Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill Obituaries

Obituary Preview: Mr. Paul Nicholas Austin, age 41 of Chapel Hill, NC transitioned into eternal rest on Friday, March 19, 2021, in Raleigh, NC. ATTENTION:  Everyone that Enters the Funeral Home and or Attending the Services - MUST WEAR A MASKThank you in advance for helping Us protect the families and communities that we serve. Professional Services Entrusted to Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Levon Marshall Winston, age 49 of Carrboro, NC transitioned into eternal rest on Tuesday, February 2, 2021 at UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill, NC. ATTENTION: Due to the COVID19 Pandemic everyone that enters the funeral home and or attending the services- MUST WEAR A MASKThank you in advance for helping us protect the families and communities that we serve. Professional Services Entrusted to: Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Rosilind Vanessa Headen age 61 of Hillsborough, NC (formerly of Pittsboro) transitioned into eternal rest on Tuesday, January 19, 2021, at her residence.Rosilind Vanessa Headen was born on February 24th, 1959 at Duke Hospital in Durham NC to Reverend Melvin and Evangelist Ruby Gattis. She transitioned to her heavenly home on January 19th, 2021.  She was a native of Durham County and was educated in the Durham County school system and was an avid Northern Knight.  She would briefly attend North Carolina Central University, but in her words, she did not attend long enough to grow feathers.  She was saved at age 7 and would later accept her calling and preached her initial sermon in 1977. She soon after met a man who had re-dedicated his life to God named Thomas M. Headen affectionately known as “Bro.’ The two were married on July 8th 1978.  Thomas too, like Vanessa had a calling on his life to preach the two supported each other in ministry throughout life at times even conducting tag team sermons.Vanessa, affectionately known as Nessa was also a singer who with her voice lifted up the name of the Lord as a youth growing up in the choir at Deliverance Tabernacle Fellowship Church (now Cathedral).  As an adult she would assist her mother Evangelist Ruby Gattis in Worship & Praise conferences, lead worship with the DTFC worship & praise team as well as sing and direct with the Voices of Deliverance, She was also an original member of Joe Riley & The Deliverance Ensemble, a group lead by her cousin as well as Hessed, God’s unconditional Love, which was lead by her brother, one year her junior, Pastor Kim L. Gattis.After 15 years at Deliverance, Bro felt the calling to go deeper in ministry as a Pastor and re-joined his original church home.  She (Vanessa) amazingly split time supporting him in ministry as well as engaging in duties at Deliverance aka “The Hill.”  She would also preach at Deliverance as well as evangelize at different churches in the United Holy Church of America. After some time after she came to join him full time as Assistant Pastor at Obies Chapel United Holy Church, where she organized functions for the youth, took part in the music ministry of the youth, young adult and senior choirs, and yes preached the word of God tirelessly with the anointing.  Even before her time at Obies, her presence was felt in the United Holy Church as she in addition to preaching, also used her vocal talents along with the Western NC and Central Sub District Choirs.   After the untimely passing of her husband Pastor Thomas M. Headen, she would go on to support her brother Kim in his ministry as Pastor of Restoration Fellowship Assembly, where she would sing with the worship & praise team, preach at the church as well as still evangelize in when the call came at other places of worship.She leaves to cherish her in memory, her father Rev. Melvin W. Gattis of Raleigh, NC, One brother Pastor Kim L. Gattis (Monica) of Wake Forest, NC, two sons, Nicholas DaTanion Headen (Twanya) of Raleigh, NC; Quentin Thomas Headen (Krystalynn) of Hillsborough, NC; and a daughter, Karyn Trinnette Headen of Hillsborough, NC. Three grandchildren; Christian Thomas Headen, Caleb Nicholas Headen, and MaKayla Mulan Trinnette Kearney, and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives, and friends.She was preceded in death by her son Elijah Enoch Headen, her husband Pastor Thomas Headen, and her mother; Elder Ruby L. Gattis.

Obituary Preview: Mr. Fredeman Anderson Mendoza Rodriguez,  age 53 of Raleigh, NC transitioned into eternal rest on Sunday, January 17, 2021 at SECU Jim Betsy Bryan Hospice Home of UNC, Pittsboro, NCATTENTION:  Everyone that Enters the Funeral Home and or Attending the Services - MUST WEAR A MASK.   Thank you in advance for helping Us protect the families and communities that we serve.ATENCION: Todos los que entran an la funeraria y asisten a los servicios - DEBEN USAR UNA MASCARA Gracias de antemano por ayudarnos a proteger a las familias y comunidades a las que servimos. Professional Services entrusted to: Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill

Obituary Preview: Mr. William Edwin Rogers, Jr. age 80 of Mount Holly, New Jersey transitioned into eternal rest on Tuesday, December 29, 2020 at UNC Hospitals, Chapel Hill, NC. Professional Services Entrusted to: Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill

Obituary Preview: Mr. Casey H. Dabrowski,  age 30 of Chapel Hill, NC transitioned into eternal rest on Wednesday, October 14, 2020, at his residence.Casey Hendrix Dabrowski, born on 08/23/1990, was an authentic, charismatic, and creative soul - so much so that it is difficult to depict his character in writing. Those who knew Casey know this to be true. There are no words that can amount for the stunning person he was. Son to Laura Davis and Edward Dabrowski, stepson to Peter LaPlaca, brother to Cody, Jesse, and Chloe Dabrowski, stepbrother to Matthew and Timmy LaPlaca, and uncle to Levi and Odin. Loved by many many more. Casey’s life was full of travel, art, athletics, and philosophy. He spent his life honing his artist skills - drawing in different media, taking photographs, sculpting, storytelling, writing poetry, and earning his certificate in massage. His parents, professional artists, encouraged Casey’s artistic authenticity. In his most recent years, he devoted his time to poetry - reciting to his loved ones and opened mic nights at local coffee shops.  He traveled throughout the United States and around the world, visiting Nepal (most recently), Mexico, Nicaragua, Japan, and across Europe. He also hiked miles on the Appalachian trail, staying in lean to’s and collecting trail magic left by previous hikers. Throughout elementary school, Casey played baseball. In high school, he ran track and mastered ninjutsu - traveling to Japan to receive his blackbelt. Casey spent his downtime researching, contemplating, and discussing philosophy. He would spend hours chatting with family and friends - conversations they will always hold near to their hearts. He was tremendously mature for his age, understanding, and processing the world, unlike his peers.  While Casey lived a life full of love and adventure, he also battled depression and psychosis. The pain became unbearable and on October 14th, 2020 Casey chose to take his own life. Although he is no longer with us, his soul will forever live through his loved ones and their memories. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, please, call the suicide hotline: 1-800-273-8255  Love, the Dabrowski, Davis, and LaPlaca families.  If you knew Casey, please leave a memory. ATTENTION:  Everyone that Enters the Funeral Home and or Attending the Services - MUST WEAR A MASKThank you in advance for helping Us protect the families and communities that we serve. Professional Services Entrusted to Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill

Obituary Preview: Ms. Frankie Andrews,  age 66 of 1240 Huffman Mill Rd., Burlington, NC transitioned into eternal rest on Wednesday, August 19, 2020, at Cone Health Alamance Regional Medical Center, Burlington, NC. ATTENTION:  Everyone that Enters the Funeral Home and or Attending the Services  MUST WEAR A MASKThank you in advance for helping Us protect the families and communities that we serve. Professional Services are Entrusted to:  Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill

Obituary Preview: Ms. Marthenia Fearrington, age 88 of 117 S. Graham Street, Chapel Hill, NC transitioned into eternal rest on Sunday, August 9, 2020 at UNC Hospitals, Chapel Hill, NC.Mrs. Marthenia Gattis Fearrington daughter of the late Sidney Monroe Gattis and Martha Williams was born on May 09, 1932 in Chapel Hill, NC and departed her life here on earth to be with the Lord on August 09, 2020.She grew up in Chapel Hill and was educated in the Chapel Hill-Carrboro School System. Shortly afterwards she met and fell in love with the love of her life, Wilber Lee Fearrington Sr. and from that union she birthed four beautiful children: Rita Fearrington Stone, Kimberly Fearrington, Wilber Lee Fearrington Jr (Pete) and Martha Ann Fearrington (Annie). In total she had six children with Sandra Gattis Walker and Larry Bernard Fearrington being the oldest. In addition, there were two other children with whom she shared a special bond and she was their mother also, Shari Skeen and Daphne Darden. She had 14 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren and 4 great great grandchildren. Sisters Annie Mae Burnette (Pittsboro NC), Ella Marie Pettiford (Jamaica, NY), Wilma Grace Brittian (Hillsborough, NC), one brother, William Pace Gattis (Carrboro, NC). A special friend “Aunt Jenaren” Janelle Riggsbee, Her prayer warriors, Tawana Adams and Coretta Sharpless, a special helper, Angela Bynum and a host of other relatives and friends. Marthenia “Gran” affectionally known as “Mama” embraced everyone and welcomed everyone into her home. She enjoyed cooking and talking about the “good ole days” with anyone who would listen. Professional Services Entrusted to:  Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill ATTENTION:  Everyone that Enters the Funeral Home and or Attending the Services  MUST WEAR A MASKThank you in advance for helping Us protect the families and communities that we serve.

Obituary Preview: Ms. Nancy Marie Gattis, age 92 of 405 Smith Level Rd., Chapel Hill, NC transitioned into eternal rest on Wednesday, July 22, 2020, at The Stratford Assisted Living, Chapel Hill, NC.Nancy Marie Gattis passed away peacefully in her sleep on Monday, July 20, 2020, due to a long term illness. She was born September 30, 1927, to William Gattis and Stella Gattis (Weathers) in Chapel Hill, NC.  Marie was a loving sister and aunt to her nieces and nephews.  She always encouraged us to be kind and compassionate to one another.  She had a profound love for the Lord that showed in her many letters to the family. Marie always remembered our birthday and we looked forward to the surprise placed in the envelope.  Her life was a living example of her love for the Lord.  She meditated on the word daily and always had positive things to say about the people she met. She was preceded in death by her parents: her mother Stella Gattis and father, William Gattis; a brother,  Williams Henry Gattis and a nephew, Stanley L. Taylor , Nancy is survived by her only sister, Myrtle Taylor-Champion, nephews: Fred Taylor, Jr., Richard L. Taylor, Sr. & James W. Taylor; nieces: Cassine M. Walker, Jessie Jackson, and Gwendolyn Cooper.  And a host of great-nieces and nephews all residing in Chapel Hill, NC.  All whom she loved and touched deeply,Special thanks and appreciation to Benita Bush and Mead Christian for all the years of supportive care and love shown to her.  She loved you very much.The family of Nancy Marie Gattis would like to thank Stratford Nursing Home and Heartland Hospice Staff for the tender care given during her illness. Professional Services Entrusted to:  Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill

