Morganton Obituaries

Introducing Morganton Funeral Home: A Beacon of Comfort in Marion, NC

Morganton Funeral Home, located at 198 South Main Street, Marion, NC, 28752, has been a trusted and compassionate presence in the community for many years. As a family-owned and operated funeral home, they understand the importance of providing personalized and dignified services to families during their most difficult times.

A Legacy of Excellence and Compassion

Morganton Funeral Home has built a reputation for excellence and compassion, earning the trust of families from Marion and surrounding areas. Their experienced and dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional care and guidance throughout the funeral planning process. From traditional funeral services to cremations and memorializations, they offer a range of options to suit individual preferences and needs.

Funeral Obiturary Search

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Dennis "Shayne" Cole - March 04, 1968 - April 26, 2024

Departed: 04/26/2024 (Marion)

Obituary Preview: Dennis “Shayne” Cole, age 56, passed away unexpectedly Friday, April 26, 2024, at Cone Health Moses Cone Hospital in Greensboro, NC.

Shayne was born March 4, 1968, in Harlan, KY to James Dennis Cole of Morganton, NC and to the late Peggy Sue Holden Cole. He was deeply devoted to his family and possessed one of the most compassionate hearts you could ever encounter.

In addition to his father, those left behind to cherish Shayne’s memory are three sisters, Sharon Cole, Karen Cole, and Melinda Cole (Sherri Napier) all of Morganton. He is also fondly remembered by three nephews and two nieces.

A private service will be held to honor and celebrate Shayne’s life.

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Alan N. Candler - June 04, 1946 - March 12, 2024

Departed: 03/12/2024 (Marion)

Obituary Preview: Heaven gained an angel Tuesday, March 12, 2024. Our beloved Alan N. Candler, age 77, of Glen Alpine, formerly of Candler, passed away peacefully at Mission Hospital – McDowell, with loved ones at his side.

Alan was born June 4, 1946, in Buncombe County, NC to the late Howard Newton Candler and Mary Buchanan Candler. He worked at Givens Estates for over 17 years. Alan believed in Jesus Christ and read his Bible daily. He was a locomotive train enthusiast and an avid UNC Tarheels basketball fan. He loved Christmas and enjoyed dressing up as Santa for his great nieces and nephew. Alan happened to be hydrocephalic along with many other great characteristics. He never met a stranger and had many, many friends. If you ever had the privilege of meeting Alan, he was instantly your best friend. He will forever hold a special place in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Alan’s final act was to give the gift of life through eye and tissue donation. In addition to his parents, Alan is preceded in death by his nephew, Lee Hilemon and his niece, Angel Hilemon. Alan stated on numerous occasions that when he died and was entering the gates of heaven that he would see Lee and Angel running to meet him saying, “Uncle Al, you’re here! You’re here!”

Those left behind to cherish Alan’s memory are his sister, Donna Hilemon and husband, Floyd of Glen Alpine; nephew, Bryan Hilemon and wife, Reiney of Asheville; niece, Alana Ramsey (Alan’s namesake) and husband, Anthony of Nebo; two great-nieces, Leowyn Hilemon of Glen Alpine and Kylie Ramsey of Nebo; one great-nephew, Liam Ramsey of Nebo; and all his special friends at Pride RV Campground in Maggie Valley and Calvary Baptist Church in West Asheville.

A private burial will be held at a later date.

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Warren "Mark" Holley - November 19, 1956 - November 23, 2023

Departed: 11/23/2023 (Marion)

Obituary Preview: Warren “Mark” Holley, age 67, of Morganton, NC formerly of Marion, NC passed from this life to the next Thursday, November 23, 2023, at UNC Health Blue Ridge. He was a loving individual.

Mark was born November 19, 1956, in Fredericksburg, VA to the late Bryan Orman Holley, Sr. and Frances Laura Nowlin Holley. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by six siblings, Steve Holley, Larry Holley, Joe Holley, Frances B. Holley, Glen Holley, and Bryan Holley, Jr.

