Donaldson Funeral Home & Cremation Obituaries

Obituary Preview: Mary Madge Cargill was a caring wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at the Jim & Betsy Bryan Hospice Home of UNC Health Care on April 21, 2022, at the age of 75.She is survived by her loving husband and high school sweetheart of 58 years, Roland Cargill, daughter, Melissa Pernell (Tommie) of Spout Spring, VA and son, Jared Cargill (Holly) of Apex, NC. Also survived by six grandchildren: Stefanie Hutchins (Stephen), Amanda Burnette (Casey), Samantha Barley-Maloney (Keith), Dustin Parnell, Katelyn McLaurin (Alex) and Chloe Cargill and three great grandchildren, Abigail, Colton, and Gwen as well as numerous extended family.She was predeceased by her parents, Jacob F. and Thelma M. Neely, brother, William Roy Neely and sister-in-law, Olive Neely.

Obituary Preview: Gerald Ray Smith, 81, passed away at the Laurels of Chatham, Monday afternoon, April 18, 2022, in Pittsboro, NC.A native of Chatham County, Gerald was born October 4, 1940, to the late Margaret Kelly and Pete Smith.  He was a 1959 graduate from Pittsboro High School. From 1961-1965, Gerald honorably served under SAC – Strategic Air Command, servicing planes in the United States Air Force. He was stationed at Larson Air Force Base in Moses Lake, Washington and then Ramey AFB in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico.In the early 70’s, Gerald was a member of the pit crew in former NASCAR driver, Walter Ballard’s team. In 1971, the team would help Ballard win the Rookie of the Year Award in the NASCAR Winston Cup Grand National Series.With an affinity for air shows and a passion for auto racing, Gerald also was moved by music. He played the drums and most people knew him to be or had seen him in the local group called The Rockets. Having lived such an excitement filled life, the love of his life came about in 1961, when he was married to the former Frances Clark. They would spend the next 61 years together, fashioning life from their love. Their two sons, Michael and Gregory, both picked up Gerald’s flair for music and played throughout high school, where Gerald was the solid, supportive “Band Parent.”All of Gerald’s military achievements and early life skills would aid him at his final career working for UNC Hospital. He maintained the logistics of keeping all of the food and supplies stocked and ordered, so that no patient care would suffer for lack of need. He finally retired after a long career of service.Gerald will be missed by all who knew him. If you got the opportunity to meet him, he left a warm caring impression, setting the example of how a young man should live life and treat his family and friends. His dedication to his work was only surpassed by his willingness to anything that he asked of others.  He was a faithful husband, a loving father and a doting grand and great-grandfather. He is truly missed.Surviving Gerald is his wife, Frances; sons, Michael Ray Smith and Gregory Clark Smith (Marianne); his grandchildren, Lauren, Kristina and Devin; and his great-grandchildren, Lily, Iris, Nicole and Charles; along with several nieces and nephews.A Service honoring the life and memories of Gerald Ray Smith will be held 2:00PM Tuesday, April 26, 2022 at Browns Chapel United Methodist Church in Pittsboro, NC with the Rev. Ray Gooch officiating.Donaldson Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the Smith family.

Obituary Preview: ObituaryDelbert Allen “Al” Andrews, Jr., age 55, of Pittsboro, died Friday, April 15, 2022, at Chatham Hospital.Al was born in Chatham County on May 20, 1966, to Sheila Williams Eddings and the late Delbert Allen Andrews, Sr. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Sydni Nicole Andrews.In addition to his mom, he is also survived by his son, Trey Andrews, and wife Lauren of Pittsboro, three sisters, Tammy Phillips, and husband Roger of Bear Creek, Debbie Thomas of Siler City, Sarah Beth Weston and husband Zack of Raleigh, and his loyal companion dog, Chomper.The family will receive friends Tuesday, April 19, 2022, at Donaldson Funeral Home & Crematory Griffin Chapel from 6PM to 8PM. A Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, April 20, 2022, at 3PM at Donaldson Funeral Home & Crematory Griffin Chapel with Pastor Wesley Thomas presiding. Burial will follow at Mt. Gilead Baptist Church cemetery.

