Wilson Memorial Service Obituaries

Introduction to Wilson Memorial Service

Wilson Memorial Service, located at 2811 Fieldstream Drive N, Wilson, NC, 27896, is a trusted and compassionate funeral home that has been serving the Wilson community for many years. With a commitment to providing exceptional care and support to families during their most difficult times, Wilson Memorial Service has established itself as a leader in the funeral industry.

A History of Compassionate Care

Since its inception, Wilson Memorial Service has been dedicated to providing personalized and dignified funeral services to families from all walks of life. The funeral home's history is built on a foundation of trust, respect, and compassion, and its staff is committed to upholding these values in every aspect of their work. From traditional funeral services to cremations and memorial celebrations, Wilson Memorial Service offers a range of options to honor the lives of loved ones.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Douglas Pearson - January 11, 1979 - June 05, 2022

Departed: 06/05/2022 (Wilson)

Obituary Preview: Douglas Wayne Pearson, 43, of Lucama died Sunday, June 5, 2022. He finished his last race and was taken by angels to meet his heavenly Father. Douglas fought a good fight and won the battle over his earthly struggles.

A private graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family. Family and friends are welcome at the home of Judy and Jeff Lucas in Black Creek.

Douglas was a native of Wilson County and he graduated from Hunt High School in 1998.

He is survived by his mother, Susie C. Boone; uncle, Jeff Lucas; aunts, Patsy Rowe and Judy Lucas; and a host of cousins, friends and caring staff at The O’Berry Center in Goldsboro.

Douglas was preceded in death by his father, Billy Wayne Pearson; maternal grandparents, Wade Homer and Selma G. Boone; uncle, Graham S. Rowe, Jr.; paternal grandparents, Elmer and Boot Pearson.

Arrangements by Wilson Memorial Service, 2811 Fieldstream Dr. N, Wilson, 237-7171; wilsonmemorialservice.com.

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Rachel Galloway - October 13, 1924 - June 02, 2022

Departed: 06/02/2022 (Wilson)

Obituary Preview: Rachel Skinner Galloway, 97, of Wilson, died Thursday, June 2, 2022.

Funeral, Tuesday, 2:00 PM, at Evergreen Memorial Park.

Mrs. Galloway was preceded in death by her husband, Forest Galloway and son, Frank Galloway.  She was retired from First Citizens Bank.

She is survived by her granddaughter, Ginny Galloway of California and her mother, Judy Galloway; sister, Charlotte Ann Edmondson, and husband, Bobby, of Tarboro; special niece and caregiver, Kim Edmondson of Wilson; companion and special friend, Pat Hall and extended family.

Memorials may be made to the Wilson County Humane Society, PO Box 7064, Wilson, NC 27895-7064.

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Tom Griffin - October 01, 1934 - June 01, 2022

Departed: 06/01/2022 (Wilson)

Obituary Preview: Thomas Ray “Tom” Griffin, 87, of Elm City, died peacefully on Wednesday, June 1, 2022, at his home on the family farm surrounded by his family who loved him very much.

Funeral, Saturday, 5:00 PM, Wilson Memorial Service, followed by a time of visiting and sharing. Burial, Sunday, 1:30 PM, Evergreen Memorial Park, beside his wife, Marian Thomas Taylor, who died in 2013.

Tom grew up 1 of 11 children.  He was a devoted husband of 56 years, a loving father and a cherished “Papa” to his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He provided a home rich in love and family values with a spirit of generosity and a servant’s heart for others. He was an avid sportsman and Carolina fan. He farmed for 75 years, instilling in his family an incredible work ethic and love for the land.

He will be missed beyond measure by his family and friends.  His generous spirit will be missed greatly by the community that he so selflessly and generously served through his garden, farm, hospitality and fatherly words of wisdom.

