Rich & Thompson Funeral & Cremation Service Obituaries

Rich & Thompson Funeral & Cremation Service: A Legacy of Compassionate Care

Located at 306 Glenwood Ave., Burlington, NC, 27215, Rich & Thompson Funeral & Cremation Service has been a beacon of hope and comfort for families in the community for generations. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, this funeral home has established itself as a trusted partner in times of need.

A History of Dedication and Service

Founded on the principles of compassion, respect, and dignity, Rich & Thompson Funeral & Cremation Service has been serving the Burlington community since [year]. Over the years, the funeral home has built a reputation for its unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service, personalized care, and attention to detail. From traditional funerals to cremation services, the staff at Rich & Thompson is dedicated to helping families create meaningful and memorable tributes to their loved ones.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Nancy Louise Martin - May 04, 1959 - July 14, 2022

Departed: 07/14/2022 (Burlington)

Obituary Preview: Nancy Boyd Martin, 63, of Burlington passed away at her residence on Thursday, July 14, 2022 at 6:44 a.m. following 15 months of illness. A native of Alamance County, she was the wife of Charles “Kirk” Kirkman Martin, who survives and the daughter of Walter Yates Boyd and Mary Louise Huffine Boyd, both deceased. She was formerly employed with Bank of America for 20 years and then Fidelity Bank for 12 years. Nancy enjoyed traveling, taking pictures, and scrapbooking. She was a member of Powerline Church of the Nazarene. In addition to her husband of their home, survivors include a daughter, Corinna Hope Hodge (Craig Hodge) and Jefferson Eugene Martin (Dominique Martin), all of Burlington; five grandchildren, Kyleigh and Hazel James, Faith Hodge, and Xander and Avery Martin; and a brother, Walter Yates Boyd, Jr. of Burlington. The funeral service will be conducted at the Rich & Thompson Chapel in Burlington on Tuesday, July 19, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. with the family receiving friends from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow at Magnolia Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Center, 4 Oak Branch Drive Greensboro, NC 27407.

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Melba W. Warren - January 23, 1940 - July 12, 2022

Departed: 07/12/2022 (Burlington)

Obituary Preview: Melba W. Warren

Melba W. Warren, 82, of Burlington passed away at Peak Resources in Graham on Tuesday, July 12, 2022.

A native of Caswell County, she was the wife of the late James Paul Warren and the daughter of the late Willie Ervin Wade and Luna Cobb Wade. She retired from Tower Hosiery.

Survivors include two sons, Sammy Lee Warren and Timothy Dale Warren, both of Burlington; granddaughter, Danelle Nicole Warren of Burlington; and two brothers, Hassell Wade of Burlington and Bobby Wade of Florida.  In addition to her husband,  she was also preceded in death by her daughter,  Pamela Dawn Moser.

The funeral service will be conducted at the Rich & Thompson Chapel in Burlington on Friday, July 15, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. with the family receiving friends from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow at Alamance Memorial Park.

Memorials may be made to AuthoraCare Hospice, 914 Chapel Hill Road, Burlington, NC 27215.

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Lorraine McPherson Allen - January 26, 1944 - July 12, 2022

Departed: 07/12/2022 (Burlington)

Obituary Preview: Lorraine McPherson Allen

Ms. Lorraine McPherson Allen, 78, of Burlington passed away on Tuesday, July 12, 2022 with her family by her side.

She was the widow of the late Reade Allen and the daughter of William “Bill” and Versa McPherson, both deceased.

Lorraine retired as the Director of Accounting from Elon University in 2018 after 39 years of service. In addition to many other interests, she was an avid bridge player and artist, and she enjoyed monthly luncheons with her Williams’ Class of ‘62 friends. As a member of the First Baptist Church of Graham, Lorraine served as a Sunday school teacher, deacon, and was a member of the chancel and handbell choirs. Lorraine’s greatest joy was her time with her family, friends, and beloved pets.

Lorraine is survived by a son, Mike Allen and wife Patty of Graham and daughters, Melissa Allen Ward and husband Kyle of Graham and Julie Allen Pack and husband Kevin of Liberty; a brother David McPherson and partner Jan of Raleigh and a sister Sue Brownson and partner Dale of Aurora, Colorado;  and 13 grandchildren: Reade, Kelly Mae, Rebekah Anne, Sawyer, and Laura Lea Allen; Mikayla, Mick, and Millie Brown; Jordyn, Madison, and Kylie Ward; and Taylor Pack and wife Meridith of Baton Rouge, LA and Mason Pack and wife Makala of Burlington.

A service to celebrate her life will be conducted at First Baptist Church of Graham on Sunday, July 17, 2022 at 3 p.m. by Rev. Chris Howe and Rev. Shannon Hall with the family receiving friends immediately prior to the service from 1:30 to 2:45 at the church. Friends are welcome to gather with the family afterwards at the home of Mike and Patty Allen, Graham.

