Alvernon "Al" Pierce Dies

HIGH POINT- Alvernon "Al" Pierce, 80, passed Tuesday, December 28, 2010 at his residence. Funeral mass will be held Friday, December 31, 2010 at 11 a.m. in the Lady of the Highway Catholic Church in Thomasville; Rev. James M. Turner, O.S.F.S officiating. Burial will follow in Floral Garden Memorial Park Cemetery. Born in Davidson County, October 29, 1930, a son of Lacy and Dora Myers Pierce. Surviving are his wife, Elizabeth Russell Pierce of the home; two sons, Brad Pierce and wife Theresa of Salisbury and Brian Pierce of Greensboro; four grandchildren, Jessica Moscardini and husband Gian, Ashley and Dean Pierce, all of Salisbury and Brianna Pierce of Greensboro; a sister, Pam Hilton and husband J.C. of Salisbury; a brother, Ret. Commander Leon "Pete" Pierce and his wife Dot of Thomasville; a great-grandson, Luka Moscardini of Salisbury.

Margaret Granger Griffin Gallimore Dies

Margaret Granger Griffin Gallimore, age 62 of Denton, NC passed Sunday December 26. 2010. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM Wednesday, December 29 at Briggs Funeral Home Memorial Chapel; Rev. Claudie Harrison and Rev. Kelly Creekmur officiating. Burial will follow at Holly Hill Memorial Park in Thomasville. Born in Nash County on May 29, 1948 to Harold Wilson Griffin and Elsie Mae Granger Griffin. Survived by her husband Ralph W. Gallimore of the home; sons, Sammy Barnes of Elizabethtown, PA and Chris Barnes of Wilson; a brother Harold Griffin of Raleigh; a sister Katie Ervin of Rocky Mount and 3 grandchildren.

Mary Veva Nance Lewallen Dies

Mary Veva Nance Lewallen, 83, of High Point, passed Sunday, December 26, 2010. Memorial service will be at Cumby Family Funeral Service in High Point on Thursday, December 30, at 10:30; Rev. Chris Cornette and Dr. Roland Cavanaugh officiating. Burial will be at Floral Garden Park Cemetery. Mrs. Lewallen is the daughter of the late Norman Glenn Nance and Mary Hattie Jackson Nance; predeceased by her husband Jack Douglas Lewallen, brothers Shirley and Reitzel Nance, and two great-grandsons. Survived by her daughters, Dolly Jennings (Danny) and Gloria McDowell (Bobby); brother Max Nance (Lorene); sister Jewel Ridgeway; grandsons Daniel Jennings, Dale Jennings, Derric Jennings (Sheri), David Jennings (Mandy), Dustin Jennings (Shelley), Drew Jennings, Dylon Jennings, and Kevin McDowell (Leslie); and granddaughters Daryn Jennings Harrell (John), Devyn Jennings Cornette (Chris), Danya Jennings Parrish (David), and Karen McDowell Cox (Jack), and 20 great-grandchildren.

Dock Nixon Swaney Passes

Dock Nixon Swaney, 83, of Asheboro, passed December 24, 2010. Funeral arrangements are at Ridge Funeral Home in Asheboro, with visitation for family and friends at Ridge from 6 to 8 PM on Monday, December 27. Funeral service will be at Rushwood Park Wesleyan Church of Asheboro, at 2 PM on Tuesday, December 28, 2010; Dr. Ron L. Hamilton and Rev. Brent C. Tysinger officiating. Native of Randolph County, he was born April 1, 1927, to Henry Taylor Swaney and Sarah Garren Swaney. Preceded in death by his parents, brother Charles, sister Frances Luther (who passed on November 30, 2010), and wife of sixty-three years, Kathleen Cox Swaney. Survived by his daughter Carolyn Tysinger and husband Charles of Asheboro, sons Darrell Swaney of Denton, Jerry Swaney and wife June of Staley, Todd Swaney and wife Charlene of Asheboro, brothers Jack Swaney and wife Irene of Trinity, Rev. Arthur Swaney and wife Hilda, Ted Swaney and wife Louise, Donald Swaney and wife Bonnie, sisters Gladys Hinshaw and husband Paul, Bobbie Tysinger and husband Kenneth, and Doris Gordon and husband Jaffey, all of Asheboro, eight grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