Obituary Preview: Mr. Evelio Mariche Avila, age 55 of 1709 Butler Street, Winston Salem, NC transitioned into eternal rest on Wednesday, July 15, 2020, at Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center, Winton Salem, NC. ATTENTION:  Everyone that Enters the Funeral Home and or Attending the Services - MUST WEAR A MASKThank you in advance for helping Us protect the families and communities that we serve.ATENCION: Todos los que entran an la funeraria y asisten a los servicios - DEBEN USAR UNA MASCARA Gracias de antemano por ayudarnos a proteger a las familias y comunidades a las que servimos. Professional Services Entrusted to: Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill, NC

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Ethel Jean Jackson, age 82 of 101 Woodcrest Drive, Chapel Hill, NC transitioned into eternal rest on Friday, July 5, 2020, at her residence.ETHEL JEAN JACKSON ETHEL JEAN JACKSON , MPH, professor emerita of health behavior and health education, passed away peacefully at home on July 5, 2020. She leaves behind a legacy as a beloved wife to her husband of 57 years, Curtis Jackson, Jr., MPH and also as a mother, grandmother, teacher, mentor, advisor, practitioner and friend.Ethel Jean Jackson was born to William (nicknamed “Teazelle”) and Easter (Hargraves) Riggsbee at Duke University Hospital. She grew up in Chapel Hill, North Carolina and was raised with her older adopted sister, the late Billie (Hargraves) Dorsey.  Her parents doted on her and Ethel often recalled that on those occasions when her father bought Cornish hens for Sunday dinner, he and Easter made sure that she had one of her very own.  Growing up as the center of attention and the apple of her parents’ eyes gave Ethel a magnetism that caused people to gravitate towards her. And from the beginning, she was surrounded by the arts. With only a fourth-grade education, Teazelle made sure that Ethel Jean learned the words of the Easter plays while balancing a book on her head, ensuring that her delivery was dramatic and precise. Ethel grew up watching her mother rehearse with her father what he would say on his daily radio program “The Corner of William” which aired on the radio station WCHL. He was the only black person with a radio show on the station.Ethel Jean often reminisced about how during the winter, the family would stay in The Villages on Franklin Street, the building where her father worked as a janitor because there were radiators there that kept them warmer than they would have been in their own house. She thought fondly of these times because the whole family was together. Ethel loved and admired her father who always teased people, and thus the nickname Teazelle. She adored her mother as well, and had basically good memories of her. However, one time her mother did not allow her to go out with her friends. Ethel Jean made the mistake of telling her friend on the phone, “She said I couldn’t go.” After picking herself up off the floor, Ethel never again made the mistake of calling her mother “she”! Notwithstanding this incident, Ethel’s memories of her upbringing were ones of happiness and safety.However, her idyllic childhood was shattered when her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Ethel often recounted hearing her mother’s piercing scream when the insurance agent told her that her cancer treatments would not be covered by insurance. On a janitor’s salary, Ethel Jean’s father hired a nurse and Ethel attended school part-time to care for her mother. She would double and even triple whatever nutritional advice the doctor suggested for her mother, hoping this would cure her. Ultimately, her mom was sent to a cancer treatment facility in Lumberton, North Carolina and at just 15 years old, Ethel Jean never saw her mother alive again. This traumatic experience had a lasting impact on her. Ethel’s father sent her to boarding school after her mother’s death, believing that a motherless child needed more guidance than he could offer. As a result, she finished high school in Sedalia, North Carolina at Palmer Memorial Institute, a prestigious preparatory school for African-Americans, which graduated the likes of Nat King Cole’s wife, Maria Cole. Palmer, “in addition to providing a stellar academic curriculum, [… ] also emphasized the importance of proper etiquette and training in the arts.” The school’s educational philosophy was modeled after the founder Dr. Charlotte Hawkins Brown’s book The Correct Thing To Do--To Say--To Wear. During this time, Ethel faced racism and Jim Crow barriers even though she was from Chapel Hill, a more progressive southern city. She often reflected on how when she went with her father to the home of one of his employers, she and her father had to enter the house through the back door. When Ethel asked her father why they had to go to the back, Teazelle answered with his wry and quick wit, “We have to enter through the back door so you can go to Palmer.”After graduating from Palmer, Ethel Jean attended Bennett College in Greensboro, North Carolina. She roomed with her good friend from Chapel Hill, the late Barbara (Pendergrass) Winston. Ethel graduated from Bennett and moved from North Carolina and taught high school in Walterboro, South Carolina and at Blanche General Ely in Pompano Beach, Florida.  