Those left behind to cherish Mark’s memory are his wife, Alma “Jeri” Hollifield; one daughter, Joy Holley of Tarpon Springs, FL; three stepchildren, Vanna Abernathy of Glen Alpine, Kayla Abernathy of Morganton, and Brian Hollifield of Colorado; one sister, Penny Trantham of Weaverville; three sisters-in-law, Tina Holley of Marion, Bobbie Holley of Old Fort, and Terrie Holley of Daytona, FL; and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

No services will be held at this time.

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Betty N. Gardner - July 05, 1947 - May 30, 2023

Departed: 05/30/2023 (Marion)

Obituary Preview: Betty N. Gardner, age 75, of Morganton left this life for her Heavenly home Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at CarePartners Solace Center in Asheville, surrounded by her loving family.

Betty was born July 5, 1947, in Cleveland County, NC to the late Bennie E. Newton and Mozelle Wortman Newton. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her aunt, Katie Davidson, whom Betty took care of for many years.

Betty left home at the age of 18 to attend Appalachian State University in Boone. She worked at The University Library and put herself through school. She enjoyed her time there and became a lifelong advocate of App State. Betty earned several master’s degrees and made a career as a teacher and librarian in several different schools throughout WNC. Though Betty worked full-time, she was also raising a family. She loved her boys and was a fierce protector of them. In their childhood, Betty enjoyed taking them and their friends to do fun things. She opened her home and her heart to children and was known as “Mama Gardner” to many. Betty will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Those left behind to cherish Betty’s memory are her beloved husband of 43 years, R. Cline Gardner of the home; two sons, Brian Gardner (Courtney) of Marion and Jason Gardner (Elizabeth) of Weddington; six precious grandchildren, Parker, Paden, Vivian, Flora, Logan, and Grant; a dear friend that Betty thought of as a daughter, Margaret-Jean “M.J.” Rutkowsky; and a number of special friends.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at First Baptist Church of Marion. A funeral service to celebrate Betty’s life will follow at 2:00 pm at the church with Rev. Dr. Scott Hagaman officiating. Interment will follow the service at McDowell Memorial Park.

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Jeffrey "Jeff" Dale Cable - August 02, 1956 - January 24, 2022

Departed: 01/24/2022 (Marion)

Obituary Preview: Jeffrey Dale Cable died Monday, January 24, 2022.

He was born on August 2, 1956 at Mercy Hospital in Tiffin, OH to the late Charles "Bud" and Betty (White) Cable.

A mischievous child and co-founder of the East Davis Street Tree Devils, his love for pyrotechnics may have led to small fires in or around the Tiffin area.

Affectionately known as 'Cable', he was a member of the Columbian High School graduating class of 1974. Jeff was the epitome of the 70s era with his Afro and Chevy conversion van, providing transportation to numerous music events and concerts.

An avid outdoor enthusiast, Jeff enjoyed nature, whether he was hiking through the mountains of North Carolina, exploring the local wildlife, or simply admiring the night sky. His love for extreme sports included kayaking, hang gliding, canoeing, white water rafting, skydiving, and as a motor sports aficionado, anything with wheels and a motor.

One of his favorite places, in his garage, spending countless hours working on his latest project, tinkering around with someone's broken tool, or hanging out with his friends and family.

Well-known for his generosity, love for children, and devotion to his family, Jeff served as a Big Brother, mentor, and role model, and ALWAYS made time for his family, friends, and coworkers or to lend a hand to a complete stranger. When interviewed by the Morganton News Herald, when asked, "any secrets for feeling younger?" His response, "Think about all the things you want to do, and do them, and don't think about getting old."

While in North Carolina, before serving the community providing expert automotive and personal advice for 8 years at NAPA Auto Parts in Hudson, NC, Jeff was the warehouse manager at Anderson Truck Lines in Lenoir, NC for over 20 years.

He married his high school sweetheart Diana (Pruitt) Cable in Tiffin, OH and she survives. Also surviving are children; Jaime (Jeremy) Burke of Goodrich, TX, Jason (Michelle) Brandt of Findlay, OH, Melissa (Robert) Petropoulos of Ocala, FL, Jessica (Merl) Stanley of Morganton, NC and Sheree Cable of Morganton, NC, grandchildren; Sarrah, Kristen, Jayda, Madalyn, Maddox, Zakk, Anita, Scarlett, and Hannah. Sisters, Marian Green (late Roger) of Jackson, OH, Vyjean (Jan) Young of Republic, OH and sister-in-law Karen Pruitt of Mount Holly, NC and lots of special cousins, nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by brother-in-law Roger Green and sister-in-law Kimberly Pruitt.