Obituary Preview: Alvin Edward Austin, age 62, of Sanford, died Tuesday, April 12, 2022, at home.Alvin was born in Rockbridge County, Virginia on January 28, 1960, to the late Alvin Melvin Austin and Ruby Johnson Austin. He was also preceded in death by one brother, Robert Austin.Surviving relatives include two daughters, Amanda Patton and husband Barry of Sanford, Jessica Hall of Sanford, one son, Shane Austin of Surf City, NC, one stepdaughter, Corina Beal of Garland, NC,15 grandchildren, stepfather Larry "POP" Wallace of Sanford, and three sisters, Cathy Freeman of Sanford, Debbie Gambrel of Kitts Hill, Ohio, and Darlene Breeden of Natural Bridge, Virginia.A Memorial Service will be held, Sunday, April 17, 2022, at 3PM at First Apostolic Church of Sanford with Rev. George Akers presiding. Immediately following the service, the family will receive friends at Amanda’s house. Condolences may be made at www.donaldsonfunerals.comDonaldson Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the Austin family.

Obituary Preview: Chuck was born in Pittsboro, NC in Chatham County on March 16,1963, to the late Charles Clark and Geraldine Joyce Yates Clark.  He was their middle child and only son and best known as “Chuck”.Early in life he worked diligently in school and was repeatedly praised as an “Exceptional Student” throughout his academic reports.  He graduated with Honors from Northwood High School in 1981 and proceeded to continue studying at NC State University and later Wake Technical Community College.  Chuck pursued his passion for electrical engineering and became a well-respected, highly-skilled, and specialized Electrical Technician in his field.  He worked at CP&L for 10 years prior to an additional 27 years at NCEMC.  He was one of very few professionals in the state who could do his job.  Outside of work, he was a well-studied, self-educator, and jack of all trades.  Chuck could build anything he set his mind to with amazing ease.Most importantly, Chuck constantly sought to know God throughout his life.  He was always a dedicated father that loved his children more than anything.  He always cared and made known his desire to bless them with his entire life.  He was a strong and dedicated provider for his family.  He consistently stood up for what he believed in and maintained always being a man of his word.  He was an American patriot and valued our constitutional freedoms deeply.He led his sons to Christ, all at a young age, while simultaneously being very active in serving in local churches.  He successfully raised three strong, Christ-loving, compassionate men that gave him six grandchildren to date.  He always gave positive affirmations to his sons ensuring they always had faith in themselves.  He taught his sons about good work ethic when they were young which helped them provide for their own families today.  He always encouraged his sons to believe in their goals and focus with intensity to make those dreams a reality.Chuck was known to give “the best strong hugs” by his loved ones.  He loved spending time with his sons and grandchildren.  Some of his best memories shared were ones of him traveling to the beach and mountains, playing sports, boating on Jordan Lake, and family gatherings with his family.  Family time was very important to him.Charles “Chuck” Council Clark, Jr. unexpectedly passed away at his home in Moncure, NC on or about April 12, 2022.  Surviving close relatives include sons, Christopher Clark, Daniel Clark, Stephen Clark, and sisters, Donna and Joy.  He will be greatly missed by all of those that know and love him.A Visitation will be held 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Monday, April 18, 2022 at Donaldson Funeral Home & Crematory – 396 West St. Pittsboro, NC 27312.Donaldson Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the Clark family.

