire chief with Station 21 Navy Vale Volunteer Fire Department, and was a veteran of the U.S. Navy having served as an officer.

Mr. Chamberlin is survived by three sons, Brian G. Chamberlin and wife, Louann of Canton, Ohio, Richard Alan Chamberlin and wife, Erin of Bristow, Va., and Earl William Chamberlin and wife, Erica of Richmond, Va. and a brother, Earl Alexander Chamberlin of Ocean View, Del. Also left to cherish his memory are five grandchildren, Warren, Russell, Victoria, Madison, and Reagan Chamberlin, and one great grandchild, Landon Chamberlin.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 13, 2011 at 3 p.m. at Twiford Funeral Home, Manteo with military honors rendered by the U.S. Navy. The family will receive friends for a time of visitation immediately following the service.

Twiford Funeral Homes’ Colony Chapel, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Janet Sullivan

Kill Devil Hills- Janet L. Sullivan 85, passed away on July 25, in Kill Devil Hills, at the home of her daughter, Peggy Stovall. Janet was born in Easton, Pa., on May 21, 1926. Her parents were Leroy and Mae Carpenter, and she had one sister, Marilyn. She married Dr. James Sullivan in June of 1949. Janet and Jim had a devoted marriage which lasted 54 years.

A resident of Bloomsbury, N.J. for most of her life, Janet volunteered and was involved in several committees and community events. She was elected twice to the Bloomsbury Town Council, once in 1974 and again in 1977. Janet served as chairwoman of the Board of Health and was the department head for streets and roads. She was also secretary of Bloomsbury’s Bicentennial Committee. Janet and Jim both loved Bloomsbury and could often be found sitting on their front porch waving to folks passing by. Janet especially loved the Bloomsbury Balloon Festival and would ride in a balloon whenever the opportunity arose.

An avid reader J anet was known as the “Strolling Librarian” at Warren Hospital. For 30 years she volunteered weekly to deliver books, smiles and conversation to patients. She was a lifelong member of the Warren Hospital Womens Auxiliary and the Church of the Annunciation. She was also an accomplished Bridge player and met monthly with her girlfriends to play cards, laugh and share stories.

In 2007 Janet moved to the Outer Banks of North Carolina to be close to family. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Peggy and Jerry Stovall, and their children Reed and Austen and her son and daughter-in-law, Barry and Tracy Sullivan, of Manasquan, N.J. and their children, Jimmy, Dan and Samantha. We all wish her peace and will miss her dearly.

A memorial service will be held in Bloomsbury and announced at a future date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Warren Hospital Foundation, 85 Roseberry St. N.J. 08865. Condolences to the family may be sent via the on-line register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements. 

George Weeks

Kill Devil Hills- George D. Weeks, 70, passed away at home Saturday July 30, after a long battle with cancer. George was born in Trenton, N.J.. He was a Vietnam veteran and served bravely in the United States Marine Corps.

Survivors include his daughter, Shelly Weeks, and his brother, Roy Weeks. Plans for a service of remembrance with military honors are pending.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in honor of George Weeks can be sent to the family care of Gallop Funeral Services 6917 S. Croatan Highway Nags Head, NC 27959. Condolences to the Weeks family may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservcies.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.

Geneva Clark

Manteo – Geneva “Ni Ni” Ann Clark, 69, of Airport Road Manteo, passed away Friday August 5, in a Nags Head nursing home after a long illness. A native of Manteo, she was the daughter of the late MacDonald and Mabel Davenport Clark. She was also predeceased by her brother, Donald Ray Clark.

She is survived by nephews Gerry and wife Angela Clark of Easley, S.C.; James and wife Kelley Clark and David Clark both of Anderson, S.C.; Daniel and wife Nora Clark of Holden, Mass. and a host of cousins.

A graduate of Manteo High School and an alumni of “The Lost Colony,” she was employed for nearly 25 years as the assistant manager of The Wilbur Wright Inn and The Orville Wright Motor Lodge in Kill Devil Hills. In later years, she was a care giver to several of Manteo’s older ladies and then spent the last fifteen years of her father’s life caring for him.

An animal lover her entire life, in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Geneva’s memory to Feline Hope P.O. Box 893, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949. A memorial service for family and friends will be announced at a later date. Interment will be at Oakdale Cemetery in Washington, N.C. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Colony Ridge Nursing Home.

James Schmidtke

Kill Devil Hills -James “Jim” Robert Schmidtke, 85, native of Leisenring, Pa. received his Victory in Christ on August 8 in Dare County. Jim, formerly of Portsmouth and Chesapeake, Va., is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Phyllis Mason Schmidtke, and four daughters, Patricia Kitchens (Wayne); Jean Denny (Wayne); Cynthia Scheuermann (Keith) and Pamela Collins (Edison) and six grandchildren: Frances Hanebrink (Kevin); Katherine Denny, Sarah and Lydia Scheuermann, Melissa and Kevin James Collins and one great granddaughter, Alicia Suarez.

Mr. Schmidtke was the son of the late Rudolph Godfrey and the late Emma Marie Schmidtke. Jim was also predeceased by his sister Edwina Ferren. He is survived by two sisters, Joanne and Nancy (Clarence) and two brothers; Paul (Shirley) and Jack (Nikki). Jim was a graduate of Murray State College in Kentucky.

Jim proudly served in the U.S. Navy during WWII. He was an educator in the Portsmouth public school system and was also a real estate broker. He loved dancing, football, gardening, and was a devoted humanitarian. He will be truly missed. The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to Jim’s caregivers: Kelly, Susan and Ronda, and to Community Home Health & Hospice.

A Memorial Service with rendering of U. S. Navy Honors will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, August 11,  at Twiford Funeral Home in Manteo. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim’s honor may be made to your local SPCA. The Outer Banks S.P.C.A. can be reached by mailing a donation to P.O. Box 2477, Manteo, NC 27954 or by visiting their website: ttp://obxspca.rescuegroups.org.

Twiford Funeral Homes’ Colony Chapel, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Nina Overton

Cocoa Beach, Fla.. – Nina Brinn Overton, 93, of Cocoa Beach, Fla and a former resident of Chesapeake, Va, died Tuesday August 2, in her residence. Mrs. Overton was born in Stumpy Point, and was a member of Portlock Methodist Church in Chesapeake, Va. and a volunteer at Chesapeake General Hospital for several years. She was a member of Canbridge Square Senior Club and also First Seniors of South Norfolk.

She was the daughter of the late Cornelius Neal and Etta Emma Austin Payne. Surviving are her son, Larry Brinn and wife Lila Sue of Stumpy Point; Stepsons William “Billy” Overton and wife Linda and Ray Overton and wife Jeanette, both of Chesapeake, Va; three grandsons, Larry Brinn,Jr and wife Dana, of Cocoa Beach, Fla; Steven Brinn and wife Carol of Moyock; and David Brinn of Stumpy Point; Step grandsons, Robert Overton, Raymond Overton , Ryan Overton and Christopher Overton; great grandchildren, Allen Brinn, Brittany Brinn, Joseph Montague, Brandon Montague, Mackinze Brinn, and Colton Brinn, of Stumpy Point; Christopher Ham and Tony Jager of Wasilla, Alaska and step-granddaughter, Heather Overton.

According to Mrs. Overton’s wishes, her body will be cremated and no services are planned. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Sudan Shriner’s Children’s Hospital Fund, P.O. Box 490, New Bern, N.C. 28563-0490.

Rose Conway

Rose Marie Conway, 88, of Kill Devil Hills, July 30, at her residence. She was born in New York City, N.Y. and was a homemaker.

Mrs. Conway was the widow of George William Conway. She is survived by a son, George W. Conway, Jr. and his wife, Barbara and two grandsons, Christopher Michael Conway and Matthew Tyler Conway.

A funeral was held at Roanoke Island Memorial Gardens on Tuesday, August 2, with the Rev. Don Wobser officiating. Entombment will follow in the mausoleum.

Twiford Funeral Homes’ Colony Chapel, Manteo, NC is assisting the family with arrangements.

Phyllis Johnson

Nags Head- Phyllis S. Johnson, 74, died Friday, July 29, 2011 at her residence. Born in Welch, WV, she was the daughter of the late Howard H. and Vicy Smith.

A graduate of National Business College, Phyllis came to the Outer Banks with her husband in 1973. Together they founded the CPA firm now known as Johnson, Burgess, Mizelle & Straub, LLP. She was elected commissioner of the town of Nags Head in 1982, serving four years in that office. She also served on the boards of The Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce, the Outer Banks Woman’s Club, the Rotary-Ann Club and the Business Professional Women’s Association. An avid bowler, she competed in tournaments on both a regional and national level. Through her career, her service to the community and her hobbies, Phyllis developed friendships with people from all walks of life. She will be dearly missed.

Predeceased by her husband, Edgar M. Johnson, Jr., she is survived by his children, Benjamin Johnson and wife, Susan of Farmville, Va., Andrew Johnson and wife, Margaret of Farmville, Va., Johanna J. Beasley and husband, Tommy of Colington; a brother, Jerry D. Smith and wife, Lila of Bella Vista, Ark; eight grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service was held at Twiford Colony Chapel in Manteo, on Saturday July 30, with the Rev. Teresa Holloway and Greg Delp officiating. The family will receive visitors at the home in Nags Head. Contributions in memory of Phyllis may be made to the American Red Cross, Dare County Hospice, and Hands of Hope.

Gordon Pratt

Wanchese - Gordon Lee Pratt, Sr., 64, passed away at his residence in Wanchese, Tuesday morning, July 26. Born in Schenectady, N.Y,, he proudly served his country in the U. S. Army and later worked as a handyman.

He is survived by his wife of 30 years, MaryAnn C. Pratt, of the residence; six sons, Gordon Lee Pratt Jr. of Philadelphia, Bruce Lee of Swan Quarter, Brian Jay of Manteo, Rocky Joseph of Grandy, Vaughn Kenneth of Wanchese, and Joseph Gordon of Philadelphia; three daughters, Lorrie Ann Hanssler of Manteo, Dahna of Philadelphia and Debby of Wisconsin
In accordance with his wishes, he will be cremated and the family is planning a Memorial Service for a future date.

Leola Toler

Kitty Hawk – Leola Estelle Perry Toler, 86, died Tuesday, July 26, at the home of her daughter, Daphne Toler Casper (Raye) Kitty Hawk. She was the daughter of the late Leon Hardy Perry and Eva Estelle O’Neal. She was a member of Kitty Hawk United Methodist Church. With her husband, Sidney, she operated the Kitty Hawk Grocery for a number of years. Mrs. Toler’s biggest love was for her children and grandchildren, and working in her garden.

Along with her parents, she was predeceased by her husband of 62 years, Sidney Caleb Toler, a brother Norman Lee Perry, and a grandson Steven Ray Midgett.

Mrs. Toler is survived by two sisters, Doris Perry Pruitt of Kitty Hawk and Reda Perry Midgett (Edison) of Manteo. She has six children: Tommy Toler and wife, Margaret Joy, of Wanchese, Sandy Toler Midgett and husband, Ray of Southern Shores, Blaine Toler and wife, Gail of Manteo, Daphne Toler Casper and husband, Raye of Kitty Hawk, April Toler Hardison and husband, Carl of Plymouth, and Melanie Toler and Tim Narron of Kitty Hawk. She is survived by 11 grandchildren, Les Toler and Ted Toler of Wanchese, Carrie Toler Booth of Raleigh, Randy Midgett of Elizabeth City, Phebe Toler Cooper of Kill Devil Hills, Kristian Blaine (Buddy) Toler of Kitty Hawk, Shannon Toler Glaser of Florida, Joshua Casper, Jesse Casper and Jeffrey Wescott of Kitty Hawk, Fred Melvin Wescott, III, of Greenville and 13reat-grandchildren; and Shelia Hassell, Leola’s special care giver.

A graveside service wasin Austin Cemetery in Kitty Hawk, Friday, July 29, 2011 officiated by the Rev. Kenneth Midgett.
Twiford Funeral Homes’ Colony Chapel, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Ray Pritchett

Nags Head- Hubert Ray Pritchett, 69, of Nags Head,  passed away Thursday, July 14 at Norfolk Sentara Hospital. Mr. Pritchett was the son of the late Alvin Hubert Pritchett and Nannie Hutchinson. Mr. Pritchett was preceded in death by two brothers, Bill Pritchett and Dwight Pritchett.

He was raised in Hixson, Tenn., where at the age of 17 he left to join the United States Marine Corps. He retired as a gunnery sergeant after 20 years of active service and 10 years in the fleet reserve. During his service he spent more than eight years stationed overseas and did two tours in Vietnam. Being a disabled American veteran he was very proud in his active support of the Disabled American Veterans. In 1984 Ray moved to the Outer Banks, with an air conditioning background. He quickly became a well known and respected small business owner. After surviving lung cancer in 1993, he partnered with his son to start Master Heating & Cooling. He was an avid outdoor sportsman. Affectionately known as “Mr. Ray”. He will be missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his son, Anthony Pritchett and wife Susan, of Kill Devil Hills. Daughter, Lisa Foster of Greenville. Granddaughter, Rhiannon Foster of KDH and beloved office companion canines Sally Mae and Daisy Mae. Sister, Anna Mae (Sally) Elsea of Soddy Daisy, Tenn., and Brother Donald Pritchett of Hixson, Tenn.

A service of remembrance with full military honors was held Wednesday, July 20 at Kitty Hawk Baptist Church, Pastor Don Teears officiating. The family will receive friends at the church following the service and at other times at 1402 Ketch Lane, KDH. Burial of the urn will follow at a future date at the Pritchett Cemetery in his birthplace of Rhea County, Tenn.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in honor of Gunnery Sergeant Hubert Ray Pritchett USMC (ret) to the Disabled American Veterans. Condolences to the Pritchett family may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.

William Rose

Stumpy Point – William B. Rose Sr., 78, died at home at Stumpy Point on July 20. He was born April 13, 1933, in Long Island, New York, the son of the late Stephen B. Rose and the late Ethel Fry. He married and they raised eight children.

Mr. Rose worked as a machinist, truck driver, director of child care at a home for underprivileged children, warehouse manager and landscaper before retiring. In 2000 he married Marge Midgett and resided in Stumpy Point where he served on the volunteer fire department and various civic committees. He was a member of the Stumpy Point United Methodist Church and served on the Pastor Parish Relations Committee.

Mr. Rose is survived by his wife Marge Midgett, eight children, thirteen grandchildren, ten great grandchildren, and a brother, Robert Rose, of Middletown, N.Y. He is also survived by Marge Midgett’s four children, eight grandchildren, and five great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 23, 2011, at 3 p.m. at Shiloh United Methodist Church in Stumpy Point, conducted by Pastor Pamela Stoffel. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Stumpy Point United Methodist Church at 256 Bayview Drive, Stumpy Point, NC, 27978.

Twiford Funeral Homes’ Colony Chapel, Manteo, NC is assisting the family with arrangements.

Clara Meekins

Stumpy Point – Clara Faye O’Neal Meekins, 74, of Stumpy Point, died Thursday, July 14, 2011, in Tarboro Mrs. Meekins was born in Lake Landing in Hyde County and was a homemaker. She was the daughter of the late Charlie Warren and Mamie Gibbs O’Neal and the wife of Charles E. Meekins of the home. Mrs. Meekins is also survived by her daughters, Paula Faye Ross of North Brookfield MA and Shanna M. Harrell of Tarboro; five grandchildren, Nick, Mark, Luke, Leo and her granddaughter Chandler.

In accordance with Mrs. Meekins wishes, her body was given to anatomical study.

A service of remembrance will be Sunday, July 17, at 3 p.m. in Twiford’s Colony Chapel by Rev. Mike Wheeler. The family will receive friends at the funeral home following the service and at other times at 180 Bay View Drive, Stumpy Point. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Stumpy Point Volunteer Fire Dept c/o 218 Bay View Drive, Stumpy Point, NC 27978.
Twiford Colony Chapel 500 Budleigh Street Manteo, NC is assisting the family with arrangements

Roscoe Gallop

Ezekiel Roscoe Gallop, 87, of Wanchese died Thursday, July 14, 2011 at his residence. A native of Wanchese, he was the son of the late Ezekiel Gallop and the late Eleanor Payne Gallop. In addition to his parents, Roscoe is preceded in death by his wife, Gilda Stowe Gallop, his six brothers, Elwood Gallop, Elton Gallop, Elbert Gallop, Ebert Gallop, Erbe Gallop, Early Gallop and four sisters, Elva Gallop Simpson, Elnora Gallop Midgett, Eloise Gallop Payne, and Ezeta Gallop Reber.

He was a member of the Wanchese Assembly of God in Wanchese, founder of Gallop Roofing and was a farmer, fisherman, and boat builder. He will be deeply missed.

Mr. Gallop is survived by dozens of nieces and nephews, his closest and dearest friend, Charles Wescott, and John Mark Quidley, one of the many children that Roscoe helped raise.

The funeral will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, July 18, at Wanchese Assembly of God by the Rev. Mark Hinson with Bro. Benny O’Neal and Bro. Kenny Midgett assisting. Burial will occur in Cudworth Cemetery. The family will receive friends for a time of visitation on Sunday evening from 7 – 9 p.m. at Twiford Funeral Home, Manteo. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made, in Roscoe Gallop’s memory, to Love A Child, P.O. Box 30744, Tampa, Florida 33630.

Twiford Funeral Homes’ Colony Chapel, Manteo, NC is assisting the family with arrangements.

Sonja Jones

Kill Devil Hills – Sonja Hoekstra Jones of Kill Devil Hills, died July 11, 2011 of natural causes at her residence. Mrs. Jones was born in Leiden, Netherlands (1934), the daughter of the late Johan and Neeltje Hoekstra, and wife of the late Walter Jones.
She often told her family stories of being a child during the German Nazi occupation of Holland and the determination needed to survive, such as eating tulip bulbs for food. She later came to America (western Pennsylvania) and opened a gourmet shop and there she met and married Walter Jones. For thirty years, the couple happily lived in retirement on the Outer Banks.
One of Sonja’s gifts was she lived life with huge amounts of energy she directed to purposes she chose, such as caring for animals, growing a fine garden, working with her husband to establish a neighborhood park, or setting her focus on establishing needed community weekly groups.

Growing up in Holland affected her love of all things connected with the sea, whether cooking seafood (fresh tuna salad), salt water fishing, empting/picking crab or eel pots. She especially liked fishing in tournaments and sometimes being awarded N.C. fish citations.

Sonja touched many lives, whether it was teaching water aerobics, playing her weekly bridge games, or making a big batch of fresh tuna salad for the yearly family reunion. She is survived by seven stepchildren-Mary Anne (TN), Suzanne (VA), Nancy Elizabeth (SC), Deborah (SC), Walter (NJ), Diane (LA), and Hunter Brett (FL), and 11 grandchildren.

All her friends are invited to a memorial service that will be held in September. It will be announced on Twiford’s Website. The family requests in lieu of flowers donations be made to an animal care organization. Her family wants to thank her friends and the community for their care, compassion, and kindness during this time. Many of you have opened your hearts to each of us, and we thank you.

Twiford Funeral Homes’ Colony Chapel, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.twifordfh.com.

Jessie Hollowell

Jessie Mae Hollowell, 84, of Manteo, died Friday, July 8, 2011, in Elizabeth City, N.C. Mrs. Hollowell was born in Norfolk, Va. and was a retired housekeeper and paper carrier with The Virginian Pilot. She was a “loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother”.

Mrs. Hollowell was pre-deceased by her parents, Ernest and Elizabeth Lane Hollowell and the wife of the late Joseph Sidney Hollowell.Surviving are four daughters, Norma Layden of Hertford; Betty Hollowell and Shirley York both of Manteo and Cindy Goldsmith of Tarpon Springs, Fla.; one son, Crist Reed of Manteo; nine grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life was held Twiford’s Colony Chapel, Monday, July 11, by the Rev. Charles Tyler. Entombment will be in Roanoke Island Memorial Gardens. Memorials may be made to the National Kidney Foundation, 4819 Park Road Suite C, Charlotte, NC 28209-3842. Twiford Funeral Homes’ Colony Chapel, Manteo, NC is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.twifordfh.com.

Ernest Mickey

Elizabeth City – Ernest Clay Mickey, 80, of 2040 N. Road Street, Elizabeth City, died Thursday, July 7, 2011, at his residence. He was born in Winston-Salem January 19, 1931, to the late Samuel Andrew and Sarah Barkley Mickey. Mr. Mickey was retired from the U.S. Navy after 26 years of service having served in the Korean Conflict and the European Theater. He also retired from Pasquotank County E.M.S. He was a member of Berea Baptist Church and the C. C. Pritchard Sunday School class; member and past Master of New Lebanon #314 AF & AM, a member of the Scottish Rite Bodies of New Bern, member of the Sudan Shrine Temple, New Bern, member and past president of the Elizabeth City Shrine Club and a member of the N.C. Association of Rescue. Mr. Mickey was also a member of the V. F.W. Post #6060, Fleet Reserves, and the American Legion.

He is survived by his wife, Margaret Pritchard Gordon Mickey, a daughter, Gail Twiford and husband, Brason, of Elizabeth City, NC; two sons, Garry Mickey and wife, Paula, of Edenton, and Sammy Mickey and wife, Aline, of Elizabeth City; a step-daughter, Delores Hague of Elizabeth City, and a brother, Jackie Mickey and wife, Ruby, of Germanton. Also, surviving are nine grandchildren, Tammy, Clay, Paul, Buddy, Janie, Laura, Kayla, Kody and Jake; seven great grandchildren, Landon, Wiley, Makenna, Hailey, Kaitlyn, Laura and Sarah; four step-grandchildren and five step great-grandchildren. Mr. Mickey was preceded in death by his first wife, Laura Temple Mickey, a step-son, Don Gordon, and a sister, Peggy Flynn.

Funeral services with military honors will be conducted Sunday, July 10, at 4:30pm in Twiford Memorial Chapel by the Rev. Charles Waller. Masonic Rites will be performed by New Lebanon Masonic Lodge #314. Burial will be in the West Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends and relatives in the lobby of the funeral home immediately following the services and at other times at the residence. The family suggest memorial donations by made to either, Shriners Children Hospital, 2100 North Pleasantburg Dr., Greenville, SC 29606-3194, Berea Baptist Church’s Family Life Center, 2033 North Road Street, Elizabeth City, NC 27909, or to one’s favorite charity. Twiford Funeral Home, 405 E. Church Street, Elizabeth City, NC is assisting the Mickey family. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.twifordfh.com.

Leonard Browning

Buxton – Leonard Larkin “Lee” Browning, Jr. 90, passed away at his residence in Buxton on Thursday, July 7. Lee was born 3/28/21 in Birmingham, Ala., son of Leonard and Ada Redd Browning. A graduate of Georgia Tech, he took time out from college to serve in the Pacific Theater as an army signal corps officer during WWII. As a registered professional engineer, he worked for R.J. Reynolds Tobacco for 35 years.

Lee was a ham radio operator (KA4ZDE), an avid antique radio collector, and a radio history aficionado. It was his passionate efforts that resulted in the historical marker in Buxton being erected to acknowledge the important contributions of Reginald Fessenden. Fessenden was the first person to broadcast words over radio waves and did so from a transmitter in Buxton to a receiver on Roanoke Island.

He leaves behind his wife of more than 60 years, Dixie Burrus Browning; his daughter, Elizabeth Browning Fox, and her children, Randolph Lee Fox and Greyson Hill Fox; his son, Leonard Larkin “Lou” Browning III, and his wife, Linda Meyer Browning; a nephew, Charles Watson; and many loving extended family members.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations, in his name, may be made to Hatteras Island Wildlife Rehabilitation, P.O. Box 216, Frisco, NC 27936.

Twiford Funeral Homes’ Island Chapel, Hatteras, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Olive Germaine

Manteo – Olive Wilson St. Germaine, 95, of Manteo, died Tuesday, July 5, her residence.