Memorials, in lieu of flowers, may be made to the First Baptist Church of Graham, 224 North  Main Street, Graham, NC 27253.  Rich & Thompson Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the family.

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Ronnie Larry Whitten - January 19, 1949 - July 11, 2022

Departed: 07/11/2022 (Burlington)

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Thomas K. "Butch" Workman - September 23, 1964 - July 09, 2022

Departed: 07/09/2022 (Burlington)

Obituary Preview: Thomas K. “Butch” Workman

Thomas K. “Butch” Workman, 57, of Burlington passed away at his residence on Saturday, July 9, 2022.

A native of Alamance County, he was the husband of the late Tammy McCullough Workman and son of the late Robert Lee Workman and Jean Watson Workman, who survives. Butch was head of maintenance at the Holiday Inn Express.

In addition to his mother of Burlington, survivors include a son, Jessie Andrews and wife Sabrina of Burlington; four grandchildren, Aaron Montgomery, Anna Montgomery, Wyatt Andrews, and Gabe Tibbs; and two brothers, Mike Workman of Burlington and Danny Workman of Murray, NC.

The funeral service will be conducted at the Rich & Thompson Chapel in Burlington on Thursday, July 14, 2022 at 12:00 noon with the family receiving friends from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow at Alamance Memorial Park.

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Faye Younger Payne Alexander - Unknown - July 07, 2022

Departed: 07/07/2022 (Burlington)

Obituary Preview: Faye Younger Payne Alexander Faye Younger Payne Alexander, 95, died on Thursday, July 7, at her home at the Coble Creek center at Twin Lakes Community. Born in Selma, NC on August 29,1926 to Clyde Erwin Younger and Louise Alexander Younger, she was the widow of William Ralph Payne, Rudolph (Rudy) J. Macheck, and F. Caroll Alexander. Educated in the Burlington public schools, Faye

also attended Elon College. She worked for Davis News Company and Burlington Industries, Piedmont Heights Pioneer Plant before her children were born. After raising her family she worked over eighteen years at The Treasure House of Burlington.

Predeceased by her parents and husbands, Faye was also predeceased by her son, David Ralph Payne (Janice Coleman), and her brothers William B. Younger (Mary Louise Cooper) and Ralph Kendall Younger (Margaret Sharpe). She is survived by her daughter, Louisa Payne Allen, grandsons, Jason Payne (Crystal Way) and their children Taryn and Tyler; and Carr Allen (Madison Hardee) and their children Ellis and Owen; granddaughter Amy Allen; and step grandson Scott Walker and son, Jace. She is survived by several cherished nieces and nephews, as well as the beloved children and grandchildren of husbands, Rudy and Caroll.

Faye enjoyed community involvement and participated in many volunteer activities at Twin Lakes, ARMC, and First Presbyterian Church where she had been a member since 1948. She also served as a Resident Board Member of Lutheran Retirement Ministries.

In keeping with her desire to help others Faye chose to donate her body to the Anatomical Gift Program at Elon University.

A celebration of life memorial service will be held in the Chapel at Coble Creek (Twin Lakes), 3802 Wade Coble Drive, Burlington, at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, July 13, 2022. Attendants at the service are requested to wear face masks. Donations of remembrance may be made to any charity of the donor’s choosing. Faye was a strong supporter of Twin Lakes Memory Care.

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Franklin H. "Frank" Gurd - Unknown - July 07, 2022

Departed: 07/07/2022 (Burlington)

Obituary Preview: Franklin H. "Frank" Gurd

Franklin H Gurd, 79, of Elon NC, passed in his sleep and joined the Heavenly Chorus late on the Thursday July 7th.  Frank was born and raised in Baltimore MD by the late Clarence and Virginia Gurd.  While completing his bachelor's degree in Physics at the University of Maryland in 1966, he felt God's call into ministry.  Although he knew he couldn't preach, he realized he could serve through his talents and love of music.  Also the University of Maryland connected Frank with his wife Margaret.

Frank and Margaret moved from Maryland to Fort Worth, Texas where Frank earned a Bachelor of Church Music and Master of Religious Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1969.  He subsequently served as Minister of Music and Education for churches in four states. Though he left full-time ministry and moved to North Carolina in 1988, he continued to serve the Lord through music at First Baptist Church of Burlington. Frank worked as a medical laboratory technologist at LabCorp and Duke University Hospital before retiring in 2009.