Ethel also served as a community center directress in Fort Lauderdale, developing programs in dance, music and drama designed to help children and teenagers express hurts, fears and happiness. Ethel worked with migrant children in the school system, assisting them with their studies and promoting self-esteem. She pulled from her performance days growing up and choreographed elaborate dance performances with exquisite costumes where dancers leaped across the stage and challenged their bodies and minds to stretch beyond what even they believed possible.It was at Blanche General Ely that Ethel Jean met the love of her life, Curtis Jackson, Jr. When they told Ethel’s aunt Louise Hargraves that they were getting married, Aunt Louise went to her bedroom and retrieved from between the mattress the original one hundred dollars that Ethel’s mother had saved for her to buy her wedding dress. Ethel and Curtis married on Christmas day, three months after meeting. Their marriage was the best gift they could have given to each other.Ethel Jean loved children and was a natural nurturer and knew instinctively how to motivate others to overcome wrongly imposed limitations. Case in point, when one of Ethel’s former star majorettes, Lillie Pearl (McLamore) Allen, went to college, she was discouraged from auditioning for the elite “Golden Girls” majorette team because her skin was not light enough to be considered “golden”. Distressed, Lillie Pearl turned to Ethel for advice. She told Lillie Pearl to audition for the Golden Girls and make them tell her that she was not good enough for the team. Ethel and Curtis traveled to support her and watched Lillie Pearl become the first majorette on the team that did not have light complexion. Years later, Ethel encouraged Lillie Pearl to obtain her Masters in Public Health at UNC-Chapel Hill.While in Florida, Ethel Jean and Curtis had their first daughter, Rhonda. They later had their second daughter, Lorie. Despite her involvement in the Florida community, Ethel Jean began to miss North Carolina. For this reason, it was not long before the couple moved from Fort Lauderdale, Florida back to Chapel Hill. It was there that the two had their third and final daughter, Dasha.After their return to North Carolina, Ethel and Curtis attended the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health. According to Ethel Jean, the year the couple enrolled was the first time that the School of Public Health placed a major emphasis on recruiting African American students. That emphasis came in response to advocacy from the School’s Black Student Caucus, formed in 1971. The Jacksons earned Master of Public Health (MPH) degrees in 1974 – Ethel Jean’s in Health Behavior and Education and Curtis earned his Masters in Health Policy and Administration.Ethel became a health education specialist and worked at Duke University Medical Center with Eva Salber, M.D. to coordinate and manage a community health education program. She also worked in Chatham County on an environmental project that organized local communities to make safety repairs to the homes of senior citizens involved in childcare.Ethel joined the faculty of the Gillings School as a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Health Behavior and Health Education in 1981. She served as director of the undergraduate program and was also practicum coordinator for many MPH students who worked with health agencies in the United States and several foreign countries. She also served as a visiting professor at North Carolina Central University. She was the faculty coordinator for the Helping Mothers/Helping Families program in Lee and Chatham Counties, and a consultant for Black Churches United for Better Health, a program designed to help church members increase the amount of fruits and vegetables in their diets. During her tenure at the University, she was nominated for the Gillings School’s McGavran Award for Excellence in Teaching and was selected to participate in the 1992 Restoration of the Black Family White House Congressional Briefing.Alongside Dr. Eva Salber, Ethel innovated the concept of the lay health advisor: a local mentor who provides health care advice to the community. Ethel trained these leaders in proper health practices so that they could, in turn, educate the people who regularly turned to them for guidance. After instituting the lay health advisor approach in practice, she formalized the concept in a 1997 article with Dr. Carol Parks, titled “Recruitment and Training Issues From Selected Lay Health Advisor Programs Among African-Americans: a 20-year Perspective.” The article was among the top twenty cited pieces of public health literature for decades, and it is still referenced to this day.Ethel Jean was a charter member of the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Area Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. In 1994, she co-chaired the chapter’s first Delta Dreamers program – an annual philanthropic event for scholarships – and helped raise the largest amount of scholarship funds in the chapter’s history, more than $20,000. Delta Dreamers continues today and is the chapter’s major fundraising activity.When Ethel retired from UNC in 1998, the Gillings School established the Ethel Jean Jackson Health Education Practice Award in her honor. This award is given every year to a health behavior graduate student who demonstrates strong commitment and effective action in health education practice, particularly in disadvantaged communities and communities of color.Ethel was recognized in the community for her commitment to service. In 2014, she won the Hometown Heroes award and received the Village Pride Award from WCHL radio. In 2016, the Durham Alumnae Chapter of Bennett College honored her with the Women of Vision Award of Excellence, in recognition of her distinguished leadership in health education and community outreach. That same year she received “The Riggsbee Heritage Award” in recognition and appreciation for helping to keep the family together and continuing to make an impact on surrounding communities.Never idle, Ethel Jean was very active in her church, Saint Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church of Chapel Hill. She found her niche working with the Young People Division, “YPD”. It was there that Ethel fulfilled a prophecy she had been given which predicted she would rake children into the kingdom of God. She poured her heart into YPD programming including Vacation Bible School, encouraging people to teach, who had