Obituary Preview: Thomas Elvin, Hinton, Sr., age 69, of Pittsboro, died Saturday, April 9, 2022.Thomas was born in Wake County on March 28, 1953, to the late Thomas E. Hinton and Ruth Rogers Hinton. He was also preceded in death by two sisters, Sharon Sardina and Jean Andrews, and one brother, Henry Andrews.Surviving relatives include his wife, Missy Hinton of Pittsboro, two sons, TJ Hinton of Clayton, Chris Hinton of Raleigh, one stepson, Nate Kennedy of Hillsborough, one stepdaughter, Kayla Kennedy of Angier, and 6 grandchildren, Elijah Hinton, Hailey Strickland, Abby Strickland, Waylon Strickland, Wyatt Strickland, and Ashton Kennedy.There are no services planned at this time. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Obituary Preview: Allen Mark Feinberg, PhD., passed away on Saturday 4/9/2022, of natural causes.  Dr. Feinberg grew up in New York City, moved to Florida to attend graduate school, and then landed in Chapel Hill in 1966 to attend additional graduate school at both UNC and Duke, being trained as a psychologist.In the 1970's, he was the director of the Orange County Mental Health Services, and from there opened up his private practice in the early 1980's. He continued to see patients until 2015, at which time he retired and continued to live just south of Chapel Hill.He is succeeded by his brother, Richard Feinberg, his son Matt Feinberg, and Matt's wife Francia.Services are pending.

Obituary Preview: Eva Louise Tracy of Pittsboro North Carolina passed away at UNC Memorial Hospital on Wednesday, April 6, 2022 with family by her side. She was 92. Eva was the second daughter of the late William Henry Barnett and Maggie Muriell Bradney. She was born in Higgins, Texas on July 3, 1929. She had one older sister, Alice Fern. Eva and her family moved to Colorado when she was a small child. Her parents operated a local grocery store in Canon City, Colorado.At the age of 13, Eva and her family moved to Long Beach, California where she later met her husband, the late Michael Loray Tracy. They married on January 14, 1947. Michael worked for General Mills, Inc. and Eva was a homemaker. Eva and Michael had six daughters, the late Kathleen Louise, the late Mary Shannon, Erin McLean, Patricia Anne, Kelly Maureen, and Kerry Eileen. Eva and her husband Michael lived in several states throughout their marriage including California, Minnesota, North Carolina, and Georgia.Eva was a devote Catholic and taught religious education classes for over 40 years in parishes in California as well as in North Carolina. She was also an active volunteer for numerous groups and schools throughout her life.Eva and Michael celebrated 42 years of marriage until his death in 1989. Eva was the grandmother of eighteen grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren whom she loved and enjoyed her entire life. Eva’s favorite aspect of her life was her family. In addition to raising a large family and supporting her husband’s corporate career, Eva loved the outdoors and had a small ranch in Harris County, Georgia where she raised and cared for cattle and horses. After Michael’s passing, Eva continued to live in rural Georgia for almost 25 years. As she aged, she moved closer to one of her daughters in Pittsboro, North Carolina where she enjoyed residency for 10 years.Eva was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, daughter and friend. She will be missed dearly.A visitation will be held Sunday, April 10th, 2022, from 5:30PM-6:30PM at Donaldson Funeral Home & Crematory in Pittsboro, NC. A Funeral Mass will be held Monday, April 11, 2022, at 11AM at Saint Mary Magdalene Church in Apex, NC.  All are welcome to attend. Eva Louise Tracy will be laid to rest in Ogden, Utah at the Ogden City Cemetery next to her husband, Michael Loray Tracy and surrounded by the Tracy family on April 13, 2022 at 2:00pm.The Tracy Family is requesting flowers to be sent to the Lindquist’s Ogden Mortuary in Ogden, Utah, 3408 Washington Blvd, Ogden, UT 84401.