Henry Odell "Pete" Rush Passes Away

Henry Odell "Pete" Rush passed December 22, 2010 at Wesley Long Hospital in Greensboro.Funeral service will be held on Monday, December 27 at 2:00 p.m. at Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church-Kimesville in Liberty, NC; Rev. Aaron Moss and Rev. Steve Joyce officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Native of Randolph County, born to the late Jeff and Nannie Rush on March 12, 1931. Preceded in death by sisters, Doris Parrish, Allene Burgess, Wilma Kinley, and Frances Wall; and brothers, Clarence Rush and Dr. Dallas Rush. Surviving are his wife of 47 years, Loberta McNeill Rush of the home; son, Randy Rush and wife, Heather of Liberty; grandson, Ryan Rush of Greensboro; granddaughter, Morgan Rush of Liberty; sisters, Leona Wood of Trinity and Lalah Bowman and husband, Allen of Sophia; brother, Lester Rush and wife, Beulah of Candor; mother-in-law, Lucille McNeill of Carillon Assisted Living in Asheboro; sister-in-law, Frances McNeill Blanton of Brooksville, FL; brother-in-law, Ray McNeill and wife, Joanne of Haines City, FL and a host of beloved nieces, nephews and friends.

Sidney "Sid" Bailey Dies

HIGH POINT-Sidney E. Bailey, 89, passed December 19, 2010. Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday, December 22, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in High Point, N.C. Reverend Dr. Kenneth Broman-Fulks officiating. Graveside services will be held in Floral Gardens Park Cemetery. Born April 28, 1921 in Waycross, Georgia to Carl Byron and Marguerite Morton Bailey. On December 18, 1952, Sid married Magalene "Marge" Cashatt. She preceded him in death on January 11, 2001. Preceded in death by his brother, Carl A. Bailey. Survived by daughter Nancy and her husband Keith Kinard of Montgomery, AL, son John and his wife Shannon of High Point, N.C., daughter Jeanne Lassiter of High Point, N.C. and son Joseph Bailey of Whitsett, N.C. He has seven grandsons and two granddaughters, Kirby and Chris Kinard, Leah, Lacie and Jack Cramer, Taylor and Blake Lassiter and Cameron and Cole Bailey. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Ruby Pauline "Polly" Biggs Farlow Dies

Ruby Pauline (Polly) Biggs Farlow, 85, formerly of Greensboro, passed December 22nd, 2010 at River Landing at Sandy Ridge in Colfax. Funeral service will be 3:00 p.m. December 23, 2010 at Bunker Hill Primitive Baptist Church with Elder John Wingfield officiating. Interment will follow in Guilford Memorial Park Cemetery. Born February 2nd, 1925 in Rockingham County, a daughter to Seth and Mabel Tucker Biggs. In 1943 she married Thomas Arrington Farlow who preceded her in death in 2000. Also preceding her in death was a son, Rodney Tom Farlow in 1992. Surviving is a daughter, Gayla Dean Farlow of Greensboro; three sisters, Eva Deaton of Laurinburg, Irene Kennedy and husband Bill of Martinsville VA and Donna Fulp and husband Charles of Winston-Salem; a grandson, Benjamin (Ben) Thomas Farlow of Goldsboro and several nieces and nephews.

Opal Harvell Nelson Dies

NOTE: Mrs Nelson's sister, Trilla Harvell married Kenneth Hunt. His father is Tennyeson Hunt who's father was actually Wesley Briles.