Surviving are his daughters, Ginger Garrou (Kelly) and Allison Dorsey; son, Allen Griffin, all of the neighborhood; grandchildren, Rachel Garrou, Thomas Steelman (Kristin), Dallas Dorsey, Joel Griffin, Heather Turner (Derek); great-grandchildren, Lakelyn, Easton and Benjamin; sisters, Flora Griffin-Bryan of Goldsboro, Mary Lois Bryan of Newton Grove and Libby Moore of Monroe; brother, George “Bud” Griffin of Goldsboro.

Preceding him in death in addition to his wife were his brothers, Bill, Clyde, Grady, Leonard, Morrison and Paul Griffin.

Warmest regards from the family to his special friend, Dot Walton, for her love and companionship. A loving thank-you to his caregivers, Sandra Nordan, who became a family friend and Cheryl Greene with Home Care Services, for the kindness and compassion that was so richly provided.  A special thanks to Ann Durham, Ashley Suggs and the staff at Community Hospice for the love and support shown towards Tom and the family.

Memorials are suggested to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Pl, Memphis, TN 38105 and Community Home Care and Hospice, 2841 Daisy Ln N, Ste E, Wilson, NC 27896.

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Ann Poythress - October 01, 1934 - May 30, 2022

Departed: 05/30/2022 (Wilson)

Obituary Preview: Elizabeth Ann Poythress, 87, of Grayson, GA, formerly of Wilson, died Monday, May 30, 2022.

A graveside service will be 2:00 PM, Saturday, June 4 at Maplewood Cemetery in Wilson.

She is survived by nephew Brent Williams and wife, Shirah, of Stone Mountain, GA; brother-in-law, Bruce Williams of Braselton, GA,.

Prior to her move to GA in 2004, she was an active member of Forest Hills Baptist Church. She was presently a member of First Baptist Church in Snellville, GA.  Ann loved her needlework, her friends, playing card games & rummikub and girls day out with family for getting nails done and enjoying Johnny's pizza.

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June Watkins - June 30, 1953 - May 28, 2022

Departed: 05/28/2022 (Wilson)

Obituary Preview: June Barnes Watkins, 68, of Raleigh, died unexpectedly Saturday, May 28, 2022.

The visitation will be at Wilson Memorial Service from 6-7:30 pm Tuesday.  The funeral will be at Barnes Family Cemetery, 149 Polly Watson Rd, Fremont, at 11:00 am Wednesday.

A native of Wilson County, she was the daughter of David Earl Barnes and Vetris B. Barnes. After graduating from Lucama High School, she went on to graduate from Peace College and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. June served for several years as librarian for Lacy and Mt. Auburn Elementary Schools in Wake County. After receiving a paralegal degree from Meredith College, she worked as a legal assistant for Genworth Financial where she received several awards and recognitions for outstanding service.

A member of Hayes Barton United Methodist Church, June belonged to Circle 4 and was a dedicated volunteer in the church library.

She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Donnie R. Watkins; her son, William David Watkins of Raleigh; brother, Kenneth E. Barnes and wife, Ann, of Fremont.

Memorials may be made to Hayes Barton United Methodist Church, PO Box 6088, Raleigh, NC 27628.

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Sandra Williams - April 03, 1939 - May 27, 2022

Departed: 05/27/2022 (Wilson)

Obituary Preview: Sandra Gordon Williams, 83, of Wilson, died Friday, May 27, 2022.

Funeral, Friday, June 3, 2:00 PM, Wilson Memorial Service, followed by a time of visiting and sharing.

Surviving is her daughter, Jennifer Williams.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Pete Williams in 2014; a daughter, Ruth Ellen Williams in 2005; her parents, Marion and Jimmy Gordon of Wilson County. Sandra was a devoted nurse to the late Dr. Gloria Graham for more than 30 years.  The two traveled the world demonstrating cryosurgery in dermatology.

A vivacious reader, she often read a book within a week and was back to the library for more adventures to read.

She loved her daughters and provided a wonderful and loving home in which they were raised.  She enjoyed those Southern Living recipes and wok cooking.  Many of her friends have been a part of her life since they were in the first grade together and then her Beta Sigma Phi Sorority friends.  There was a deep love for all who she served while delivering Meals on Wheels.