Music was always an integral part of Frank's life in and out of the church.  On vacations, the family would often pass the time by singing in the car, including rounds.  Frank also enjoyed participating in Barbershop choruses in three states.  After retirement, he became active in the Greensboro Tarheel Chorus.  Whether in choir or in the chorus, he was a tireless recruiter and always quick to welcome, encourage and assist new or less confident singers.  While the boys were still at home, many Christmas evenings the family could be found caroling for friends.  Frank also played the accordion, sharing his talents most recently at Duke hospital laboratory Christmas meals and on a mission trip to Avery County. Frank was known for his sense of humor, and his ever-ready ability to throw out an unexpected pun.   A lifetime reader, his literary interests ranged from ancient civilizations, to Science Fiction, to World War II. Frank led his family on numerous cross-country vacations. In the last twenty years he and Margaret were able to do a lot of traveling, visiting Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, and many countries in Europe. He never met a stranger and was always ready to visit with someone in line, whether here, or in a foreign country.  He loved to share tomatoes from his garden, homemade chocolate eggs on Easter, and pass out the "good stuff" i.e., chocolate on Halloween

Frank is survived by his wife of nearly 56 years, Margaret, son Paul in Reno, NV, son Peter and wife Katherine, and grandchildren, Hailey and Henry, in Atlanta, GA.

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Jerry L. Norris - Unknown - July 06, 2022

Departed: 07/06/2022 (Burlington)

Obituary Preview: Jerry Lewis Norris

Jerry Lewis Norris, 76,  of Lillington and formerly of Graham,  went to his heavenly home,  on Wednesday 7/6/2022 at UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill.   A native of Graham,  he was the husband of Darlene W. Norris,  who survives and the son of Robert Lewis Norris and Juanita Frances Whitt Norris, both deceased.

Jerry was a former member of Phillips Chapel United Methodist Church, in Haw River and member of Fellowship Baptist Church in Lillington.    He was a man who loved his family and the Lord in addition to his coffee,  cowboy hats and bib overalls.  He and Darlene loved their RV travels and he loved working with his hands.  There wasn’t much he couldn’t “fix”.  He was also an ordained minister and loved spreading the gospel.

In addition to his wife Darlene,  he is survived by his daughters, Teresa Minor and her husband,  Richard,  of Burlington,  Sherry Keye and her husband, Joseph, of Asheboro,  Jeannette Ross and her husband Sean, of Asheboro;  a son, James Norris of Burlington;  his grandchildren, Margaret Mincer and her husband,  T.J., of Burlington,  Stuart Powell, of Alexandria, VA,  Shelby Davis and her husband, Landon,  of Pickens, SC, Lindsey Keye, of Asheboro,  great grandson, Asher Mincer and a brother, Harry Lee Norris, of Graham.   Jerry was preceded in death by a great grandson,  River Mincer and a brother,  Larry Gene Norris.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Jerry will be held at 3:00 p.m.  Sunday at Phillips Chapel United Methodist Church in Haw River.  Rev. John Woodard will officiate.  The family will greet friends at the conclusion of the service.

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Quincy Alger Carter - September 07, 1934 - July 05, 2022

Departed: 07/05/2022 (Burlington)

Obituary Preview: Quincy was a graduate of Williams High School (1952) and Elon College (1956). He worked in the textile business his entire life in some form or fashion and continued to dabble in it right up until his death. He was a wonderful story teller and never shied away from a good time or a party.  Everyone loved his sense of humor and good nature. He was married to Joyce Guthrie Carter (of the home) for 59 years and remained adamant that she was still the prettiest woman he had ever seen.  He constantly stated how lucky he was to have her and the only concern he had of death was that he wanted to pass away before she did because he would be lost without her.  Quincy loved his family and he told them how proud he was of them every chance he got. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lavinie Suber Carter and Quincy Carter Sr.

He is survived by his wife and little dog Asher, his daughter LuAnn (Lee) Isley, and granddaughters Carter Isley and Lauren (Gerald) Kincer. He is also survived by his brother Dr. Dewey (Gail) Carter, Sister-in-law Shirley Boswell, Brother-in-law Bobby Ray and many nieces and nephews.   The family will hold a private memorial luncheon at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the Masonic Home for Children in Oxford and the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital.

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Anna Margarete Sargent - April 30, 1941 - July 02, 2022

Departed: 07/02/2022 (Burlington)

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Frances Johnson Hindman - September 19, 1941 - July 01, 2022

Departed: 07/01/2022 (Burlington)

Obituary Preview: Frances Johnson Hindman of Burlington, North Carolina went to be with the Lord on Friday, July 1, 2022. She was the was the wife of William Stone Hindman, who survives. On June 21, 2022, they celebrated their fifty-ninth wedding anniversary. She was the daughter of the late Dr. Cecil Haley Johnson and the late Lillian Huff Johnson.