Olive, daughter of Henry W. and Sophie H. Wilson, was born in Massachusetts in 1915. She was the widow of Oscar St. Germaine, with whom she owned and operated a small real estate agency in Stoughton for many years.

Survivors include a daughter, Lois Givans and husband James of Manteo; a step-daughter, Lorraine Curry of South Yarmouth, Mass.; four grandchildren, Michael Noyes, Genevieve Noyes, Adam Noyes and Sarah Givans, as well as four great-granchildren, Adyson, Coleman, Cynthia and Alura.

Services will be in Evergreen Cemetery in Stoughton.

Twiford Funeral Homes’ Colony Chapel, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.twifordfh.com.

Jimmie Womack

Nags Head – After a bravely fought battle with cancer, Jimmie Dee Womack, beloved husband of Ramona K. Womack, passed away in Nags Head, North Carolina on July 3.

Jimmie was a proud Air Force veteran serving during the Vietnam era. After his enlistment he was employed by the Department of the Interior as a systems analyst for 35 years retiring in 1999.

In retirement Jimmie and Mona spent many happy hours travelling to Europe and in the United States. He loved the outdoors and spent many hours riding his motorcycle, working in the yard and sitting under his favorite tree listening to the birds. He also enjoyed time with his dogs Sitka and Phoebe. Jimmie’s last wish was fulfilled when he was taken down to the beach to fish one last time. The last week of his life was spent surrounded by the beautiful and peaceful beaches of the Atlantic Ocean.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Virginia Shawgo, and his father James Womack. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Ramona K. Womack, three daughters, Alexa Faulkner (Michael), Valerie Womack, Kara Littleton (Dave) and one son David Hudson (Alice). He had five grandchildren, James and Ian Faulkner, Amanda and Michael Hudson, and Samuel Littleton. There are many family members and friends brokenhearted at the loss of such a wonderful and loving man.

A celebration of his life will be held on July 16 at Bethany United Methodist Church in Purcellville, Va. at 3 op.m..
.
Expressions of sympathy may be in the form of contributions in his name to Bethany United Methodist Church, Handicapped Accessibility Fund, 100 West Main Street, Purcellville, V a. 20132, the Outer Banks Hospital, 4800 South Croatan Hwy., Nags Head, N.C., or the SPCA of your choice.

Twiford Funeral Homes’ Colony Chapel, Manteo, NC is assisting the Womack family.

Janice Williams

Grandy – Janice Williams O’Neal, 69, passed away at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital on Friday, July 1. A native of Colington, she was the daughter of the late Walter Delmar Williams and the late Madeline Quidley Williams. She is also predeceased by her two brothers, Ernest Williams and Dave Williams. Ms. O’Neal was a member of The Rock Church in Morganton and was previously a member of the Ark International Church in Nags Head.

Ms. O’Neal is survived by her daughter, Stacy O’Neal and husband Gregory Humphrey of Colington, her two sons, Leonard O’Neal and wife Brenda of Grandy, Rebel O’Neal and fiancé Linda Bertholf of Elizabeth City and one sister, Christine Young and husband Albert of Morganton, NC.

Also left to cherish her memory are her 6 grandchildren, Rease O’Neal, Walter O’Neal, Madeline O’Neal, Cheryl Hunter, Wayne Starner, Bryanna O’Neal, two great-grandchildren, Owen and Dane Hunter, and one nephew, Marvin Evans.

A Graveside Funeral was held  July 6 at Hilltop Cemetery in Colington with the Rev. Billy Chapman officiating. Twiford Funeral Homes’ Colony Chapel, Manteo, NC is assisting the family with arrangements.

Jimmy Crockett

Manns Harbor – James “Jimmy” Oliver Crockett, 64, of Manns Harbor, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, June 29,  surrounded by his loving family, including his beloved dog, Kizzy. Born in Hampton, Va., he was the son of the late Oliver James Crockett and the late Jeni Parks Crockett.

Jimmy is survived by his wife of 11 years, Crystal Simonds Crockett, his daughter Sarah, two sons, Nicolas and Timothy, mother and father-in-law, Linda and Joe Simonds of Portsmouth, Va., his sister, Sherri Marchelya and husband, Larry of Williamsburg, and a host of nieces and nephews.

A funeral was held Saturday, July 2,  at Grace Lutheran By the Sea Church in Nags Head with Father Fred Barrett officiating. In addition to flowers, donations can be made, in honor of Mr. James Crockett, to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tenn., 38105. Their website http://www.stjude.org/waystohelp

Twiford Funeral Homes’ Colony Chapel, Manteo, NC is assisting the family with arrangements.

Amy Heath

Our beloved Amy Michele Heath, 36, of 46095 Cottage Drive, Buxton, N.C. went to be with the lord on Wednesday, July 6, 2011. She was born on June 13, 1975 in Prince George County, MD. She graduated from Columbia High School, NC class of 1993. She was a dental and personal assistant for many years.

Amy is survived by her mother Annette Heath Markham of Nags Head; a sister, Heather Markham of Columbia; a maternal grandfather, George R. Williams of Elizabeth City; and many uncles, aunts, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her fiancé, Roger Kovac, Jr., and her maternal grandparents Pearl B. Williams and Horace P. Heath.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, July 10, 2011, at 2 p.m. in Twiford Memorial Chapel 405 East Church Street, Elizabeth City, NC with the Rev. Dr. David Turner officiating. The family will receive friends on Saturday, July 9, 2011 from 5 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. at Twiford Memorial Chapel and at other times at the home of the grandfather George Williams, 100 Sunny Acres Drive, Elizabeth City. Twiford Funeral Home, Memorial Chapel, 405 East Church Street, Elizabeth City, is serving the Heath family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.twifordfh.com.

John Salazar

Kill Devil Hills – John Ray Salazar, 56, of Kill Devil Hills, passed away June 25 at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. He is preceded in death by his father, Raymond H. Salazar, his sister, Maria Alicia Salazar, and brothers Raymond A. Salazar and Richard A. Salazar.

John was born and lived in Corpus Christi, Texas until 1988 when he moved himself and his family to the Outer Banks where he started his business, Salazar Construction Services. John spent many years building homes all over the Outer Banks, building was his passion, and he was proud of the completion of his projects. He also enjoyed fishing, listening to music and the beach.

John is survived by his wife and best friend of 35 years, Joyce Marie Salazar of Corpus Christi, his mother, Victoria A. Salazar of Corpus Christi, and his sister Linda (Gary) Hickok of Spokane, Wash, his children, Jonathan L. Salazar of Louisiana, Terry Daniel Salazar, Maureen “Mimi” Nichole Salazar and Marleen Janette Salazar (David M. Hedgebeth), all of Kill Devil Hills. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Shymeek and Nya Pledger of Kill Devil Hills and Janessa Hedgebeth of Manteo, as well as several family members and friends in the Corpus Christi area.

The family would like to thank the doctors and staff members of Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, Deacon Don Wobser of Holy Redeemer By-the-Sea Catholic Church, Ms. Casey Nicole Perry of Kill Devil Hills and Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Gomez of Point Harbor.

A memorial service will be held at Gallop Funeral Services Chapel in Nags Head June 29 at 6:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The John Salazar Memorial Fund c/o Gallop Funeral Services, 6917 S. Croatan Highway, Nags Head, N.C. 27959.

Condolences to the family may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. 

Mary Arrington

Nags Head – Mary M. “Pinky” Arrington, 96, of Nags Head, died June 24 in Nags Head. Mrs. Arrington was born in McKeesport, Pa. and was an artist.

She was predeceased by her parents, Walter R. and Marjorie King Sites, and her husband, Ramsey M. Arrington.

Surviving are one son, Norman Arrington, two grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

According to her wishes, Mrs. Arrington was cremated and her cremated remains will be interred in Sherwood Park Cemetery in Salem, Va.

William “Bill” Swindell

Manteo – William Clark “Bill” Swindell, 86, of Manteo, died June 23 at the home of his son. Mr. Swindell was born in Engelhard and was retired with building and grounds for Dare County. He was a member of Manteo Faith Baptist Church where he served as a deacon and a veteran of the U.S. Army during World War II.

He was predeceased by his parents, William J. and Fannie Elizabeth Swindell and his wife, Hulda Midgett Swindell.

Surviving are two daughters, Margaret Swindell andfriend Randle King of Pinehurst, and Beth S. Cunningham andhusband, John of Wanchese; one son, William Charles “Billy” Swindell and wife, Elizabeth “Lib” of Nags Head; two step-grandchildren, Kelly Wright and Clay Wright. Mr. Swindell was also survived by six “grandpups,” Zach, Bailey, Chad, Harley, Sable and Sydney.

A service of remembrance was held June 26 in Manteo Faith Baptist Church by the Rev. Billy Dennis. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Community Home Care and Hospice, 1601 N. Road St., Elizabeth City, N.C. 27909. 

Robert H. Midgett

Manteo – Robert H. Midgett, 97, passed away June 23 at Colony Ridge Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Nags Head. A native of Manteo, Mr. Midgett moved to Butner in the early ’70′s where he lived until he was admitted to Colony Ridge in October, 2009. He was predeceased by his father, Georgie B. Midgett; his mother, Bessie W. Midgett; his wife, Marilyn D. Midgett, and his brothers, Clifford E. Midgett Sr. and Edgar Midgett. He is survived by his sister, Nadine Ray of Fayetteville, and his loving nieces and nephews.

Mr. Midgett proudly played in many of the early productions of “The Lost Colony” and can be remembered for his beautiful voice and singing in churches throughout Dare County. A graduate of Duke University, Mr. Midgett retired as the manager of the Dare County ABC stores and served his community as mayor of the town of Manteo.

A memorial service was held at Twiford Funeral Home, Manteo, June 27 with the Rev. C.L. Reynolds officiating.

Edna Creef

Manns Harbor – Edna Hassell Creef, 79, of Manns Harbor, went to be with her Heavenly Father June 20. Mrs. Creef was born on Wilson’s Landing in Manns Harbor and was a homemaker andmember of Mount Carmel United Methodist Church where she served as care-taker with her husband. She was a graduate of Manteo High School.

She was the daughter of the late Joseph Walter and Myrtle Wright Hassell and the wife of 61 years of Warren B. Creef of the home.

In addition to her husband, surviving are two daughters, Rhonda Creef of Manns Harbor and Wendy C. Parks andhusband, Mike, of Manteo; three sons, Bruce Creef and Wife, Debbie, Rocky Creef and wife, Gail, and Greg Creef and wife, Anna, all of Manns Harbor; sister Katie H. Lowe andhusband Linwood of Elizabeth City; brother, Charles Creef and wife, Marion, of Clayton; 15 grandchildren: Michael, Melanie, Josh, Megan, Joel, Justin, Kelly, Ashley, Summer, Carolina, Carly, McKayla, Jarrod, Chad and Walker; 12 great-grandchildren: Cora, Hazel, Natalie, Rylie, Cori, Bailey, Brooklyn, Julia, Wyatt, Willow, Kabriya and Bentley; sisters-in-law, Juanita, Alice and Theresa; and a brother-in-law, Willis. Mrs. Creef was predeceased by her sister, Wilma, her brother, George, and a great-grandson.

A celebration of life was held in Mount Carmel UMC June 23 by the Rev. Bettie Francis and the Rev. Jim Tosto. Burial followed in Mount Carmel UMC Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Mount Carmel UMC, P.O.B. 95, Manns Harbor, N.C. 27953.

Twiford Funeral Homes assisted the family with arrangements.

Marvin Forbes

Vriginia Beach, Va. – Marvin Kerry “Tiny” Forbes, 77, of Virginia Beach, Va., died June 21 at his residence. Mr. Forbes, born in Wanchese, served in the U.S. Coast Guard, was a merchant seaman working on a tugboat for Mcalister Towing. He was the son of the late Manliff Forbes and the late Theresa Gallop Daniels andwas the husband of Hattie Hayman Forbes of the residence.

Besides his wife, Mr. Forbes is survived by two daughters, Shelley Bartow andhusband, Larry, of Chesapeake, Va., and Tracy Chapman andhusband, Robert, of Currituck; a sister, Molly Daniels of Wanchese; two brothers, Dr. Richard W. Daniels of Wanchese and William Daniels of Texas; and four grandchildren, Timberly, Hunter, Camron and Kerry-Tucker.

Funeral services were held at Twiford Colony Chapel, Manteo, June 24 with Dr. Richard W. Daniels officiating. Burial followed in Cudworth Cemetery, Wanchese.

Hatton Midgett Jr.

Manteo – Hatton Howard Midgett Jr., 82, passed away suddenly June 21 following a short stay at Colony Ridge Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Nags Head. Born in Manteo and a  lifelong resident, he was the oldest child of the late Hatton H. Midgett Sr. and Georgie Baum Midgett. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Jacqueline Vannote Midgette, and a brother, Robert T. Midgett, both of Manteo. He is predeceased by his sister, Tracy Midgett Griggs, and his brother-in-law, Roy E. Griggs. In addition to his wife and brother, Mr. Midgett is survived by one niece, Tammy Griggs yaekel and close family members, Carson and Kathy Beasley, Steve and Lynn Midgett and an extended family of care-givers who made it possible to stay at home: Cynthia Kolonji, Sucelia Fagley, Edwin Jackson and Daphne malcom.

Hatton joined the Merchant Marines in Virginia as a teen-ager during World War II and completed his education in the armed forces. In 1948, he joined the U.S. Army in the field of transportation and served as a rigger instructor on ships, warrant officer and later captain of a tugboat. He also served his country honorably in the Korean War and Viet Nam during his 22 years of service. Following his retirement from the military, he served 14 years as police chief for the town of Manteo.

His funeral was held at Twiford Funeral Home June 24. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Dick andHelen Scarborough Facility Fund at Mt. Olivet United Methodist Church, Box 787, Manteo, N.c. 27954.

Ethel Parker

Wanchese- Ethel Daniels Parker, 94, went to join her husband and daughter June 16. She was born Jan. 26, 1917, one of 13 children, to Annie D. Daniels andMarcellus W. Daniels. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Marvin Thomas Parker, and a daughter, Ruth Parker Fitchett. She was also predeceased by seven sisters, Mary Elizabeth Tillett, Desselle Parker, Eula Meekins, Terrah Midgett, Virginia Edwards, Annie Christian Ward, Pauline Phalen, and five brothers: Fitzhue Daniels, Wesley Daniels, Clyde Daniels, Ben Daniels and Wilson Daniels.

Left to cherish her memory are three daughters: Janet Parker Johnson of Ocala, fla., Patricia Parker Cahoon andhusband Jerry of Manteo, Mary Parker Pool of Manteo; two sons: William Daniels Parker and wife, Mickey, of Rock Hill, S.C. and Ocala, Fla., Marvin Frederick Parker and wife, Jane, of Wanchese, 14 grandchildren: Marvin Cartwright, Paul Cartwright, Barry Cartwright, Carroll Fitchett Jr., Marvin Fitchett, Arlene Timco, David Fitchett, Kathleen Perry, Cheryl Cahoon Ryan, Jeri Cahoon Lindquist, Millicent Pool Duprey, Pamela Parker Sutton, Ed Parker, Bill Parker; 26 great-grandchildren and ten great-great grandchildren. The family wishes to express special thanks to Cassie Zecher, her devoted niece, for the her loving companionship and compassionate care.

Ethel was a native of Wanchese and was a life-long member of Beethany United Methodist Church. She was a past worthy matron of the Roanoke Isand Chppter 79 OES and Order of the Amaranth-Coastal court #12 and several other lodges and organizations throughout her life.

Funeral Services were held at Twiford Colony Chapel June 18 with Bert Snyder, Asst. minister of Mt. OlivetUMC officiating. Burial followed in Roanoke Island Memorial Gardens, Manteo.

Ron Taylor

Staten Island, N.Y. – Ron Taylor, 58, of Staten Island, N.Y., died June 15 on the Outer Banks. Mr. Taylor was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. and was owner and operator of Dogalmighty Training Company and was an avid animal advocate.

Mr. Taylor is survived by his wife, Joyce Taylor of the residence, and their Yorkshire terrier, Chloe.’

A memorial service will be held at Matthews funeral Home in Staten Island, N.Y. June 26, 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Humane Society of the United States and Best Friends Animal Society.

Marilyn Sacchi

Southern Shores – Marilyn Sacchi, 67, of Southern Shores, passed away unexpectedly June 10 at her residence. Born in Portsmouth, Va., she was the daughter of the late Harry Edward Peccerilli and the late Alma Marie Wise Peccerilli. She was the beloved wife of Joseph John Sacchi, who survives her. She is also survived by her brother, John Edward Peccerilli of Kill Devil Hills.

Her family will honor her wishes to be cremated, and there are no plans for a memorial service at this time.

Twiford Funeral Home, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements. 

William C. Owen

Southern Shores – William C. Owen, 63, passed away in his home in Southern Shores June 6. Bill was born in Richmond, Va. and attended Virginia Polytechnic Institute prior to joining the U.S. Navy. He was an honor graduate of the USNTC, Great Lakes, and served as an instrumentman aboard the USS Proteus.

Bill was a partner and president of Seaboard Surveying and Planning of Nags Head, and some of his noteworthy projects included the move of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and setting up the Fountain Powerboats world record courses. He was president of the N.C. Society of Surveyors in 1997 and was named Surveyor of the year in 1998. He was a board member of the N.C. Board of Registration for Surveyors and Engineers from 1999 to 2004, serving as chair in 2002.

Bill was deeply involved in the Boy Scouts of America, most recently serving as scoutmaster of Troop 117, Kitty Hawk, as well as scoutmaster for the 2010 Jamboree Troop 1735. He earned his Wood Badge beads, along with numerous leadership awards and was a member of the Blue Heron Lodge of the Order of the Arrow, the BSA honor society.

Bill is survived by his wife of 25 years, Janet McDaniel Owen, and 16-year-old son Zack, as well as his parents, William L. Owen and Christine McDowell Owen, and brother David Owen, all of Richmond, Va., along with nephew David Owen and nieces Halley McDaniel and Natalie Gallagher.

A celebration of life with military honors will be held at Kitty Hawk UMC Saturday, June 11 at noon, with a reception following at the family home at 65 S. Dogwood Trail in Southern Shores. The family is receiving visitors at the home in the days prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Friends of Scouting/Albemarle District, or the Southern Shores Volunteer Fire Department. Condolences to the family may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com.  

Raymond Wescott Jr.

Manteo – Raymond Wescott Jr., 72, of Manteo, died June 6 at The Outer Banks Hospital. Born in Manteo, he was the son of the late Raymond Wescott Sr. and the late Eloise Burrus Wescott Sellers. He was a tug boat captain, a member of Mount Olivet United Methodist Church and a member of Manteo Masonic Lodge #521 AF & AM and a Shriner.

Mr. Wescott is survived by his wife, Tanya Dawn Tillett Midgett Wescott of the home; a daughter, Shauna Marie Midgette of Manteo; two sons, Chester Raymond Wescott and Miles Edward Midgette, both of Manteo; two brothers, John Stuart Wescott and wife Ramona of Manteo and Steve Sellers of Jacksonville, Fla.; six grandchildren, Justin Cross, Rayven Walters, Katherine Dawn Wescott, Sierra Midgette, Savannah Midgette and Ashley Hatcher; and a great-granddaughter, Gracie Broggi.

A funeral service was held June 10 at Mt. Olivet UMC with the Rev. Jerry Cribb and the Rev. Roger Barnett officiating. Burial with Masonic Rites followed at Manteo Cemetery. Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Grace Hooper

Stumpy Point – Grace Wineken Hooper, 99, of Stumpy Point, passed peacefully June 4. She served as teacher and principal for 38 years after graduating from Guilford College in Greensboro in 1932. She was recently inducted into East Carolina University’s Educators Hall of Fame. Active in her church, Shiloh United Methodist, she held the positions of secretary and treasurer for more than 60 years, was heavily involved in the church’s Woman’s Society and was a very active member of her community’s many events. She was well-known for her delicious Southern recipes, which will be carried on for generations.

Grandmamawaspredeceased by her loving husband of 54 years, Floyd L. Hooper; infant daughter Jerri Lyon; beloved daughter JoAnne Sutton; granddaughter Jerry Sutton; and brother, Paul Wineken. She leaves behind her cherished granddaughters Bonnie Dudley andhusband Buddy of Chesapeake, Va.; Ellen Fritz andhusband Marc of Virginia Beach, Va.; Valerie Sutton of Chesapeake; one grandson, Adam Sutton of Chesapeake. two great-granddaughters, Nikki Holmes andhusband Chris of Chesapeake; Brittany Wood of Virginia Beach; and great-great grandchildren Taylor Elizabeth and Trace Alexander Holmes.

Until just recently, Grandmama lived alone and was such an inspiration to all of us who knew and loved her. Her spunk and tenacity will be forever remembered. She will be terribly missed, but we are comforted knowing she has been reunited with her loved ones who have gone before.

The family wishes to express their heart-felt appreciation to Grandmama’s friends and neighbors for all their kindness and generosisty over the past years. Mr. Dal, we are forever indebted to you for your wonderful service and friendship to Gracie. She thought of you as her son. We will be eternally grateful. A celebration of her life was held June 8 at Shiloh UMC officiated by the Rev. Dr. Gene Wood.

Twiford Funeral Homes,Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Elizabeth Styron

Hatteras – Elizabeth Anne Styron, 65, passed away June 5 at Colony Ridge Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Nags Head. A native of Hatteras Village, she was the daughter of the late Edgar Lee Styron and the late Cathleen Stowe Styron. Ms. Styron will be remembered for her love of reading and fishing. She especially enjoyed competing in surf fishing tournaments. She was a member of Hatteras United Methodist Church and previously worked in hotel management, managing The Diplomat at the Virginia Beach oceanfront.

Ms. Styron is survived by her two brothers, Homer Styron and wife Mary and Edgar Preston Styron, both of Hatteras, and her four sisters, Brenda Lee Freitager of Asheboro, Ronda Rasmussen of Baden Lake, Sherry Lynn Styron of Asheboro, and Amelia Sue Styron of Roanoke, Va. Also left to cherish her memory are her many nieces and nephews, great-nieces, cousins, andherbest friend, Dee Callahan.

The family will honor Ms. Styron’s wishes to be cremated and scattered in the Atlantic Ocean. A service will be held at a later date. Memorial donations can be made to the Hatteras Island Cancer Foundation, P.O.B. 442, Hatteras, N.C. 27943 or to the Hatteras library.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Hatteras, is assisting with arrangements.

Elsie Ippolito

Kill Devil Hills – Elsie Hines Ippolito, 69, a native of Duck, passed away June 4. Elsie was predeceased by her parents, Lemuel Crawford Hines and Doris Curles Hines, younger brother, Anthony Hines, andhusband, Frank Edward Ippilito Jr.

Elsie grew up in the small fishing village of Duck in the last house on the left, where the paved road ended. She spent muchof her childhood in the undeveloped Martin’s Point. She attended school in Kitty Hawk village, two years of high school at Griggs High, and graduated from Manteo High School Class of 1959. She was scouted for her basketball talent and was fondly nicknamed “Big Red.” One of her favorite pass-times was dancing at the Casino after checking her shoes at the door.

After high school, she married and had three girls. Elsie had many interests but found her calling in the booming Outer Outer Banks real estate market in the early 1980s where she excelled in the timeshare industry. Elsie was a born salesman and believed in her product, the Outer Banks. She was well-known and well-loved by all she encountered. She was adventurous and often followed the timeshare market across the East Coast, but returned to her roots on the Outer Banks. Elsie had a great sense of humor and was always the life of the party. She never met a stranger.

Although medical issues presented challenges in recent years, Elsie was always optimistic and enjoyed her time and new friends at Spring Arbor. Elsie is survived by her daughters, Wanda Willoughby andhusband Ron; Billie Barton Ketcham andhusband Frank; and April Barton Adams andhusband BJ. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Andy Michael, Shana Michael, Ryan Michael, Meagan Gomez, Eric Willoughby, Jesse Willoughby, andseveralgreat-grandchildren. Elsie leaves behind sisters Darlene Turner andhusband Bill; Lynn Hines and Barbara Bradac; brothers Billy Hines and wife Cindy, and Keith Hines and wife Denise. She will also be missed by her devoted shih tzu, Thai.