Opal Harvell Nelson, age 77, of Asheboro, passed Saturday, December 18, 2010 at Randolph Health & Rehabilitation, Asheboro. Funeral will be Wednesday at 2:00 at Pugh Funeral Home, 437 Sunset Avenue, Asheboro with Johnny Harvell officiating. Burial will follow in Franklinville Cemetery, Franklinville. Born October 13, 1933. Preceded in death by her mother and father, Reece Ervin and Pauline Graves Harvell, husband Paul R. Nelson, and sister Martha Allen. Survived by sister, Trilla Hunt of Sophia, NC; sister and her husband, Linda & Clyde Reeder of Seagrove, NC; brother and his wife, Wayne and Barbara Harvell of Badin Lake, NC; Johnny and his wife Nancy Harvell of Asheboro, NC; stepdaughter and her husband, Faye and Frank Andrews of Asheboro, NC; Brenda and her husband, Ray Kennedy of Asheboro, NC; stepson, Jerry Nelson of Asheboro, NC; 7 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; 4 great great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and special little friends Michael, Devon, and Leland.

Gurney Calvin Peace Dies

Gurney Calvin Peace, 101, passed December 14th, 2010 at Hospice Home of High Point. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, December 17, 2010 at Trinity Memorial United Methodist Church; Rev. Faye Harbin, Rev. Tammy Talbert, Rev. David Talbert and Mrs. Elizabeth Ingram officiating. Interment will follow in Trinity Cemetery. Born July 8th, 1909 in Randolph County, a son to Earl and Nannie Spencer Peace. His wife, Juanita Andrews, preceded him in death in 1995. Surviving is a daughter, Jan Boyles of the residence; a grandson, William Andrew (Andy) Boyles of the residence; a niece, Elizabeth Andrews Ingram of Summerfield; and two nephews, Darrell Peace of Trinity and Marvin K. Andrews of Trinity.

Howard Gary Briles Dies

Howard Gary Briles, age 74 of Grace Health Care Nursing Home passed Wednesday Dec 15, 2010 in N. C. Baptist Hospital in Winston-Salem. Memorial service will be held later. Born Sept 9, 1936 in Davidson Co. NC son of the late George Walter Briles and Willie Mae Cattlette Briles. Surviving are, Three daughters, Teresa Briles Thrift, Melanie Briles and Tina Briles; one sister, Diane Ferguson and husband Don; two brothers, John Briles and wife Donna and Eugene Briles and wife Cheryl.. Three grandchildren, Darin Briles, Preston Briles and Tia Thrift; one great granddaughter, Desire'e Briles.

Helen Smith Oakleaf Passes

This lineage dates back to John & Nancy Beckerdite Briles.

Helen Smith Oakleaf passed November 18, 2010. A graveside services took place at 2 p.m., Monday, November 22, 2010 at the Veteran`s Section of Fairmount Cemetery. Born on February 1, 1943 at Campo, Colo. to Wesley Elmer and Beulah Bertha (Briles) Smith. Per Mrs. Oakleaf`s request there will be no public viewing.Ppreceded in death by her husband Clyde E. Oakleaf on November 16, 2007, her parents and a granddaughter Tabitha Rae Oakleaf, sister Earnestine Bronson, niece Leucrettia Zavala and her son-in-law Michael Russell, brother-in-law Donald Russellt also precede her. Survived by her children; Leonard (Betty) Oakleaf of Joplin, Mo., Janet Russell of Joplin, Mo., Steven (Rebecca) Oakleaf of Trenton, Mo., Donald Oakleaf of Mulberry, Fla., and her granddaughter she raised, Melissa Oakleaf of Las Animas. She is also survived by 14 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren and her siblings; Hester Kay (Fred) Zavala of Lamar and Eugene (Jackie) Smith of Lewiston, Maine, brother-in-law Robert Bronson of Henderson, Nev., sister-in-law Betty Wonderley of Fulton, Kan., Leona Russell of Colorado Springs, her aunt and uncle Lena and Elmer Briles of Pritchett, many cousins, nieces, nephews other relatives and many friends.