Special thanks are extended to Drs. Gerber and Lee and their staff at Vidant Hospital in Greenville for their care in her final days upon this earth.

Memorials are suggested to First Presbyterian Church, PO Box 3184, Wilson, NC 27895, Community Soup Kitchen of Wilson, 307 Railroad St E, Wilson, NC 27893, or CHEW, PO Box 728, Wilson, NC 27894.

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Doris Honeycutt - April 29, 1936 - May 20, 2022

Departed: 05/20/2022 (Wilson)

Obituary Preview: LUCAMA  -  Doris Durham Honeycutt, 86, died Friday, May 20, 2022.

Funeral, Monday, 11:00 AM, at Evergreen Memorial Park.

Mrs. Honeycutt was preceded in death by her husband, Phillip Honeycutt and her brothers, Jay, Edwin, and Ervin Durham.

She is survived by her daughter, Phyllis Scott (James) of Lucama; son, Michael Honeycutt (Penny) of Wilson; grandchildren, Joshua Scott and Dylan, Brett and Brilyn Honeycutt; sisters-in-law, Nancy Durham of Wilson and Jane Bass of Lucama.

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Mike McManus - April 19, 1961 - May 20, 2022

Departed: 05/20/2022 (Wilson)

Obituary Preview: Michael John McManus, 61, of Wilson, died on Friday, May 20, 2022. A memorial service will be held at a later date for the family. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Tessa Rose and Travis Newcombe; and his brothers, Ed and Bruce McManus. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Rosemarie McManus and his beloved son, Hunter Michael McManus. Memorials are suggested to the American Migraine Foundation to further support the research and treatments for the prevention of migraines. American Migraine Foundation, 19 Mantua Rd, Mount Royal, NJ, 08061, www.americanmigrainefoundation.org.

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Cleo Taylor - August 06, 1934 - May 18, 2022

Departed: 05/18/2022 (Wilson)

Obituary Preview: WILSON - Cleo Worley Taylor, 87, passed away Wednesday, May 18, 2022 after a period of declining health.

A service celebrating her life will be held on Saturday, May 21, 2022 at 2 pm at Forest Hills Baptist Church, 1407 Forest Hills Rd, Wilson followed by visitation.

She was born on August 6, 1934, in Edgecombe County to the late Ethel Sullivan and Levi Thomas Worley. She was married to John Ray Taylor for 66 years until his passing in 2019. Cleo and John Ray were high school sweethearts and graduated from Charles L. Coon High School, proud members of their beloved class of 1952. After working as a school secretary at Winstead Elementary School, Cleo earned a degree in elementary education from Atlantic Christian College and dedicated herself to teaching at Rock Ridge Elementary School. Her teaching colleagues became some of her dearest friends and she has maintained strong ties to many students and their families in the Rock Ridge community.

Cleo was a faithful member of Forest Hills Baptist Church and the Dorcas Class. She taught Sunday School, played in the Handbell Choir and chaired the Educational Foundation Committee. Cleo loved people and was drawn to volunteering throughout her community. Wilson Medical Center, The Brian Center, Wilson County Board of Elections, Wilson County Schools and Community Soup Kitchen of Wilson were recipients of her time and desire to serve others.

She was a loyal neighbor in Westwood for decades where she enjoyed her walls of family portraits and her yard of flowers, bird feeders and swing. She had recently moved to The Landing at Parkwood Village.

Cleo enjoyed her weekly trips to the Wilson County Library, being at the beach with her family and playing cards or board games with her family and friends.