never taught, and encouraging people to attend who had never attended. Vacation Bible School was so well-attended under her leadership that the church ran out of space and had to have class on the porch. Ethel had uncanny leadership ability and employed an innovative concept in her approached to YPD. She believed that YPD was everybody’s responsibility. Hence, she had one adult a month be responsible for the activities with the children in that month. The activities ranged from pizza pool parties to serving in the church. The idea was so successful that St. Paul submitted it at church conference as an example for other churches to emulate. Despite any other activities, Ethel always emphasized to the young people the importance of making Jesus their Savior and Lord. And without fail, she made her presence known at church routinely exclaiming “Glory!” throughout the service.Ethel Jean suffered a series of serious health challenges. In 2005, Ethel underwent open heart surgery. In 2009, she had knee surgery. That same year, Ethel had a stroke. In 2012, she suffered another stroke. In June of 2018, Ethel suffered a third stroke that left her unable to walk. Three months later in September, Ethel was rushed to the hospital for a fourth stroke. While in the intensive care unit, Ethel suffered yet a fifth stroke and was in the intensive care unit for a week, three days of which she was unconscious and had to be intubated. She had a sixth stroke that same year. Notwithstanding, Ethel did not let these setbacks keep her from expressing herself and her opinions. She gave advice and correction (solicited and otherwise) for as long as she could. Her gift was to draw out your gift – and she did that almost until the end. The year before she passed, Ethel celebrated her birthday amongst a house full of family, friends, and colleagues. She literally wore a crown and was celebrated like the queen she was. Crowds of people were crammed into her home celebrating with Ethel for hours. Yet, when asked if she wanted a birthday party like that next time, her reply was “bigger”. For many that party was the last time they would see Ethel alive and they were unknowingly paying her their last respects. Just four months later in June of 2019, Ethel suffered a seventh stroke that rendered her unable to speak or swallow. Ethel remained on a feeding tube for thirteen months. Several times during the last two years she had been on the brink of death, and each time the prayers of the righteous had brought her back. This last time, Ethel Jean did not come back from the brink. She crossed over into eternity. As her good friend from childhood, Alberta Neely, so aptly put it at Ethel’s retirement party, “Ethel Jean may not have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, but she has a star in Chapel Hill. She has a star at the University. And one day she will have a star around the great throne of God.”Ethel Jean Jackson was preceded in death by her loving parents William (“Teazelle”) and Easter (Hargraves) Riggsbee; her adopted older sister Billie (Hargraves) Dorsey; her beautiful aunt, Estelle Gattis (“Auntie”); her beloved cousin the renowned Velma Hargraves; her father- and mother-in-law Curtis Jackson, Sr. and Eunice Louise Jackson; her brother-in-law, Ronnie Vernon Jackson and his wife Landanese Pendleton Jackson. She leaves to cherish her memory her husband and soulmate of 57 years, Curtis Jackson, Jr., three daughters: Rhonda Jackson White (Bill, Jr.- deceased), Lorie Louise Rainey (Jesse, Jr.), Dasha Michelle Jackson; seven grandchildren: Miracle King Wilson (Kermit, Jr.), William Charles White, III, Majesty Elise White, Jesse Lee Rainey, III, Caleb Ashley Rainey, Autumn Christian Rainey, and Elias Jackson Rainey; and four great-grandchildren: Edwin Burnell King, Jr. (“EJ”), Eden Melody King, Kindle Spirit Wilson, and Raina Xolani Muldrow; two brothers-in-law: Rudolph Sylvester Jackson (Fran) and Clemist Lamar Jackson (Teresa); eight nieces and nephews: Ayo Janeen Jackson, Nichole Richelle Jackson, Ryan Nicholas Khailer, Jason Moultrie (Londa), Joi Alexia Jackson, Ayana Faith Jackson, Aaron Lamar Jackson, and Cara Teresa Jackson. Ethel Jean also leaves behind a host of other family, friends, church family, students, colleagues, and other love ones.If it were possible, Ethel Jean’s homegoing service would have been the “bigger” party that she wanted. The family would have tried to have all the people that she had touched come and touch her one last time. The church would ring with song and music and dance and performance—all the things Ethel loved. We would tell our Ethel, Ethel Jean, Jean, Jeanie, Jeanie Bell, Momma, Ma, Mommy, Aunt Jean, Ma Jackson, and Mamma Jean stories together and let the sorrow and grief release from our souls. We would hold each other and comfort each other and support each other through the process. We would assure and reassure each other that everything was going to be alright, that she was in a better place, no more suffering, no more pain, no more strokes. We would remind each other that now she was in the presence of Jesus. What greater place to be? We would encourage each other to think of how Ethel would finally see her mom and dad again and all the love ones that got to heaven before she did.But for reasons outside of the family’s control that bigger party was not to be. Covid-19 has forced all of us to change our behavior and ultimately modify and/or curtail our activities and gatherings. Rather than the big send-off Ethel would have loved and the family would have loved to have, a private graveside ceremony was held at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, July 8, 2020 at the Westwood Cemetery, Fidelity Court, Davie Road, Carrboro, North Carolina 27510. However, the family would like to extend its deepest and warmest gratitude to all those who love and care about Ethel Jean. And we know that all of you are with us in spirit.