A memorial will be held Thursday, June 23, 6 p.m., at the new Duck Town Park, 1200 Duck Rd. The family requests that memorials and donations be made to Monarch Beach Club Dare, 823 Highway 64/264, Manteo, N.C. 27954, or Dare County SPCA, P.O.B. 2477, Manteo, N.C. 27954.

Condolences may be expressed via the online register, www.gallopfuneralservices.com.
 

Joseph Monroe

Kitty Hawk – Joseph Leon Monroe, “Joey,” died unexpectedly June 2 at the age of 63. Originally from Elizabeth City, Joey has lived and worked in Kitty Hawk since 1972.

Joey was a veteran of the U.S. army and a long-time member of Ridge Anglers Surf Fishing Club. Founder and proprietor of EverReady Parking Marking, he served on  the Kitty Hawk Recreation Committee and was an active member of Lighthouse Christian Fellowship. He will long be remembered for his distinctive, natural beard and his signature “Whoooo.” He loved life and lived to the fullest, enjoying family, friends and his dog Duke! Joey will be dearly missed by his loving wife, Cathy Gagnon Monroe of the home, his children Melissa Jo and Matthew Joseph, and his granddaughter Madeline Josepine, all of Kitty Hawk. He is survived by his brother, Ron Fields of Mesa, Ariz. He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Doris Monroe of Elizabeth City.

A celebration of his life was held June 5 at Lighthouse Christian Fellowship in Kitty Hawk. Memorial donations in Joey’s honor may be made to The Joey Monroe Memorial Fund of Gateway Bank. Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements. 

Kenneth Perine

Southern Shores – Kenneth Arthur Perine, 79, passed away at his home on Chicahauk Trail in Southern Shores Monday, May 30. Born in Plainfield, N.J., he was the son of the late Edwin Perine and the late Laura Perine(nee Hammond). He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Nancy Perine (nee Reynolds).

Mr. Perine proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy and was a member of the American Legion – Coinjock. He and Nancy moved to Southern Shores in August of 1996. He was an avid stamp collector and a member of Outer Banks Stamp Club.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughters, Diane Ketchan and husbnd David of Freehold, N.J., Cindy Petruk of Limington, Maine, and his sons, Davide Perine and wife Annette of Winslow Township, N.J., Jeffrey Perine andwife Sherry of High Point. Also left to cherish his memory are his eight grand children, Dana Ketcham, Patrick Ketcham, Steven Perine, Mallory Perine, Michelle Perine, Erica Perine, Michael Petruk III and Benjamin Petruk.

A memorial service was held June 3 at Twiford Funeral Home in Manteo. Interment of Cremains followed the service in Southern Shores Cemetery.

Mark Wood

Kill Devil Hills – Mark R. “Josh” Wood, 52, of Kill Devil Hills, died Friday, May 27. Josh was born May 25, 1959 in Charlottesville, Va., son of Bobby T. Wood and the late Fay Ramsen Wood.

Josh was a loving husband, father, son and brother, andafriend to many. A native of Newport News, Va., Josh graduated from the University of Virginia before settling on the Outer Banks. Josh was a self-employed professional painter for more than 20 years. His first love was his family, and he also enjoyed fishing and the outdoors. He will be missed by all of the many whose lives he touched. He is survived by his wife, Jean Hardy Wood and son Walker Hardy Wood, both of Kill Devil Hills; his daughter, Lindsay Brianna Wood, a student at East Carolina University; his father, Bobby T. Wood of Smithfield, Va. and Kill Devil Hills, his brother, Keith C. Wood and wife Cathy, and niece, Hannah, of Southern Shores.

A memorial service will be held in Ark International Church, Nags Head, Tuesday, May 31, 2 p.m., officiated by the Rev. James Lewis. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy, Attn. Supporting the Cause, 485 Half Day, Rd., Suite 200, Buffalo Grive, Ill 60089, 877-883-9942 or to Jean H. Wood c/o Southern Bank, 202 S. CroatanHighway, Kill Devil Hills, N.C. 27948 for the Education Fund for Walker Hardy Wood. 

Melvin Daniels

Melvin Roy Daniels Jr., 88, of Elizabeth City, died May 25 at his residence. Mr. Daniels was born in Wanchese Oct. 7, 1922 to the late Melvin Roy Daniels Sr. and Carrie D. Daniels. He was a retired banking consultant, having served in various positions for more than 50 years with Industrial Bank, Industrial-Commercial Bank, Peoples Bank, Centura Bank and Royal Bank of Canada. Prior to working in the banking community, Mr. Daniels was employed with the N.C. Department of Revenue. He was a member of Bethany United Methodist Church, Wanchese, and attended First United Methodist Church of Elizabeth City where he taught Sunday school for many years.

Mr. Daniels was very involved in his community through civic and fraternal organizations. He served on the Elizabeth City Planning Board, was a former board of directors member for the Elizabeth City Boys Club, a charter member of the Elizabeth City Jaycees, member of Elizabeth City Lions Club where he received the Community Service Award in 2009, a member of the B.P.O. Elks #856, a 32nd Degree Mason of Eureka Lodge #317 AF&AM for more than 50 years, a former president and director of the First Flight Society, past president of Elizabeth City Girls Club and a lifetime board member for Elizabeth City Salvation Army. He was also the first chairman for the First Flight Centennial Commission, a former cast and board member of The Lost Colony, formerly served as a trustee for College of the Albemarle, and he currently was a member of the N.c. Aeronautical Council.

Mr. Daniels served as a member of the N.C. Senate from 1975 to 1985. During his tenure as senator, he served as chairman for the Senate Appropriations Committee, chairman of the South Atlantic Fisheries Council holding the distinction as the only person to chair this council twice. In 1982, he was named one of ten Outstanding Legislators in the United States. After serving in state politics for more than twn years. Mr. Daniels became involved in local politics and was mayor of Elizabeth City from 1987-1989. He received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine from the former governor of North Carolina, James B. Hunt.

Mr. Daniels was responsible for the creation and initial funding for Jockey’s Ridge State Park, “First in Flight” N.C. license plates, Historic Albemarle Tour signage, Museum of the Albemarle, Wanchese Seafood Industrial Park, four lane of U.S. 17 from Elizabeth City to the Virginia state line, and Halstead Bridge at South Mills.

Not only did Sen. Daniels serve our state and local communities, he also served our nation. He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the U.S. Air Force Reserve. He flew coastal submarine patrol missions as well as convoy escort duty offshore in an armed Stinson Sentinel L-3. He retired from the US. Air Force Reserve as a lieutenant colonel. He also was a member of the Civil Air Patrol stationed at the Coastal Patrol Base #16, Manteo, receiving the rank of major before rtiring.

Mr. Daniels attended Campbell from 1939-1941, transferring to N.C. State University where he majored in mechanical engineering. Later he attended Virginia Teach where he received aircraft design certifications. Mr. Daniels received the Distinguished Alumni Award from Campbell University.

He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Gladys Toxey Daniels; their three children, Donna D. Sawyer of Raleigh, Dianne Daniels and husband Peter Rascoe of Southern Shores and Melvin Roy Daniels III and wife Joan of Elizabeth City; a sister, Carolyn D. Voshell of Blacksburg, Va.; seven grandchildren, M. Roy Daniels IV, J. Kane Daniels, Ashley E. Sawyer, W. James Sawyer, E. Caroline Grant, William D. Grant and Andrew J. Grant. He was also preceded in death by a sister, Sybil D. Ward.

Funeral services will be conducted Sunday, May 29, 2 p.m. in First United Methodist Church by the Rev. Mike Frese and the Rev. William Cottingham. Burial will follow in West Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends and relatives at Twiford Funeral Home Saturday evening from 7-8 p.m. and at other times at the residence, 1618 Rochelle Dr., Elizabeth City. Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 401, Elizabeth City, N.C. 27907, Beethany United Meethodist Church, P.O.B. 239, Wanchese, N.c. 27981 or to The Salvation Army, P.O.B. 1967, Elizabeth City, N.C. 27906-1967.

Twiford Funeral Home, Elizabeth City is assissting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.twifordfh.com.      

Pauline Rollinson

Buxton – Pauline Rollinson Rollinson, 89, of Buxton, died May 25 at Avon Medical Center. Mrs. Rollinson was born in Buxton, the daughter of the late Warren Rocky Rollinson and the late Cynthia Tolson Rollinson. Mrs. Rollinson was a homemaker, a quilter and devoted care-giver for her mentally challenged siblings, Lala and Louis. She was a member of Little Grove United Methodist Church andthe Order of Eastern Star, Roanoke Island Chapter #79. She loved everybody and will be sorely missed by all who knew her.

Besides her parents, Mrs. Rollinsonwas also preceded in death by her husband, John L. Rollinson, and a son, Norwood Rollinson; sisters Clara Hackbarth and Emma Lala Rollinson; brothers, James Rollinson, Belton Rollinson, George Rollinson, Charles Rollinson and Louis Rollinson.

She is survived by a daughter, Ann Pearson of Camp Hill, Pa.; two grandchildren, Penny Pentecost of Wanchese, Katherine Miller andhusband Keith of Mechanicsburg, Pa.; three great-grandchildren, Jordan Pentecost of Wanchese, Foster Warren Miller, Margo Pauline Miller, both of Mechanicsburg, Pa., many nieces and nephews, her care-giver, Arthur Fulcher, and her sister-in-law, Audrey Rollinson.

Funeral services will be held at Little Grove UMC at 11 a.m., Saturday, May 28, with the Rev. Cory Oliver officiating. Burial will be in the Rollinson family cemetery, Frisco. The family will receive friends at Twiford Island Chapel, Hatteras, Friday, 7-8:30 p.m.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Hatteras is assisting the family.

Roberta Scott

Roberta Lynn Scott, 55, passed away at her residence on Barbican Way, Manteo, May 23. Born in Livonia, Mich., she was the daughter of the late Stephen Mager and Margaret O’Neal Mager. She is also predeceased by her husband, Gary Scott. She will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, sister andfriend. She was filled with an unselfish love for those she knew and loved.

Mrs. Scott is survived by her two daughters, Amanda Mager of Manteo, Callie Scott of Florida, and her son, Jason Scott. She is also survived by her two sisters, Kathy Olander and Susan Mager, both of Green Bay, Wis., and three grandchildren, Haily Smith, Noah Smith and Laila Scott.

“We were blessed to have her in our lives. Now we live with peace in our hearts, knowing she is at home with Father God. One day we will all be together again. We love you Mom and you will always be in our hearts.”

In accordance with her wishes, Mrs. Scott will be cremated and there is no memorial service planned at this time.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo is assisting the family with arrangements.

John Miller

Avon – John Buren Miller, 76, of Avon, died Monday, May 23, in his residence. Mr. Miller was born in Avon and was retired as BCMS in the U.S. Coast Guard. He was a member of St. John’s United Methodist Church and a member of Cape Hatteras Masonic Lodge #698 AF&AM and also served for six years as board member for Cape Hatteras Electric Coop.

He was the son of Lucy Farrow Miller of Avon andthe late Dallas Buren Miller andthe husband of Nita Price Miller of the home. Also surviving are his daughter, Teresa M. Midgett andhusband Barry of Avon and his son, John Buren Miller Jr. and wife Jettie, also of Avon; one brother, Dallas Miller and wife Lois of Avon; two grandchildren, Blake Miller and Amanda Midgett and one great-grandchild, Jasmine Midgett, niece Michelle, great nieces Alexandria and MacKenzie and great nephews Gavin and Zachary. He was predeceased by his grandson Juston Yopp.

A celebration of life will be in St. John’s United Methodist Church, Thursday, May 26, 2 p.m. by the Rev. Roger Dill and the Rev. Bryan Gray. Military honors will be held at the church and Masonic Rites will be held at the graveside in Hooper Cemetry in Avon. In addition to flowers, memorials may be made to St. John’s UNC, 40336 McMullen Rd., Avon, N.C. 27915.

Fred Chamberlain Jr.

Kitty Hawk – Fred Kelly Chamberlain Jr. passed away May 21 at Outer Banks Hospital. Kelly was born in Colorado Springs, Colo. He was the son of the late F. Kelly Chamberlain Sr. and Florence Cragen and the brother of the late Finis Chamberlain.

Kelly was raised in both Colorado and Texas. In 1948, Kelly enlisted in the Marine Corps and served four years, with seven months served in the Korean conflict. He was awarded a meritorious sergeant rating in the field and was also awarded the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Korean Service Medal with one bronze star, the United Nations Service Medal and the Korea War Service Medal.

Kelly earned an MBA and a Master of Finance from Loyola College, Baltimore, Md. and was a member of Alpha Sigma Nu (Jesuit Honor Society). He was a certified cost estimator/analyst and worked primarily in the aerospace industry and in the U.S. government. He was an adjunct professor of the University of Phoenix, teaching for 19 years.

Kelly was a past president of the California chapter of the Society of Cost Estimating and Analysis (SCEA) and published several articles in scholarly journals and other publications. He was a commandant of the Marine Corps League, Outer Banks Detachment, #1264 from January 2009 to January 2011.

Kelly is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Judith Ann Chamberlain, two daughters, Ruth Ann Parish and Linda Louise Hoyt and her husband, Brad; his granddaughter Erica Christine Hastings and husband Timothy, two great-grandchildren Andrew and Luke, and a host of extended family members and dear friends.

The funeral, with military honors, will be held graveside at Austin Cemetery in Kitty Hawk Thursday, May 28, 11 a.m. The Rev. Robert Pitsch will officiate. Condolences to the family may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com.

 

Betty Frazier

Kill Devil Hills – Betty J. Mitchell Frazier “Mimi,” loving mother and devoted wife, died peacefully at her home in Kill Devil Hills May 18. Mrs. Frazier was born in Spring Lake, N.J. and lived for many years in Beach Haven, N.J.

She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Edward Leonard Frazier of the residence; three children, Gail V. Frazier and husband John Matullo of Punta Gorda, Fla, Gary M. Frazier and wife Stephanie of Kill Devil Hills and Grace Petrowski and husband John of Barnegaat, N.J., and five grandchildren Lana, John, Jesse, Devin and Maclean.

A graveside service was held May 23 at the Albert Horton Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery, Suffolk, Va. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to Community Homecare & Hospice, P.O.B. 130, Engelhard, N.C. 27824. Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Jeffrey Absher

Kill Devil Hills – Jeffrey Steven Absher, 55, beloved husband of Clare Asher and loving devoted father of Casey Absher and Joshua Absher and wife Leah Absher of Kill Devil Hills, died May 16. Born in Pensacola, Fla., Nov. 12, 1955, he was the son of the late George W. Absher Jr. and is survived by his cherished mother, Jeane Mazzullo Absher. He is also survived by two brothers and sisters-in law, Trey Absher and Donna Absher of Seneca, S.C. and John Absher and Laureen Absher of Greenville, S.C.; two sisters and brother-in-law, Cherie and Ron Hutchison of Vienna, Va. and Teri Klinosz of Oakton, Va.

As Captain Jeff, he passionately enjoyed boating and entertaining friends while navigating waters along coastal North Carolina and further south in the Florida Keys. On land as Coach Absher, he spent his free time on baseball diamonds and soccer fields coaching his children and countless others. Freelancing as a computer programmer for a variety of local businesses, Jeff later started and operated his own Internet health-care company.

Life celebrations were held May 20 at Holy Redeemer By-the-Sea in Kitty Hawk. Memorial contributions may be mailed to UNC Lineberger, Campus Box 7295, Chapel Hill, N.C. 27599-7295 or online at http://unclineberger.org/gift/on behalf of UNC Cancer Outreach Clinic of Dare County. Donations may also be mailed to Outer Banks SPCA, P.O.B. 1000, Manteo, N.C. 27954.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.

D. Leroy Williams

Kitty Hawk – Delano Leroy Williams, 69, of Kitty Hawk, passed away at Colony Ridge Nursing andRehabilitation Center in Nags Head May 17. Born in Portsmouth, Va., he was the son of the late Raymond L. Williams and the late Dona L. White Beasley. In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by his sister, Elva Waterfield andhis brothers, Raymond Williams and Bunky Williams.

Mr. Williams proudly served in the U.S. Navy and was past chief of the Kitty Hawk Fire Department. He was a member of Kitty Hawk United Methodist Church and owned Williams Maintenance and Repair. Leroy had also previously worked at Southern Shores Realty and T.A. Loving Co.

He is survived by his daughter, Lechelle Spalding of Kitty Hawk, Donna Hanusik andhusband Edward of Manteo, a sister Dona Faye Ellsworth of Florida; and his three grandchildren, Haleigh Spalding, Owen Spalding and Benjamin Hanusik. Also surviving is his wife, Nana King Williams of Kill Devil Hills.

The funeral will be held Friday, May 20, 2 p.m., at Kitty Hawk UMC with visitation to be held from 1-2 p.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow in Austin Cemetery. A reception will be held at the church following the committal in the cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to Kitty Hawk Fire Dept., P.O. Box 207, Kitty Hawk, N.C. 27949.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo is assisting the family with arrangements.

Kenneth F. Heezen

Nags Head – Kenneth Franklin Heezen, 80, passed away peacefully at his oceanfront home Saturday, May 14. He was born in Bowdie, S.C. May 10, 1931. The eldest of two children, Ken grew up in Buchanan, Mich. He graduated from Western Michigan University with degrees in mathematics and psychology and did graduate work at the University in engineering, getting his P.E. in mechanical engineering in 1978.

Ken met the love of his life, Patricia Chandler, in South Bend, Ind. and they were married June 9, 1956. In 1959, Ken and his family arrived at Cape Canaveral, Fla. to join the race to the moon as one of the pioneering engineers working on the United States space program. Ken loved to tell stories of his professional career as a rocket scientist for NASA, working on both the Gemini and the Apollo space programs. He said his proudest professional achievement was being part of the ground team that helped Apollo 11 land the first humans on the Earth’s Moon on July 20, 1969. Ken’s name is welded on a steel beam at the top of NASA’s 525-foot-high vertical assembly building at Cape Kennedy.

Ken loved spending time at his Nags Head beach houses, sharing bushels of crabs and oysters with his daughters and with a wide circle of friends. One of his favorite hobbies during his retirement years was real estate investing, and he took great joy in the practical application of math to everyday life. He was naturally good at sports and games of logic and skill and was an avid college basketball fan. He loved music and was a particularly good dancer, enjoying especially the Big Band sounds of Benny Goodman and Artie Shaw. His passtimes also included dogs, fishing and a well-known passion for lighting fireworks.

Ken is survived by his wife Pat Heezen, his chaldren and their families, Sharon and Mike Altiser and their children, Heather, Casey and Nick; Sandra Heezen and Andrew Goldkuhle and their children, Maxwell, Carolina and Jolena. He was preceded in death by his parents, Franklin and Annette Heezen, sister Barbara Anderson and son Frank Heezen.

Family and friends will celebrate Ken’s long and joyful life at a memorial service to be held in the Outer Banks later this year. A mass will be said in his memory at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Nags Head June 4, at 5:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to a local charity of choice.

Condolences to the family may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. 

Avis “Nanny” Saunders

Wanchese – Avis L. “Nanny” Saunders, 77, of Wanchese, died May 13 at Sentara Nursing Center – Currituck. Born in Wanchese, she was the daughter of the late Luther Haywood Midgett and Erma Hayes Midgett. She was a member of Wanchese Assembly of God and was a homemaker.

Mrs. Saunders is survived by her husband, Willie Gus Saunders, Jr.; three daughters, Anita Saunders Ballance of Manteo; Licia “Buggy” Saunders Boehler of Wanchese; Simona Lee Saunders of Wanchese; two sons, Terry Haywood Saunders of Manteo and Gaston Lionel Saunders of Wanchese; ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at Twiford Funeral Home, Manteo, Sunday, May 15, at 3 p.m., with the Rev. Jeff Gray officiating. Burial will be in Cudworth Cemetery. The family will be receiving friends at the home of her daughter, Licia “Buggy” Saunders Boehler, 69 Mosley Lane, Wanchese.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.e

Evelyn Davis

Manteo – Evelyn D. Davis, 78, of Manteo, died May 11 in Nags Head. Mrs. Davis was born in Manteo and was retired from the Dare County Sheriff’s Dept. after 20 years of service and was a member of ManteoBaptist Church. Mrs. Davis served her country honorablyin the U.S. Marine Corps.

She was the daughter of the late Clarence Alvin and Eileen Midgett Sears Dowdy. Surviving are her son, Mitchell Clifton Davis of Manteo and grandchildren, Sarah and Evan Davis. She was predeceased by her sister, Barbara Dowdy Wood.

A celebration of life was held in Twiford Colony Chapel May 13 by the Rev. C.L. Reynolds. Burial was in Manteo Cemetery.

Michael Nash

Petersburg, W. Va. – Michael Lee Nash, 55, formerly of Duck, passed away May 9 in Petersburg, W. Va. He was preceded in death by his parents, Orvin and Myrtle Nash, and his daughter, Eva M. Heuneman. He leaves behind a son, Charles E. Nash, a grandson, Tyler Heuneman, his sister Patricia F. Bray, and two nieces, Amy and Sara Bray.

Mr. Nash Was a life-long resident of Duck. He was a 1973 graduate of Manteo High School, worked as a master carpenter and leaves many masterpieces of his work on the Outer Banks. In recent years, Mike found love and peace with his partner, Wanda Jones of Petersburg, W. Va.

A memorial service was held May 14 at Twiford Funeral Home in Manteo. Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, assisted the family with arrangements.

Shawnee Brothers

Wanchese- Shawnee Tillett Brothers, 90, of Wanchese, died May 8 in Wanchese. Mrs. Brothers was a homemaker and a “very loving mother.” She was a member of Bethany United Methodist Church and Home Workers Society.

She was the daughter of the late WoodsieD. and Arletta Daniels Tillett and the wife of the late Julian J. Brothers.

Surviving are three daughters, Gail B. Houston of Grifton and Wanchese; Linda B. O’Neal and Mona B. Midgett, both of Wanchese; eight grandchildren, Brett Houston, Michael Houston, Nicole O. Harper, Colby O’Neal, Ashley O’Neal, Lisa M. Johnson, Leah Midgett, Bradley Midgett and 12 great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life was in Bethany UMC May 11, officiated by the Rev. Bill Ballance. Burial was in the Tillett Cemetery in Wanchese. Memorials may be made to Outer Banks Christian Radio, Bethany UMC Building Fund or Dare Home Health and Hospice.

William E. Barrett

Southern Shores – William E. Barrett passed away May 3 at Albemarle Hospital in Elizabeth City. Bill was born in White Plains, N.Y. He was the son of George L. Barrett, Sr. and Elizabeth Stanfield Barrett and the brother of George L. Barrett, Jr. who died in 1974. He was predeceased by his sister-in-law Helen R. Galvin and his nephew, Barry F. Galvin.

Bill attended White Plains High School, was a star baseball player and attained the rank of Eagle Scout. He then joined the United States Navy in 1942 and served his country bravely in the European and Pacific theaters of World War II. Following his military service, Bill met and married his life-time love, Margaret Culyer. He joined the Metropolitan Golf Course Association and the Power Boat Association of the East Coast. He loved racing power boats. The couple eventually moved to Armonk, N.Y. to raise their family. There he founded his own business, Austin & Barrett, Inc. – a light industrial turf equipment and services company affiliated with International Harvester. The company specialized in golf courses and public health institutions throughout Westchester County and Connecticut. Bill and Margaret grew the business into a successful venture over some 28 years. While in Armonk, he was active in the Little League and the Dad’s Club, the Bird and Bottle Club, and he organized the Yale Farms Softball Team. Besides his extensive civic and sports activities, Bill was an avid hunter, fisherman and golfer.