She is survived by her children: Lynn Ethridge and husband, Lindsey, of Wilson, Beverly Johnson and husband, Alan, of Greensboro, John Taylor of Chesterfield, VA, and Lori Brown and husband, Mark, of Wilson. Her grandchildren will always remember their Nana’s legacy of love and adventure. They are Sarah Ethridge Bolin and husband, Jason, of Jacksonville, FL, Susan Ethridge Pitts and husband, David, of Wilson, Taylor Johnson and wife, Karla, of Nashville, TN, Frances Johnson Beasley and husband, Johnson, of Denver, CO, Will Brown and wife, Whitney, of Greensboro, Rob Brown and wife, Kristin, of Apex, and Matthew Brown of Raleigh; her great-grandchildren are Jay and Caroline Bolin, Ava Pitts, Charlie and Harper Johnson, Thomas Brown, and Baby Beasley to be born in August. She is also survived by a brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Billy and Billie Jean Taylor and many special nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff and residents at The Landing, Community Home Care and Hospice of Wilson and will always be grateful for the capable and loving team of caregivers in Verona Strayhorn, Barbara Thomas, Mary Brown and Brenda Richardson.

Memorials may be directed to the Cleo Taylor Education Fund at Forest Hills Baptist Church, 1407 Forest Hills Road, Wilson, NC 27896, to provide financial assistance to students seeking higher education.

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Joey Lassiter - March 19, 1956 - May 17, 2022

Departed: 05/17/2022 (Wilson)

Obituary Preview: Joey D. Lassiter, 66, of Lucama, died Tuesday, May 17, 2022.

Funeral, Friday, 3:00 PM, Aycock Cemetery, Aycock Crossing Rd, Lucama.

Surviving his wife, Cindy Holland Lassiter; daughters, Melissa Honea (Tim) of Sanford, Amanda Lassiter of Rockingham, Nicole Holland of Bend, OR; grandchildren, Payton and Bryson Bullard and Alyssa and Aiden Seerley; sisters, Daphne Clemmons (Mike) and Donna Prince (Sue Greene) all of Shallotte; nieces, Jade Prince and Amber Mead (Alex); cousin, Vicky Covington; his puppies, Buddy & Maizey.

He was a native of Richmond County and had worked in quality control in the aerospace industry.  Many may remember his interest in CB Radios.

Memorials are suggested to For the Love of Dogs, 5146 Quaker Rd, Lucama NC 27851.

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Marietta Griffin - January 01, 1932 - May 17, 2022

Departed: 05/17/2022 (Wilson)

Obituary Preview: Marietta Graves Griffin, 90, of Greensboro, a beloved homemaker, wife, mother and neighbor, died Tuesday, May 17, 2022.

Funeral, Sunday, May 22, 2:00 PM, at Maplewood Cemetery, Wilson.  The visitation will be Saturday at Wilson Memorial Service, 7:30-8:30 PM.

Mrs. Griffin was a native of Wilson and a graduate of Charles L. Coon.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Dan T. Griffin, who was formerly with WGTM radio in Wilson and WBIG radio, Greensboro.

She is survived by her son, Daniel Tyson “Danny” Griffin, Jr. of Fredericksburg, VA and Greensboro; daughter, Donna Marie Griffin of Greensboro; granddaughter, Ashley Danielle Griffin of Woodbridge, VA; grandson, Daniel Tyson Griffin III, and wife, Megan and great-granddaughter, Arcadya Elyr Griffin all of Sandy, OR.

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Billy Lamm - August 30, 1935 - May 14, 2022

Departed: 05/14/2022 (Wilson)

Obituary Preview: William Selby “Billy” Lamm, Sr., 86, of Sims, died Saturday, May 14, 2022.

Funeral, Wednesday, 11:00 AM, Marsh Swamp FWB Church Cemetery followed by a Celebration of Life in the church fellowship hall.

Mr. Lamm was the owner of Lamm’s Service Station for 60 years.  He was loved by his family and community and he cherished time with his family and will be greatly missed by all.

He is survived by the love of his life of 62 years, Dorothy Rowe Lamm; daughter, Laurie Ivey of Cary; son, Will Lamm and wife, Amber, of Wilson; grandchildren, Alex Ivey and wife, Kelly, Skylar Godwin, William, Danielle and Wyatt Lamm; sister, Audrey Perry of Elm City.

Flowers are welcome.

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Glenda Pridgen - December 29, 1940 - May 10, 2022

Departed: 05/10/2022 (Wilson)

Obituary Preview: WILSON -  Glenda Fern Thomas Pridgen, 81, died Tuesday, May 10, 2022.