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Roy Woody - September 13, 1939 - December 09, 2021

Departed: 12/09/2021 (Marion)

Obituary Preview: Mr. Roy Woody, of Morganton, at the age of 82, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, who he loved dearly, on Thursday, December 9, 2021 at Hospice of the Carolina Foothills in Forest City, NC. Roy was born on September 13, 1939 to the late Jason Woody and Eddie Penley Woody in Spruce Pine, NC. He was a member of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Morganton, NC. Roy loved his family and spending time with them. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, working on cars and tending to his honeybees.

Roy is preceded in death by his first wife, Lotus Woody; daughter, Peggy Reese; grandson David Burleson; four brothers and one sister.

Surviving Roy are his wife, Doris Woody; five children, Lydia Price of Nebo, Helen Umphlett (Michael) of Nebo, Linda Burleson (Paul), of Nebo, Lisa Deyton (Ray) of Morganton, and Roy Randall Woody of Morganton; three stepchildren, Daryl Bolick (Juanita) of Morganton, Kathy Townsend (Roland) of Taylorsville, and Connie Danner (Ronnie) of Taylorsville; brother, Joe Woody of Morganton; sixteen grandchildren, eleven step grandchildren, and numerous great grandchildren.

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Johnny D. Barnett - June 23, 1962 - September 06, 2021

Departed: 09/06/2021 (Marion)

Obituary Preview: During the early morning hours of Monday, September 06, 2021, Johnny D. Barnett, age 59 of Morganton, unexpectedly made the transition into the presence of the Lord while at his residence. The son of the late Johnny Smith Barnett and Betty Sue Norris Barnett, he was born in Boone, North Carolina on June 23, 1962.

Johnny lived for his family, music, history, sports, and God. He was an avid Frank Sinatra and Jimmy Buffett fan who would love to listen to him sing, and was a history buff who loved to study things of the past. When not learning about something, he was watching either a football or basketball game, especially when the Washington Redskins were playing. He was known to have a close relationship with God and was a member of Pleasant Gardens Baptist Church. Most of all, he loved his family with all his heart, and they will fondly remember him for being a great husband, and wonderful father to his three children. Johnny was always kind to anyone he met. He touched many lives during his time in this world and will be dearly missed by all who had the chance to know him.

Left behind to cherish his precious memory is his beloved wife of 39 years, Jenny Baird Barnett, of the home, and their three children, Kimberly Barnett (Chris) of Marion, Stephanie Causby and husband Jake, of Marion, Brock Barnett, his youngest child and right hand man, and his wife Kiley, of Charlotte, and his 4-legged son, companion and best friend, Kilo. He also leaves behind five siblings, Valerie Leonard (Randy), of Gray, TN, Pam Martin (Mark), of Nebo, Donald Barnett (Lisa), of Charlotte, Jeffery Barnett, of Charlotte, and Richard Barnett , of Delaware, as well as two precious grandchildren, Christian Dewitt Freeman, and Isabella Rose Barnett, his best friend and brother in law, Joey Hash (Zenna), of Wytheville, Virginia, his mother in law, JoAnn Arnold, and his sister in law, Penny Lester.

A funeral service to celebrate Johnny’s life will be held on Friday, September 10, 2021, at 6:00 P.M. in the Chapel of Westmoreland Funeral Home with the Reverend Steve Hawkins officiating.

The family will receive friends from 4:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M., two hours prior to the service at the funeral home.

A graveside service will be held the following day, Saturday September 11, 2021, at Mount Pleasant Community Cemetery in Wytheville, Virginia at 1:00 P.M.

Flowers are accepted and appreciated.