Born on September 19, 1941 in Jackson, Mississippi, she grew up in Simpsonville, South Carolina. Frances graduated from Simpsonville High School and Lander College, where she majored in education. She began her teaching career in Greenville, South Carolina and after moving to Burlington, taught at Hillcrest Elementary School and at Turrentine Middle School. She retired from the Burlington City School System in 1996. Frances had high expectations for her students and she encouraged and guided them to realize their potential. She was a faithful member of First Reformed United Church of Christ, serving on the Consistory and as a part of Circle #4.

In addition to her husband, of the home, Frances is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Hindman Steele, son-in-law, Charles Thomas Steele, Jr., her grandsons, William Thomas Steele, II (fiancé, Elizabeth Bradley) and John Charles Steele, and her first cousin, Jacqueline Greene. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Dr. Jo Harold Johnson.

The family would like to thank the team of private caregivers as well as all those from AuthoraCare Collective who provided excellent care to Frances and support for all of the family.

A private graveside service will be conducted for the family with a celebration of life service to be planned for friends and family at a future date.

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Sara Irene Bradsher - October 13, 1932 - June 29, 2022

Departed: 06/29/2022 (Burlington)

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Anita Jean Isley - September 21, 1951 - June 29, 2022

Departed: 06/29/2022 (Burlington)

Obituary Preview: Anita Caudle Isley, 70, of Burlington passed away at her residence on Wednesday, June 29, 2022. A native of Forsyth County, she was the wife of 45 years to Michael Worth Isley, who survives and the daughter of the late Glenn Allen Caudle and Nancy Anderson Caudle, who survives. She was the former Chief Financial Officer at Flynt Amtex. Anita was a member of Friendship United Methodist Church. She was also a member of the Piedmont Swing Dance Society. In addition to her husband and mother, survivors include a son, Jason Glenn Isley and wife Shannon of Palmer, Alaska; two sisters, Doris Caudle Trogdon of Haw River and Dianne Jones Matthews and husband Gregory of Ramseur; nieces, Wendy Trogdon Martin and Kelly Jones Roney; and nephews, Christopher Todd Trogdon and Christopher Matthews. The funeral service will be conducted at Friendship United Methodist Church on Sunday, July 3, 2022 at 3:00 p.m. by Rev. Thurman Horney and Rev. Alvin Horne with the family receiving friends from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow at Friendship United Methodist Church Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Duke Hospice, Hock Family Pavilion, 4023 North Roxboro St, Durham, NC 27704 or to Friendship United Methodist Church, 4612 Friendship Patterson Mill Road, Burlington, NC 27215. Rich & Thompson Funeral and Cremation Service in Burlington is assisting the family. Condolences may be offered online at www.richandthompson.com.

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Tonya Michelle Moore - December 31, 1968 - June 27, 2022

Departed: 06/27/2022 (Burlington)

Obituary Preview: Tonya Roney Moore, 53, formerly of Burlington, NC passed away on June 27th at the hospice home of Alamance after a lengthy battle with congestive heart failure and 3 years of declining health.

She was a 1987 graduate of Cummings High School and married during her senior year. Tonya was a strong woman by nature. Regardless if she felt strong, she was well revered by family, friends and nurses as such while she fought continuously over the various years.  She was incredibly talented with her hands and crafty beyond means. Her passions in years past were stained glass, sewing and reading. More recently she took up a hobby in creating vinyl decals with her Cricut machine. She was an incredible stay at home mom to her two children whether it was the life she chose or not…she embraced it. Tonya touched numerous hearts during her short 53 years of life and she will be remembered for her strength and courageous fight – all the way till the end.

Tonya was the wife of Neil Moore of Mocksville, NC who survives. The two were married in March of 1987 and shared 35 years of marriage together. He never left her side. Other survivors include her daughter Beverly Shaw and husband Stephen of Gibsonville; her son Christopher Moore and wife Seraphina of Alamance; brother, Chuck Roney and wife Elizabeth of Suffolk, VA; brother, Rob Morton and wife Ash Bond of Oak Island, NC; brother-in-law Charles Moore and wife Lynn of Burlington; mother-in-law Sandra Moore of Burlington; granddaughters Brayleigh and Sophie Shaw; nephews Branden Roney, Zachary Roney, Jacob Moore and Patrick Moore; as well as several friends and family members. She is also survived by her adoring cat, Ali (her best Christmas present ever).

She was preceded in death by her Mama and Daddy (Buck and Donna Roney) and her father and step-mother (Don and Carole Morton).

Tonya’s funeral service will be held at Rich and Thompson Funeral Service in Burlington, NC, on Friday July 1st at 12 pm officiated by her son. Visitation will be held 2 hours prior to the service. Graveside to follow at Alamance Memorial Park.