Mildred Hepler Younts Dies

Mildred Hepler Younts, 85, passed Friday, December 3, 2010 at Mountain Vista Health Park. Funeral service was on Monday, December 6, 2010 at 11:00 AM at Tabernacle United Methodist Church; Rev. Bill Foust and Rev. Randy Lucas officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Born on August 17, 1925 in Davidson County to Troy G. Hepler and Dora Black Hepler. preceded in death by her husband John Worth Younts, Sr. in March 2005; sisters, Aliceteen Hepler and Betty Lou Hepler. Surviving is her son, Worth Younts and wife Beth of Trinity; brother, Wilbur Lee Hepler and wife Irene of Thomasville; and grandsons, Allen and Stephen Younts.

Linda Gale Bulla Dies

Linda Gale Bulla, age 61, of Asheboro passed Wednesday, November 24, 2010 at her home. Service to be held later. Native of Randolph County. Survived by her daughter, Angela Dunn Montgomery and her husband Steven of Asheboro; son, Michael Dunn of Asheboro; grandson, Billy Davis, III of Asheboro, brother, Charles Bulla and his wife Ann of Asheboro, sister, Doris Bulla of Sophia; life long best friend, Jan Davis of Asheboro.

Frances Swaney Luther Dies

Frances Elizabeth Swaney Luther, 80, passed Tuesday, November 30, 2010 at Woodland Hills Care & Rehabilitation Center in Asheboro. Wake: Ridge Funeral Home from 6:00 until 8:00 pm on Thursday, December 2, 2010. Funeral services will be conducted 2:00 pm Friday, December 3, 2010, at the Ridge Funeral Home Chapel; Pastor Jesse Clubb, the Rev. Derald Smith and the Rev. Jack Luther officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery. Native of Randolph County, NC, born July 20, 1930, the daughter of the late Henry Taylor Swaney and the late Sarah Elizabeth Garren Swaney. Ppreceded in death by her son, Jeffery Luther. Surviving are her husband, Howard Leslie Luther, of Asheboro; sisters, Gladys Hinshaw and husband, Paul, Bobbie Tysinger and husband, Kenneth, Doris Gordon and husband, Jaffie, all of Asheboro; brothers, Dock Swaney, of Asheboro, Jack Swaney and wife, Irene, of Sophia, Arthur Swaney and wife, Hilda, Ted Swaney and wife, Louise, Donald Swaney and wife, Bonnie, all of Asheboro; and several nieces and nephews.

Dr. Richard Eli Hedrick Passes

Dr. Richard Eli Hedrick Sr., 90, passed Sunday, Nov. 28, 2010. A celebration of life service will be held at Maple Springs United Methodist Church at noon Wednesday, December 1, 2010; Dr. Terry Mathews and Rev. Anne Elmore officiating. Interment will be private. Born on Dec. 6, 1919, in Davidson County to Eli Harvey and Viola Tysinger Hedrick. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Carol Reid Hedrick; wife Rebecca Wall Hedrick; brothers Nolan A. and M.W. Hedrick; and sister Mary H. Griffin. Survived by a sister, Rachel H. Hunt of Chesapeake, Va.; daughter, Carol "Marti" H. Davis and son-in-law Anthony R. Davis of Richmond, Va.; daughter Charlene H. Reid and son-in-law Dr. C. Fredric Reid of Winston-Salem; son Dr. Richard E. Hedrick Jr. and daughter-in-law Karen B. Hedrick, also of Winston-Salem; his companion, Mary Ann Ferguson; grandchildren Diane D. Gentry and husband Bill, Dr. Ashley D. Nichols and husband Jerry, Dr. C. Derek Reid and wife Allison, Carol R. Vaughan and husband Terry, Sarah H. Haynes and husband Chris, Jordan H. DeJong and husband Jared, Garrett R. Hedrick and Travis R. Hedrick; great-grandchildren Laura Nichols, Lillian, Marilyn and Van Reid, Cora, Sophie and Aidan Vaughan and Beck Gentry (his ninth great-grandchild is expected in early March 2011); stepchildren Kay W. Hoots and husband the Rev. Brant Hoots, Don E. Wall and wife Patricia Wall; and stepgrandchildren Eric and David Hoots and Blake, James and Drew Wall.