Funeral, Saturday, 2:00 PM, Wilson Memorial Service, with a time of visiting and sharing beginning at 1:00 PM. Burial, Maplewood Cemetery, beside her husband, Ronald Edward Pridgen, who died in 2018.

Mrs. Pridgen is survived by her daughter, Rhonda Baker; sons, Randy Pridgen, Kenneth Pridgen (Janice) and Kevin Pridgen (Tonia) all of Wilson; grandchildren, Bryan Pridgen, Wesley Pridgen, Jeremy Pridgen, Faith Pridgen and Skyler Baker; great-granddaughter, Alice; sister, Karen Goss of Mobile, AL.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, Charles  and Velma Matthews Dobbertine of Louisiana.

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Helen Walston - September 16, 1941 - May 10, 2022

Departed: 05/10/2022 (Wilson)

Obituary Preview: Helen Walston, 80, of Wilson, died Tuesday, May 10, 2022.

A private service for the family was held May 15, 2022 at Maplewood Cemetery.

Surviving is her wife, Lynn Stockbridge; brother, Leslie “Skip” Walston and wife, Dot; nieces, Pam Bass (Jeff), Heather Walston; nephews, Richard Millinder (Kim), Michael Millinder (Pam), Tommy Walston (Ellen), Kevin Walston (Jennifer); great-nieces and nephews, John Bass, Josh Walston, Machenzie Coffey (Josh), Katie Hill, Avery Walston, Brody Walston, Paylen Coffey, and Carter Coffey.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Leslie and Pearl Jones Walston; sister, Jean W. Millinder; brother, Woody Walston.

Helen retired from Duke Hospital with over 30 years of service as an anesthesia nurse.  She loved her work and often shared many stories of her anesthesia days.

She loved her dog Barney, that she rescued, and all the many cats that she and Lynn took care of during the winter months, that ended up taking up permanent residence with them.  She also loved to cook and so loved her Duke Blue Devils.

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John Whitley - January 30, 1960 - May 06, 2022

Departed: 05/06/2022 (Wilson)

Obituary Preview: John Hassell Whitley, 62, of Wilson, died Friday, May 6, 2022.

A Memorial Service will be held Wednesday, May 11, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM; Milbournie FWB Church, EWB Fellowship Hall, 5106 Raleigh Road Pkwy, Wilson. A graveside service for the family will be held at a later date.

Mr. Whitley is survived by daughter, Amber Whitley of Wilson; son, Tyler Whitley (Lee Ann) of Wilson; granddaughters, Allyson & Meredyth; grandson, Hunter; as well as nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He is also survived by special friends, Peggy W. Lamm and Randy Parris.

Preceding him in death was his parents; Marcellus Forbes and Dona Elizabeth Brantley Whitley; brother, Robert Forbes Whitley.

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Melba Hamm - March 03, 1925 - May 02, 2022

Departed: 05/02/2022 (Wilson)

Obituary Preview: Melba Peele Hamm, 97, of Wilson, passed away peacefully in her sleep in the early morning hours of Monday, May 2, 2022, after several years of declining health.

Graveside service, Thursday, 2:00 PM, Evergreen Memorial Park.

Melba was born in Wilson and educated in the Wilson public school system. She was the fourth daughter of Daniel McCullin (Cullie) Peele and Lilly (Doll) Whitley Peele. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters, and her loving husband of 70 years, Arnold Hamm, Sr. in 2013.

Melba was a longtime member of Covenant Presbyterian Church where she was active in church affairs.

She is survived by her sons, Arnold Hamm, Jr. (Jenny), Keith Hamm (Amanda); grandsons, Cullin (Leigh) Hamm, Richard Hamm (Alicin), Kelly Precythe (Anna Marie), Grant Hamm (Erin) and Wilder Hamm (Sarah); four great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

Arnold and Keith would like to give thanks to the staff at Spring Arbor for their loving care, Wilson Community Home Care and Hospice, and special thanks to Amanda Hamm, who saw that all of our mother’s needs were met.