In 1988, Bill retired to Cranberry Lake, N.Y. where he indulged in his favorite pasttimes. Always active, Bill was a member of Clifton Fine Golf Course as well as the Cranberry Lake Boat Club and the local hunting club. In later years, Bill and Margaret wintered regularly in the Outer Banks and Florida.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his devoted wife of 65 years, Margaret E. Barrett of Cranberry Lake; three sons, William G. Barrett and wife Joan of Ridgefield, Conn., Ronald C. Barrett of Southern Shores, Wayne E. Barrett and wife Sandy of Denver, Colo.; four grandchildren, four nieces, two nephews, a sister-in-law and a host of extended family members and dear friends.

Plans for a memorial service with military honors at Kensico Cemetery in Valhalla, N.Y. are pending. Condolences may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements.

Jesse Lee

Kitty Hawk – Jesse Thomas Lee, 90, of Kitty Hawk, passed away at his home in Kitty Hawk Friday, May 6. Born in Portsmouth, Va., he is the son of the late William and Julia Lee. He is preceded in death by his wife Louise and by one granddaughter, Laury Gauvreau. Mr. Lee was a member of the American Legion and Knights of Columbus. He was a Freemason and was a World War II veteran of the U.S. Navy.

Mr. Lee is survived by one sister, Mary Ellen Morgan of Rockville, Md., one daughter, Helen L. Gauvreau and husband Fredrick of Point harbor, two sons, Jesse T. Lee of San Francisco, Calif, Joseph W. Lee of Williamsburg, Va.; five grandchildren, Char Gauvreau, Ed Gauvreau and wife Maureen, Pam Bass and husband Blair, Celine Lee and Courtney Lee; five great grandchildren, Matthew, Cassidy, Julia, Madeline, Amelia and “one special great-grandson on the way.”

TwifordFuneral Homes, Manteois assisting the family with arrangements. The funeral was held May 9 in TwifordFuneral Home. Burial followed at Roanoke Island Memorial Gardens. 

Charles Aquirre

Kitty Hawk – Charles Henry Aguirre, 86, of Loganville, Ga., formerly of Kitty Hawk, passed away May 2 at Eastside Hospital in Snellville, Ga. Mr. Aguirre was born in Tampico, Mexico June 14, 1924. He was the son of the late Fernando Aguirre and Cynthia HaymanAguirre. He was retired From Norfolk Southern Railroad and was an insurance broker. Charles was preceded in death by one sister and two brothers. Charles was raised in the Methodist Orphanage in Raleigh as was his wife, Carolyn. They had so many wonderful memories of their days spent there and loved all their many brothers and sisters and spent many times reminiscing about them. Charles was an avid genealogist, was a member of Manteo Masonic Lodge #521 AF&AM and a Shriner. He loved people and dearly loved his nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Aguirre is survived by two daughters, Linda Marie Toler of Lexingotn and Sharlene Ellizabeth Dimpsey of New Bern; one granddaughter, Elizabeth Toler of Lexington; one grandson, Stephen Dimpsey of Raleigh; and two great-grandsons in Lexington.

Funeral services will be held at Twiford Colony Chapel, Manteo, Saturday, May 7, 11 a.m., with the Rev. Tom Jennings officiating. Burial will follow in the Elijah Baum Cemetery, Kitty Hawk. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday evening, May 6, 6-8 p.m.

Brian Pursell

Kitty Hawk – Brian Wayne Pursell, 47, of Kitty Hawk, N.C. and Wakefield, Va., passed away in Kitty Hawk May 1. Brian was a native of Virginia Beach and a graduate of First Colonial High School there.

He was a real estate caretaker in Kitty Hawk and Wakefield. An avid outdoorsman, Brian liked to surf, fish, hunt and ride motorcycles. He went nowhere without his cherished dog and partner in fun, Rex.

Brian is survived by his parents, Donald Wayne Pursell and Eleanor Early Pursell; his two brothers, Darius Early Pursell and Donald Douthat Pursell, all of whom reside in Las Vegas, Nev.; uncle, James Russell Early Jr. of Virginia Beach and cousin, Loris G. Longest of Chester, Va.

A memorial gathering will be held on Brian’s street in Kitty Hawk Saturday, May 7, at 4 p.m. A graveside service will be held at Wakefield United Methodist Church in Wakefield, Va. Monday, My 9, at 11 p.m.

Twiford Funeral Homes,Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.

William Snider

Salvo – William “Bill” Ray Snider, 73, of Salvo passed away May 1. Born Dec. 4, 1937 in Sidney, Ohio, he was the son of the late Kenneth Ray Snider and the late Ollie Christina Snider (nee Helman). He had two siblings which include his late brother, Robert, and his surviving sister, Lois. Bill graduated from Houston High School, Class of 1956, and followed by joining the Marine Corps. He was honorably discharged after three years of service. Bill married Barbara J. Snider (nee Robbins) June 27, 1959.

While starting their family, Bill worked for the city of Piqua, Ohio as the water system superintendent, from which he retired after 26 years of faithful and dedicated service to the city and its citizens. Upon retiring, Bill and Barbara became residents of the Tri-villages on Hatteras Island. He soon started his own business, Bill’s RV Service. In addition to being a dedicated worker, he had a passion for fishing, hunting, traveling and being with family. Bill was a respected member of the community and will be greatly missed by all.

Bill is survived by his lovely wife, Barbara J. Snider, his three children, Kathryn A. Snider-Warren and her husband Thomas, Kenneth W. Snider and Jill Schondelmyer, and Scott A. Snider and wife Lynnette; his four grandchildren, Erin N. Porter and her husband Richmond, Jennifer “Jaki” J. Warren and her fiance Cody Craig, Justin L. Schondelmyer, Emily K. Scholdelmyer and three great-grandchildren, Austin Porter, Jobell Christine Porter and Barbara Jean Craig.

The funeral was held May 5 at Fairhaven United Methodist Church with the Rev. Tom Murphy officiating. Military honors were rendered. Inlieu of flowers, donations canbe made to the American Heart Association by visiting teir website, www.donate.americanheart.orgor mail P.O. Box 5216, Glen Allen, Va. 23059-516, phone 1-800-242-8721. Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Gus Granitzki

Manteo – Gustav “Gus” Granitzki, 91, of Manteo, died Sunday, May 1, at Spring Arbor Assisted Living Center, Kill Devil Hills, where he had resided for the last 2.5 years. Mr. Granitzki was born Jan. 10, 1920, in Garwood, N.J. to Gustav and Anna Ewald Granitzki. He took a job at age 16 as a tool and die maker’s apprentice, then served in the U.S. Army Reserves in World War II. Upon his discharge from service, he was employed by National Pneumatic Co. in Garwood, N.J. There he met and married Evelyn Saladin Feb. 14, 1948. In 1952, he started his first cabinet-making company in New Jersey. During the ’60′s, Gus and Evelyn joined the Wally ByamAirstreamTravel Club and during their travels, fell in love with the Outer Banks, spending most of their visits at Sandpiper Trace Campgroud in Manteo. In 1972, at the age of 52, Gus decided to sell his business in New Jersey and move to Manteopermanently. It was here that he started his secondcabinet shop, Island Woodcrafts Ltd.

Gus was a strong community supporter and served on many committees including the Manteo Board of Adjustment, the town of Manteo Planning and Zoning Board, five years as a Manteo town commissioner, Dare County Tourism Board, andin Nov. 1991, was elected mayor of the town. Upon his nomination by Sen. Marc Basnight in 1994 andagain in 1996, he served on the Roanoke Island Commission. In 2005, Gus received the first Dare Day Citizen of the Year Award. He was a member of the American Legion, the Civil Air Patrol, the Lions Club, the USCG Auxiliary and Mt. OlivetUnitedMethodist Church. Gus’ special joy was dancing, especially with his wife, Evelyn. They loved to jitterbug and were avid square dancers, belonging to many clubs in New Jersey and NorthCarolina. He even enjoyed dancing with his caregivers at Spring Arbor during special occasions and loved listening to the Heartland Band. Gus enjoyed many hobbies, including amateur radio, photography, gardening, and his favorite of all, orchids. He often carried one of his most beautiful orchids to Jean Basnight to put in the window of the church.

Gus is survived by his daughter, Linda G. Boyd, andhusband Jim or Nags Head; son Cliff Granitzki and wife Tanya of Manteo; Jeff Granitzkiand wife Elizabeth of Manteo; son Donald Granitzki of Raleigh two grandsons, Kevin Cawley of Melrose, Fla., Jesse Granitzki and wife Cara and their three children, Bradley, Ayden and Taylor of Manteo; and one brother, Elmer Granitzki and wife Ollie of Cranford, N.J.

A memorial service will be held at Mt. OlivetUMCThursday, May 12, 1 p.m. with the Rev. Jerry Cribb officiating. A reception will follow in the church fellowship hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mt. Olivet UMC, POB 787, Manteo, N.C. 27954. Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.   

Joyce Holcomb

Kill Devil Hills – Joyce Holcomb, 78, was pronounced dead at Pitt Memorial Hospital in Greenville April 28. Born Joyce Marie Owen Sept. 12, 1932, in Roanoke County, Va., she was the daughter of the late Jeremiah Jacob Owen and the late Maude Victoria Owen. Joyce lived in Roanoke, Va. until 1981, when she moved to the Outer Banks where she enjoyed a career in real estate.

She is survived by one of her 12 siblings, her sister, Betty Owen Cooper of Elliston, Va. and her four children, all currently residents of the Outer Banks: Drema Holcomb, Lawrence (Sonny) Holcomb and his wife Dawn, Amanda Marie Patrick, George William (Chip) Holcomb III and his wife Wendy.

“Granny” Holcomb had 11 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Her grandchildren include: Angela Daniel, Ian Daniel, Daniel (Buck) Rogers, Brandon Holcomb, Matthew (Matt) Bissell, Jordan Holcomb and Jamie Holcomb, all residing on the Outer Banks. Also Nicole (Nikki) Daniels and her husband Brian of Harbinger, Sam Rogers and his wife Kristin of Aydlett, Jacob (Jay) Holcomb and his wife Maleik of Charlotte and Joshua (Josh) Holcomb and his fiancee Heather of Roanoke, Va.

A private memorial will be attended by family on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 9, Oceanside on the Outer Banks.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteoisassisting the family with arrangements.

Joshua Livesay

Wanchese – Captain Joshua Leigh Livesay, 34, of Wanchese, died Saturday, April 30. Born in Elizabeth City April 6, 1977, he was the son of Ron “Bubba” and Donetta Livesay of Wanchese. He is survived by his daughter Ava Livesay, her mother Allison, and his brother, Caine Livesay. He is also survived by his grandparents, Lois Webb and Irene Livesay, and great-grandmother Stella Blackburn. Josh was preceded in death by his grandparents, Gerald Webb and Edward Livesay.

Capt. Livesay was a self-employed waterman. He was a member of First Assembly of God in Manteo.

Memorial services are planned for Monday, May 9, 2 p.m., on the beach at Jennette’s Pier. Parking will be available. The family requests  in lieu of flowers, that memorials be directed to a fundin the name of his daughter, Ava Mason Livesay, at any branch of RBC-USA Bank. They are receiving friends at their home, 146 Tillett Road, Wanchese.

William Dashiell

Kill Devil Hills – A memorial and paddle out ceremony will be held for William Douglas “Doug” Dashiell, 56,who  died unexpectedly at his home New Year’s Eve. The memorial will take place Saturday, May 7, 2 p.m., at Helga Street Beach Access in Kill Devil Hills. Parking will be available along Raymond, Ave.

Linda Barbee

Stumpy Point – Linda Joyce Wise Barbee, 68, died April 28 at her home in Stumpy Point surrounded by her family and friends.

As the owner of Village Doll Works, she spent many years teaching classes on porcelain doll-making. A life-long Methodist, she was most recently a member of Mount Olivet UMC in Manteo where she sang in the choir. She remained an active member of the United Methodist Women at Shiloh UMC in Stumpy Point. She was a proud Democrat and member and former president of The Southern Albemarle Association.

She was born in Norfolk, Va., Oct. 20, 1942 to Alva and LelandWise, deceased. She is survived by her husband of nearly 51 years, Lcdr. USN Ret. Benjamin D. Barbee. Surviving daughters are Julie Barbee Wescott andher husband Anthony of Mount Pleasant, S.C., Deanna Barbee Chabay andher husband Edward of Washington, D.C., and four cherished grandchildren, Justin and Ben Wescottand Amanda and Elizabeth Chabay. Surviving siblings are Robert Wise of Swan Quarter and Alice Wise of Charlotte.

The family will received friends and relatives at Twiford Funeral Home, Manteo, Monday, May 2, 6-8 p.m. A celebration of life will be held at Mount Olivet UMC Tuesday, May 3, 11 a.m., with the Rev. Jerry Cribb officiating. Burial will be in Shiloh UMC Cemetery.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Cecilia Telego

Southern Shores – Cecelia Gibalski Telego, 94, passed away at The Outer Banks Hospital April 26. Born in Buffalo, N.Y., she was the daughter of the late Francis Gibalski and Helen Gibalski (nee Rejowski). In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by her sisters, Alfreda Otto, Viola Mroz and her brothers, Zigmund Gibalski and Henry Gibalski.

Ms. Telego enjoyed reading and loved the family animals who all adored her. She was very involved with the Red Hat Society’s Outer Banks Chapter, the Southern Rubies. Another thing that brought enjoyment to her was watching sports on TV, especially her beloved Buffalo Bills. She even had a garden spot where her Buffalo Bills flag stood as a centerpiece.

Ms. Telego is survived by her daughter, Sharon T. Huttermann and husband Tom of Southern Shores; her niece, Lynn Mroz of Orlando, Fla; ;and her grand nephews, Matthew Mroz (wife MaryAnne) of Buffalo, N.Y., Jared Mroz of New Jersey, Michael Mroz of New Yort state and Andrew Mroz of Albequerque, N.M.

A celebration of her life will be organized by the family and announced at a later date.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Gethin Joseph Kurtz

Kitty Hawk – Ltc. Gethin Joseph Kurtz died at home in Martin’s Point, Kitty Hawk, April 25. He was born in Hershey, Pa. to Collie and Gethin Andrew Kurtz June 8, 1932. He graduated from Hershey High School in 1950 and Gettysburg College in 1954 where he was president of Phi Sigma Kappa; elected to Who’s Who Among American College Students, participated on swim, soccer and track teams, and ROTC. He married Shirley J. HanshueofUnionDeposit, Pa. and went with her to Barlow, Fla. and Goodfellow Air Force Base in San Angeles, Texas for flight training. Another two years was spent flying multi-engine aircraft out of Harlingen, Texas.

Upon returning to Pennsylvania after Air Force discharge, he entered a two-year executive training program with Bell of Pennsylvania, moving to Wilkes-Barre as business manager and then district sales manager. He missed flying, so he joined the Pennsylvania 28th Army national Guard Aviation Division. In 1966, he returned to Harrisurgmakingachange in career with Merrill Lynch, which took him to New York City for training as a stock broker, later managing the offices of Hornblower, Weeks, Hemphill & Noye, finally retiring from Smith Barney in 1997 after 30 years as a financial consultant.

His 28-year military career terminated in 1982 as a lieutenant colonel, state finance officer of Pennsylvania 28th Division National Guard. During that time, he flew single, multi-engines and helicopters with 4,500 air hours, retiring as master pilot and member of MOAA. Col. Kurtz also gave to the community. He served a six-year term as school board directer of  Susquehanna Township, Dauphin County, Pa.; was active in Rotary; treasurer of Harrisburg YMCA for five years; president of the Harrisburg local chapter of Gettysburg College Alumni Club and president of Gettysburg College Alumni Association. He also served on board of fellows 1985-90, board of directors for Keystone Boy Scouts for 15 years; and was president of the Gettysburg College Phi Sigma Kappa Fraternity Alumni for six years.

Joe was a former member of Harrisburg County Country Club and a member of Duck Woods Country Club in Southern Shores. He held fourth-degree in Knights of Columbus, was a proud member for more than 55 years and acted as chairman of the Lamb Program for five years (a campaign to finance programs for mentally-challenged children). He was a member of Holy Redeemer By-the-Sea Catholic Church in Kitty Hawk and had been a frequent visitor to the Outer Banks since 1968, retiring there in 2000.

In addition to his beloved wife of 57 years, he leaves his four children: Katherine Grieco (Stephen) of Thornton, Pa.; Carol Staats (Frank) of Saylorsburg, Pa.; and Rebecca Grahan (Jeffrey) of Revelstoke, B.C., Canada. Also surviving are 10 grandchildren: Joshua Gethin Kurtz (Erin), Courtney Egal (Jason), Michael, all of Harrisburg, Pa.; Lauren Kovacs (Attila ) of Virginia Beach, Va., Lara Griecoof Philadelphia, Pa., Elizabeth Grieco or Baltimore, Md., Darid Grieco of Bloomsburg, Pa. Nina and Keith Staats of Saylorsburg, Pa. and Indiana Graham of Revelstoke, B.C.

Also left to cherish his memory are his eight great-grandchildren: Brandon, Andrew Gethin, Gethin Joshua, Jaxon, Rylee, Michaela, Conner and Maggie, all of Harrisburg.

He is also survived by his brother, Sydney M. Kurtz and wife Joan of Schuylkill Haven, Pa. and a sister, Theresa Trost and husband Thomas of Lubbock Texas, and also eight nieces and nephews.

There was be a mass at Holy Redeemer Monday, May 2, with Father Edward Fitzpatrick, O.S.F.S. officiating. Interment will take place in Fort Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville, Pa. at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Dare County Home Health and Hospice, P.O. Box 1000, Manteo, N.C. 27954.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, assisted the family with arrangements.

Lynn Scarborough

Nags Head – Lynn Scarborough, 57, of Nags Head, passed away Monday, April 25. A native of Dare County, she was the daughter of James A. and Jewell H. Scarborough. Lynn was a graduate of Manteo High School and East Carolina University. She was a retired teacher and taught at Manteo High School for many years. Lynn loved her job and was awarded Teacher of the Year for her devotion and compassion for her students. She was deeply loved by her family and friends and will always be remembered for her wacky sense of humor, her unique observations of life and her love of her family and the Outer Banks.

She is survived by her husband, James A. Kleinert, jr. of Nags Head, and her sister, Karen S. Whitfield of Corolla and her husband, John Whitfield, and special nephews, Drew and Kyle Whitfield. She is also survived by her aunts, Melba S. Perry, Marlene S. Ward and Ada C. Scarborough and many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends, including Nancy Matthews of Kitty Hawk.

A funeral service will be held by the Rev. John Hobbs at 2 p.m., Thursday, April 28, at Liberty Christian Fellowship, 244 Williams Dr., Colington. The family will receive friends in the church fellowship hall following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice. Twiford Funeral Home, Manteo, is assisting the Scarborough family. 

Marcia Francato Perrin

Kill Devil Hills – Marcia Francato Perrin, 39, passed away April 24 after a long fight withcancer. She was born in Glens Falls, N.Y. and moved with her soon-to-be husband to the Outer Banks in 1999.

Marcia is survived by her husband, Jay, and children, James and Laure; her father, Marc Francato, and mother, Sharon Sears and step=dad, Richard Sears; her in-laws, Clarke and Linda Perrin, and her “second mom” Aunt Ann Marie Francato. Also surviving is her brother, Tony Francato, and sister-in-law, Sheri and children, Jacob and Sophia; her step-brother, Ricky Sears and wife Lisa and children, Chasidy and Derick; her step-sister Tina Sears and children Chelsea and Samantha; her step-brother, David Sears and wife Tisha and their children, David and Dylan; and her step-sister MaryBeth Sears. Survivors also include Marcia’s brother-in-law, Mike PerrinandwifeLisa and children Ethan, Jordan and Carly; her sister-in-law Meredith Bowles and husband Brian and children Hunter and Garrett, and her brother-in-law Robert Perrin and wife Jennifer.

Marcia was preceded in death by her step-mother Donna Lee Francato, and Symon.

The memorial service was held at the Gallop Funeral Services chapel Tuesday, April 26. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial donations in Marcia’s memory be made to the Outer Banks Cancer Support Group, 245 Woodland Dr., Kitty Hawk, N.C. 27949.

Condolences to the family may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com.

Joseph Jones

Manteo – Joseph Jones, 95, of Manteo, formerly of Portsmouth, Va., died at home in ManteoThursday, April 21. Born in Pantego, he is the son of the late Katie Russ Jones and the late Samuel Jones. He is preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Lela Mae Quidley Jones, , a son, Joseph Jones, Jr.,four brothers and two sisters.

Mr. Jones is survived by his five children, Mary Sue NcNew (husband, James), William “Binkey” Jones (wife, Cindy), Noelle Grace Booth (husband, John), Rowan Jones (wife, Kathy) and Gayla R. Insley (husband, Charles, deceased). Also left to cherish his memory are his 29 grandchildren, 60 great-grandchildren and seven great-great-grandchildren.

A funeral will be held Wednesday, April 27, 2 p.m., at Twiford Funeral Home in Manteo with the Rev. Ken Simpson officiating. Burial in Manteo Cemetery will immediately follow the service.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Alisa Bryan

Rodanthe – Alisa Jane Cahoon Bryan, 45, of Rodanthe, passed away Monday, April 18. Born in Norfolk, Va., she is the daughter of Bonnie Cahoon Covey of Rodanthe and the late Gene Stanley Cahoon of Columbia, and the step-daughter of Pete Covey of Rodanthe. Ms. Bryan was a member of Lifeboat Community Church and a volunteer at the food pantry in Salvo.

Ms. Bryan is survived by two sons, Paul Collin Hancock and Charles Ian Hancock of Rodanthe; two daughters, Maranda Kaye Hancock of Brooksville, Fla. and Gina Natasha Willis of Raleigh; three brothers, David Cahoon and wife Teresa of Wanchese, Scott Cahoon of Snow Hill and Thomas CahoonandwifeTammi of Wakefield, Va.; three grandchildren, Logan Gene-Christopher Willis, David Micah Hancock and Adam Ray Hancock; andherestranged husband, Keith Bryan of Inverness, Fla.

A celebration of her life will be held at Lifeboat Community Church at 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 23, in Salvo on Rt. 12 with pastor Steve Simmons officiating. A reception will be held at the church following the service. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The Alisa Jane CahoonBryan Memorial Fund, Bank of Commonwealth, P.O. Box 718, Waves, N.c. 27982.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.

David Huth

Nags Head – David Lee Huth, 66, of Nags Head, died April 17 at Heritage Hospital in Tarboro. Born March 27, 1945, in Elwood, Ind., he was the son of Fred Alvin Huth and Selma Amanda Peters Huth of Frankton, Ind. David played varsity basketball on a four-year scholarship for Ball State University. He graduated in 1974 from the University of Nebraska Medical College as a physician’s assistant in the Columbia Hospital and the Columbia Clinic in Columbia. He was executive director for USDA in Tyrrell/Hyde/Dare counties from 1982 until his retirement in 2004.

Mr. Huth is survived by his son, Matthew Thompson Huth of Nags Head, a grandson, Matthew Finn Huth of Manteo, his sisters, Marie Huth Wolf of Ten Mile, Tenn., Nina Huth Johnson andher husband John of Elwood, Ind., four nephews, a niece and his significant other, Rachel Sumrell of Kill Devil Hills.

A memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. Thursday, April 21, at St. Andrew’s By-the-Sea Episcopal Church in Nags Head. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to St. Andrew’s By-the-Sea, 4212 S. Virginia Dare Trail, Nags head, N.C. 27959.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.  

O. Riddick Harrell

O. RiddickHarrell, 67, went to be with his Lord April 16. Born Feb. 14, 1944 in Suffolk, Va., he had lived in Richmond, Va. since 1968 and spent time in Nags Head since 1984. Mr. Harrell was a review appraiser for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. He was a member of St. Andrew’s By-the-Sea Episcopal Church in Nags Head and St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Richmond, Va.