Obituary Preview: Clarence L. Durham returned home Tuesday morning March 29th to be with his family and our Lord. He was 86 years young.Clarence was born and raised in Chatham County on the family farm that has been in the family for almost three hundred years. It is located off Andrews Store Road in Pittsboro, North Carolina.Clarence served our Country as a Military Police Officer in the United States Army. He returned home from his service to serve the Pittsboro Community for over 20 years as the Postmaster for the US Postal Service.Clarence spent his whole life as a farmer. He served as the President of the Cattlemen’s Association and President and Director of the Chatham County Livestock Association. He had decades of service to the Chatham County Agricultural Department, Chatham County Farm and Service Agency, and NC State University Co-op. He was also a founding member of the Bynum Front Porch Association.His biggest love in farming was raising Tamworth hogs. Clarence who was inducted into the Tamworth Hall of Fame, credited himself and a few other farmers in bringing back the breed from the brink of extinction in the United States. His love of his family, serving his community and farming never wavered.Clarence was also preceded in death by his wife Ruby and siblings William, Gerry, Harold, Gene, and Mary Julia.Clarence will be laid to rest beside his wife Ruby and brother Gene. Graveside services will be held at Lystra Baptist Church Cemetery on Sunday, April 3, 2022, at 3PM. Condolences may be made at www.donaldsonfunerals.comDonaldson Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the Durham family.To send sympathy gifts to the family or plant a tree in memory of Clarence Lloyd Durham, please visit our tribute store.

Obituary Preview: Bonnie Anne Lindemann Finkle, age 80, of Pittsboro, passed away Friday, March 25, 2022, at home.Bonnie was born in Passaic County, New Jersey on August 27, 1941, to the late Russel Lindemann and Anne Schneider Lindemann. She was also preceded in death by her husband Edward F. Finkle. Bonnie graduated from Wayne Valley High School in New Jersey in 1959, became a Registered Nurse (RN) in the State of New Jersey in 1963, received a BS in Nursing in 1991 from the University of the State of New York and an MS in Nursing from the University of Massachusetts in 2000.Bonnie devoted her life to helping others throughout her career as a nurse.  She would always see the positive and could commonly be heard saying “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all”. She was an avid lover of books, especially mysteries and ghost stories.  One of her favorite holidays was Halloween and she loved sharing her passion for this with her six grandchildren.  She was the best Grandma one could ask for and always made sure to create memorable moments for all her grandchildren when they would come to visit her on Cape Cod and Pittsboro.  Movie night showing Scooby Doo was always a great experience where she would hand out tickets, popcorn, and candy to everyone.  Her favorite musical artist was Neil Diamond and was always thrilled to put on “Sweet Caroline” and have everyone sing along.  Bonnie had many pets over the years, both dogs and cats, and loved all of them dearly.  She also loved knitting sweaters, hats, blankets and giving them to her family and friends.  During her retirement years she would frequently volunteer her time at the local food pantry and fulfill her need to travel the world and visit destinations such as England, The Netherlands, Germany, Czech Republic, Austria, Hungary, Scotland and Australia.Surviving relatives include, two sons, Edward G. Finkle and wife Mattea of Middletown, CT, Brian Finkle and wife Maria of Mechanicsville, Virginia, one daughter, Denise “DJ” Lynch, and husband Bob of Pittsboro, and six grandchildren, Amanda, Savannah, Matthew, Grayson, Jeremiah, and Kayla.A memorial service is planned at Donaldson’s Funeral Home in Pittsboro on Thursday, March 31st, 2022, at 11am to 1pm. Inurnment will take place at a later date at Massachusetts National Cemetery.

Obituary Preview: Ralph Edward McLaurin, Jr., 72, passed away at Chatham Hospital, Thursday morning, March 24, 2022, in Siler City, NC.A native of Chatham County, NC, Edward was born May 29, 1949, to the late Irene Poe and Ralph Edward McLaurin, Sr.  He was also preceded in death by his son-in-law, Michael Cunningham.  Edward graduated from Pittsboro High School, earned a B.S. in Business Administration and later a J.D., both from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.Edward started a 30+ year-long law career in Pittsboro, NC as a partner at the firm of Barber, Holmes & McLaurin, eventually to become Holmes & McLaurin. He served on numerous community boards, including the Chatham County Soil & Water Conservation District Board for more than 30 years and the Chatham County ABC Board. He was a Mason at Columbus Lodge 102 and was an active member of Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church, where he served on a multitude of committees and leadership roles, including Sunday School Superintendent, Administrative Council Chairman, and Pastor-Parish Committee Chairman.Edward had many interests that he enjoyed, including woodworking and gardening (especially with heirloom tomatoes in the pursuit of the perfect tomato sandwich).  An ardent outdoorsman, he enjoyed fishing and he was an avid bird hunter.  He was very active and enjoyed running and coaching and playing baseball and softball.  He was a devoted Tar Heel fan and loved watching them play basketball, football, baseball, and softball.  He was probably the biggest fan of Mr. Ray Gooch’s fruitcake.A devoted family man, Edward found no greater joy than being with his loved ones.  Edward is survived by his wife of 40 years, Sandra Brewer McLaurin; sons, Shane Brafford (Jordan) and Ralph Edward McLaurin, III; his daughter, Ginger Irene McLaurin Cunningham; grandson, Bryce Brafford; and sister, Teresa Bower (Doug).The services for Mr. McLaurin are private with Rev. Ray Gooch presiding.