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Glenn Clark Cantrell - April 01, 1940 - June 24, 2024

Departed: 06/24/2024 (Marion)

Obituary Preview: Glenn Clark Cantrell, age 84, of Morganton, NC left this life for his heavenly home Monday, June 24, 2024. He passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Glenn was born on April 1, 1940, in Polk County, North Carolina, to the late Arthur Vernon Cantrell and Nellie Sue Fowler Cantrell. He was part of a large family and was preceded in death by six siblings: Julia Cantrell Brooks, Jack Edgar Cantrell, Vera Cantrell Brigman, Sue Cantrell Jamison, Johnny Cantrell, and Raymond Cantrell Sr. Each of these siblings held a special place in his heart, and their memories remained with him throughout his life.

Glenn built a career as an electrician, demonstrating a strong work ethic and a commitment to his trade. He started his professional journey at Great Lakes Carbon, a company known for its innovation and industry leadership. Later, he joined Sealed Air Corporation, where he contributed his skills and expertise until his retirement. His colleagues remember him as a dedicated worker who took pride in his craft and always lent a helping hand when needed.

Outside of his professional life, Glenn was a devoted family man. He treasured the time spent with his loved ones, and family gatherings during the holidays were particularly special to him. Glenn’s love for his family was evident in the way he prioritized these moments, ensuring that they were filled with laughter, stories, and shared traditions.

In addition to his love for family, Glenn had a remarkable talent for marksmanship. He was known for his sharp shooting skills, winning numerous Thanksgiving turkeys at local turkey shoots. This hobby not only showcased his precision and focus but also connected him with the community, allowing him to participate in local events and build lasting friendships.

A man of deep faith, Glenn was a faithful member of North Morganton Baptist Church. His relationship with God was central to his life, and he found great comfort and strength in his daily readings of the Bible. Glenn’s spirituality was evident to all who knew him, and he often shared his love for gospel music by playing his guitar and singing hymns. His music brought joy and inspiration to those around him, creating a sense of peace and unity.

One of the last things Glenn said to his family was, “I’m ready to go up yonder.” This statement, made toward the end of his life, reflected his unwavering faith and readiness to join his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, in heaven. His family and friends find solace in knowing that Glenn is now at peace, embraced by the eternal love of his Savior.

Those left behind to cherish Glenn’s memory are his beloved wife of 50 years, Sylvia Stough Cantrell; one daughter, Lisa English (Ronald) of Marion; one granddaughter, Amber Jenkins (David); four precious great-grandchildren, Grayson, Jaxson, Emma, and Ava; one sister, Sarah Owensby of Marion; one sister-in-law, Pat Cantrell of Bakersville; and a host of nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 am until 11:00 am on Thursday, June 27, 2024, in the chapel of Westmoreland Funeral Home in Marion. A funeral service to celebrate Glenn’s life will follow at 11:00 am at the funeral home with Rev. Gary Garner officiating. Interment will follow the service at Cherry Springs Memorial Park in Old Fort.

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A Welcoming and Comforting Environment

The funeral home's facility is designed to provide a warm and comforting atmosphere, allowing families to feel at ease during their time of need. The beautifully appointed chapel, visitation rooms, and outdoor spaces are meticulously maintained to ensure a peaceful and serene environment for reflection and remembrance. Ample parking and convenient accessibility features make it easy for all visitors to navigate the premises.

Personalized Funeral Services Tailored to Your Needs

Morganton Funeral Home recognizes that every life is unique, and every family deserves a personalized celebration of their loved one's life. Their experienced funeral directors work closely with families to create customized funeral services that reflect the personality, interests, and achievements of the deceased. From traditional funerals with military honors to more contemporary celebrations of life, they strive to exceed expectations and provide a meaningful experience for all who attend.

Cremation Services with Dignity and Respect

For families who prefer cremation, Morganton Funeral Home offers a range of options to suit individual needs. From direct cremation to more elaborate memorial services, their team ensures that every aspect of the cremation process is handled with dignity and respect. They also provide assistance with urn selection, scattering ceremonies, and other memorialization options.

Pre-Planning: A Thoughtful Gesture for Your Loved Ones

Morganton Funeral Home encourages individuals to consider pre-planning their funeral arrangements as a thoughtful gesture for their loved ones. By making these important decisions in advance, families can avoid emotional and financial burdens during an already difficult time. Their experienced staff is available to guide individuals through the pre-planning process, ensuring that their wishes are respected and fulfilled.