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Louvina Robinson Burnette age 68 of 1575 Martin Luther King Blvd., Chapel Hill, NC transitioned into eternal rest on Friday, June 19, 2020 at UNC Hospitals, Chapel Hill, NC. ATTENTION:  Everyone that Enters the Funeral Home and or Attending the Services - MUST WEAR A MASKThank you in advance for helping Us protect the families and communities that we serve. Professional Services Entrusted to: Knotts  Funeral Home - Chapel Hill

Obituary Preview: Mr. Lavarus Atwater, age 29 of Durham, NC transition into eternal rest on Sunday, May 31, 2020. ATTENTION:  Everyone that Enters the Funeral Home and or Attending the Services - MUST WEAR A MASKThank you in advance for helping Us protect the families and communities that we serve. Professional Services Entrusted to:  Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill

Obituary Preview: Ms. Gloria Mitchell, age 57 of 3808 Danube Lane, Durham, NC transitioned into eternal rest on Saturday, May 30, 2020, at her residence.Gloria Ann Mitchell departed this earthly life Saturday, May 30, 2020, at her home in Durham, North Carolina.She was born March 26, 1963, to Ms. Elizabeth Mitchell and Herbert Leon Paylor.  She was the youngest of 6 children. Her siblings were Keith, Cheryl, Charles, Sophia, and Jeffrey.Gloria attended Orange County Schools. She left high school before finishing, but never gave up on getting her education. Later in life, Gloria returned to Durham Technical Community College to complete her High School education. Gloria Mitchell achieved this honor in May of 2006. This was one of the proudest days of her life. Another cherished moment in her life was the birth of her daughter Tiffany the birth of her granddaughter Justin.She later met her lifelong partner, Byron Melvin, and made a home in Durham, NC. Gloria was a vibrant free spirit that loved to live her life to the fullest. She was strong-willed and overcame many obstacles that would have hindered the average person. She enjoyed entertaining and visiting friends and family. She had a special way of saying goodbye and only those that loved her understood that it was all love. No matter what it may have sounded like.Gloria Mitchell left us away too soon but we remain steadfast in our faith that Gloria has earned her reward and has gone on to be with those that have gone on before her. Predeceased Gloria Mitchell is her mother, Elizabeth Mitchell; brothers, Keith Mitchell and Charles Mitchell; and one sister, Cheryl Mitchell.She leaves to cherish her memories, one daughter, Tiffany Mitchell of Greensboro, NC; one sister, Sophia (John) Mitchell of Carrboro, NC; one brother, Jeffrey (Cheryl) Mitchell; one aunt, Naylee Mitchell-Womble; one uncle, William Brown, Sr; one granddaughter, Justice; a lifelong companion, Byron Melvin; and a host of nieces and nephews. ATTENTION:  Everyone that Enters the Funeral Home and or Attending the Services - MUST WEAR A MASKThank you in advance for helping Us protect the families and communities that we serve. Professional Services Entrusted to: Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Naomi Stroud Watson, age 90 of Durham, NC transitioned into eternal rest on Tuesday, May 19, 2020, at Signature Healthcare - Chapel Hill, NC.Naomi Stroud Watson, a life well-lived, bringing a sense of dignity and honor to the many people that were touched by her warm gentle smile, transitioned to her heavenly home on May 19, 2020 at the Signature Health Care of Chapel Hill. She was born to the late John and the late Melissa Johnson Stroud, September 17, 1929. However, her aunt and uncle, the late Mazie Stroud Harris, and the late David Harris raised her from an early age. They treated her as their own daughter and sent her to college. She was married to the late Joseph Watson and he was the love of her life.She had a God-given talent to compose and coordinate sacred pageants, weddings, and church plays at several churches throughout the triangle. Oftentimes prior to presenting her plays and pageants, she would spend endless hours rehearsing and making sure her “theme”, “décor” and “performance” were immeasurable. Everyone marveled at her creativity and artistic strengths.Naomi Stroud Watson served faithfully in many auxiliaries at First Baptist Church (FBC) of Chapel Hill. She was a member of the Willing Workers Club Ministry; Homecoming Committee; Pastor Aide Ministry; Drama Ministry; and the Pastors Appreciation Committee.  Although she didn’t have children of her own, she loved and cherished her nieces and nephews until her demise. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters, Mrs. Isabel Stroud Rogers, Mrs. Ida Stroud Pendergraft, Mrs. Helen Stroud Edmonds, Mrs. Jennie Stroud Stanley, her brothers, Julius Stroud, Albert Stroud, Jack Stroud, Howard Stroud, and Jenson Stroud. She leaves to cherish her great legacy and memories of love: several nephews, nieces, cousins, and a host of other family and friends. ATTENTION:  Everyone that Enters the Funeral Home and or Attending the Services - MUST WEAR A MASKThank you in advance for helping Us protect the families and communities that we serve. Mrs. Watson Funeral will be Live Streamed on Knotts Funeral Home Facebook page onSunday, May 24, 2020 @ 2pm. Professional Services Entrusted to: Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill

Obituary Preview: Ms. Edith Frances Suitt, age 90 of 1602 E. Franklin Street, Chapel Hill, NC transitioned into eternal rest on Tuesday, May 12, 2020. AfterGlowI’d like the memory of  me to be a happy one.  I’d like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done.I’d like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways, Of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days.I’d like the tears of those who grieve, to dry before the sun, Of happy memories that I leave when life is done. By Helen Lowrie MarshallEdith "Frances" Suitt was the daughter of the late Jennie Green Suitt and Benjamin Franklin (Frank) Suitt.  She departed this life on May 12, 2020 at Signature Healthcare in Chapel Hill, NC.Frances joined Pine Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Creedmoor, NC at an early age.  She was an active member there until her father's health began to decline.  Family was very important to her; she gladly devoted her entire life in helping to take care of her father and later her younger sister, Florence who preceded her in death.Although she started her educational pursuit in Granville County, once her family moved to Chapel Hill, NC, she continued her education at Orange County Training School.She leaves to mourn: one sister, Nolie Mae West of Greensboro, NC; one niece; Lecia Harris(Thelbert) of Chapel Hill, NC; five great-nieces, Genise Brigman of Mebane, NC, Charlene Brigman of Raleigh, NC, Rosa Lee Brigman of  Chapel Hill, NC, Diana West of Durham, NC, and  Kansas Harris of Chapel Hill, NC ; and one great nephew, Cornelius "Clay" Brigman of Durham, NC.  Because of Frances love for family, a tribute also goes out to all of her cousins, other relatives as well as all of her friends. ATTENTION:  Everyone that Enters the Funeral Home and or Attending the Services - MUST WEAR A MASKThank you in advance for helping Us protect the families and communities that we serve. Professional Services Entrusted to: Knotts Funeral  - Chapel Hill