Obituary Preview: Diane Lynn Miedreich Fahys, March 20, 2022 Beloved wife of James, Mother of Susan, Diana, and Jennifer.Survived by brothers Warren and Lawrence, and dear cousin of June.Proud Grandmother to Sandra, Christopher, Michelle, Ryan, and Casey.Great Grandmother to Blanca and John Bolton.Diane was an impressive doll collector, and an avid lover of birds, knowledge, and life.She will be deeply missed.

Obituary Preview: Nicholas “Nick” Lee Mewshaw, age 22, of Cary, died Saturday, March 12, 2022.Nick was born in Durham County, North Carolina on April 15, 1999, to Lee Howard Mewshaw and Jennifer Elizabeth Powers Mewshaw.Nick is also survived by one brother, Zachary Mewshaw of Cary, one sister, Allie Mewshaw of Cary, Paternal grandmother, Gloria Kellerhals and husband Tom of Litchfield, South Carolina, Maternal grandmother, Carolyn Powers Belgrad and husband Richard of Bozeman, Montana, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Nick was preceded in death by his Maternal grandfather, Ervin T. Powers, Jr.As a child, Nick described himself when he was 8 in a school project as “silly, kind, and brave, who dreams of being an inventor, who fears red ants, who believes he will get straight A’s, and values friends, books and family.” At that age, his favorite books were the Percy Jackson series.  Nick attended Mills Park Elementary, Mills Park Middle, and Panther Creek High School. He was a proud member of the PCHS band as an alto sax player, serving as section leader his senior year. He was also an Eagle Scout from Troop 152.  Nick traveled to Guatemala in 2016 to volunteer to build a house for a needy family with his dad and other ConstruCasa volunteers. Nick loved playing video games, and once he, his dad, and his brother staked out a Gamestop for a midnight game launch. Nick was an avid runner, and in support of his mom was proud to finish first in 2021 at the Gail Parkins Memorial Ovarian Cancer Walk and 5k. He graduated from UNC Chapel Hill in 2021.  After having interned at Cisco over the summers, he moved into the Cisco CSAP program after graduation where he planned to work in sales. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family, and all who knew him. A Memorial Service will be held Friday, March 25th, 2022, at 12 PM, at Crosspointe Church (located behind the NW Cary YMCA) at 6903 Carpenter Firestation Road, Cary, NC 27519