If you wish to make a memorial donation, please consider Wilson County Humane Society, PO Box 7064, Wilson NC  27895-7064, or your favorite charity.

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Allen Shaneyfelt - June 02, 1949 - May 01, 2022

Departed: 05/01/2022 (Wilson)

Obituary Preview: Allen Craig Shaneyfelt, 72, of Wilson, died Sunday, May 1, 2022.

The visitation will be at Wilson Memorial Service, Wednesday, 6:00-7:30 PM.  Military burial rites will be Thursday, 12 Noon, at Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery, Goldsboro.

He had retired from the U.S. Air Force with 22 years of service and had worked at Lowe’s and Bridgestone/Firestone.  Allen was a native of Saint Louis, MO.

Surviving is his wife, Lesley Gibson Shaneyfelt; daughters, Melanie Holzhauser (Danny) of Goldsboro, Diana Walker of Pikeville and Lindsay Shaneyfelt of Washington, NC; sons, Ryan Shaneyfelt of Utah and James Shaneyfelt (Sarah) of Elm City; grandchildren, Aaron, Morgan, Sebastian, Aidan, Maxwell, Scarlett and Holland.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arlie Richard and Mildred Marie Perkins Shaneyfelt; brother, Larry Bruce Shaneyfelt; sister, Cynthia S. Bastholm.

Memorials are suggested to Veterans Residential Services, 2500 Nash St N, Ste E, Wilson, NC 27896, Wounded Warrior Project, 1990 Fordham Dr, Ste 100, Fayetteville, NC 28304 or the charity of one’s choice.

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Ed Floars - May 13, 1941 - April 28, 2022

Departed: 04/28/2022 (Wilson)

Obituary Preview: Edward Gray Floars, 80, of Wilson, died Thursday, April 28, 2022 in his home surrounded by his family.

A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, May 1, 3:00 PM at Maplewood Cemetery, conducted by Rev. Ray Wells.  The family will receive friends at Wilson Memorial Service, Saturday, 5:00 - 6:00 PM.

He was a proud Marine and a retired salesman with Midstate Paper Box Company.

Ed is survived by his wife, Julia Forbes Floars; daughters, Beth Williams and Julie Price (Dickie); grandchildren, Tyler Wiggs (Kensie), Jackson and Will Smith; great-grandson, Gabriel Austin Wiggs; Ed was also loved and adored by a large extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents Sarah Tew Floars and James Gray Floars; sister, Janet Floars and grandson, Austin Wiggs.

Memorials are suggested to For The Love of Dogs, 5146 Quaker Rd, Wilson, NC 27893.

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Gregory Oteri - November 17, 1937 - April 22, 2022

Departed: 04/22/2022 (Wilson)

Obituary Preview: Gregory Richard Oteri, 84, of Wilson, died Friday, April 22, 2022.

Visitation will be Thursday, April 28, 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM at Wilson Memorial Service. A Funeral Mass will be at 1:30 PM, at St. Therese Catholic Church.  Interment will follow in Maplewood Cemetery.

He is survived by his wife, Carrie Elizabeth Fries Oteri; daughter, Christy Tierney (Patrick) of North Billerica, MA; sons, Richard S. Oteri (Megan) and Timothy J. Oteri of Wilson, and Scott D. Oteri (Cherie) of Rocky Mount; grandchildren, Benjamin Oteri and Hunter Tierney; brother, Thomas J. “Tommy” Oteri (Katherine Rivers) of MA; brother-in-law, Michael O’Neil of York Beach ME; several nieces and nephews.

Mr. Oteri was preceded in death by his sisters, Edith Kelley of New York, Connie Oteri of Belmont, MA and Janet O’Neil of York Beach, ME.

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Jerry Pitchford - October 19, 1951 - April 21, 2022

Departed: 04/21/2022 (Wilson)

Obituary Preview: Jerard "Jerry" Wesley Pitchford, 70, of Pikeville, died Thursday, April 21, 2022.