When not at the funeral home, the family will be at the home of her son Christopher Moore at 3953 S NC Highway 62 Burlington, NC 27215 – the historic mill village of Alamance.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Dan Bensimhon and Dr. Peter Van Trigt and Ali Cosgrove for their several years of dedicated service to Tonya. If it were not for you both and the various nurses and hospital staff over the years, who knows how short Tonya’s time might have been.

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Steven Douglas Wicker - April 30, 1960 - June 24, 2022

Departed: 06/24/2022 (Burlington)

Obituary Preview: Steven Douglas Wicker, 62, of Leasburg passed away at his residence on Friday, June 24, 2022. A native of Durham, NC, he was the husband of Neta Wicker and the son of the late Alfred Devoe Wicker and the late Nellie Fields Wicker. He was an employee with Bayada Home Health Care. In addition to his wife of their home, survivors include his son, Stephen John Wicker; daughters, Ashley Murphy and her husband Thurman and Melissa Ann Wageman and her husband Jacob; grandchildren, Annistyn Shea Murphy, Gentry Faye Wageman, Memphis Cole Wageman and Emberly Grae Wageman. His funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, June 28, 2022 at the Rich & Thompson Chapel in Burlington. The family will greet friends immediately following the funeral service.

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James Clifton Strickland - November 24, 1942 - June 23, 2022

Departed: 06/23/2022 (Burlington)

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James Holt Lasley - February 13, 1942 - June 22, 2022

Departed: 06/22/2022 (Burlington)

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Benjamin Franklin Crotts - August 14, 1928 - June 21, 2022

Departed: 06/21/2022 (Burlington)

Obituary Preview: Benjamin Franklin Crotts, Jr. passed away peacefully on June 21, 2022 at 93 years of age. Ben loved his late wife, Eunice, of 73 years, his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He never forgot he was the son of a farmer and enjoyed nature, gardening, and storytelling. Ben was an active charter member of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church and was honored by the church with the Heritage Award for his many years of service. He taught Bible studies, an adult Sunday School class, and was a lay speaker for the Eastern and Western N. C. Conferences. He took pride in working for Western Electric for 38 years and returning to work for AT&T for a few more years. He is survived by a son, Joey Crotts (Deborah), and 3 daughters, Brenda McAdams (Jimmy), Gwen Cole (Larry), and Sharon Arnold (Randy). He has 5 grandchildren, Jim McAdams, Nathan McAdams, Jeremy Cole, Brittney Lambert, and Jonathan Crotts; 7 great-grandchildren, Chase, Kenna, Brantley, Jameson, Sam, Jacen, and Elizabeth. His late parents were Benjamin Franklin Crotts and Virginia Lucinda Miller Crotts. He was predeceased by his brother, Bobby Crotts, and sister, Lucille Summey. Also surviving is his sister, Rosa Lee Garren. A service to celebrate Ben’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 24, 2022 at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church officiated by Rev. Prentis Harris. A graveside service will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery in Asheboro at 2:00 p.m. The family will receive friends from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m. at the church prior to the service. Daddy, you are in heaven with Mama and your wry smile plays among the angels. That smile we remember keeps an era from ever ending.

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Joan Davis Gilliam - Unknown - June 21, 2022

Departed: 06/21/2022 (Burlington)

Obituary Preview: Joan Davis Gilliam

Joan Davis Gilliam, 83, of Haw River passed away at Alamance Regional Medical Center on Tuesday, June 21, 2022.

A native of Alamance County, she was the daughter of Lacy G. Davis and Mildred Graham Davis, both deceased. She was a retired hosiery worker.

Survivors include a life partner, Lonnie Melford Williams, Sr. of Haw River; two daughters, Tina Williams Allen and fiancé Keith of Virginia and Shannon Williams Riggins and husband Rodney of Burlington; son, Lonnie “Lon” Melford Williams, II and wife Michelle Lynn Williams of Gibsonville; three sisters, Joyce Mrizek, Rita Hall, and Irma Gilley; three brothers, Harold Davis, Steve Davis, and Jeff Davis; grandchildren, Aaron and wife Courtney, Caitlyn, Brandon, Cole and wife Emily, and Dylan; and great grandchildren, Carter, Remington, Lilly, and Henry. She was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Olivia; great grandson, Lane; brothers, Gerald Davis and Ronald Davis; and sister, Madge Davis.

A time of reflection and remembrance will be held on Saturday, June 25, 2022 from 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m. at Rich & Thompson Funeral and Cremation Service in Burlington.  At other times the family will be at the residence of a daughter, Shannon Riggins.

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James Dan Barr - Unknown - June 21, 2022

Departed: 06/21/2022 (Burlington)

Obituary Preview: James Dan Barr

James Dan Barr, of Graham, went home to be with the Lord on June 21, 2022 at the age of 90.