Obituary Preview: Don was a carpenter, a man that could build anything you asked him to.  Don was an excellent mechanic with cars, trucks and tractors; if it had a motor, he could fix it.  He loved working on small engines, especially lawn mowers, weed eaters and chainsaws. From miles around, people would bring theirs to him or they would call and ask him about it.  He would tell them what was wrong, if he could fix it or if it was not fixable.  He didn’t do things halfway; he always gave 100% to everything.  He did not know how to sit down, always loved to be working from sunup to sundown. Don loved to be in his shop, he always said “I eat and sleep in the house, but I live in my shop.”  The only thing that would keep him in the house was his soul mate and wife, Ann, who he would do anything for, and she would do anything for him.  Don loved his family and friends as well as his dogs.  So, with a tear in our eyes and a hole in our heart don’t be sad but be happy because God has a plan for everyone, and He must be working on something that He needed for Don to come home and help.  Don will be right there working on something with a big smile on his face and some kind of joke like; “are you burning the midnight oil or did you get lost?”Life goes on for us down here and Don is up there doing something he loves and waiting for us to get there.  Knowing that we will not be able to see him or talk to him, he would want us to keep going on the same way as if he were here.  We can only think of what he is up there doing right now and can’t wait to get there and see it.  Things will be great until we meet again.  We love you and tell the big man that there is going to be a lot of unmowed yards for a while.Don was preceded in death by his parents, Manual and Tilda Meadors; two sisters, Ina Lou Campbell and Hazel Meadors.He is survived by his loving wife, Ann Meadors;  sons, Randall Meadors and wife, Shania, Jimmy Meadors and fiancé, Bethany Kidd; daughter, Amy Castevens and husband, Glen;   brothers, Doyle Meadors and Thurman Meadors; sister, Barbara Meadors;  grandchildren, Jimmy, Jr., Morgan, Kara, Allen, Chasity, Anna, and Emma.  Also surviving, are a host of nieces, nephews, family, friends, and special niece, Felicia Prewitt.A Visitation will be held from 1-3:00PM, Saturday, March 12 with services to follow at 3PM, at Donaldson Funeral Home & Crematory – 396 West St. Pittsboro, NC 27312.

Obituary Preview: Hope Johnson Mackelprang 22 June 1964 to 6 March 2022It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our beautiful wife, mother, and grandmother, Hope Johnson Mackelprang. Hope was born on June 22,1964 in Holbrook AZ to Glen Ferris Johnson and Brenda Gardner. She passed away on March 6,2022 at her home in Pittsboro NC, surrounded by family and friends, at age 57.Hope met her husband Mark when she was 18 years old, during the Young Single Adult institute opening social at Arizona State University. After Mark returned from his mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Taiwan, they were married in the Arizona Temple in Mesa AZ in October 1985. Hope was a faithful and devout member of the church and served in many different callings throughout her life. After Hope and Mark were married, they lived in Tempe AZ, Tucson AZ, Cary NC, and finally settled in Pittsboro NC. Mark developed software and Hope was a great support to him in all ways. They loved being together, and led a happy, busy life while raising their four children. Hope loved her family more than anything else, and worked tirelessly to show them that love. She was a very giving mother, and taught her children to work hard and do well in everything they did. She was always so proud and supportive of them. And as much as she loved her children, she adored her grandchildren.  She loved reading to them, playing with them, tickling them, and frankly, doing anything with them. Hope had an amazing testimony of the reality of a living Jesus Christ and of His gospel.  She freely shared that testimony by word and deed with everyone, but particularly with her family. She was kind to all, and had a quick smile and friendly conversation ready for everyone she met.In 2018, Hope was diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer, and has been fighting against the disease since then. Even though it was clear the disease was terminal, Hope chose to live every moment joyfully rather than wasting time mourning the unfairness of having cancer. Her positive attitude made being around her a breath of fresh air, even though she was very sick, and she worked hard throughout her battle to make sure cancer was not her defining trait. Since her diagnosis, Hope traveled and saw the world as much as possible. She spent a couple weeks in Europe, visiting many beautiful places. She visited several beautiful parks and areas in southern Utah, including Bryce Canyon and Wire Pass Gap. And in February 2022, visited the beautiful country of Costa Rica, where she loved seeing the forests, sloths, toucans, and monkeys. Even though her cancer slowed Hope down over time, we enjoyed walking and talking on the beach, just three weeks before she passed away.Hope entered hospice care on March 4, but decided it wasn’t for her, and left this world. We were so sad to see Hope go, but are so relieved her suffering was short. She was the embodiment of grace, patience, and kindness, and lived a life worth remembering. Farewell, sweet Hope, for we will see you in the stars and meet you again in the world to come.Hope was preceded in death by her parents and her grandson, Miles Cousins. She is survived by her four children: Richard (Kayla) Mackelprang, Leah (Matthew) Watkins, Jenna (Cade) Cousins, and Joshua Mackelprang, along with five grandchildren -- Melody Mackelprang, Jonathan Watkins, Elizabeth Watkins, William Watkins, and Aurora Cousins.