Judy Kepley Strider Passes

Judy Gray Kepley Strider, 71, passed Friday, November 26, 2010 at High Point Regional Hospital. A graveside service will be held 12 noon Sunday, November 28, 2010 at Holly Hill Memorial Park Cemetery. Born August 16, 1939, a daughter of Edgar and Sadie Hughes Kepley. Preceded in death by her husband Jerry Strider and her brother, Tommy Kepley. Surviving her daughter, Abby Parrish and Ricky Browe; two granddaughters, Bethany Vigilante and her husband Blaine and Tiffany Parrish; sister-in-law, Carol Kepley.

Billy David McCain Passes

KERNERSVILLE-Billy David McCain, 75, passed Monday, November 22, 2010 at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center. Funeral Service will be conducted at 11:00 am Friday, November 26, 2010 at Hayworth Miller Kernersville Chapel; Pastor Todd Haley officiating. Burial will be at 2:30 pm at First Baptist Church cemetery in Franklinville, NC. Born September 7, 1935 in Randolph Co. to the late Harris Glenn and Fleta Briles McCain. Preceded in death by his daughter, Laura Elizabeth McCain; son, Paul Curtis McCain; and brother, Robert G. McCain. Surviving are his wife, Lorraine Wallace McCain of the home; his son, David McCain and wife, Audrey of Kernersville; and brother, Glendon B. McCain of Randleman.

Douglas Walter Floyd Dies

Douglas Walter Floyd, 81, passed Monday, November 29, 2010 at The Phillips Cancer Pavilion at High Point Regional Hospital. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, December 1, 2010 at 11:00 am at the J.C. Green & Sons Funeral Home Chapel in Thomasville; Rev. Greg Dickens and Rev. Ardis D. Payne officiating. Interment will follow in Pleasant Hill UMC Cemetery. Born on June 19, 1929 in Davidson County to the late Walter Miles Floyd and Bertha Hunt Floyd. On July 2, 1950, he married Dorothy Hulin, who survives of the home; also surviving in addition to his wife of 60 years are his children, Steve Floyd and wife Karen, Darrell Floyd and wife Shannon, Vickie Tharp and husband Doug, and Penny Harris and husband Chad, all of Thomasville; brother, Henry "Pete" Floyd of Thomasville; sisters, Elise Cecil, Sally Rorex, and Betty Brooks, all of Thomasville; grandchildren, Stephen Floyd, Sam Harris, Jed Harris, Lesley Hulin, and Jennifer Burrow; and three great-grandchildren.

Martha Fritts Sullivan Dies

Martha Kathleen "Kat" Fritts Sullivan, 93, passed Saturday, Nov. 27, 2010, at the Hinkle Hospice House in Lexington. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, November 30, 2010 at Emanuel Reformed Church; Rev. Rickey Payne and the Rev. Warren Cassiday officating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Born Feb. 3, 1917, in Davidson County, to Carl C. Fritts and Daisy Beck Fritts. On April 1, 1939, she was married to James C. Sullivan, who died March 15, 1998. She was also preceded in death by her parents, a grandson, Mitchell Edwards; sister, Audrey Disher and brothers, George Fritts, Byron Fritts and Clyde Fritts. Surviving are daughters, Martha Sullivan Scott and husband Robert of Little River, S.C. and Lisa Sullivan Edwards and husband Steven of Thomasville; sister, Mary Clark of Flippin of Arkansas; brothers, Don Fritts and Denton and Dempsey Fritts of Thomasville; a sister-in-law, Willa Mae Fritts of Lexington; a brother-in-law, James Disher of Thomasville; grandchildren, Stephanie Williamson and husband Heath, Michael Edwards, Allison Scott, Brooke Edwards and Dawne Edwards; great-grandchildren, Sydney Williamson, Abby Williamson, Zayne Williamson and Lauren Byrd.