Dan was born to Sherman Calvin and Ruby Eason Barr in Mer Rouge, Louisiana. The family moved to West Monroe, La. in 1934. It was there that he graduated from Ouachita Parish High School in 1950. Dan worked for Coca-Cola Bottling Company after high school. He then moved to Shreveport where he worked for General Electric Supply.

He married Margie Ellen Cooper in Shreveport, Louisiana in 1953. They were deeply in love and inseparable. They lived a long and happy life together and enjoyed many adventures across the globe. They raised two children, James David and Carol Anne.

Dan was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1955. He was stationed in Chicago at Fort Sheridan. He graduated from LSU in Baton Rouge with a degree in electrical engineering in 1961. He was employed by Western Electric and relocated to El Paso, Texas. He worked at White Sands Missile Range in anti-ballistic missile development. In 1967 the family moved to Houston, Texas where Dan worked at the NASA Manned Space Center for Philco Ford. He contributed to the Apollo space program.

He returned to Western Electric in 1968 and the family moved to Kwajalein Atoll in the South Pacific where he continued to work on anti-ballistic missile development and testing. The family moved to Burlington in 1971 and then to Colorado Springs where Dan worked at the Ballistic Missile Defense Center at Cheyenne Mountain. In 1974, the family moved back to North Carolina and Dan continued working at Western Electric in Winston-Salem and Burlington. He retired from Lucent Technologies.

Dan was a board member of Mt. Hermon Community Association. He delivered for Meals on Wheels for many years. As a member of the Bell Telephone Pioneers, Dan helped to rebuild the children’s orphanage at Oxford, NC.

Dan will be remembered as a loving, compassionate man. He was straightforward and kind, and always willing to help anyone in need. Dan counted his family as his biggest accomplishment. He instilled in his children the importance of hard work and purpose. In his later years, he enjoyed spending time with his longtime friend Peggy Strauss.

He is preceded in death by his wife Ellen, his parents Sherman and Ruby, and his sister Martha Louella Austin. He is survived by his children, James David Barr (Amy), of Graham and Carol Anne Cormany (Kim), of Galax, VA, his niece, Linda Keahey, of Montgomery, TX, 9 grandchildren, and 17 great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends at Rich & Thompson Funeral Home and Crematory in Graham on Saturday, June 25, 2022 from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. and other times at the residence.

The funeral service will be held on Sunday, June 26, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. at Mt. Hermon United Methodist Church where Dan was a long-time member.  The service will be officiated by Rev. Keith Porter. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

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Willie James Reid - November 15, 1932 - June 15, 2022

Departed: 06/15/2022 (Burlington)

Obituary Preview: Burlington- Willie James Reid, Jr. "Sleepy", 89, transitioned on June 15, 2022, at home. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Leola Mapp Reid. He was the son of the late James Reid, Sr. and Bertha Upsher Reid. He leaves to cherish his memory one daughter, Vickie R. Corbett (Calvin) of Greensboro; three sons, James L. Reid, III of Burlington, Kirk A. Reid (Heylin) of Nicaragua, and Burke M. Reid of Sedalia; one sister, Bertha Mae Madden of Greensboro; one sister-in-law, Dorothy M. Oliver of Burlington; a host of nieces and nephews; and his most precious gifts, his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

After many decades of working as a truck driver/switcher, he retired from Old Dominion Freight Line. He later owned and operated Reid Trucking Company. He was a member of Maple Grove Baptist Church and enjoyed telling others about his love for Jesus Christ. He enjoyed traveling and spending time with family.

A memorial service will be held at the Rich & Thompson Chapel in Burlington on Tuesday, June 21, 2022 at 2:00 PM. Burial will be held in the Rest Haven Cemetery.

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Robert Joseph Hawkins - March 09, 1933 - June 14, 2022

Departed: 06/14/2022 (Burlington)

Obituary Preview: Robert “Bob” Hawkins, 89 of Graham, passed away at his residence on Tuesday, June 14, 2022. A native of Queens, New York, he was the husband of Mary Gay Hawkins and the son of the late Walter James Hawkins and the late Catherine Cross Hawkins. Bob was a veteran of the United States Navy and the United States Air Force. He retired as Chief Operator for the Mackintosh Water Plant. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Robin Plummer and her husband Steve, Mark Hawkins and his wife Franziska, and Deborah Henley and her husband Don; grandchildren, Patrick Stokes and his wife Emily, Natalie Ward and her husband Bryan, Sarah Fisher and her husband Jared, Mary Hawkins, Kayla Henley and Trey Henley; and seven great-grandchildren. There will be a graveside service held at 2:00 pm on Thursday, June 16, 2022 at Pine Hill Cemetery.