Obituary Preview: Harry Lee Goodwin, age 78, of Apex, passed away, Sat, March 5, 2022. He was born to the late Clarence and Margaret Arthurs Goodwin and raised in eastern Chatham County, where he was a lifelong member of Bells Baptist Church.Harry was a graduate of Pittsboro High School in 1962 and received his BS from Campbell University in 1966. A beloved educator and coach of 30 years, he taught science, health, and physical education at Pittsboro High School, as well as Horton Middle School. During his retirement years, he could be found working in his vegetable garden, golfing, and often traveling with his late wife, Joy Clifton Goodwin. He was an avid lover of all sports, but specifically enjoyed following the UNC Tarheels, and attending Carolina Hurricanes games. He was a loving father, grandfather, and friend, who will be dearly missed by all who knew him.Harry is survived by his daughter, Leigh Goodwin of Cary, NC; his son, Steve Goodwin of Clayton, NC; his grandchildren, Anna Grace Johnson, Claire Goodwin and Isabelle Goodwin; and his sister, Donna Cole (Lynn) of Greensboro, NC.A memorial service will be held on Sun, March 13 at 2:00pm at Bells Baptist Church in Apex. A reception will follow at the church.

Obituary Preview: David John Scott was born in London, England.  He leaves behind his loving wife, Sharon, whom he was married almost 48 years; his son, Ryan (Lacey and Jaden); his stepchildren, Clinton and Kelly Miller; many grandchildren and great grandchildren.  He also leaves a sister, Barbara Cochran of CA.  He served honorably in the US Army from 1963-67.David was an accomplished water skier. He mastered the art of slalom and barefoot skiing over countless summers spent at Kerr Lake.  In 2018, David and Sharon moved to Kerr Lake, remodeling the old family home there.A Celebration of David's Life will be scheduled some time in May.  Details will follow later.

Obituary Preview: John Tim “JT” Griffin, age 86, of Bear Creek, died Wednesday, February 23, 2022, at the SECU Jim & Betsy Bryan UNC Hospice House.JT was born in Chatham County, on September 26, 1935, to the late Tim Griffin and Ollie Fields Griffin. He was also preceded in death by two sisters, Mariel McNeill, and Ruth Jones.Surviving relatives include his wife, Patricia Johnson Griffin, one son, David Griffin of Bear Creek, three daughters, Dawn Griffin Williams and Jamie Ellis of Bear Creek, Janet Swepson and husband Leroy of Pittsboro, Amy Griffin of Bear Creek, eight grandchildren, and nine great grandchildren.A graveside service will be held Tuesday, March 1, 2022, at 11AM at Sandy Branch Baptist Church with Pastor Jimmy Brown presiding.

Obituary Preview: Josie Mae Hardee Thomas, age 90, of Pittsboro, died Sunday, February 20, 2022, at her home.Josie was born in Orange County, North Carolina on June 9, 1931, to the late Isaac Hardee and Bessie Harrelson Hardee. She was preceded in death by her spouse, Buddy Thomas; brothers, Elbert Hardee (Wilma), Phil Hardee, Rudy Hardee (Ruth), Bobby Hardee (Virginia), Jacob Hardee (LaRue), Buddy Hardee (Marie); sister, Kathleen Fuquay (Morris).Surviving relatives include sons, Claude Wesley Thomas (Mona) and Danny Franklin Thomas; sisters-in-law, Billie Hardee and Pearl Maynor; brother-in-law, Emory Thomas (Jane);  grandson, Jason Thomas (Tina); great-grandchildren, Sindy, Dalton, Trevor and Ti; and great-great-grandson, Langston; along with nephews and an entourage of nieces that cared for her like she was their own mother.On a Sunday night in 1941, Josie accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Saviour at Carrboro Baptist Church. She graduated June 9, 1950, from Chapel Hill High School.In December of 1951, she was married. She was a longtime employee of Blue Cross Blue Shield, where she retired from in 1995. Josie loved to shop, going out to eat, attending church at Mt. Gilead Baptist Church and Coolwater Cowboy Church.  She loved talking to friends on the phone, especially, Sylvia Butler and family.  She would want you to know, “Shug, this too shall pass.”