Venie Pierce Rich Dies

Venie Hazeltine Pierce Rich, 99, passed Saturday, November 13, 2010, at Randolph Hospital in Asheboro. Funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 17, 2010, at Central Wesleyan Church, 614 Hoover Street; Rev. Larry Johnson and the Rev. Arnold Luther officiating. Burial will follow at Randolph Memorial Park. Born in Randolph County, on September 25, 1911, Mrs. Rich was the daughter of the late Edward and Queen Small Pierce. Preceded in death by her husband, Alvin Rich, brother, Wesley Pierce and sisters, Sallie Hogan and Lillian Murray. Surviving are her daughter, Irene Rich Harrison, of Winston-Salem, son, Edward Rich and wife, Ginny, of Asheboro; grandchildren, Tim Rich, of Asheboro, Robert Harrison and wife, Robin, of Rural Hall, David Harrison, of Carboro, Joel Harrison and wife, Ashley, of Pilot Mountain, Michael Jordan and wife, Krista, of Savannah, GA; nine great grandchildren; and special friends, Walter and Vicki Jackson, of Sophia.

Wade Daniel Pugh Dies

Wade Daniel Pugh, age 80, passed today Tuesday, November 9, 2010 at his home. Funeral services will be held Thursday, November 11, 2010, at 11:00 am at Marlboro Friends Meeting; Rev. John H. Sides and Dr. Bob Medford officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Native of Randolph County, survived by his wife, Marie Beeson Pugh; son and his wife, Craig Beeson Pugh and Susan Pugh of Statesville; daughters and their husbands, Jan Pugh Dough and Dr. Bob Dough of Asheboro, Debbie Pugh Allen and Todd Allen of Franklinville, Lisa Pugh Hamilton and Dennis Hamilton of Sophia; grandchildren, Scott Graham and his wife Jessica, Kelly Pugh, Daniel Pugh, Laura Roberts and her husband Kyle, Robert Dough, Kara Dough, Dexter Allen, Sarah Allen, Spencer Hamilton, Kendal Hamilton; great grandchildren, Addie and Paisley Graham; brothers, Odell Pugh of Asheboro, Theodore (Bun) Pugh of Sophia; sister: Phyllis Allen of Ramseur

Velna Beck Swing Dies

Velna Beck Swing, 97, passed Friday morning, Nov. 5, 2010, at Alston Brook. Funeral will be at 3 p.m. Monday, November 8, 2010 at Davidson Funeral Home Chapel; Rev. Mike Hooper officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Hill Memorial Park. Born in Davidson County on July 27, 1913, to Walter J. Beck and Alice Shirley Beck. Preceded in death by her parents; husband Howard L. Swing; seven sisters, Savannah Younts, Eunice Wright, Nina Sledge, Elsie Everhart, Florence Beck, Ora Beck and Catherine Leonard; and two brothers, Oscar Beck and Howard Beck. Surviving are one son, Richard Swing and wife Martha of Lexington, and two nieces.

Oscar Henry Hoover Dies

Oscar Henry Hoover, age 85, of Asheboro passed Wednesday, November 3, 2010 at his home. Wake: Friday, November 5, 2010 from 6 to 8 PM at Pugh Funeral Home, 437 Sunset Avenue, Asheboro. Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 6, 2010 at 3:00 pm at Sawyersville Wesleyan Church; Rev. Claudie Harrison officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Native of Randolph County, son of the late Lewis Edgar & Annie Rogers Hoover. Preceded in death by his wife, Della Mae Hoover and brothers, Page Hoover, Warren Hoover and his twin brother, Sam Hoover. Survived by daughters, Carolyn Latham and her husband Howard of Denton, Linda Swaney and her husband Wayne of Trinity; grandchildren, Tim Latham and his wife Jamie of Denton, Shannon Crotts and his wife Jenny of Asheboro; great grandchildren, Josh Latham of Asheboro, Chris Latham of Denton, Jake Crotts of Asheboro; sister, Lucinda Ball of Asheboro.