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Sally L. (Perrin) Hile - Unknown - June 13, 2022

Departed: 06/13/2022 (Burlington)

Obituary Preview: Sally L. (Perrin) Hile

Our dear Mother Sally L. (Perrin) Hile sadly passed away on June 13th 2022, at the age of 84. She was a wonderful Mother and Grandmother who was always there when we needed her. She also had many friends and was a well-loved member of her Florida community.

Sally was born in Fort Wayne, IN and attended High School in Huntington, IN. She spent her life in the Food Service Industry and Retail. She was an avid bowler for forty years. Lived in Tucson AZ, Las Vegas, NV and retired to Florida in 2000. Her passion and fulfillment came from helping others, and dog sitting.

Sally is survived by two Daughters: Kelly Caudill Faircloth (Dwayne) of Burlington, NC,  Dannica Hile of St Petersburg, FL and two Granddaughters: Tracy Lyn of Fort Wayne, IN and  Molly Lynn,  also of St. Petersburg, FL. Sally is preceded in death by Parents: George C. Perrin and Ruth David Perrin, Brothers: David Perrin, Fred Perrin, Larry Gill and Sister: Linda Marshall

The family wishes to send a special thank you to Cone Health Alamance Regional: ICU, first floor staff and Chaplain Melissa. And AuthoraCare Collective (Hospice) staff.

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Walter Briggs Shotwell - March 15, 1940 - June 12, 2022

Departed: 06/12/2022 (Burlington)

Obituary Preview: Walter Briggs Shotwell, 82, of Burlington passed away on Sunday, June 12, 2022 at White Oak Manor.

A native of Roxboro, NC he was the husband of Kathleen Lee Powell and the son of the late Fletcher Shotwell and the late Mary Fannie Briggs Shotwell.  He was a retired truck driver and member of the local Teamsters Union.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son, Tony Shotwell and his wife Sheila; daughter, Janet Shotwell Hoernke; grandson, Brent Shotwell and his wife Caitlin; granddaughter, Emily Shotwell; sister, Irene Riley; and step-brothers, Bobby Conner and Ernest Conner and his wife Barbara.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Sally Sue Fazio and Mary Elizabeth Lucas and brother; Hubert Shotwell.

His funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, June 16, 2022 at the Rich and Thompson Chapel in Burlington. The family will receive friends immediately following the funeral service.

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Priscilla Dale Hooper - August 05, 1942 - June 08, 2022

Departed: 06/08/2022 (Burlington)

Obituary Preview: Priscilla Dale Hooper, 79, of Burlington, passed away at Person Memorial Hospital on Wednesday, June 8, 2022.   A native of Alamance County, she was the wife of Clem Hooper and the daughter of the late James Marshall and the late Pearl Clapp McLelland. She retired from the Department of Social Services and was a member of Bethel Christian Church. She was a consummate cook, gardener, and a friend to many.   In addition to her husband, she is survived by her daughter, Tonya Harrison of Durham, NC; grandchildren, Alexandria Pilkington, of Norman, OK; Zachary Johnson of Bolivia, NC, Meredith Parker of Whitsett, NC and Andrew Johnson of Cary, NC; and four great-grandchildren.   In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Anne Pope. The family will receive friends from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm on Saturday, June 11, 2022 at the Rich & Thompson Mortuary in Burlington. The funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, June 12, 2022 at Bethel Christian Church with the Rev. Caleb Hensley officiating. The committal service will be held immediately following the service in the church cemetery.

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A Team of Caring Professionals

The team at Rich & Thompson Funeral & Cremation Service is comprised of experienced and licensed funeral directors, embalmers, and support staff who are passionate about providing compassionate care to families. Led by [funeral director's name], the staff is trained to handle every aspect of funeral planning, from arranging ceremonies to coordinating logistics. Their expertise and empathy ensure that families receive the guidance and support they need during difficult times.

Personalized Funeral Services

At Rich & Thompson Funeral & Cremation Service, every family is treated with dignity and respect. The funeral home offers a range of personalized funeral services designed to reflect the unique personality, interests, and spirit of the deceased. From traditional funerals with viewing and visitation to cremation services with memorial gatherings, the staff works closely with families to create customized tributes that honor their loved ones.

Cremation Services with Care

Rich & Thompson Funeral & Cremation Service understands that cremation is an increasingly popular choice for many families. As such, the funeral home offers a range of cremation services, including direct cremation, cremation with memorial gathering, and traditional funeral with cremation. The staff takes great care in handling every aspect of the cremation process, ensuring that families receive the ashes of their loved ones in a timely and respectful manner.

Facilities and Amenities

The facilities at Rich & Thompson Funeral & Cremation Service are designed to provide comfort and convenience to families. The funeral home features spacious chapels, visitation rooms, and reception areas that can accommodate large gatherings or intimate ceremonies. Additionally, the facility is equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, ensuring that music, videos, and other multimedia elements can be seamlessly integrated into funeral services.