Obituary Preview: Mr. Jerdewarrene Farrar II, age 29 of 1510 Ford Rd., Chapel Hill, NC transitioned into eternal rest on Saturday, May 9, 2020.Jerdewarrene Farrar II, lovingly known as “Jerry”, was born in Durham, NC on May 13, 1990 to Jerdewarrene Farrar and Lisa Sales. He departed this life on Saturday, May 9, 2020.Jerry attended Cedar Ridge High School in Hillsborough, NC where he was active in various activities at school, including the football team and the school Chamber Choir, where he sang as a tenor. He graduated from high school in 2009 and attended UNC Pembroke where he completed two years of studies in business.He started working at UNC Healthcare in 2011 in the Nutrition and Food Services Department. He was very passionate about his work and maintained such a positive attitude and welcoming smile with everyone he interacted with.Jerry was one of the kindest people that you would ever meet; constantly willing to help someone even if it put him in a bind. He had a contagious smile, one that would force you to smile along with him. He was affectionate -- always giving the best hugs. He took pride in being a great uncle and enjoyed spending quality time with his nieces and nephews. He talked about his goal of being a dad and having a “football team” of kids along with a wife to love and spoil on. His family takes pride in knowing that Jerry was a kind soul that valued life, love and family.Memories of his love will forever be cherished in the hearts of those he leaves behind: his parents: mother, Lisa Sales father, Jerdewarrene Farrar, step-mother, Ilem Farrar; two sisters, Amelia Crawford (Chavis) of Durham, NC, Maya Farrar of Sanford, NC; three brothers, Joshua Farrar (Brandi) of Sanford, NC, Robert Sharpe of Chapel Hill, NC and Jaron Farrar of Sanford, NC; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. Professional Services Entrusted to: Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill ATTENTION:  Everyone that Enters the Funeral Home and or Attending the Services - MUST WEAR A MASKThank you in advance for helping Us protect the families and communities that we serve.

Obituary Preview: Mr. Walter Morrow, age 76 of 600 W. Poplar Ave., Carrboro, NC transitioned into eternal rest at UNC Hospice Home, Pittsboro, NC.Mr. Walter Nell Morrow, Sr. departed this life to sing with the angels on Monday, May 4, 2020 at UNC Hospice in Pittsboro, NC.He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred Douglas and Rosie Mae Farrington Morrow and three brothers, William Russell Morrow, Matthew Julius Farrington and Dennis Lee Farrington, Sr.Walter was educated in the Orange County School System in Chapel Hill, NC.  He became a member of St. Joseph CME Church at an early age and as an adult he became a member of the choirs, The Voices of Joy and The Senior Choir. He was also a member of the Community Ambassadors Male Chorus. Walter had a great passion for singing and one of his favorite songs was one he himself composed, Standing Here Waiting on Jesus. He also had a passion for golf and painting and was a painter from the age of 20 until his health declined. He loved his sports and was an avid Tar Heel fan.He leaves to cherish loving memories, two sons, Walter Nell Morrow, Jr. (Shonda) of Greensboro, NC and Tuper Snipes of Durham, NC; one daughter, Rosa Morrow of Charlotte, NC; two brothers, Reverend Benjamin Morrow of Belmont, NC and Teddie Morrow of Maricopa, AZ; two sisters, Freddie Mitchell of Chapel Hill, NC and Martrina Morrow of Carrboro, NC; five grandchildren, very special friends, William “Skinny” Farrington and Thomas Harris, Jr. and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. Professional Services Entrusted to: Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill

Obituary Preview: Ms. Canatta "Candy" Massey-Edwards, age 55 of 13 Waystone Place, Durham, NC transitioned into eternal rest on Sunday, May 3, 2020, at Amedisys Hospice, Garner, NC. Born on Sunday, June 28, 1964, in Orange County, North Carolina, Ms. Canatta (Candy) Massey-Edwards, daughter of Henrietta Thompson Massey and the late Thallieus “Jack” Massey, received her healing and heavenly crown on Sunday, May 3, 2020. Thereby, acknowledging that the Lord was her Shepherd, she courageously “walked through the valley and shadow of death, fearing no evil” because the Lord was with her.  Departing from her home at 13 Waystone Place in Durham, North Carolina, surrounded by loving family and friends, she orchestrated a bon voyage celebration.  In planning for her journey, she gave clear and concise instructions to doctors, children, family and friends when selecting palliative care through Amedisys Hospice of Garner, North Carolina. She lived, loved and left this earthly departure, her way—Queen Diva style!Preceded in death by her first-born grandson, Daijon Lemaj Jackson; baby brother, Thallieus, Jr.; soul-sister best friend, Vanessa Kaye Cotton; and oldest sister, Dorothy Elaine Massey, we are confident that Canatta’s spirit is yet in the presence of family and friends.Married to her childhood sweetheart, David Edwards, Sr., they were the parents of two children. Being the nurturing spirit that she was, their home was always filled with children of relatives and friends and she later became the loving parent of a nephew and three promised children.Canatta was educated in the Chapel Hill-Carrboro School System and received cosmetology training at   Arnold’s Beauty College (ABC).  Her caring and nurturing spirit compelled her to pursue a career in healthcare.  She worked thirty-six (36) years at one location, now known as Signature Healthcare in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.  She was a member of St. Joseph C.M.E Church.Affectionately nicknamed Candy, she was as sweet as they come. She never met a stranger who did not immediately take to her “bubbly” disposition.  With physical attributes that were captivating and alluring, her words were soft spoken, nurturing and reassuring. She was the original queen diva around these parts and the sweet memories of her reign will forever be in our hearts. Just like candy, she had a special way of warming hearts and brightening days anytime she came your way. Her mere presence would put a smile on your face. We are thankful that God blessed her to be ours for a little while with all her attributes and alluring smile. In addition to her mother, to live on and cherish her memory until we meet again, she leaves: a daughter and two sons, Tanisha L. Massey of Graham, NC, David M. Edwards, Jr. of Chapel Hill, NC and Jamel E. Nelson of the home; three promise children, Myisha Eatmon of Columbia, SC, Tamia Eatmon and Jacobie Lewis of Durham, NC; three grandchildren, Ericiya Ajanae & Taniya Alexis Jackson and Brenden Michael Brooks; three sisters, B. Vernelle Massey of Durham, NC, Loretta Massey of Roxboro, NC and Cecilia L. Massey of Chapel Hill, NC: three bonus sisters, Melodye Robinson, Jewel and Misty Bynum all of Chapel Hill, NC; one uncle, Norman Burnette of Durham, NC; one aunt, Elizabeth Massey of Pittsboro, NC one great aunt, Erna Mae Coble of Siler City, NC; father of her children, David M. Edwards, Sr. of Chapel Hill, NC; three brothers-in-law and one sister-in-law, Tony Edwards, Kim Johnson, Antonio Johnson and Glenda Johnson all of Chapel Hill, NC; special sister-friends, Vera Whitley and Vickie Pratt; several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Professional Services Entrusted to: Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill

Obituary Preview: Mr. Frederick Norton Dickman III, age 62 of 7610 NC Hwy 87 Pittsboro, NC transitioned into eternal rest on April 30, 2020 at his residence.Our dear brother, and our mother’s beloved son, Frederick Norton Dickman, III, died peacefully, and of natural causes in his Pittsboro, NC home on April 23, 2020.  He was born in New Orleans, LA on May 28, 1957, and grew up in Cleveland Heights, OH, moving to NC as an adult.  Norton loved music, and was a talented musician. In the 1970's, he played guitar in a Cleveland-based band called The Doo Wops, and in reunion shows in recent years at Cain Park Amphitheater. He played viola in the Durham (NC) Symphony Orchestra, and played with a number of other local groups such as the Durham Savoyards, and the Pittsboro Back Society. His company, Northwind Painting, provided employment for others, and allowed him the opportunity to hone his eye for detail and good craftsmanship.A great lover of wildlife, Norton enjoyed the many creatures that populated his wooded yard. He also took care to create elaborate bird feeding systems for our mother to enjoy at her home. Norton was known for his quick wit, and his kindness. He will be much missed by friends and family alike.He was predeceased in 2012 by his sister Elizabeth Blank, and by his father Dr. F. Norton Dickman, Jr. in 1985.He is survived by his mother, Catherine Crowe Ragland, of Pittsboro, NC; sister Catherine Taylor, of Oakton, VA, and sister Janet Elbetri, of Chapel Hill, NC. He is also survived by nieces and nephews: Connor Houghton, Sarah Kersey, Rebecca Blank, Samuel Blank, and Adam Norton Elbetri and great niece June Elizabeth Kersey.Due to the COVID-19 crisis a memorial service for our brother will be held later this year. Professional Services Entrusted to: Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill

Obituary Preview: Mr. Eric Travis Tate, age 64 of 104 Crest Drive Apt A, Chapel Hill, NC transitioned into eternal rest on Tuesday, April 28, 2020 at UNC Hospitals, Chapel Hill, NC.Eric Travis Tate, of Chapel Hill, North Carolina departed this life on Tuesday, April 28, 2020 after a long illness. He was born June 29, 1955, in Wilson, North Carolina to the late George Tate and Esther Williams Tate.Travis was educated in the Chapel Hill Public School System and was a proud graduate of Chapel Hill High School. He furthered his education at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, (NCA&T), Greensboro, North Carolina.  After graduation, Travis worked for a short while for the Department of Defense at Camp Lejeune, Jacksonville, North Carolina eventually returning home to work as an entrepreneur alongside his father at Tate Realty until his health failed.He leaves to cherish his memory his loving daughters, Erica Nicole Tate, of Hillsborough, North Carolina and Alexanderia Poole of Jackson, Mississippi; two brothers, Jeffery Dwayne Tate (Ann) and Christopher Tate of Chapel Hill, North Carolina. A dedicated and loving aunt, Shirley Purdie and friend/ caretaker, Walter Harrington. Travis leaves a niece, nephews and a host of other loving relatives and caring friends. Professional Services Entrusted to: Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill

Obituary Preview: Mr. Gregory Takashi Mano, age 58 of 305 Copperline Drive Apt. M, Chapel Hill, transitioned into eternal rest on Tuesday, March 31, 2020 at his residence. Professional Services Entrusted to: Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill

Obituary Preview: Infant Landon Malcolm Nelson, of 2718 Red Hill Lane, Hillsborough, NC transitioned into eternal rest on Wednesday, February 26, 2020 at UNC Hospitals, Chapel Hill, NC. Professional Services Entrusted to:  Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill

Obituary Preview: Mrs. Sarbaga Falk, age75 of Chapel Hill, NC transitioned into eternal rest on Saturday, February 15, 2020 at the Charles House, Chapel Hill, NC. Professional Services Entrusted to:  Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill

Obituary Preview: Infant Camden Zlatan Strasevic, of 3450 Woodford Circle APT.10, Fayetteville, NC transitioned into eternal rest on Monday, February 10, 2020 at UNC Hospital, Chapel Hill, NC. Professional Services Entrusted to: Knotts Funeral Home - Chapel Hill