Melba Frazier Briles Passes Away

BELEWS CREEK - Melba Lowdermilk Frazier Briles, 85, passed Wednesday, November 03, 2010. A Funeral Service will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. Friday, November 5, 2010 at Morris Chapel United Methodist Church; Rev. Steve Autry and Chaplain Randy Hillman officiating. Burial will follow in Crestview Memorial Garden. Born January 16, 1925 in Guilford Co. to the late Jonathan June and Etta Lowdermilk Frazier. Mrs. Briles was preceded in death by her husband, Fred Perry Briles; and her granddaughter-in-law, Kimberly Bryant Tuttle. Surviving are three daughters, Rebecca Tuttle of Belews Creek, Martha Hemrick (Clark) of Kernersville, Ruth Martin (Jim) of Belews Creek; one son, Roger Briles of Belews Creek; eight grandchildren, Amanda Webster (John), Matthew Briles Tuttle, Carol Abercrombie (Jeff) Brad Briles (Angie), Sarah Gennaro (Tim), Jonathan Huie (Kay), Ellen Lingerfelt (Lee) and Bethany Collins; her great-grandchildren, Katie Blakley (Mike), Betsy Webster, Makenzie Tuttle, Blake and Wesley Briles, Jackson, J.B. and Ella Abercrombie, and Michael Huie; one great-great-grandchild, Parker Blakley; and five very special friends of the family, Cathy Michael, Spencer Evans, Shannon Kirby, Judy Davis and Alice Pruden.

Albert Sheets Varner Passes Away

Albert Sheets Varner, Jr. age 78, passed today, October 29, 2010 at Lexington Health Care. Funeral service will be held at 4:00 pm Sunday, October 31, 2010 at Pilgrim Reformed Church with Rev. George Fidler officiating. Burial will follow at Pilgrim Reformed Cemetery. Born in Davidson County July 3, 1932 to Albert Sheets Varner, Sr. and Stella Mae Medlin Varner. Preceded in death by his parents; wife, Linda Shaw Varner in 2007, a sister Lois Varner Tysinger, and a brother, Lawrence Varner Sr. Surviving are: one son Edward “Eddie” Albert Varner of Lexington.

Rev. Lee Roy Hunt Dies

Rev. Lee Roy Hunt, age 82, passed Wednesday, October 20, 2010 at Randolph Hospital, Asheboro. Wake: Friday, October 22, 2010 from 6:00-8:00 PM at Tabernacle United Methodist Church 213 Tabernacle Church Road Ext, Trinity, NC. Funeral will be Saturday, October 23, 2010 at 2:00 PM at Tabernacle United Methodist Church, with Rev. Bill Foust, Rev. Ray Swaney, Johnny Harvell and Pastor Jon Reece officiating. Burial will follow in the Church Cemetery. Native of Randolph County, born March 28, 1928 the son of Clifford Lee and Eliza Jane Gallimore Hunt. Survived by his wife: Daphene Leonard Hunt; three daughters and their husbands: Wanda and David Hunt of Trinity, NC, Sharon and Ron Bennett of Asheboro, NC, Tracy and Eric Martin of Asheboro, NC, granddaughter and her husband: Shannon and John Clarkin of Wallburg, NC; and grandson, Zackery Martin of Asheboro; two sisters: Colleen Tolley of Las Vegas, NV, Nancy and husband Johnny Harvell of Asheboro, NC and three brothers: Wade and wife Lois Hunt, Richard Hunt and Kenneth and wife Sandra Hunt all of Asheboro, NC and one brother-in-law: Will Hawks of Randleman, NC.

Catherine Summey Hunt Dies

M. Catherine Summey Hunt, age 83 passed Sunday, October 10, 2010 at the home of her daughter. Funeral service will be 11:00 am Wednesday, October 13 at Pierce's Chapel Primitive Baptist Church; Elder Ted Morton and Rev. Ray Swaney officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Born April 27, 1927 in Caswell County to Samuel and Elsie Briles Summey. Preceded in death by her husband Oscar Hunt who died January 14, 1999 and by a daughter, Patsy Hunt VanAbel who died in 1992. Survived by two sons, Billy Darrell Hunt and wife Linda of Wallburg and Thomas Henry Hunt and wife Beverly of Trinity, one daughter, Brenda Hunt Lanier and husband Harold of Denton, one sister, Jane Swaim of Trinity, eight grandchildren, Robin Burch, Jennifer Stiles, Lane Hunt, Morgan Hunt, Barry Lanier, Brad Lanier, Kristy Barringer and Misty Bullard and seven great-grandchildren.