Community Involvement and Support

Morganton Funeral Home is deeply rooted in the Marion community and actively participates in local events and initiatives. They believe in giving back to the community that has supported them over the years, often hosting seminars, workshops, and support groups to educate and comfort those who have experienced loss.

A Commitment to Excellence in Every Aspect

Morganton Funeral Home's commitment to excellence extends beyond their funeral services. They maintain high standards in every aspect of their operation, from meticulous facility maintenance to rigorous staff training programs. This dedication to excellence ensures that families receive exceptional care and attention throughout their entire experience.

Contact Morganton Funeral Home: Your Trusted Partner in Times of Need

If you're seeking a compassionate and professional funeral home in Marion, NC, look no further than Morganton Funeral Home. Their experienced team is available 24/7 to answer questions, provide guidance, or simply offer a listening ear. Contact them today at (phone number) or visit their website at (website URL) to learn more about their services and how they can support you during your time of need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including biographical information, details about their life, and information about their funeral or memorial service. It is usually published in a newspaper, online, or in a funeral home's website.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a sense of closure and help to celebrate the life of the deceased.

Who typically writes an obituary?

The task of writing an obituary usually falls on the family members or close friends of the deceased. Funeral homes or crematories may also offer assistance in writing and publishing the obituary.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also include information about their funeral or memorial service.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and the family's wishes. Typically, it ranges from a few sentences to several paragraphs.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a nice way to personalize the notice and make it more memorable.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

You can usually submit an obituary to a newspaper through their website or by contacting their obituary department directly. Be sure to check their guidelines for submission and deadlines.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary before they pass away. This can be a therapeutic exercise and ensure that your life story is told in your own words.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, usually including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a longer, more detailed tribute to the person's life.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication and the length of the notice. Some newspapers charge by the line or word, while others offer package deals.

Can I edit an obituary after it has been published?

In most cases, it is difficult to make changes to an obituary once it has been published. Be sure to proofread carefully before submitting the final version.

What if I want to keep my loved one's obituary private?

If you prefer not to publish an obituary publicly, you can still create one for private distribution among friends and family. You can also choose to publish it online but restrict access to certain individuals or groups.

Can I include charitable donations in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers in the obituary. This can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased and support a cause they cared about.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The time it takes for an obituary to be published varies depending on the publication's schedule and deadlines. Online obituaries may be published immediately, while print publications may take several days or weeks.

Can I republish an obituary at a later date?

In some cases, you may want to republish an obituary on special occasions such as anniversaries or birthdays. Check with the original publication for their policies on republication.

What if I need help writing an obituary?

If you're struggling to write an obituary, consider seeking help from a funeral home, crematory, or professional writer who specializes in crafting tributes.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Absolutely! An obituary can be a celebration of the person's life, so feel free to include anecdotes or humorous stories that capture their personality.

How do I handle errors or inaccuracies in an obituary?

If you notice errors or inaccuracies in an already-published obituary, contact the publication immediately and request corrections. They may be able to issue a revised version or publish a correction notice.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes, including quotes or lyrics that were meaningful to the deceased can add depth and personalization to the obituary.

What if I want to create a digital archive of my loved one's obituary?

You can save digital copies of the obituary on your computer or cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox. You can also create a memorial website or online tribute page.

Can I use social media to share an obituary?

Absolutely! Social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter can be effective ways to share news of a loved one's passing and reach a wider audience.

How do I ensure that my loved one's legacy lives on after they're gone?

An obituary is just one way to honor your loved one's memory. Consider creating a memorial fund, planting trees or flowers in their honor, or establishing a scholarship in their name.

What if I'm overwhelmed by grief and unable to write an obituary right away?

Taking care of yourself during this difficult time is essential. Consider asking a friend or family member for help with writing the obituary, or delay publishing it until you feel more emotionally ready.

Can I include pets in an obituary?

If pets were important companions in your loved one's life, you may want to mention them in the obituary as part of their family circle.

How do I get copies of my loved one's published obituary?

Contact the publication where the obituary was published and ask about obtaining copies. You may also be able to find digital archives online.