Obituary Preview: Jack Leroy Firmage, 88, of Nicholson Road, Sanford, NC, died Friday (2/18/22) at Duke University Hospital in Durham.He was born in Beaver County, Utah, on December 26, 1933.  He was son of Charles Firmage and Jane Wood Firmage. He was a U.S. Navy veteran during the Korean Conflict and Vietnam War.  He was a member of Swann Station Baptist Church in Sanford, NC for15 years.Jack was preceded in death by his wife, Mona Carpenter Firmage, a son, Gregory Scott Firmage, and two daughters, Debra Firmage Longacre and Lori Cegonia.He is survived by his son Anthony Firmage of the home, sister, Betty Barrett of Florida, brother-in-law, Carry Brooks Carpenter (Jennifer) of Garner, NC, sister-in-law, Stella Jane Thomas (Emory) of Oak City, Oklahoma, and one granddaughter.A memorial service will be held Sunday, March 6, 2022, at 2:00 PM at Swann Station Baptist Church, Sanford, NC, with Pastor Russell Blackmon officiating.

Obituary Preview: Mr. Chandrakant Patel, 66, passed away at his home, early Wednesday, February 16, 2022.Prayer services for Mr. Patel will be held 3:00PM Friday, February 18, 2022 at Donaldson Funeral Home and Crematory - 396 West St. Pittsboro, NC 27312.

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Obituary Preview: Patrick Edward Vincent, age 30, of Pittsboro, died Sunday, February 13, 2022, at home.Patrick was born in San Ramon, California on August 14, 1991, to Alan Vincent and Jeannine Raanes Vincent. He is also survived by one brother, Michael Alan Vincent and wife Brandi of Franklinton, NC, one sister, Allison Lindsay Vincent of Apex, three nephews, Aaron Vincent, Austin Vincent, Aiden Phelps, one niece, Sarah Vincent, and maternal grandparents, Carl and Dorothy Oliveira.Patrick was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Edward William Raanes and paternal grandparents, Lambert and Jean Vincent.There are no services planned at this time. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Obituary Preview: Alma Sue Clayton Cash, age 88, of Apex, died Saturday, February 12, 2022, at home.Alma was born in Person County, on October 12, 1933, to the late Henry Cornelius Clayton and Allie Sue Wagner Clayton. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Paul Cash, one brother, Henry Nathaniel Clayton, and one sister, Clydie Clayton Lewter.Surviving relatives include, one son, Shorty Cash, and wife Cathy, of Sanford, two daughters, Teresa Cash of Apex, and Pam Cash of Pittsboro, one brother, Kirby Steve Adcock, and wife Sissy of Salisbury, North Carolina, nine grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and five great-great grandchildren.The family will receive friends Saturday, February 19, 2022, at Donaldson Funeral Home & Crematory Griffin Chapel from 1:00PM to 1:45PM. The funeral service will at 2:00PM with Pastor Wesley Thomas and Rev. Bob Wachs presiding. Burial will follow at Mt. Gilead Baptist Church cemetery.

Obituary Preview: W. Brian Wood, age 76, of Pittsboro, died Friday, February 11, 2022, at home.Brian was born in Canada on January 7, 1946, to the late Walter Wood, Sr., and Doris Wright Wood. He resided in Chatham County for over 50 years. He delivered milk in Chapel Hill for over 40 years and his passion was drag racing.Surviving relatives include his wife, Martha Wood, two daughters, Ashley Wood of Pittsboro, Brandi Wood Belliveau and husband Chris of Sanford, one sister, Anne Westhead, and husband David of England and two grandchildren, Shea Wood and Skylar Wood.There are no services planned at this time. Condolences may be made at www.donaldsonfunerals.comDonaldson Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the Wood family.