A floating visitation will be on Tuesday, May 10, 6:30 – 8:30 PM at the Goldsboro Elks Lodge, 105 E Chestnut St, Goldsboro.

Jerry was born October 19, 1951 to Arthur and Betty Pitchford of Pittsburg, PA.  He was a Vietnam Veteran and served in the Army.

He is survived by his daughters, Kassidy Pitchford of Pikeville and Cortney Pitchford of Florida; son, Colton Pitchford of Pikeville; sister, Kim Pitchford Morgan of GA.

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Tom Pipkin - September 16, 1938 - April 01, 2022

Departed: 04/01/2022 (Wilson)

Obituary Preview: Thomas A. Pipkin, 83, of Wilson, died Friday, April 1, 2022, in his home.

Funeral, Tuesday, 11:00 AM, Wilson Memorial Service.  Interment, Evergreen Memorial Park.   The family will be at the funeral home, Monday, 7:00 – 8:30 PM.

Tom grew up in Black Creek where he worked on the family farm prior to enlisting to serve in the Army. He served from 1957 through 1961 and has always been full of American pride and patriotism.  After his service to his country, he began a career at Hackney Brothers that spanned several years, but he ultimately left to pursue his dream of starting a painting company. Painting homes and making them beautiful was something in which he took great pride, and he led a successful business for well over 40 years.  In the late 1970s, Tom married the love of his life, Mary, and was a loving, dedicated husband, father, and grandfather for over 40 years.  Mary passed away in September of last year, and after six months of being completely heart broken, it was finally time for him to leave this earth to be reunited with her in heaven for all of eternity.

Anyone who knew Tom also knew his love for God, his kind and gentle heart, his humble nature, and his quiet-spoken generosity, always helping others in need.  Tom was an incredibly special person and role model who made an impact on many people’s lives, and he will be missed greatly.

Surviving is his daughters, Shannon Aycock (Richard) of Stantonsburg and Connie Miller of Lexington; sons, Ricky Harris and Michael Harris (Penny) of Wilson, Timothy Harris (Elizabeth) of Fayetteville, Joseph Pipkin of Winston-Salem; 16 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren; brother, Johnny Pipkin (Shirley) of Lucama.

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A Team of Dedicated Professionals

The team at Wilson Memorial Service is comprised of experienced and licensed funeral directors, embalmers, and support staff who are passionate about their work. Each member of the team is committed to providing exceptional care and support to families, ensuring that every detail is attended to with precision and sensitivity. From the initial consultation to the final farewell, the team at Wilson Memorial Service is dedicated to helping families navigate the funeral planning process with ease and confidence.

Facilities and Amenities

Wilson Memorial Service is proud to offer a state-of-the-art facility that is designed to provide comfort and convenience to families. The funeral home features a spacious chapel, visitation rooms, and a lounge area where families can gather and share memories of their loved ones. The facility is also equipped with modern audio-visual equipment, allowing families to personalize their services with music, videos, and other multimedia elements.

Funeral Services and Options

Wilson Memorial Service offers a range of funeral services and options to meet the unique needs of each family. These include:

• Traditional funeral services with burial or entombment
• Cremation services with memorialization options
• Memorial celebrations and gatherings
• Pre-planning and pre-funding options
• Veterans' services and benefits

The funeral home's staff takes the time to listen to each family's needs and preferences, working closely with them to create a personalized service that honors their loved one's memory.

Community Involvement and Support

Wilson Memorial Service is deeply committed to giving back to the Wilson community. The funeral home participates in various local events and charities, including fundraisers for cancer research, veterans' organizations, and other worthy causes. The staff also provides educational resources and workshops on topics such as grief support, estate planning, and advance care planning.

Grief Support and Resources

Losing a loved one can be one of the most difficult experiences we face in life. At Wilson Memorial Service, the staff understands the importance of providing ongoing support and resources to help families navigate the grieving process. The funeral home offers:

• Bereavement counseling and support groups
• Grief literature and online resources
• Referrals to local counselors and therapists
• Annual memorial services and events

The staff at Wilson Memorial Service is dedicated to helping families find comfort and healing in the days, weeks, and months following their loss.