His parents, Osroe RiddickHarrell, Sr. and Elsie Mae Bryant Harrell, preceded him in death. His memory will forever be treasured by hs wife Jane “Missy” Holland Harrell, Richmond, children Sterling Harrell, Longwood, Fla. and Katherine Virden, Orlando, Fla; and grandchildren Adeline, Avery, Steven and Lyla.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, April 21, 2 p.m., at St. Andrew’s with a reception following. In lieu of flowers memorial donations ma be made to St. Andrew’s By-the-Sea Episcopal Church, 4212 S. Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, N.C. 27959.

Chevis Tillett

Manns Harbor – Chevis Ryan Tillett, 27, passed away unexpectedly in Manns Harbor April 15. Born in Chowan County, he was the son of Rollins “Buddy” Davis Tillett, Jr., of Derry, N.H. and Shannon Greene Tillettof Manns Harbor.

Most recently, Chevis was working at Zion Bible College in Haverhill, Mass. andwas previously a member of Roanoke Island Volunteer Fire Department andManns Harbor Volunteer Fire Department. He attended Manteo High School, was an avid hunter, never met a stranger and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

In addition to his parents, Chevis is survived by his daughter, Brinley Tillett, her mother, Christina Rotolo, and his brother, Emery Tillett.

The funeral was held April 20 at Mt. Carmel United Methodist Church in Manns Harbor with the Rev. Bettie Francis officiating. Burial followed the service in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to the Eastern North Carolina Fireman’s Association by visiting their website, www.encfa.org.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, assisted the family with arrangements.

Lewis M. Hudgins, Jr.

Kill Devil Hills – Lewis Mitchell Hudgins, Jr., 80, passed away April 15 surrounded by family and friends. Born March 8, 1931 in Newport News, Va., Lewis attended Newport News High School, was vice president of Centralite Supply and co-owner of Saluda General Store and JoChris Designs. He was a life-long ham radio operator and proudly served in the Civil Air Patrol. He spent his final years enjoying life on the Outer Banks.

He was preceded in death by his cherished wife of 56 years, JoAnne Christie Hudgins, parents Lucille and Charles R. Downey, mother andfather-in-law Evelyn andFred Christie, brother-in-law Fred Christie Jr. Lewis (Pop Pop) leaves behind one son, Gary M. Hudgins of Kill Devil Hills, one daughter, Christie Matthews andhusband Carlton of Gloucester, Va., brother Charles R. Downey, Jr. (Butch) and wife Libby; grandchildren April Rhodes andhusband Marty, Megan Farinholt, Chip and Lindsay Matthews; great-grandchildren Tyler Brandt, Nicolas and Noah Rhodes, sister-in-law Sharon Splinter, devoted niece Connie Collins andmany other nieces, nephews, cousins, great friends, neighbors, andAbby, his best friend and loving Pekingese. The family extends an invitation to all who knew and loved him to a celebration of his life June 25, 2 p.m., at 1107 Cardinal St., KDH. Please consider any memorial donations be made in his memory to www.pekinesecharitablefoundation.com.

Condolences to the family may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.

Louise F. Villani

Kill Devil Hills – Louise F. Villani (nee Madaio), 89, formerly of Spring Arbor of Kill Devil Hills, passed away at Sentara-Barco Nursing Home in Currituck April 14.

Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., Ms. Villani was the daughter of the late Marco “Matty” Madaio and the late Concetta “Margaret” Madaio (nee Solimini).

She is predeceased by her husband, William Frank Villani, a brother, Vincent “Sonny” Madaio and a sister, Jane M. Pulgrano.

A funeral and burial will take place in New York. Arrangements are incomplete.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Mazie Austin

Wanchese- Mazie Tillett Austin, 77, of Wanchese, died April 12 at her residence. Born in Wanchese, she was the daughter of the late Woodsey Crowder Tillett andArizona Glee Johnson Tillett. Mrs. Austin was a member of Bethany United Methodist Church andthe United Methodist Women andwas Past Worthy Matron of Roanoke Island Chapter # 79 Order of Eastern Star and a member of the Coinjock Chapter #218 of Eastern Star. She was the widow of OttleyW. Austin andwas also preceded in death by a brother, Archie Tillett.

Mrs. Austin is survived by three sons, Wayne Lee Austin and wife Kendall and their children, Jessica and Rowdy of Wanchese, Jerry Steve Austin and wife Sandy and their children, Nicholas and Lindsey of Virginia Beach, Va., and Scott Wendell Austin and wife Catherine and their children, Sarah, Jennifer and Carrie of Kitty Hawk; two sisters, Mildred T. Midgett and MerleeT. Austin, both of Wanchese; a brother-in-law, Norris Austin of Corolla; and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service was held at Bethany UMC April 15 withtheRev. Dr. Jerome Smith officiating. Burial was in Austin Cemetery, Kitty Hawk. Donations may be made to the Bethany UMC Building Fund, P.O. Box 239, Wanchese, N.C. 27981.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, assisted the family with arrangements.   

Rondal Tillett

Wanchese- Rondal KetchamTillett, 86, died peacefully at home surrounded by his family April 12. Dearly loved, he will be missed by all, but we know he has “Gone home to Jesus” and we take our comfort there. Ron was born in WancheseJuly 14, 1925 to Charles Ketcham (Cliff) and Lovey Marie Daniels Tillettwho preceded him in death, along with his sister, Tessie Rogers.

Ron served on numerous boards and committees for the county and state of N.C., including the Conservation and Development Board, ABC Board and RBC Bank. He was a Shriner and served as chairman of Wanchese Seafood Industrial Park. He also served as a Dare County commissioner for 12 years. Active for many years in the seafood industry, he was a member of Bethany United Methodist Church in Wanchese, but also loved the people and sweet spirit of the Lord at the Wanchese Assembly of God.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Nelma (Nell) Rogers Tillett; six daughters, Jackie Beasley, Santa Daniels, Rhonda Tillett, Ginger Tillett, Laurie DeGabrielle and Robin Tillett; six grandchildren, Hank Beasley, Hunt Daniels, Sascha Watkins, Jason Chrismon, Rachel and Ketch DeGabrielle; and nine great-grandchildren who will miss him very much.

Funeral services were held at Bethany UMC April 15 withthe Rev. Dr. Jerome Smith andDannie Daniels officiating. Burial was in CudworthCemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bethanu UMC Building Fund, POB 239, Wanchese, N.C. 27981. 

Mary Esther Johnson

Manteo- Withsadness we announce the deathof Mary E. Johnson, daughter of Annie andthe late Clifton Daniels on Friday, March 25, at Sentara Norfolk general Hospital in Norfolk, Va. She was married to the late Charlie R. Johnson, Sr. Left to mourn Mary’s memory are her three sons, Shawn K. Daniels, Dion T. Daniels and Charlie R. Johnson, Jr., 12 grandchildren, one great-grandson and many other relatives and friends. The funeral service and committal took place Sunday, April 3, at Free Grace Church of Christ Disciples Of Christ, Manteo. Pastor Carrie Holmes officiated.

Condolences to the family may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.

Emaline Paiano

Buxton – Emaline Marie Paiano, 80, of Buxton, passed away at The Outer Banks Hospital April 8. Born in Pittsburgh, Pa., she is survived by her daughter, Judy Swartwood and husband David L. Swartwood of Buxton and her grandson, Noah H. Swartwood, also of Buxton.

Arrangements are pending at this time. TwifordFuneralHomes, Hatteras, is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Theresa Midgett

Stumpy Point – Theresa Payne Midgett, 82, of Stumpy Point, died April 8 in her residence. Theresa was born in Stmpy Point and was a homemaker and member of the Shiloh United Methodist Church and the United Methodist Women.

She was pre-deceased by her parents, Riley and Lillian “Lillie” Scarborough Payne, andher husband, Roy E. Midgett, her sister Mabel Shelton andniece Cindy Midgette.

Surviving are two daughters, Susan M. Davis and Barbara M. Gray and husband Almey J. Gray, all of Stumpy Point; two grandchildren, Denise G. Geer and husband Joseph, “special grandson” Almey Roy Gray, great-granddaughter Kyla Gear and nephew Buddy Shelton.

A celebration of life was held April 11 in Shloh United Methodist Church by the Rev. Meredith Snyder and the Rev. Thoma Jennings. Burial was in Shiloh UMC Cemetery. 

Margie Acey

Kitty Hawk – Margie Baker Acey, 93, of Kitty Hawk, died April 6 at her residence. Mrs. Aceywasborn in Hamilton and was a homemaker. She was a long-time resident of Portsmouth, Va. before moving to Currituck and then Kitty Hawk. Mrs. Acey was the daughter of the late Garland and Annie Belle Thomas Baker and the widow of the late Charlie E. Acey, Jr. She formerly attended Pilmoor United Methodist Church.

Mrs. Acey is survived by a daughter, Phyllis Reed and husband Deen of Kitty Hawk; a son, David Acey and wife Mary of Manakin-Sabot, Va.; a sister, Lucille Brady and husband Melvin of Chesapeake, Va.; three grandchildren, Rose Reed, Scott Reed and Heather Perry; and two great-grandchildren.

A graveside service was held in the Moyock Memorial Cemetery April 10. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society, 4416 Expressway Dr., Virginia Beach, Va. 23452, or American Diabetes Association, 870 Greenbrier Cir., Greenbrier Tower, II, Suite 404, Chesapeake, Va. 23320.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, assisted the family with arrangements.

Melvin Soyars

Kitty Hawk – Melvin Douglas Soyars, 76, loving son, husband, father, grandfather, friend and mentor to many, of 3926 SouthSmith St., Kitty Hawk, died Sunday, April 3, at his home. Born in Danville, Va. and raised in Norfolk, Va, he was the son of the late Clyde Edward and Garnett Ashworth Soyars and the husband of the late Julie Yancey Soyars. Mr. Soyars was a veteran, havings served in the U.S. Army. He was a graduate of James Madison University and later earned his master’s degree from the University of Michigan. Mr. Soyars had a long tenure at Syracuse University and was an inspiration and mentor to many students over a 40-year career. He held many positions, including director of the marching band, dean of the school of music and chair of the music industry program. Music was his career, but his students were his inspiration in life. Following retirement, he moved to the Outer Banks, a life-long dream.

Mr. Soyars is survived by his daughters, Julia Soyars of Anandale, Va. and Katie Cumberland and husband Scott of Elizabeth City; and three grandchildren, Jesika Soyars Berman of Winchester, Va., Cory Cumberland of Greenville and Amie Cumberland of Seattle, Wash.

A memorial service will be held on the Outer Banks in the coming months. TwifordFuneral Homes, Elizabeth City, is serving the Soyars family. Condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.twifordfh.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Grameen Foundation USA (www.grameenfoundation.org) in his honor.

Anselmo ‘Elmer’ Alifano

Kitty Hawk – Anselmo ‘Elmer’ Alifano was born Aug. 10, 1919 to Alfonso and Michelina Alifano in the Bronx, New York City. He came of age during the Great Depression, working in his father’s cobbler shop when not playing baseball or football. Then the war came. By the beginning of 1943, having never before left New York City, Elmer had been to Shreveport, La., Puerto Rico, Brazil, Ascension Island, Equatorial Africa, all viewed through the small window beside the radio operator’s station in a B-26 bomber.

On Feb. 24, 1943 the plane Elmer served on was shot down over Tunis. Of the eight-man crew Elmer alone survived at the cost of his right leg. For the next 18 months he was an enforced guest of the German Army, being shuffled across Italy, Austria and Germany. In September, 1944 he was exchanged in Sweden and watched the war end from a hospital in New York.

In Milan, Italy the hospital he was being treated at was damaged in a British bombing raid. It took 54 years and innumerable letters prepared with his daughter Margaret’s help, but in 1997 he was awarded his second Purple Heart. In all, he left the service with the Air Medal, Oak Leaf Cluster for Air Medal, Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, EAMETO Ribbon with Battle Star, American Defense Ribbon and finally, the Oak Leaf Cluster for Purple Heart.

While recuperating in New York, Elmer met Marcella ‘Sally,’ a young sergeant in the Woman’s Auxiliary Corp. Sally had joined the WACS to see more of the world than her native Minnesota. They were married June 9, 1945 after a whirlwind romance. Despite his injuries and the trauma of being a prisoner of war, Elmer got on with his life, working first at the ‘fabulous’ Stearnsdepartmentstoreand later settling in for a long career at the U.S. Dept.of Agriculture. All the while, with Sally’s help, raising four children, Allan, Margaret, Constance and Barbara. His children were a source of great pride for Elmer, all earning college degrees.

Elmer moved with Saly to Minnesota. After they separated, he lived in many communities, Kansas City, Kan., Wappinger Falls, N.Y., Walnut Creek, Calif., Suffolk, Va. and finally settling in Kitty Hawk to be near his daughter Margaret.

Elmer remained involved in veteran’s affairs, winning awards for his volunteer work. He kept in touch with wartime companions through the 17th Bomb Wing Reunion Assoc. Elmer considered it an honor to have been commanded by the famous Tokyo Raider, Gen. James Doolittle.

Elmer died March 29 in Kitty Hawk after a brief illness at the age of 91. Despite his wounds Elmer remained remarkably active and mentally sharp until the end. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Fanny and ex-wife Sally. He is survived by his four children, Allan Alifano of Half-Moon Bay, Calif., Margaret Alifano of Kitty Hawk, Constance Adkisson of Roseville, Minn. and Barbara Sterling of Des Moines, Iowa; brother Michael Alifano and sister Isabel Castaldi, both of the Bronx, N.Y.; eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

As they contemplate Elmer’s long and eventful life, his family finds a degree of solace from the grief his passing has entailed. 

Dot Garrison

Manteo- Dot Garrison, 88, a native of Colington, passed away in her sleep April 2 at her home in Manteo. Dot was a member of Mount OlivetUnitedMethodistChurch andalong with her husband and Tom and Erma Beacham, started the Order of the Amaranth Coastal Court #12 in Manteo and was a past Royal Matron andGrandRoyal Matron from 1973-1974. She also was a member of the Roanoke Island Chapter #79 Order of the Eastern Star where she served as past Matron in 1979.

Born Nov. 2, 1922, she was the daughter of the late LevanW. and Sarah Jarvis Stetson and preceded in death by her husband, John T. Garrison, Sr.

Her family includes two children, Connie G. Gray and John T. Garrison, Jr., both of Manteo; grandchildren, Dana Collins and Pamela Butler and two grandsons, Jeffrey and Daniel Bart Garrison. Six great-grandchildren, Jason, Michelle, Keith, Michael, J.T. and Michaella, and one great-great-granddaughter, Piper Gray Boone and her sister, Bernice Shepherd. Dot was predeceased by her sisters, Myrtle Elliott and Mary Perry, and her brothers, Harold Stetson, L.W. Stetson, Jr. and Woodrow Stetson.

A celebration of life will be held Thursday, April 7, 1 p.m., in Mount Olivet UMC by the Rev. Jerry Cribb. Burial will be in Roanoke Island Memorial Gardens. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Foundation, 2418 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh, N.C. 27607, c/o Amaranth Coastal Court #12.

Chastity Lynne Cooke

Kitty Hawk – Her mission in life completed, Chas left on her journey to be with Glenda and Lee (Leebee), her mother and brother, forever. Chas was born in Crewes, Va. Feb. 14, 1979. She is survived by her father, Howard, stepsisters, stepbrother, grandparents, Jean and Port Beacham, aunts, uncles, cousins and many wonderful friends, and her loving and helpful companion of many years, Mike Cannaday.

Your pen and voice are still, your courage, laughter and poems remain in our hearts forever.

Arrangements are pending. Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Kaylyn Pala

Kaylyn Grace Pala, infant daughter of Jonathan Francis and Angela Duncan Pala, died Wednesday, March 30.

Besides her parents, she is survived by her maternal grandparents, Mike and Kathy Duncan of Kill Devil Hills, and paternal grandparents, David and Lori Pala of Hertford.

Graveside services were held April 3 in West Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery with the Very Rev. Jim Bucholz officiating. TwifordFuneral Homes, Elizabeth City, is serving the Pala family. You may express condolences to the family by visiting www.twifordfh.com.

Joseph Baker

Rodanthe – Joseph Brian Baker, 49, of Rodanthe, formerly of Powhatan, Va., departed this life March 27 after a courageous battle with cancer.

He is survived by his parents, Joseph B. Baker and Elva of Powhatan, Va., his sister Pam, and Steve Law, a devoted family member and friend of Rodanthe; his brother Randy S. Baker of Powhatan and a host of loving family members and friends. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Hatteras Island Cancer Foundation, P.O. Box 442, Hatteras, N.C. 27973.

Condolences to the Baker family may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Nags Head, was entrusted with arrangements.f 

Mary Johnson

Maneo – ManteonativeMaryEsther Johnson died in Norfolk, Va. March 25. Funeral arrangements are pending at this time. Gallop Funeral Services Inc. is entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family via the on online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com.

Odessa Miller

Kill Devil Hills – Odessa Crank Miller, 93, of Colington Road in Kill Devil Hills, died March 21 at Winslow Memorial Nursing Home. A native of Dare County, she was the daughter of the late James M. Crank and Annie Tolar Crank and the widow of Patrick Henry Miller. She was a homemaker.

She is survived by a daughter, Nellie M. Sawyer andhusband Clay of Hertford; three sons, William “Bill” Miller and wife Naomi of Colington; Russell Miller and wife Gloria of Farmer; and Lonnie Miller and wife Brenda of Wanchese; 14 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by a daughter, Annie Hamilton, a son, James Miller, and four grandchildren.

Funeral services were held March 24 at Hilltop Cemetery with the Rev. Roger Barnett officiating. TwifordFuneral Homes, Elizabeth City, assisted the family. 

William Baum

Kill Devil Hills – William “Bill” Norris Baum, 72, passed away at his residence in Kill Devil Hills March 20. A native of Kitty Hawk, he was the son of the late William Edward Baum and the late Alice Elegance O’Neal. He is also predeceased by his wife, Mamie Jean Faust Baum and his brother, Daniel Baum.

Mr. Baum proudly served in the U.S. Army and will be remembered for his interest in fishing and playing pool, computer games and horseshoes. Local people may remember Bill from working at Kelly’s restaurant in Nags Head where he did a variety of maintenance and landscaping work.

Mrs. Baum is survived by his three daughters, Alice Virgina Baum and friend Charlie Edmond of Kill Devil Hills, Tammy Jean Sexton and husband Buck of East Lake, Kathy Ann Gallagher and husband Jay of Graham, a son, Kelly Baum and wife Lindsay and a sister, Alice Welder of Bismarck, Mo. Also left to cherish his memory are 10 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

The family is planning a private memorial service that will be held at a later date. Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, assisted the family with arrangements.

Dave Kebschull

Churchville, Md. – Dave Kebschull, 68, of Churchville, Md., died March 12 at Stella Maris Hospice in Timonium, Md. Born in Memphis, Tenn., he was the son of the late William George and Virginia Gourley Kebschull. A graduate of the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, he was a member of Kappa Alfa Fraternity, Tau Beta Pi and Medison Baptist Church. He worked as a chemical engineer, coached youth sports, loved to fish and was a volunteer for AARP where he did income taxes for senior citizens.

Mr. Kebschull is survived by his wife of 44 years, Nancy Basnight Kebschull of Churchville, a son, Bill Kebschull and wife Caroline of Manteo, and grandchildren, Madison and Malin Kebschull of North Carolina.

Services were held March 17 at Mount OlivetUnited Methodist Church withtheRev. Dr. Jerome Smith officiating. Interment was in Manteo Cemetery.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, assisted the Kebschull family. 

Frances Wright

Manteo – Frances Pritchard Scott Wright, 84, of Manteo, died March 20 in a Norfolk hospital. Born Oct. 29, 1926 in ElizabethCity, Mrs. Wright was the daughter of the late Clyde andLula Scott. She was preceded in deathbyher husband, Ernest Lee Wright Jr., two brothers, Clyde Leon Scott Jr., Garland Scott, and a sister, Elma P. Scott. Mrs. Wright was a member of Corinth Baptist Church.

Mrs. Wright is survived by five children: Connie Daniels andhusband Luther of Manteo; Becky Henry andhusband Nat of Franklin; Kathy Burton of Nags Head; Ernie Wright III of Manteo, and Nancy Peele andhusband Wesley of Manteo; a sister, Ann Austin, and a sister-in-law Dorothy Scott, bothofElizabethCity; 12 grandchildren, Jennifer, Ryan, Orry, Shannon, Meredith, Charlotte, John, Lyle, Cain, Hunter, Brysonand Elizabeth; three great-grandchildren, Breanna, Sailor and Jenna; and many nieces, nephews and cousins of Elizabeth City.

Funeral services were held at Twiford Colony Chapel, Manteo, on March 23. Burial was in Highland Park Cemetery, Elizabeth City.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, assisted the family with arrangements.  

Shadow Phillips

Kill Devil Hills – Shadow Lyn Thompson Phillips, 44, of Kill Devil Hills, died March 20 at her residence. Shadow was born in Santa Rosa, Calif. and was employed with Harris Teeter. As a diver, Shadow loved the ocean and riding motorcycles. Her children and grandchild were her everything.

She is the daughter of William Richard and Donna Guler Thompson and companion to Richard Dillard.

Other survivors include her sons, Shayne Thompson and wife Katherine, Chris Thompson and Jake Phillips; her sister, Lorinda Windsor; brother Tommie Thompson and grandson Dean Scott Thompson.

 

Elizabeth Dodd

Corolla – Elizabeth Josephine Dodd, 84, of Corolla, died March 12 at AlbemarleHospital. Born in Bayonne, N.J., she was the daughter of the late Chester and Mary Parowski. She was also preceded in death by her late husband, Richard Dodd. She was a member of Holy Redeemer Catholic Church of Kitty Hawk.

Elizabeth is survived by two sons, Richard Dodd of Englewood, N.J. and Bill Dodd of Kitty Hawk; two daughters, Mary DiDario of Currituckand Elizabeth Ann Brinkofski of Somerset, N.J.; one brother, George Parowski of Washington Township, N.J.; eight grandchildren, Paul DiDario, Angelica, Teddy and Trent Brinkofski, Christine, Richard, Danielle Dodd and Brooke Nicole Baker; and two great-grandchildren, Julian Dodd and Christian Dodd.

A Mass of the Resurrection was celebrated at Holy Redeemer March 15 by the Rev. Edward Fitzpatrick. A memorial service will take place March 17 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in South Plainsfield, N.J. followed by a burial ceremony at Holy Redeemer Cemetery in South Plainsfield.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Ruth Cudworth

Wanchese – Ruth Marie Cudworth, 72, of Wanchese, died March 11 at Colony Ridge Nursing and Rehab Center. Born in Wanchese, she was the daughter of the late John M. and Alma Etheridge Cudworth. She was a member of Bethany United Methodist Church.

Ruthissurvived by a daughter, Trina C. Twine of Elizabeth City; a brother, J.M. Cudworth of Wanchese; and three grandsons, Chandon Brandon of Manteoand Noah and Tanner Twine, bothofElizabeth City.

A funeral service was conducted March 15 at TwifordFuneral Home, Manteobythe Rev. Dr. Jerome Smith. Burial was in CudworthCemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Bethany United Methodist Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 239, Wanchese, N.C. 27981.

 

Robert May

Frisco – Robert Charles May died March 10.

Bob was born Oct. 30, 1930 in Orange, N.J. to Charles H. May and Jane Hargy May of Northern Ireland.

He graduated from Orange High in 1949 and attended the Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy in Rolla, Mo. There he met Betty, his dear wife of 57 years. He graduated in 1953 with a B.S. degree in chemical engineering.

Bob was employed by DuPont in the fabrication of nuclear material.

In 1965 he transferred to the Remington Arms Co. where he did ballistics research and quality control. In 1973 he received an MBA degree from U. Conn and moved to the marketing department. He enjoyed a career in advertising and sales promotion until his retirement in 1985.

He and Betty moved to their home in Frisco in 1993 and have enjoyed life on the Outer Banks. Bob was a member of the Cape Hatteras Anglers Club and the Buxton United Methodist Church where he sang in the choir. He served as an NPS volunteer for 15 years logging more than 2,000 hours.