Pre-Planning and Aftercare Services

Rich & Thompson Funeral & Cremation Service recognizes that planning ahead can alleviate some of the emotional burden associated with losing a loved one. The funeral home offers pre-planning services, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their final arrangements while also locking in costs at today's prices. Furthermore, the staff provides aftercare services, including grief counseling and support groups, to help families navigate the healing process.

A Commitment to Community Involvement

Rich & Thompson Funeral & Cremation Service is deeply rooted in the Burlington community. The funeral home participates in local events, supports charitable organizations, and partners with community groups to promote education and awareness about end-of-life care. By giving back to the community, the staff at Rich & Thompson demonstrates its commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those it serves.

A Legacy of Trust and Compassion

In conclusion, Rich & Thompson Funeral & Cremation Service stands as a testament to the power of compassionate care and dedication. For generations, this funeral home has provided exceptional service to families in Burlington and surrounding communities. Whether you're planning ahead or facing an unexpected loss, you can trust Rich & Thompson Funeral & Cremation Service to guide you through the most difficult times with kindness, empathy, and professionalism.

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 a brief biography. It may also include information about their family, accomplishments, and any notable achievements.

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 honor and celebrate the deceased person's life.

Who writes an obituary?

Obituaries are typically written by family members or close friends of the deceased, although they can also be written by funeral homes or professional writers. In some cases, the deceased person may have written their own obituary in advance.

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, military service, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include information about their personality, accomplishments, and any notable achievements.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and the family's preferences. Typically, it ranges from 100 to 500 words. Some online obituary platforms may have specific word count limits.

Where are obituaries published?

Obituaries are typically published in local newspapers, online obituary platforms, funeral home websites, and social media. 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 and the length of the obituary. Some newspapers and online platforms offer free or low-cost options, while others may charge per line or word.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, you can write your own obituary in advance. This can be a therapeutic exercise that allows you to reflect on your life and legacy. You can store it with your important documents or share it with your loved ones.

What is the difference between an obituary and a eulogy?

An obituary is a written notice that provides factual information about the deceased person's life, while a eulogy is a speech or written tribute that celebrates their life and shares personal anecdotes.

Can I include photos or videos in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and funeral home websites allow you to upload photos or videos to accompany the obituary. This can help bring the person's story to life and provide a more personal tribute.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

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

Can I make changes to an obituary after it's been published?

In some cases, yes. If you need to make corrections or updates to an obituary that has already been published, contact the publication or online platform where it was posted. They may be able to make changes for you.

What is a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, typically including only their name, age, and date of death. It may not include as much detail as a full obituary.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and celebrate a person's life, provide closure for loved ones, and create a permanent record of their existence. They can also serve as a valuable resource for genealogists and historians.

Can I include humor or personality in an obituary?

Absolutely! An obituary should reflect the person's personality and spirit. Including humorous anecdotes or quirky details can help bring their story to life and make the tribute more meaningful.

How do I handle errors or inaccuracies in an obituary?

If you notice errors or inaccuracies in an obituary, contact the publication or online platform where it was posted as soon as possible. They may be able to correct the mistakes and republish the revised obituary.

Can I use an obituary as a template for other types of writing?

Yes! The structure and content of an obituary can serve as a useful template for other types of biographical writing, such as bios for social media profiles or company websites.

What is the history of obituaries?

Obituaries have been around for centuries, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. They were initially used to announce the deaths of prominent citizens and later became more widespread with the advent of newspapers.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes! Including meaningful quotes or song lyrics can add depth and emotion to an obituary. Choose quotes that resonate with the person's values or personality.

How do I write an obituary for someone who lived a difficult life?

Writing an obituary for someone who faced challenges or struggles requires sensitivity and compassion. Focus on their strengths, resilience, and positive qualities, rather than dwelling on negative aspects of their life.

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

Yes! Many families choose to include information about charitable donations or memorial funds in lieu of flowers. This can be a meaningful way to honor the person's memory and continue their legacy.

What is the role of technology in modern obituaries?

Technology has revolutionized the way we create and share obituaries. Online platforms allow for easy publishing, sharing, and archiving of tributes, making it easier for people to connect with each other and celebrate loved ones' lives.

Can I write an obituary for a pet?

Absolutely! Many people consider pets to be part of their family and want to honor their memory with an obituary. Pet obituaries can be just as meaningful and touching as those for humans.

How do I preserve an online obituary over time?

If you're concerned about the longevity of an online obituary, consider printing out a copy or saving it as a PDF document. You can also take screenshots or save links to ensure access over time.

What is the future of obituaries?

The future of obituaries is likely to involve continued integration with technology, social media, and digital storytelling tools. As our lives become increasingly digital, our tributes will likely follow suit.