Contacting Wilson Memorial Service

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the services offered by Wilson Memorial Service, please do not hesitate to contact us. You can reach us by phone at [insert phone number], or by email at [insert email address]. Our staff is available 24/7 to provide guidance and support during your time of need.

We invite you to visit our website at [insert website URL] or stop by our facility at 2811 Fieldstream Drive N, Wilson, NC, 27896. We look forward to serving you with compassion, dignity, and respect.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and other biographical information. It may also include details about their life, accomplishments, and surviving family members.

What is the purpose of an obituary?

The primary purpose of an obituary is to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing and to provide details about their life and legacy. It also serves as a way to share news of the death with a wider audience and to invite people to attend funeral or memorial services.

Who typically writes an obituary?

In most cases, the obituary is written by a family member or close friend of the deceased. Funeral homes or crematories may also offer assistance in writing and publishing obituaries as part of their services.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also include details about their personality, interests, and accomplishments.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or online platform. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from a few sentences to a few paragraphs.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications and online platforms allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can help personalize the notice and make it more engaging for readers.

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, on the other hand, provides more detailed information about the person's life and legacy.

Where are obituaries typically published?

Obituaries are often published in local newspapers, online obituary websites, funeral home websites, and social media platforms. They may also be shared through email or printed copies distributed at funeral services.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication or platform. Some online platforms offer free or low-cost options, while print newspapers may charge a fee based on the length of the notice or the number of publications.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to ensure that their life story is told accurately and in their own words. This can also be a therapeutic exercise in reflecting on one's life and accomplishments.

What if I don't have any family members to write my obituary?

If you don't have any family members or close friends to write your obituary, you may consider asking a neighbor, colleague, or fellow community member to assist. Alternatively, some funeral homes or crematories may offer this service as part of their packages.

Can I include humorous or lighthearted elements in an obituary?

Yes, many people choose to include humorous anecdotes or personality traits in an obituary to make it more engaging and reflective of the person's character.

How do I submit an obituary for publication?

The process for submitting an obituary varies depending on the publication or platform. You may need to contact the publication directly or use an online submission form. Be sure to follow any guidelines or deadlines provided.

Can I edit or revise an obituary after it's been published?

In some cases, it may be possible to make minor corrections or revisions to an obituary after it's been published. However, this may depend on the publication's policies and deadlines.

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

The timeframe for publishing an obituary can vary depending on the publication's schedule and deadlines. Online platforms may publish notices immediately, while print newspapers may take several days or weeks.

Can I request a correction to an error in an obituary?

Yes, if you notice an error in an obituary that has already been published, you should contact the publication immediately to request a correction. They will typically make every effort to correct the mistake as soon as possible.

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

If you prefer not to publish an obituary or share news of your loved one's passing publicly, you can choose not to publish one. Alternatively, you may opt for a private online memorial or sharing news with close friends and family only.

Can I include charitable donations or memorial information in an obituary?

Yes, many people choose to include information about charitable donations or memorial funds in their loved one's honor. This can be a meaningful way to continue their legacy and support a worthy cause.

How do I find old obituaries?

You can search for old obituaries through online archives, genealogy websites, or local libraries. Many publications also maintain archives of past issues that can be searched digitally or in print.

Can I reuse an existing obituary template?

Yes, many online resources offer templates or examples of obituaries that you can use as a starting point. You can customize these templates to fit your needs and preferences.

What if I'm struggling to write an obituary due to grief?

If you're finding it difficult to write an obituary due to grief or emotional distress, consider reaching out to a trusted friend or family member for support. You may also want to take breaks or seek professional counseling if needed.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes, many people choose to include meaningful quotes, lyrics, or poems in an obituary as a way to reflect their loved one's personality or spirit.

How do I ensure that my loved one's legacy lives on through their obituary?

You can ensure that your loved one's legacy lives on by including stories about their accomplishments, passions, and values in the obituary. You may also consider creating a memorial fund or charity in their name.