He is survived by his wife Betty of the home; son Robert C. May Jr., wife Robbin and grandchildren Rob and Rachel of Bethel, Con.; son David B. May, wife Connie of Manteo, granddaughter Lauren andhusband Tom and great-granddaughter Stella of San Antonio, Texas; grandson David, wife Wendi and great-granddaughter Penelope of Miami, Fla.

A service will be held at Buxton United Methodist Church March 19 at 11 a.m. Any memorials should be made to the Methodist Men of Buxton UMC, P.O. Box 310, Hatteras, N.C. 27943. Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo,is assisting the family with arrangements.

Stephen Anish

Nags Head – Stephen Anish, 64, Baltimore, Md. and Nags Head, passed away at his home March 8 after a long battle with brain cancer. He is survived by his wife Nancy, his mother Marilyn and his loyal lab.

Born and raised in New York, Steve graduated from the University of Buffalo Dental School. He relocated to Baltimore where he practiced dentistry for 36 years, retiring in 2005. He was a member of the Overlea Lions Clubs for many years. While serving in the Army in Fort Monroe, Va. Steve discovered the Outer Banks. His love for fishing and hunting, as well as the beauty of the area, kept him coming back. After vacationing in Nags Head for years, he became a part-time resident of South Nags Head.

He has many friends in the area as well as friends and a loving famiy in the Baltimore and New York areas. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Dare County Animal Shelter and American Cancer Society will be appreciated.

The memorial service will be held March 18 at 10 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church in Nags Head with pastor Albert Izler officiating. Condolences may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com.   

Francis Edward Stoudt

Kill Devil Hills – Francis Edward Stoudt passed away March 4 at SentaraHeart Hospital, Norfolk, Va. Frank was born and raised in Allentown, Pa., and was a graduate of Allentown Central Catholic High School. He served in the Navy during the Korean War as an aviation electronics technician on the aircraft carriers USS Princeton and USS Yorktown. He returned to Pennsylvania and attended Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pa., graduating in 1961. He retired as a computer systems analyst from the Fleet Materials Support Office, U.S. Naval Depot, Mechanicsburg, Pa.

Frank and Mary moved to the Outer Banks in 1994. Frank enjoyed living in BayCliffand volunteering at the Outer Banks Arboretum and Teaching Garden. He was an Extension Master Gardener volunteer with the Dare County Center of the N.C. Cooperative Extension.

He was the son of the late Peter Enos Stoudt and the late Margaret Mary Eberts Stoudt. He is survived by his wife Mary and his three children, David Stoudt, Laura Katz and Julie Bowman and Julie’s spouse, Todd Bowman. He will also be dearly missed by his three grandchildren, Madelaine Katz, Reece Katz and Jeremy Bowman.

In accordance with his wishes, the family will hold a private celebration of his life at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial tributes be forwarded to the Outer Banks SPCA, P.O. Box 1000, Manteo, N.C. 27954 or the Dare County Master Gardener Volunteer Association, P.O. Box 968, Manteo, N.C. 27954. Condolences may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com.   

Gladys E. Melvin

Nags Head – With sadness we announce the death of Gladys Erina Walling Melvin, daughter of the late Sir Sydney and Gladys Walling, on March 3 at her home in Nags Head.

Left to mourn Gladys is her husband, James; son, James Jr.; daughter, Shonte; daughter-in-law, Esther; and two grandchildren, brothers, sisters and many relatives and many very dear friends.

Calling hours will be held at Haven Creek Missionary Baptist Church, 611 Sir. Walter Raleigh Street, Manteo, on Wednesday, March 9, 6-9 p.m.

The funeral service will take place Thursday, March 10, 1 p.m., at Mount Olivet United Methodist Church, 300 Ananias Dare St., Manteo. Haven Creek pastor Ray Hill will officiate. The committal service and interment will follow in Haven Creek Church Cemetery on Burnside Rd. in Manteo.

The family suggests that any memorial donations be forwarded to Gideons International, P.O. Box 163, Manteo, N.C. 27954, Community Home Care and Hospice, 1601 N. Road Street, Suite B, Elizabeth City, N.C. 27909 and/or Outer Banks Hospital Resource Center, 4810 S. Croatan Hwy., suite 22o, Nags Head, N.C. 27959 /

C

ondolences to the family may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com.

Eric Wage Sr.

Salvo – Eric Kirk Wage Sr., 45, of Salvo, died March 2 at his residence. Eric was born in Johnson City, N.Y., and was a residential painter.

He was the son of Wesley L. Wage of St. Petersburg, Fla. and the late Juanita McDonnell Wage.

Besides his father, surviving are: one daughter, Lauren Wage, and one son, Eric Kirk Wage Jr., both of Avon; one sister, Angel W. Hooper of Salvo; two brothers, James Wage Sr. of Currituck and Wesley L. Wage Jr. of Salvo; one granddaughter, Olivia Wage; and his partner, Lisa Schmidt and children.

 

Judith Picard, M.Ed

Judith Arlene Picard passed away Feb. 27 at home, surrounded by her family. She was 66 years old, a feisty cancer survivor who won two out of three times.

Judy was born in Freeport, N.Y. in 1944, to Alma Furlong and John GebertSr. She was preceded in death by brother Robert “Bobby” Gebert, and leaves behind brother John Gebert Jr. and his wife Nancy and a sister, Patricia Paulsen. and their families.

Judy later moved to Florida where she raised three children on her own, entered the workforce, completed a bachelors in sociology and a master’s in education at the University of North Florida in the space of five years. Education would become a life-long part of her life, as when she obtained tenure as a professor of database management at the University of New Mexico where she retired.

Judy loved computing, genealogy and Irish/Celtic history. She loved to sing and dance and had a passion for life that kept her dreaming, reaching and achieving all her life. The family is deeply grateful for the extensive genealogical history prepared by Judy in her later years; much of her work can be viewed still at www.best-spot.com/Gebert/ and so much more is available by request.

Judy leaves behind a beloved daughter, Toni Parker, son-in-law Andy Parker, and two young grandchildren, Tia and Thomas. She is survived by Toni’s brother Donald Picardwhom she raised as a son. Preceding her in death was Toni’s brother Thomas Picard Jr., also raised as her son.

The family will hold a private memorial service at a later date. They ask that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Interfaith Community Outreach, P.O. Box 838, Kitty Hawk, N.C. 27949, in appreciation for their provision of free key medical equipment to keep Judy at her home. Condolences to the family may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com.  

Kenneth Conley

Avon – Kenneth (Birdman) Conley, 58, of Avon, died Feb. 25 at his residence. Born in Mechanicsburg, Pa., he was the son of Shirley June MacIntire and the late Richard Harry Conley.

Kenn was a loving and devoted husband to Patricia Marie Conley as well as a father, grandfather and friend to many. His happy demeanor served him well as he volunteered for the Hatteras Island Meals Program, worked as an advocate for the beaches and entertained children everywhere as “Blue Beard” the pirate, with live macaws named Squawker and Sassy, for events befriending young and old and generations of islanders. He will be missed.

In addition to his wife and mother, Kenn is survived by his son, Chadwick Sebastian Conley and wife Sharon and their son, Evan of Westmont; his niece, Shirley Ann Murry and husband Dave of Strasburg, Pa.; and his brother, Walter H. Conley of Harrisburg, Pa.

Funeral services were conducted Feb. 28 at Twiford Funeral Home, Hatteras. Condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.twifordfh.com.

Contributions in his memory may be made to Hatteras Island Cancer Foundation, P.O. Box 441, Hatteras, N.C. 27943; www.hicf.org.

Robert Kerekes

Manteo – Robert Bruce Kerekes passed away unexpectedly Feb. 23 at his second home in Manteo

Born in 1950 in New Brunswick, N.J. to Robert and Mildred (Thompson) Kerekes, Bruce attended the Columbus Boychoir School (now known as the American Boychoir School) in Princeton, N.J. While a student there, he performed in numerous concerts around the United States and Canada. Bruce was a graduate of New Bunswick High School and Rutgers University’s Livingston College.

Bruce met his future wife, Sandra Saunders, at New Brunswick High School. They were married in 1970. In 1977, Bruce and Sandra moved to the Upper Valley and purchased Upper Valley Carpet Center. Together they operated the Carpet Center in West Lebanon until retiring in January 2010.

For more than 20 years Bruce and his family lived in Norwich, Ver. In 2003, Bruce and Sandy moved to Grantham, N.H. As a resident of Gray Ledges, Bruce was actively engaged with his community, serving as his home association’s treasurer and president.

Bruce had many gifts: He was a loving man and all that a husband and father could be. Bruce loved a good time and had a wonderful sense of humor. He was an enthusiastic epicure, a fine wood-worker and an ever-optimistic fisherman.

Predeceased by his parents, Bruce is survived by his beloved and loving wife of more than 40 years, Sandra; his son Daniel Kerekes and his wife Laura and their four children, Caleb, Madeline,Jake and Nathan of Torrance, Calif.; his daughter Sarah Kerekes Watkins andher husband Josh of Austin, Texas; his brother Steven Kerekes of Pasadena, Calif.; his sister Robyn Hashem of McLean, Va.; his sister-in-law, Margaret Saunders of Manteo and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Per his wishes, no service will be held at this time. Twiford Funeral Home, Manteo, is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.twifordfh.com.

Harry Coder

Kitty Hawk – Harry James Coder ,or “Skip” as he was known to family and friends, died unexpectedly in Nags Head Feb. 26. Skip was born in Salamanca, N.Y. He was the son of the late Francis Herbert Coder and Margaret Walsh.

After completing high school, Skip enlisted in the Navy, serving honorably. Using medical skills learned in the military, Skip completed his nursing degree at Union University and embarked on a long, successful career at Elvis Presley Medical Center in Memphis, AlbemarleHospital in Elizabeth City and Regional Medical Center in Kitty Hawk. Most recently, Skip was a valued nurse in The Outer Banks Hospital emergency department.

Left to cherish his memory are his two brothers, Michael and Wife Marcie Smith Coder of Kitty Hawk and David Arant of Texas; his sisters, Frances Evans of Grandy, Patty Hall and Margaret Well, both of Texas; five nephews, Andy, Dusty, Colby, Remington and Shane, and two nieces, Chloe and Chanda. Skip is also survived by his friend, Michael Shilby of Kill Devil Hills.

A celebration of his life will be held Thursday,March 3, 7 p.m., at Gallop Funeral Services Chapel, M.P. 16 in Nags Head. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial tributes be forwarded to the Outer Banks SPCA. Family and friends will gather at the home of Skip’s brothers-in-law, Sammy and Jackie Smith in Kitty Hawk. Condolences to the family may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com.

Wallace Beckham

Avon – Wallace L. Beckham, 84, died Feb. 22 at his home in Avon. He was born Aug. 13, 1926, in Winnsboro, S.C. He was the son of Wallace D. Bechkam and Florence Hennessee Beckham, He loved his country and served in the U.S. navy in World War II. He was a master plumber, real estate broker, pilot and served in the U.S. National Guard and Civil Air Patrol. He was also the former owner of Outer Banks Beaches Realty.

In addition to his wife of 64 years, Ann Seitz Beckham, he is survived by two daughters, Pat Costa and husband Rich of Little Egg Harbor, N.J.; Sandra Quidley and husband Maruice (Reese) Quidley of South Mills; two sons Daniel and Brian Beckham of Avon; two sisters, Betty Geiger and husband Herbert of Sandy Run,S.C. and Margie Coleman and husband Pete of Winnsboro, S.C.; two brothers, Howard Beckham and wife Bobby Jeanof Winnsboro and Connie Parker and wife Penny of Jacksonville, Fla.; 12 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held at Ewing Cemetery Chapel, Ewing, N.J. Feb. 26. Burial was in the Ewing Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to the U.S. Navy Armed Guard WWII Veterans, 115 Wall Creek Dr., Rolesville, N.C. 27571 or to Dare County Animal Shelter, P.O. box 2477, Manteo, N.C.  27954.

Twiford Funeral Home, Manteo, assisted the family with arrangements.

John “Jack” Mascio

Kill Devil Hills – John David Mascio (Jack), 50, died peacefully in his sleep Feb. 21 at his residence on E. Carlton Ave. in Kill Devil Hills. Born in Norristown, Pa., he was the son of Joanne Marie Mascio (nee Gersbach) and the late William Mascio. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his infant sister, Bonnie G. Mascio.

Mr. Mascio was affectionately known as “Big Jack” or “Whistling Jack” to Kill Devil Hills locals and could be seen riding his bike around town or chillin’ on the bulkhead at Avalon Pier. His children were his pride andjoy; he loved the ocean andwas a friend to many as he was a long-time resident of the area. He had previously worked in construction as a framer. Mr. Mascio attended Manteo Baptist Church and accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. Jack always had a story to tell and was rarely seen without a smile on his face.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife, Bonnilynn A Mascio of the residence. Also surviving is his daughter, Katie Mascio Morgan and husband Byron; his two sons, Christopher R. Mascio and Jopseph Peter Mascio, all of Kill Devil Hills; his ex-wife, Patricia Nash; his brothers, William, Roy, Joe, Philip, Charles and his sistsers, Missy Primus, Laurie Walski and Joanne Smith, all of Pennsylvania.

There will be no public viewing or visitation; however, all who knew Jack are invited to attend the memorial service Thursday, Feb. 24, 3 p.m., at Twiford Funeral Home in Manteo with the Rev. Ken Simpson officiating. In addition to flowers, donations can be made to the Outer Banks Food Pantry or Meals on Wheels.

Twiford Funeral Home, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.  

Molly Santorno

Manteo – Molly Knight Santorno, 71, died Feb. 19 at home in Baytree. Born March 10, 1939, in Manteo, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Edna Knight of Stumpy Point. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Carolyn Gray.

Surviving are her three children, Rocky Santorno of Montana, Anna Maria Santorno of Colorado and D’Anne Wilson andhusband Rex of Texas; her brother, Billy Knight and wife Alma; two sisters, Estelle Midgett andhusband Paul and Ann Trawick andhusband Mike; six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Plans for a memorial service are pending at this time. Condolences to the family may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com.

Elmer “Stew” Whittle

Kitty Hawk – Elmer Stewart Whittle (Stew), 83, passed away at AlbemarleHospital in ElizabethCityFeb. 20 after a battle with heart disease. Born in Philadelphia, Pa., he was the son of the late Elmer Thomas Whittle and the late Helen Edith Whittle (nee Jeanes). He is survived by his wife, Judith Virginia Whittle of the residence.

Before retiring to the Outer Banks, Mr. Whittle worked for more than 42 years in Pennsylvania at the telephone company, working his way up to the position of supervisor. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, was a member of the Outer Banks Presbyterian Church, volunteered at Pea Island and served on the Kitty Hawk Planning Board.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughter, Sheila Wilson and husband Jim of Vorhees, N.J., two sons, Stephen Whittle and wife Robyn of Levittown, Pa., David Whittle and wife Kim of Kitty Hawk, and six grandchildren, Daphne Whittle, Stephen Whittle, Madelyn Wilson, LeighAnn Whittle, Matthew Wilson and Delaney Whittle.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 25, at Outer Banks Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Dr. Andrew Martinez officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Outer Banks SPCA, P.O. Box 2477, Manteo, N.C. 27954.

Twiford Funeral Home, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Charles Roger Scheel

Kill Devil Hills – Charles Roger Scheel Jr. (Roger), 61, died Feb. 20 after a brief illness. He was born June 9, 1949 in Richmond, Va. and grew up in Virginia, New York and Kentucky. He was the son of the late Christine Snell and Charles Roger Scheel Sr. of Creswell.

Roger had been a resident of Kill Devil Hills and Creswell since the 1980′s and was the manager of the Wilder Brothers, a long-running professional musical act on the Outer Banks. He also worked for IBM and a local radio station.

Roger was the brother of the late Thomas L. Scheeland is survived by his adored nieces, Skyler Elise and Trinity Faith Scheel, as well as numerous cherished friends. Plans for a celebration of Roger’s life are pending and will be announced at a later date. Condolences may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. 

Maureen Cagiano

Southern Shores – Maureen Cagiano, a long-time Southern Shores resident, died at home Feb. 17 at 88 years of age.

Maureen was born and raised on the Island of Holyhead in North Wales, United Kingdom, where she met her husband, Anthony “Andy” Cagiano, an American GI who served during World War II in the U.S. Army Air Corps. Maureen emigrated to the United States with Andy, and she settled in College Park, Md. where she earned her United States citizenship, and as a multi-tasking homemaker, reared three sons in a warm and loving home.

Over the years Mauren enjoyed employment with several companies in many different capacities, but she valued her role as the backbone of her family most of all.

After retiring withherhusband to the Outer Banks in 1980, Maureen expended her energies serving others. She volunteered her time with Hotline, the Baum Center, the Dare County Library, and she was one of the founders of the Southern Shores Volunteer Fire Department’s Rescue 12 Rehab.

Left to cherish her memory is her husband and their three sons and spouses, grandchildren and spouses and great-grandchildren: sons Mark Cagiano and wife Andrea of Douglasville, Ga., Paul Cagiano and wife Kathy of Southern Shores, and Steve Cagiano and wife Ann of Greenbelt, Md.; two grandchildren, Erin Mann andhusband Brandon, Cara Wynn andhusband Jamie; three great-grandchildren, Barrett Mann, Brynna Mann andBrysonWynn. Many extended family members, co-workers andfriends are also left with wonderful memories of their friend.

Plans for a Service of Remembrance to be held at All Saints’ Episcopal Church are pending.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any memorial tributes be forwrded to Outer Banks Hotline, P.O. Box 1490, Manteo, N.C. 27954 and/or to the Southern Shores Volunteer Fire Dept., 15 S. Dogwood Trail, Southern Shores, N.C. 27949. (Please note Maureen Cagiano’s name on donation check.)

Condolences may be expressed to the family via the online registry at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. 

Helen S. Chessick

Manteo- Helen S. Chessick, 92, succumbed to a brief illness in Nags Head Feb. 16. Helen was the wife of the late Edward L. Chessick Sr., and she was the daughter of the late Albert and Mary Gorka. Helen was also preceded in death by four brothers, Bennie Gorka, Anthony Gorka, Frank Gorka and Walter Gorka.

Born and raised in Newark, N.J., Helen completed her high school studies and devoted her life to family and God. She took pride in mastering the traditional domestic arts of the time and created a warm and loving home for her husband and son. In later years, Helen entered the candy business and was employed by Rita’s Confectionery – which she dearly loved.

She is survived by her son Edward L. Chessick Jr. and wife Marianne of Manteo; one grandson, Brian E. Chessick and wife Heather of Moyock; her adored great-grandchildren Conner Chessick and Brianna Chessick, also of Moyock; and numerous extended family members and dear, long-time friends.

Friends may call at the Manteo residence and Monday evening, Feb. 21, at Haeberle & Barth Funeral Home in Union, N.J. The funeral mass will be held at 10:15 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21, at Saint Michael’s Catholic Church. Interment at Hollywood Memorial Park will follow the mass.

Condolences to the famiy may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Local arrangements were entrusted to Gallop Funeral Services.,

Mary Rodgers

Nags Head – Mary Rodgers, 79, of Nags Head, died Feb. 15 at Sentara Nursing Center, Currituck. She was born in Manchester, England to the late Ronald andHilda Davis Moxonandwas preceded in deathbyherhusband, John Rodgers, and a daughter, Elizabeth Rodgers. She was a homemaker and a Catholic.

Mrs. Rodgers is survived by a daughter, Ann Rodgers of Nags Head; three sons, Eric Rodgers of Williamsport, Pa.,  Allan Rodgers of Hamburg, Pa. and Phillip Rodgers of Lasden, S.C.; a sister, Gladys Tucker of Salt Lake City, Utah; a brother, Allan Moxon of Parrish, Fla. eight grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Twiford Funeral Homes’ Colony Chapel, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Roberta Shimabukuro

Kill Devil Hills – Roberta Hall Shimabukuro, 58, of Kill Devil Hills, died Feb. 14 in her residence. Mrs. Shimabukuro was born in Albuquerque, N.M. and was retired as a retail manager.

She was predeceased by her parents, Robert S. and Marcelle Meyers Hall and the wife of Lance Shimabukuro of the home.

In addition to her husband, surviving are two daughters, Karra Shimabukuro of Kill Devil Hills and Alexis Hall of New York City and one brother, Paul Hall of New Hampshire.

A service of remembrance was held in Twiford’s Colony Chapel Feb. 18.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made by the purchase of a book from Manteo Booksellers and donated in Mrs. Shimabukuro’s name to the Dare County Library, P.O. Box 1000, Manteo, N.C. 27954.

Peter O’Sullivan

Powells Point – Surrounded by his loving family, Peter Arthur O’Sullivan, died unexpectedly Feb. 8. Peter was 60-years-old and was born May 24, 1950 in Maryland.

He graduated from Ridgewood High School in New Jersey. Peter served his country honorably in the United States Army and completed a full tour of active duty in Vietnam. After his military service, Peter used his ambition and entrepreneurial spirit to found his own construction company which he operated with his wife and sons.

Peter was devoted to his loving wife Ruth O’Sullivan, and they enjoyed 40 wonderful years together. Peter was a loving and devoted father to his two sons, Shawn O’Sullivan and wife Shannon, and Shane O’Sullivan. He cherished his time with granddaughter Bethany. He is survived by his mother, Dorothy O’Sullivan, his siblings Gene and wife Maryanne O’Sullivan, Mark and his wife Susan O’Sullivan, Brian and his wife Yoshiko O’Sullivan, Matthew “Black” O’Sullivan, Katie and partner Linda O’Sullivan, Arthur and wife Janine O’Sullivan, Dr. Hank Balfour and Jodie Morgan and families. He was preceded in death by his parents Eugene and Dorothy O’Sullivan. Peter also has many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and treasured friends ahd former business associates.

Peter’s laughter, generosity and devotion to family brought joy to those around him. Peter was known for his attention to details that was valued by his customers.

The family will hold a celebration of life at The Pointe Golf Course Feb. 19 from 1-3 p.m. All family, friends and business associates are invited. In lieu of flowers the family suggests that memorial tributes be forwarded to Sentara Foundation, Guest Services at Norfolk General Hospital, 600 Greshan Dr., Norfolk, Va. 23507. Condolences to the family may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements.

Katherine Ray

Manteo – Katherine Marie Ray, 62, died unexpectedly at home Feb. 7. Kathy, as she was known by family and friends, was the daughter of the late Howard and Martha Makela. She was born in Montour Falls, N.Y.

Kathy completed her high school studies in New York and went on to earn her bachelors and masters degrees in education from State University of New York, SUNY Cortland. From there she embarked on a long and successful career as a teacher in both the Greenville, S.C. and New Field, N.Y. school systems.

After retiring from teaching, Kathy acted on her dream to own a business and opened Stripers restaurant in Manteo. Through her vision and determination, she built the restaurant into the popular local destination it remains today. Countless customers, colleagues and co-workers will dearly miss her unique presence.

Kathy Ray is survived by her two sisters, Debby M. Mickelson and husband Jim of Pelzer, S.C. and Bonnie Makela of Mystic, Conn., one brother, Robert J. “RJ” Makela of Lorraine, N.Y.; several extended family members and numerous cherished friends.

In accordance with Kathy’s wishes, the family will hold a private service of remembrance at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial tributes be forwarded to the American Cancer Society or to a charity of your choice. Condolences may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Nags Head, was entrusted with arrangements.

Trilby Culpepper

Kill Devil Hills – Trilby Elisabeth Parker Culpepper, better known as “Jake” to family and friends, passed away peacefully at home Feb. 4. Jake was born and reared in Chesapeake, Va., a graduate of South Norfolk High School and attended the College of William and Mary.

Preceding her in death are her parents James H Parker and Sadie McGlauhan Parker, her husband of 32 years, William E. Culpepper who was also her dearest friend, her sons, William Craig Cullpepper and Michael H. Culpepper and her brother, James H. “Buddy” Parker.

She will be dearly missed by her precious daughter Terri Southerland of the Kill Devil Hills residence and her grandchildren whom she adored, Andrea E. Southerland of Nags Head and J. Austin Southerland of Edenton; her sister, Roma Jean Cathcart of Ocala, Fla.; her niece, Karen Hamer of Ocala, Fla. and nephew Carl F. Cathcart of New Jersey, their children and spouses and her newest addition and most precious great-grandson, Gabriel Quinn Southerland.

Jake will be sorely missed by her family and friends. Jake was a loving, caring person. She was an avid reader and loved bridge and her bridge friends of more than 20 years. Jake andherhusbandwere the first to begin the Compassionate Friends for families who have lost children to death. She was the president for three years, stepping down when she moved to Florida with her husband.

Jake was an accountant for 34 years and sincerely loved her work. She was also a born designer and helped her friends in this endeavor. Jake enjoyed life and put her all into living it. Two friends and a family member were especially treasured for their love and joy, and they are the late Dorothy Gupton of Georgia, Marilene Pacuilli of Chesapeake – an angel on earth, and from Virginia Beach, Linda Barclay – You’re STILL a class act.

The family will hold a celebration of life at a date in the near future. In accordance with Jake’s wishes, her cremated remains will be placed in the Atlantic Ocean of her beloved Outer Banks. In lieu of flowers the family suggests that memorial tributes be forwarded to the Children’s Hospital of the Kings Daughters and/or to the Joy Fund of Virginia. Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements.

Emilia Ballance

Hatteras – Emilia Ann O’Buch Ballance, 80, a loving wife, mother and “Nanniegirl” passed away peacefully in her sleep Feb. 10. She was born Sept. 15, 1930 to the late Paul and Ann O’Buch. She lived in New York City until she was married in 1957.

She was predeceased by her brothers, Charles and John O’Buch.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 51 years, Lester B. Ballance, a daughter, Faye Foster and husband Buddy, a son, Victor Ballance of Hatteras, three grandchildren, Marshall, Krystal and Christian, seven nieces and three nephews.

A funeral was held Feb. 12 by pastor Cory Oliver and pastor Dwight Burrus.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hatteras United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 310, Hatteras,N.C. 27943.

The family would like to offer sincere gratitude and thanks to the many caregivers and friends who provided great comfort and support to Emelia and the family.

TwifordFuneralHomes, Hatteras, assisted the family with arrangements.  

Leon Jennette Sr.

Buxton – Leon Edgar Jennette Sr., 76, of Buxton, passed away at Wilson Medical Center Jan. 30. He was the son of the late Junius L. Jennette Sr. and the late Leona Gaskins Jennette. Leon loved his family very much. He was well-known in the community and was always eager to lend a helping hand. Mr. Jennette proudly served his country in the U.S. Coast Guard and was a lifetime member of the Cape Hatteras Angler’s Club, a member of Duck Woods Country Club and attended Lighthouse Assembly of God in Buxton. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his brother, Junius L. Jennette Jr.

Leon is survived by his two daughters, Rossie Jackson andhusband Kevin of Buxton, Leanne Woods andhusband Lonnie of Plano, Texas, and his son, Leon E. Jennette Jr. and wife Nicole of Buxton. Also left t cherish his memory are his eight grandchildren, K.D. Jackson, Kristen Midgett, Hunter Woods, Annafaith Woods, Sophie Woods, Taylor Woods, Dallas Woods and Trey Jennette.

The funeral was held Feb. 3 at Lighthouse Assembly of God in Buxton.

TwifordFuneralHomes, Hatteras, assisted the family with arrangements. 

James Atkins

Kitty Hawk – James Wesley “Wes” Atkins, 62, died at his residence Jan. 30. Born in Newport News, Va., he was the son of the late Wesley and Geraldine Atkins. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Martha Bozarth.

Wes is survived by his wife Jacquelyn Atkins of the home; one son, Jason Alexander Atkins and wife Leigh Ann and their daughter Avery Blythe Atkins of Newport News, Va; one daughter, Samantha Jaclyn Roberts and husband David and their son Charles John Roberts; and one brother, Sherwood Payne Atkins of Glen Allen, Va.

A ceremony in celebration of his life was held Feb. 4 at Outer Banks Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his name to the Saint Jude’s Children’s Hospital and/or, if local, to the Tidewater area, donations may be made in the name of Avery Atkins and Charles Roberts’ Grandfather for Scholarships to Hidenwood Presbyterian Preschool, Newport News, Va.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, assisted the family with arrangements.  

Charles “Skip” Berndt

Manteo – Charles “Skip” Berndt, 71, of Manteo, died Jan. 27 at The Outer Banks Hospital. Born in Middlesex County, N.J., he was the son of the late Harold and Josephine Berndt. He was the former service manager at Outer Banks Chrysler and the parts manager at R.D. Sawyer Motor Company. He was a parishioner of Holy Redeemer By-the-Sea Catholic Church where he served as a greeter. He was an avid fisherman andaloving husband and father.

Skip is survived by his wife, Gail Henderson Berndt, of the residence; three daughters, Debi Berndt of New Rochelle, N.Y., Pamela Berndt of Branchburg, N.J. and and Kim Berndt of Fort Lee, N.J.; a son, Chuck Berndt and wife Lisa of Jacksonville Beach, Fla; and two grandchildren, Ryan and Shayna Berndt.

A mass of the Resurrection was celebrated at Holy Redeemer in Kitty Hawk Feb. 1 with Father Edward Fitzpatrick officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his name to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, Okla. 73123-1718.

TwifordFuneralHomes, Manteoassistedthe family with arrangements.

Melvin Austin

Manteo – Melvin Shafter Austin Jr., 76, of Manteo, died Jan. 27 at his residence. He was the son of the late Melvin and Thelma Austin. Mr. Austin was born in Norfolk, Va. and was a deckhand in the Merchant Marines. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Izetta Gray Austin, and one granddaughter, Victoria Lynn Jennette.

Melvin is survived by three daughters, Mary Ellen Douan of Manns Harbor, Jennifer Abbott andhusband Wayne of Manteo, Angela Austin of Manteo; two sons, Melvin Gregory Austin and wife Vanessa of Buxton and Kyle Austin of Manteo; two sisters, Alice Chadwick and Rosa Sales, both of Beaufort; one brother, Robert Austin of South Carolina; two grandchildren, Kayla Austin and Aaron Silver.

A celebration of his life was held at Twiford’s Colony Chapel, Manteo, Jan. 31 with the Rev. Roger Barnett officiating. Burial took place in Roanoke Island Memorial Gardens, Manteo.

  Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, assisted the family with arrangements. 

Helen Daniels

Manteo- Helen Daniels, a quintessential Outer Banker, passed away peacefully in the presence of her family in her home overlooking Shallow Bag Bay in ManteoJan. 27 at the age of 88 andas the oldest member of the Roanoke IslandEtheridge clan. Helen, also known as “Honey” to many loved ones, was born on the northendof Roanoke IslandJan. 10, 1923, the daughter of Coast Guard Lt. Commander Walter G. Etheridge andSybil Dough Etheridge. Helen’s maternal grandfather, Will S. Dough, was one of the four members of the National Lifesaving Service that helped the Wright brothers on the day of the first flilghtin1903. She spent her childhood years on Roanoke Island but attended and graduated from Elizabeth City High School where she was a basketball star. She attended and received a degree from hardbarger’s Business School in Raleigh.

On Oct. 3, 1942, Helen married Luther Hamilton Daniels, her devoted husband for 68 years who served several terms as a commissioner and mayor of the town of Manteo. They were married in the house at the northendofRoanokeIsland built withtimbers from shipwrecks by her grandfather, Patrick Etheridge, who had received a Congressional Medal of Honor for Lifesaving in the National Lifesaving Service and who is credited with the famous Coast Guard saying, “The Blue book says we’ve got to go out, but it doesn’t say a damn thing about coming back.”

Helen held real estate licenses in three states and also worked for “The Coastland Times,” the Army Corps of Engineers and the Selective Service. She shied away from the limelight but did much to help others. She volunteered as an aide during World War II at Mt. Vernon Hospital in New York, tending to wounded soldiers for which she received a citation from the American National Red Cross. She attended the Boy Scout College in Valley Forge, Pa. andserved as a troop leader. Helen was a Vista volunteer in Dare County. She was co-founder of the Friends of Roanoke Island which addressed environmental issues affecting the island. She started an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting in the old Manteotown hall on the waterfront which now meets at Roanoke Island Presbyterian Church. In 1968 she was confirmed in St. Andrews By-the-Sea Episcopal Church. She dedicated her body to medical research at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Helen is survived by her husband and their three children and their spouses: Sybil Daniels Ross (John Bowen Ross Jr), Luther Hamilton Daniels Jr. (Connie Wright Daniels) andWalter EtheridgeDaniels (Linda Markus Daniels), along with her nieces Anne Davis Creef, Barbara Jean Meekins, Helen McDonald, Kaye Davis, Patricia Salazar, Alice Mae Creef; nephews Patrick Kee, Ricky and William Daniels; grandchildren Sybil Lynn Basnight Wilson, Michael Brynteson, Luther Jameson (Jamie) Daniels, Slater Patrick Daniels and Etheridge Richard Daniels. She was predeceased by her niece, Annie Laurie Key Collier, her brother, Ralph Etheridge and sisters Willie Etheridge Joliff and Nonnie Etheridge Davis.

A memorial service was held at Roanoke Island Presbyterian church Feb. 3. Helen Daniels did not llike cut flowers, having preferred living things. The family requests that, instead of flowers, contributions be made to Outer Banks Conservationists Inc., P.O. Box 970, Manteo,N.C. 27954 for the restoration and maintenance of the Etheridge home place, the 19th century farmhouse and grounds of her great-grandfather, Adam Etheridge IV, which is now a public museum and historic site also on the north end. One final exaltation: Helen Daniels was a Democrat.

Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, assisted the family with arrangements. 

Marjorie Banks

Frisco – Marjorie MidgetteBanks, 88, went to be withour Lord Jan. 27 at Pitt Memorial Hospital. She lived in Norfolk 69 years before coming to live withhersoninFrisco. She was the daughter of Joshua D. Austin and Elizabeth “Lizzie” Willis.

 She was a homemaker, caregiver and enjoyed her children and grandchildren. She loved the Lord with all her heart and shared him with everyone who would listen. She was a great prayer warrior and gave from her heart. She loved painting pictures of the island, singing and playing her harmonica with her son while we all sang along. One thing she truly gave her family was her love of Hatteras, and we will keep her spirit alive in our hearts.

Surviving are one daughter, Jennifer Novak, San Antonio, Texas; three sons, Steve Midgette andwife Laurie of Havertown, Pa., Gary Midgette and wife Catherine of Phoenix, Ariz., Robin Midgette and wife Jeanie of Frisco; 10 grandchildren, Curtis, Jason, Hannah, Jonathan, Robert, Julie, Abigail, Nathanael, Jeana and Robbie; and seven great-grandchildren.

  Mrs. Banks was predeceased by three sons, Michael, Johnny andHoward Midgette, all of Norfolk, Va.; three brothers, Monford Austin of Hatteras, Barney Austin of Virginia Beach, Va. and Maurice Austin of Hatteras; andhusbands, John Riggs Midgette of Buxtonand Robert Banks of Norfolk. Burial was in the QuidleyCemetery in Buxton.

Mrs. Banks was a member of Hatteras United Methodist Church. Donations can be made in her honor to the United Methodist Men or Hatteras Island Food Pantry, P.O. Box 1591, Hatteras, N.C. 27920.

  TwifordFuneralHomesof Hatteras assisted the family with arrangements.

Dennis McClease Sr.

  Manteo – Dennis Cecil McClease Sr. was born Dec. 25, 1926 in Manteo to the late Samuel and Edna McClease. Dennis attended local Manteo public schools. Immediately following high school, he enlisted in the Army and served in World War II. He was honorably discharged in 1946.

  Dennis met Ossie V. Miller in Norfolk, Va. in 1956 and relocated to Newark, N.J. In Newark Dennis worked as a truck driver and in aircraft traffic personnel for UPS and Signature Airlines. Dennis had a love of cars and trucks and worked as a mechanic. Dennis was a soldier and a man of determination and courage. He embodied many wonderful qualities. He was a family man and a dedicated father, grandfather andhusband.

  He was predeceased by his parents and his loving spouse, his siblings Samuel, Thomas and Mable McClease and Naomi Bryant, and his son, Sylvester Williams.

  Dennis leaves to cherish hs memory his children Annette (Julius) Butler, Eugene (Christine) Gray, Alfred Robinson, Ronnie (Belinda Brooks) Miller, Barbara Ann (Douglas Valentine) McClease, Naomi (Achan) Bey, Dennis McClease Jr., Samuel McClease, Yvette (Darren) Jones, Charlotte McClease, a daughter-in-law, Roxanne Williams, a sister-in-law, Lillian Miller, and brother George (Pensacola) McClease and 27 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews , cousins and friends.

  Friends may call Tuesday, Feb. 1, 6-9 p.m., at the Gallop Funeral Services chapel in Nags Head. The funeral will be held Wednesday, Feb. 2, noon, at Free Grace Disciples of Christ Church in Manteowithviewingonehour prior. Pastor Carrie G. Holmes will officiate. Interment with military honors will follow at Free Grace Church Cemetery on Burnside Road in Manteo. Condolences may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices. com. Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements. 

Wayne W. Porter

  Nags Head – Wayne W. Porter, born in 1931 in Brockton, Mass., went home to be with the Lord Jan. 22 surrounded by his family.

  Wayne retired from the Department of Energy as an auditor. He served honorably in the Korean War as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army.

  Wayne is survived by his childhood sweetheart and wife of 59 years, Arlene, and his three children, Brad, Pattie and Norman and their spouses who will honor his loving legacy. “Papa” will also be dearly missed by his 11 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. All who knew Wayne will treasure the memory of his love of nature, growing things, special walks on the beach and his deep faith and warm and gentle character.

  The family will hold a beachside memorial April 23. Other details are pending. Condolences may be expressed by gifts to the GEM Center, P.O. Box 3601, Kill Devil Hills, N.C. 27948 and via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements.

Virginia O’Neal

  Rodanthe – Virginia McCune O’Neal, 86, of Rodanthe, died Jan. 23 at Spring Arbor of the Outer Banks. Born in Barbour County, W. Va., she was the daughter of the late Lawrence and Myrtle Wilfong McCune and was the widow of Oscar B. O’Neal. She retired as postmaster from the USPS after 30 years of service, was a  long-time member of Fairhaven United Methodist Church and was a member of Outer Banks Rebekah Lodge #165.

  She is survived by four sisters-in-law, Helen Midgettof Elizabeth City, Zenovah Hooper of Salvo, Lovie Midgettof Rodanthe and Olive Ppatrick of Rodanthe, and numerous nieces and nephews.

  A funeral service will be held Thursday, Jan. 27, 2 p.m., at Fairhaven UMC withthe Rev. Jim Bliss officiating. Burial will follow at the O’Neal Family Cemetery. The family will receive friends and relatives at the church Wedneday, Jan. 26, 7-8 p.m.

  Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, is assisting the family witharangements.  

Johnny Burgess Hooper

  Salvo – Johnny Burgess Hooper, 65, of Salvo, died Jan. 21 in Norfolk, Va. Mr. Hooper was born in Norfolk and was a retired contractor and commercial fisherman. He attended Lifeboat Community Church and in his youth, was a member of Clarks BethelUnitedMethodist Church. Johnny served as a scout master for 15 years with Boy Scouts of America Troop 179 and fire chief for Salvo Volunteer Fire Dept. He was a former president of Dare County EMS when it was an all-volunteer service.

  He was the son of the late Edward Burgess Hooper and Zenovah Catherine O’Neal Hooper of Salvo andwas the husband of Linda Torge Hooper of the home.

  Besides his wife and mother, surviving are two daughters, Cassandra Linda Moore and husband Hal of  Kill Devil Hills and Tiffany June Wyche and husband Brandon of Durham; one son, Johnny B. Hooper II and wife Angel of Salvo, eight grandchildren, Christopher, Matthew, Ciera, Jacquelyn, Addie, Noah, Jonah and Luke; sister-in-law, Paula Borum ; brothers-in-law Mark Torge and Pete Torge.

  A celebration of life was held in Liberty Christian Church Monday, Jan. 24 with Steve Simmons, Dwight Burrus, John Hobbs, David Daniels and Jim Blise officiating. Burial was in the Hooper Cemetery in Salvo. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Food Pantry of Lifeboat Community Church, P.O. Box 87, Salvo, N.C. 27972. 

Vonnie Dampier

  Nags Head – Vonnie Skipper Dampier joined her Loving Savior Jan. 19. She passed peacefully in the presence of her beloved daughters and in the care of the loving staff of Colony Ridge Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Nags Head (formerly Britthaven).

  She was born May 7, 1924, in Russelville, S.C., the only child of Harry Leon and Edna DuBose Skipper. Vonnie retired after 28 years of service from the technical department of Union Camp Corp. in Franklin, Va. After retirement, she and her husband, Bob “Red” Dampier, moved to the Outer Banks. He was a contractor and founder of the Nags Head AA group. Vonnie was a charter member of Still Waters Baptist Church.

  She has joined her husband, Jack and their first daughter, Judi Jeffers Siragusa, and her husband Bob. To cherish her memory are five daughters: Jackie Blythe and husband Ed  of Courtland Va.; Janice Foley and husband Charles of Warrenton, Va.; Pat Stoffel and husband Mike of Kill Devil Hills; Arlene Pittman of Sedley, Va.; and Darlene Pope and husband John of Courtland, Va.; step-daughter Billy George and husband Eddie of Roanoke, Va. and step-son Bobby Dampier of Carolina Beach; 17 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, and her friend Inez Walker.

  Britthaven became Vonnie’s home in July of 2007. The administrator, Arlene Blythe Palmer (formerly of Franklin), her staff and many friends became her extended family.

  Her funeral service was Jan. 21. Honoring her sister in Christ will be dear friend, pastor Tony Facenda. Vonnie will be laid to rest at Poplar Springs Cemetery, Franklin, Va., following a graveside service Jan. 22. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to her beloved church, Still Waters Baptist Church, P.O. Box 148, Nags Head, 27959, or Colony Ridge Nursing and Rehab Center, 430 W. Health Center Dr., Nags Head, N.C. 27959.

  Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.    

Sarah Armstrong

  ElizabethCity- Sarah Gertrude English Armstrong, 88, died Jan. 18 at Guardian Care Nursing Home in Elizabeth City. A native of Hyde County, she was the daughter of the late Eldridge L. English and Zulean Pegram English and the widow of Harry Roosevelt Armstrong. She was a homemaker.

  She is survived by four daughters, Thelma Carter of Charlotte, Linda Brickhouse of MannsHarbor and Deloris “Lois” Turner and Sandra Joyce White, bothofElizabethcity; three sons, Harry E. Armstrong of Attleboro, Mass., Elton R. Armstrong of Elizabeth City and Wayne Armstrong of Harbinger; 15 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

  A graveside funeral service was held Saturday, Jan. 22, at Powell’s Point Christian Church Cemetery with pastor Bill Morris officiating. TwifordFuneral Homes, Elizabeth City, is serving the Armstrong family. Online condolences may be expressed by visiting www.twifordfh.com. 

Darla Burns

  Kitty Hawk – Darla Nan Muncy Burns, 72, a resident of Kitty Hawk for the past 17 years, died Jan. 17 in Chesapeake General Hospital. Mrs. Burns was born in Roseburg, Ore., the daughter of Merle and Hazel Johnson Muncy. She was an elementary school teacher, a long-time office manager for the American Cancer Society in Vienna, Va., an avid world traveler, a member of Duck Woods Country Club and several Outer Banks service and social organizations.

  Mrs. Burns is survived by her husband, DennieGeorge Burns of the residence; a daughter, Deanna Marie Wentz and husband Steven of Houston, Texas; a son, David George Burns and wife Sarah of Manassas, Va.; and two grandchildren, Emma Nicole Wentz and Daniel George Burns.

  A celebration of life was held at Kitty Hawk United Methodist Church Jan. 22 with the Rev. Curtis Campbell officiating. In lieu of flowers, remembrance donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Interfaith Community Outreach (ICO), P.O. Box 838, Kitty Hawk, N.C. 27949.

  Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.Tina Marie Taylor

  Colington – Tina Marie Taylor, 30, passed away unexpectedly at her residence Jan. 17. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., she was the daughter of Jenny Ann Scheerer (nee Plantamura) and Richard Francis Scheerer. She is survived by her husband, Russell Nesseltree of the residence. She is predeceased by her grandmother, Catherine Scheerer, and a brother, Richard Scheerer. Tina worked at Food Lion in Nags Head and loved spending time with her children. She was very close to her family and will be deeply missed.

  In addition to her husband, Tina is survived by her daughter, Rachel Taylor of California, and her son, Justin Nesseltree of Kill Devil Hills. She is also survived by two sisters, Linda Osorio and Sheila Hart, four brothers, Bryan Manza, Joseph Manza, John Scheerer, Danny Scheerer, a grandmother, Barbara Plantamura, and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

  A service under the direction of Bay Ridge Funeral Home of Brooklyn, N.Y. is being planned. Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, is assisting the family with local arrangements.  

Frances Ann Farrow

  Frisco – Frances Ann Farrow, 71, of Frisco, died Jan. 12 at Colony Ridge Nursing and Rehab Center in Nags Head. Born in Carteret County, she was the daughter of the late Guy Vann Avery and Rosa Ballance Austin and was the widow of Lester B. Farrow Jr. She was a retired secretary/co-owner of Farrow Building and was a former member of the Frisco Assembly of God Church.

  Mrs. Farrow is survived by two daughters, Connie Farrow of Frisco andElizabeth Fisher of Sneads Ferry; a son, Lester B. Farrow III of Frisco; two sisters, Bonnie Haslam of Harkers Island and Lily O’Donnell of Alexandria, Va.; four brothers, Travis Austin Jr. of North River, Rudolph Austin of Frisco, George Austin of Buxton and Whealton Austin of Frisco. 10 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

  The funeral service was held Jan. 17 at Heritage of Faith Family Church with the Rev. Roger Barnett officiating. Burial was at the Farrow Cemetery.

Jerry Holden Beacham

  Kitty Hawk – Jerry Holden Beacham, 69, of Kitty Hawk, died Jan. 10 at his residence. He was a native of Kitty Hawk and was the son of the late William Roy Beacham Sr. and Inez Gaimel Beacham.

  Jerry is survived by a sister, Alma B. Hayman, and a brother, William Roy BeachamJr., both of Kitty Hawk.

  A graveside service was held Jan. 12 at Austin Cemetery with the Rev. Eugene McLawhorn officiating. Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, assisted the family with arrangements.

Ralph Horne

  Manteo – Ralph Horne, 54, of Manteo, died Jan. 9 at his residence. Mr. Horne was born in Wilson and was employed by Dare County schools with 20 years of dedicated service. He received the Employee of the Year Award for Dare County Schools Maintenance Dept. for 2010-2011. He loved his family and worked seven days a week most weeks to ensure they had what they needed. Ralph was active in Dare County Parks and Recreation where he served on the advisory board. He loved to coach, coaching all sports and touching the lives of hundreds of children, teaching them not only about sports, but also what it means to be a good person. He loved Dare County and truly believed it to be the most wonderful place in the world.

  He was the son of Betty Rhodes Horne of Wilson and the late Junior Pete Horne and the husband of Angela Chappell Horne.

  Besides his wife, surviving are two daughters, Tara Shannon Horne and Melissa Lauren Horne, both of Manteo; three sons, Justin Lee Horne of High Point, Brian Wayne Horne of East lake and Samuel Ryan Horne of Manteo. He is also survived by his granddaughter Emma Claire Horne of East Lake, a brother, Ricky Horne of Nags Head and a sister, Wanda Anderson of Kill Devil Hills.

  A celebration of his life took place Jan. 12 at Mount OlivetUnitedMethodistChurch withthe Rev. Jerry Cribb officiating. Monetary donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the Ralph Horne Memorial Fundc/o Mount Olivet United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 787, Manteo, N.C. 27954.

Lennie Dianne Hodges Holt

  Manteo- On Jan 9, the angels came and took Dianne home to our heavenly Father. Dianne was predeceased by both parents and a brother, Marvin Ray Hodges.

  Dianne was a wonderful waitress through the years at many of Manteo’s restaurants, including Spencer’s, Daniels’ and Darrell’s. Later she worked in retail at The Christmas Shop, The Sea Witch and The Cat House. Dianne’s favorite pass-time was walking our beaches in search of sea glass.

  She leaves behindher loving husband Barry “Fuzzy” Holt, her sister Betty Allen and a wonderful church family at Manteo Faith Bapatist Church.

  There will be a celebration of life at Manteo Faith Baptist church Saturday, Jan. 15, at 4 p.m.

  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Manteo Faith Baptist Church, 1037 Burnside Rd., P.O. Box 5, Manteo, N.C. 27954.

  Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com.

Walter Reasor jr.

  Frisco – Walter “Walt” Lee Reasor Jr., 38, passed away at his residence in Frisco Jan. 8. The son of Leon and Noreen Reasor, Walt was an avid fisherman and worked for several local companies including Island Pest Control, Hatteras Realty and Outer Beaches Realty. He pursued an education in culinary arts and worked at Hadad’s and Quaterdeck restaurants on Hatteras Island. However, his passion for fishing will be remembered by many who knew him.

  In addition to his parents, he is survived by his three sisters, Michele Fletcher and husband Todd of Brush Valley, Pa., Tracey Spritzer and husband Rocky of Walters, Okla., Stacey Markey of New Bern and his aunts and uncles including Janice and Buddy Jennette of Buxton, Jack and Jane Thayer of Elmwood City, Pa. and John and Karen Reasor of Mercer, Pa. Walt is predeceased by one uncle, Walter Stephen Reasor, and his paternal and maternal grandparents.

  A memorial service was held Jan. 11 at TwifordFuneral Home, Island Chapel in Hatteras with the Rev. Dwight Burrusofficiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to the United Methodist Men or the Hatteras Island Food Pantry, P.O. Box 1591, Hatteras, N.C. 27920.

Patricia (Pat) McCabe Gray

  Stumpy Point – Patricia (Pat) McCabe Gray of Stumpy Point died Jan. 1 at Chesapeake General Hospital. Born in New York, N.Y., she was the daughter of the late Edward and Irene Stormburg McCabe and was the widow of AlmeyH. Gray. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Edward McCabe Jr. , John McCabe and Joseph McCabe.

  Pat is survived by a daughter, Patricia Ann Gray-Cleark and husband Greg; three sons: Almey J. Gray and wife Barbara, Glenn Gray and wife Christine and Darrell Gray; eight grandchildren, Denise Gray Geer and husband Joe, Almey Roy Gray, Trevor Clark, Glenn Gray, Evan, Gray, Logan Gray, Tyner Gray and Sarah Gray; one great-grandchild, Kyle Geer, and two sisters, Catherine McCabe and Irene McCabe.

  A memorial service will be held Thursday, Jan. 2, 2 p.m, at Bayview Chapel by the Rev. John DeCarmo.

  Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements. 

William D. “Doug” Dashiell

  Kill Devil Hills – William Douglas Dashiell, 56, died unexpectedly at his home New Year’s Eve. Doug was born May 30, 1954. He was the son of the late RuthAnn and E. Bales DashiellSr. of Portsmouth, Va. He was a resident of Kill Devil Hills since the 1970′s and worked in the construction business most of his life. He was a master carpenter and recently enjoyed his employment with the Jolly Roger Restaurant. Doug retired after 20 years as captain of the Colington Volunteer Fire Department. He was one of the original members and also served as an officer of its board of directors. Doug was an avid diver, fisherman, underwater photographer and surfer. He deeply enjoyed his life on the Outer Banks and took pride in being a good and helpful neighbor and friend to everyone he knew.

  Doug was the brother of Earl B. Dashiell Jr. and wife Sandie of Poquoson, Va. and Ronald Lee Dashiell Sr. and wife Linda of Isle of Wight County, Carrollton, Va. He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family members as well as numerous cherished friends and neighbors, including childhood buddies Skip Haynes, Marc Defelice, Rick Scott and Marion Gee.

  Plans for a memorial service near Helga Street are pending and will be announced at a later date. Condolences may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that any memorial donations be amde to the Colington Volunteer Fire Department.

  Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements.s 

Clifford James “Toddy” Morrow Jr.

  Buxton – Clifford J. “Toddy” Morrow, 85, passed this life peacefully Jan. 1 at his home of 20 years in Buxton after a long illness. Born in South Heights, Pa., he was predeceased by his father, Clifford Sr., and mother Blanche McCoy Morrow. A graduate of Aliquippa High School and the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, he served as an Air Force cadet in World War II. He was the 1984 Aliquippa Man of the Year award recipient.

  A world traveler and adventurer, he was also an award-winning artist, sculptor and carver. He retired from the Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh, Pa. after 38 years of service where he was responsible for the design and production of all exhibits including the world-renowned Hillman Hall of Gems and Minerals and Polar World.

  In Buxton, he was a member of the Cape Hatteras Anglers Club and the bird club. He sang in the Our Lady of the Seas choir where he was also a Eucharistic Minister, usher and greeter.

  Surviving are his loving wife of 64 years, Dolores Valle Morrow; daughter Janet Morrow Pate of Oak Park, Ill.; son Jeffrey Todd Morrow of Powder Springs, Ga; grandsons Clifford David Pate of Charleston, S.C. and Blakeney Morrow Pate of Florence, S.C.; daughter in-law Lisa Morrow and granddaughters Emily Katherine and Erin Elizabeth Morrow, all of Powder Springs, and his sister, Joyce Follard of Akron, Ohio; along with many nieces and nephews.

  A funeral mass wasl held at Our Lady of-the Seas Catholic Parish in Buxton Jan. 5. Inurnment will be private.

  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of the Seas, P.O. Box 1565, Buxton,N.C. 27920 or Dare Home Health and Hospice, P.O. Box 1000, Manteo, N.c. 27954. Condolences may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements. 

Jerry Mack Coberly

  Kill Devil Hills – Jerry Mack Coberly, 73, of Kill Devil Hills, died Dec. 23 in Raleigh. Born in Randolph County, W. Va., he was the son of the late Emery Camden Coberly and Beulah Jane Stover Coberly. He was a retired accountant withGary Smith, CPA in Frederick County, Md. and was a member of Stillwaters Baptist Church in Nags Head.

  Mr. Coberly is survived by his wife, Mary Catherine Ferguson Coberly of the home; a daughter, Michelle Coberly Hoffman and husband, Aaron of Rising Sun, Md.; two sons, James Allen Coberly and wife Jamie of Kill Devil Hills and Glen Coberly and wife Michele of Wake Forest; and six grandchildren, LeeAnnand Daniel Hoffman and Jared, Sarah, Abigail and Elizabeth Coberly.

  A memorial service will be held at Stillwaters Baptist Church Saturday,Jan. 15, 11 a.m., by pastor Tony Facenda.

  In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Jerry’s favorite charity, Central Maryland Youth for Christ, P.O. Box 3944, Frederick, Md. 21705-3944.

  Twiford Funeral Homes, Manteo, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Mary Lou Pack

  Kitty Hawk – Mary Lou Pack, 54, died at her residence in Kitty Hawk Dec. 28 after a long fight with cancer. Born in Martinsville, Va., she lived most of her life in Walkertown. She was the daughter of the late Jimmy Johnny Pack. In addition to her mother, Nona Mae Shoemaker, she is survived by her daughter, Lillian Margaret Walworth, and her sons, Brennan Wayne Trevathan and Charles Frank Trevathan, as well as her sisters, Margaret Pack, Patricia (Punkin) Karbowski, Carol (Kay) Sabbio, Joan R. Caudill and April (Angel) Lashley and two brothers, Charles (Chuck) Chumley and Jerry Caudill. She is preceded in death by two sisters, Joanne Caudill and Fran Pack.

  Condolences may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements.

Ella Marie Daniels

  Manteo – Long-time Manteoresident, Ella Marie Daniels, 74, passed away Saturday, Dec. 25 in Nags Head surrounded by the family she cherished. Marie, as she was known to many, was born Aug. 18, 1936 in Baltimore, Md. She was the daughter of the late James Lee and the late Beatrice Meekins Lee. Marie was also predeceased by a sister, Viola Lee, and two brohers, James Lee and Norfleet Lee.

  Marie, a tireless worker behind the scenes who shunned the spotlight, raised her family in Manteoas the devoted Coast Guard wife of Chief Petty Officer (Ret.) Leon Davis Daniels. She worked for many years as a custodian with the state of North Carolina Department of History and Archives in Manteo. In her personal life, Marie was a loyal member of Free Grace Disciples of Christ Church in Manteo and presided over the church usher board for some 30 years. Marie Daniels was also a beloved Free Grace Church Mother, quietly and consistently guiding the Mother’s Board through many years of church growth and change. Marie’s sincere love of all people and her gentle and simple dignity will be her legacy.

  Surviving is her devoted husband of nearly 50 years, Leon of the residence, three sons, Carl D. Daniels and wife Rene of Augusta, Ga., Stacy L. Daniels of Clayton and Norfleet L. Daniels of Manteo; six grandchildren, Natasha D. Pronasti, Devon J. Daniels, Latoria Daniels, Anthony Gunn, Shane Daniels and Carl Daniels, Jr.; one sister, CatholineCole of ElizabethCity, her uncle Theodore Meekins, her aunt Pensocola McClease, both of Manteo, numerous nieces,nephews, cousins, extended family members, her Free Grace Church family and countless dear friends.

  Arrangements are pending. Condolences to the family may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements.

Edith Hendrickson Baker

  Kill Devil Hills – Edith Hendrickson Baker, 85, of Kill Devil Hills, passed away at her home Dec. 25. Born Dec. 7, 1925, in Mt. Lookout, W. Va., she was the oldest daughter of the late Alexander Hamilton Hendrickson and Emma Jane Shackelford Hendrikson. She was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 50 years, George A. “Jeff” Baker, two older brothers, Alex Jr. and Lysle Hendrickson, her younger sister, Jean H. Lipscomb, and a step-daughter, Katharine “Winkie” Thornton.

  She is survived by four brothers and their spouses, Bernard and Sheila Hendrickson, Judith and Ruby Hendrickson, John and Linda Hendrickson and William (Bill) and Wanda Hendrickson of West Virginia, and her six children and their spouses, Chris and Jeri Baker of Columbia, Md; Mark and Linda Baker of Brookeville, Md.; Betsy and Robby Robinson of Powells Point and Tracy and Don Turner of Westminster, Md. She is survived by 12 grandchildren, Ethan and Justin Baker, Kelly, Emily and Matt Baker, Brandon and Colleen Baker, Rachel and Tom Baker, Bonnie Robinson and Edie Lee and George Turner, and by several step-children, Bruce Baker of Pennsylvania, Beverly and Ron Frieda of New York and Florida, Virginia “Ginny” and Dale Ease of New York and Doug Baker of Maryland.

  “Edie” worked for many years an an executive secretary for Vitro Laboratories in Rockville, Md. before retiring with her husband to the Outer Banks in 1979. She spent her remaining years enjoying the sun and surf but also worked for local businesses and as a volunteer for GEM Adult Day Services. She continued learning into her later years, attending College of the Albemarle in Dare County and was an active member of the Outer Banks chapter of NARFE. She loved all tpes of music and one of her greatest  pleasures was hearing her children singing together while playing their guitars, dobros and bagpipes.

  Her wish was to be cremated, and Gallop Funeral Services is assisting the family with the arrangements. A memorial service will be held at a later date to celebrate the wonderful sister, mother, grandmother and friend she was to all who knew and loved her.

  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a donation be made in her memory to any of the following organizations or to a charitable organization of your choice: Interfaith Community Outreach, The American Cancer Society, GEM Adult Day Services, Hosea House, Food for Thought and the Dare County Library in Kill Devil Hills.

  “The woods are lovely, dark and deep, but I have promises to keep, and miles to go beofre I sleep.” Robert Frost.

  Condolences may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com.

 

Cynthia Etheridge

  Wanchese – Cynthia Austin Etheridge, 84, of Wanchese, died Dec. 19 in Barco. Mrs. Etheridge was born in Hatteras and was a homemaker and member of Harbor Lights Holiness Church.

  She was the daughter of the late Robert and Pearlie Austin Austin and the wife of the late Ernest Chester Etheridge.

  Surviving are one daughter, Sharon E. Austin of Wanchese; two sons, Jerry Etheridge of New Castle, Va. and Ernest C. Etheridge Jr.of Roanoke, Va.; six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

  A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2 p.m., at Twiford’sColony Chapel by the Rev. Anthony Ralph. Burial will be in Cudworth Cemetery. Friends may join the family at Twiford Funeral Home in Manteo Tuesday, Dec. 21, from 7-8:30 p.m.

Irene Bernice Melov

  Kill Devil Hills – Irene Bernice Melov, 91, a long-time resident of Takoma Park, Md., died Dec. 18 at Spring Arbor Assisted Living of complications of dementia. Bernice was born in Boston, Mass. She graduated from Teachers College of the City of Boston in 1940. Bernice was an elementary school teacher, first in Boston before World War II and then in public schools in Brooklyn, N.Y. from 1946 until her retirement in 1976. She moved to Silver Spring, Md. in 1980 and subsequently to TakomaPark in 1986. She was a member of and volunteer with Equality Maryland, Metro DC and National PFLAG, and the Takoma Park House and Garden Tour Committee. Other memberships include Montgomery County ORT, Montgomery NOW and Bet Mispachahof Washington, D.C. Bernice’s weekly volunteer work with Equality Maryland continued through her 90th birthday.

  In 2007, 2008 and 2009, Bernice testified before the Maryland General Assembly’s Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee and the House of Delegates Judiciary Committee in favor of the Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act. As reported in The Baltimore Sun on Feb. 15, 2008, she completed her testimony in favor of civil marriage equality for same gender couples by saying, ”Before I leave this earth, I want to celebrate fully equal civil marriage in Maryland. My time is short and I’m in a hurry. Please don’t make me come back another year.” Bernice’s marriage to Alfred Melov ended in divorce.

  Bernice Melov is survived by her son, Steven Melov of Takoma Park and Kill Devil Hills, and her niece, Hannah Rosinsky of Torrance, Calif. The family will hold a celebration of her life at a later date. In accordance with her wishes, Irene has been bequeathed to science in furtherance of medical research. The family suggests that memorial donations in her memory be forwarded to The Equality Maryland Foundation at 1201 S. Sharp St., Suite 109, Baltimore, Md. 21230, PFLAG National, 1828 L St., NW Suites 660, Washington, D.C. 20036 and/or Dare Home Health and Hospice, P.O. Box 1000, Manteo,N.C. 27954. Condolences may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements.

Sandra Waldron Pfeifer

  Southern Shores – Sandra Waldron Pfeifer, 74, passed away at her residence in Southern Shores on Dec. 16. Born in Dunellen, N.J., she was the daughter of the late Howard and Louise Bond Waldron. She is survived by her husband of 51 years, William B. Pfeifer of the residence.

  Mrs. Pfeifer loved her family very much and had a passion for her career as a historic interpreter. She had the opportunity to work in such areas as the Blount Mansion in Knoxville, Tenn., Sleepy Hollow Restorations in New York, Colonial Williamsburg, and more recently, at The Whalehead Club in Corolla.

  In addition to her husband, Mrs. Pefifer is survived by her three sons, Bradford Sage Pfeifer and wife Laurie of Hyannis Port, Mass., Eric William Pfeifer and wife Christian of Kitty Hawk, Andrew Waldron Pfeifer and wife Kari of Midlothian, Va., her two sisters, Joan Marsh and husband Don, Rilla Campbell and husband Larry, and three grandchildren, William Pfeifer and wife Natalee, David Pfeifer and Brodie Pfeifer. Also surviving is her great-grandchild, Mallory Pfeifer.

  The family is planning a private memorial service to be held in Williamsburg, Va. at a later date. Donations in her memory can be made to The Whalehead Club, P.O. Box 307, Corolla, N.C. 27927 or Dare County Home Health and Hospice, P.O. Box 1000, Manteo,N.C. 27954.

  Twiford Funeral home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Alvin Kirk Wheeler, Jr.

  Lilburn, Ga. – Alvin Kirk Wheeler, Jr., 81, of Lilburn, Ga. passed away Dec. 17. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Charlotte Wescott Wheeler; son and daughter-in-law, Kirk andSonia Wheeler of Long Island, N.Y.; daughters and son-in-law, Allison and Dennis Miller of Lilburn, Ga. and Erin Buice of Woodstock, Ga.; sister and brother-in-law Suzanne and Garry Scheier; and five grandchildren, Tyler, Savannah, Sopohia, Joseph and David.

  A graveside service will be held at Manteo Cemetery on Tuesday, Dec. 21, 11 a.m. by the Rev. Bettie Francis.

  TwifordFuneral Homes is assisting the family with arrangements.

C.T. Hayes, Jr.

  Wanchese – C.T. Hayes, Jr., 55, of Wanchese, died Dec. 16 in Hampton, Va. He was the son of Clarence Turner Hayes, Sr. of Wancheseand the late Iona Aldean MidgettHayes and was a commercial fisherman. In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by a son, Zack Hayes.

  C.T. is survived by his wife, Sheila Ireland Hayes; two sons, Turner and Roscoe Hayes, both of Wanchese; three sisters, Irma Jean Williams of Gulfport, Miss., Winona Twiford of Manteoand Lisa Clark of Wanchese; and three grandchildren, Felicity, Harmony and Melody Hayes.

  The funeral service was held Dec. 19 with the Rev. Dustin Daniels officiating. Burial was in Cudworth Cemetery.

  TwifordFuneralHomesassisted the family with arrangements.

Emma Jane Davis McDermott

  ”This is the day which the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.” These words were spoken every morning by Emma Jane Davis McDermott, who peacefully departed this life Dec. 16 at age 88. The words are testament to the positive grace withwhich she faced life. She was a true Southern genteel lady who faced adversity withstrength and humor, who walked the talk of active Christian values. She will be greatly missed by her loving family and numerous friends.

  A resident of Manteo, Emma Jane, ”E.J.” was born Feb. 9, 1922 in SouthNorfolk, Va. her parents were the Hon. Q.C. Davis Jr. and Lola Diggs Davis. She was married for 50 years to the late Rev. William L. ”Billy Mac” McDermott. E.J.’s life was a glorious journey from a childhood filled with colorful stories of her judge, mayor and Virginia delegate father and her boisterous siblings, to marrying her college art professor, being the mother of four children, grandmother, great-grandmother, and having several careers – as well as being a Brownie and Girl Scout leader many times over.

  E.J. graduated from South Norfolk High School in Chesapeake, Va. in 1938. She attended William & Mary College (Norfolk division), and graduated from Mary Washington College, Fredericksburg, Va. with a B.A. in education (English, social studies) in 1942. A month later she married her art professor. Their courtship had been kept secret via notes hidden and passed in textbooks. The dean of students held the engagement ring until E.J.’s graduation.

  From Fredericksburg, the McDermottsmoved to Rock Hill, S.C. in 1947 for Billy Mac to become head of the art department of Winthrop College. There E.J. began her teaching career. She so impressed her American Government student G.I.s with her political acumen that they urged and convinced her to run for the S.C. House of Representatives in 1953. She was the first mother to be elected to that office, having run on a platform of nursing home reform. She founded the Junior Women’s Club of Rock Hill and was its first president. In the late 60′s her husband was ordained into the Episcopal priesthood. After two years at his first church, Trinity, in Abbeville, S.C., they moved to Glasgow, Va. in 1970 where he became rector of St. John’s, Glasgow. The family would live there for the next 22 years.

  In 1972 she became supervisor of circulations at Washington & Lee University Law Library in Lexington, Va., during which time she indulged in her long-held desire to study law, enrolling part-time as a law student. Later she became director of alumnae and public relations at Southern Sem. Jr. College (now Southern Virginia University) in BuenaVista, Va. In 1981 she and Billy Mac moved to Raleigh when she was hired to be director of annual funds for St. Mary’s College. At this time she was also full-time care-giver for her husband who suffered from Lou Gehrig’s disease  In 1983 she and Billy Mac returned to Glasgow, Va. where she opened and ran Creative Dimensions, a hand-made crafts store, with her friend Jean Taylor in Lexington, Va., until 1985 when she became regional director for the American Lung Assoc. of Virginia. For the next several years she worked between the America Lung Assoc. and St. Mary’s College.

  The McDermottsfell in love withtheOuter Banks in 1962 when the entire family was involved with”The Lost Colony.” The dream to someday live there became reality in ’92, one month before Billy Mac passed away. From that point on E.J. made a new life for herself in the Outer Banks, first hostessing at Clara’s restaurant in Manteo and later as a coordinator for Tar Heel Home Health. She accepted an appointment on the Governor’s Panel on the Aging from ’93 to ’95 and was once again an ardent advocate for senior citizens. She then ”retired.” Having taught herself to sew at the age of nine, she put her expert sewing and tailoring skills to work making her renowned custom-made vests. She enjoyed traveling. Her home, known as Angel’s Folly, became a haven for family and friends under the tender care of E.J.’s expert gardening, cooking, entertaining and the whimsical gaze of a vast collection of angels, frogs and art work. Many will remember her for her unique and amazing ”warble,” a whistle that contained harmonics and surrounded your heart with love.

But mostly she will be remembered for making you feel like the most important person in the world through the loving light radiating from her vivacious eyes and embraceable smile.

  She is survived by her four children, Lola Davis-Jones andhusband Bryan of Colington Harbour, Emma Jane Julie Imeson andhusband Tom of Manteo, William L. McDermott Jr. and wife Patti of Nags Head, Lucinda M Piro andhusband Jonathan of
Radford, Va., sister Rose Morrisette of Ocean View, Va., grandchildren William R. Bonsal III of Niskayuna, N.Y., Veda E. Renfrow of Raleigh, Emma Parnell-Klabo of Richmond, Va., step-children Nancyanne Welsh and her children, Thomas C. Imeson III and his children, Susan Harlan and her children, sisters-in-law Mrs. Thelma CreefDavis and Mrs.Janet Rowe Davis, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition, there are many friends who E.J. treasured as family. Her loving presence and ability to light up any room or occasion will be missed, but all who knew her are forever blessed with her shining example of a life well-lived.

  She is predeceased by her husband and siblings Virginia Davis Knowleton, Q.C. Davis II and Jefferson Davis.

  The family will receive friends Tuesday, Dec. 28, 6-9 p.m. at the Imeson home, 128 Sunnyside Dr., Manteo. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, Dec. 29, at St. Andrew’s By-the-Sea, Nags Head. A reception will follow at the church. Memorial donations may be made to Dare Home Helth and Hospice, P.O. Box 1000, Manteo,N.C. 27954.

  Condolences may be expressed via the online register at www.gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements.

Rudolph Peele

  Manteo- Rudolph Peele, 85, of Manteo, died Dec. 14 in Nags Head. Mr. Peele was born on Hatteras Island on July 12, 1925. He was a commercial fisherman and former trucking company owner and was also a charter boat captain from the late 1950′s until his retirement in the mid 1990′s on the ”Martha Ann” and ”The Honey.”

  Mr. Peele served the town of Manteo as a commissioner from 1983 until 1985, was a member of the Manteo Masonic Lodge #521 Af&AM where he was past master. He served his country honorably in the U.S. Navy.

   Rudolph was the son of the late Wesley Litchfield and Etta Stowe Peele and the husband of 58 years to Maxine Russell Peele of the home.

  He is also survived by one daughter, Martha Ann Peele Lewk andhusband Jim of Coconut Grove, Fla.; one son, Thomas Wesley Peele and wife Nancy of Manteo; five grandchildren: Thomas Ryan Peele and wife Jennifer