Wayne Charles Hunt Passes

THOMASVILLE-Wayne Charles Hunt of Thomasville passed October 3, 2010. A funeral service will be held at Prominence Funeral Home in Thomasville on Thursday, October 7 m, 2010 at 4 p.m. Born August 30, 1938, in Trinity, North Carolina to the late Clarence Thomas and Ruth Garren Hunt. Wayne is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Oleen Gallimore Pierce Dies

Oleene Gallimore Pierce, age 85, passed Monday September 20, 2010 at Mountain Vista Health Park in Denton. Funeral service will be 2:00 pm Friday, September 24 at Community Baptist Church in the Silver Valley Community; Rev. Brian Workman and Rev. Claudie Harrison officiating. Burial will follow in Walter's Grove Baptist Church Cemetery. Born March 16, 1925 the daughter of the late Seaph Wood Gallimore and Mary Alice Snider Gallimore; preceded her in death on January 11, 2009 by her husband the Rev. Warren Pierce; brothers, Aster Gallimore, Rex Gallimore and Boyd Gallimore. Survived by four children, Zelda P. Willard of Floyd, Virginia, Brenda P. Wicker and husband Mack of Randleman, Phillip L. Pierce and wife Donna of Denton and Joy P. Leonard and husband Mark of Lexington; six grandchildren, Melanie W. Ratcliff and husband James, Allen Willard and wife Susan, Kelly Wicker and wife Tina, Stacy Wicker and wife Rosemary, Tony Pierce and Jeremy Wicker; five great-grandchildren, Ashley Willard, Rusty Moore, Nicholas Willard, Warren Ratcliff and Vernon Wicker, three brothers, James Lee Gallimore and wife Violet of Jasper, Alabama, Hosea Gallimore and friend Marie Myers of Denton and Doak Gallimore and wife Nancy of Thomasville, three sister-in-laws, Pauline Gallimore, Edith Gallimore and Bevilee Gallimore; two aunts, Avis Surratt and Mamie Schuler, one uncle, Paul Gallimore and wife Marjorie and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Earl Richard Hunt Passes

Earl Richard Hunt passed September 17, 2010. Funeral service was held today at Thomasville Funeral Home with burial at Mt. Pleasant Community Church Cemetery in Trinity. Born May 26, 1926 to the late Early Ray & Bessie Robbins Hunt, he was preceded in death by a brother, James Ronnie Hunt. Surviving: his wife Shirley Ann Hoover (m.July 25th 1954); three sons, Ricky Wayne Hunt, Roy Dale Hunt and Donald Ray Hunt Sr; two brothers, Raeford Hunt and Audrey, of Thomasville and Wayne Hunt of Silver Valley and two sisters, Patricia Johnson and Ralph of Thomasville and Rita Steed and Bob of Love Valley, NC; eleven grandchildren: Eric Hunt, Angela Baker and Joshua Hunt, all of Louisville, Kentucky. Crystal Hunt of Charlotte, Kim Hunt, Joe Grant and Roy Grant of Thomasville. Sherry Pauley, Tonya Hernandez, Donald Ray Hunt Jr of Thomasville and Jill Hoult of High Point NC. He had 16 great-grandchildren.

Good Works in Store for NC

A pilot program in place since 1997 has expanded that will certainly be an asset to everyone in North Carolina. The NC Vital Records Office has picked Guilford and Cumberland County to join Harnett County in offering services on it's new vital records system. How does benefit you? You can now walk into the Register of Deeds office and obtain a certified copy of your birth certificate, regardless of what county you were born in. This will save time and money by not having to travel to the county of your birth. Eventually all the counties in North Carolina will switch to the new system, however a specific date is not known. The new system also electronically logs all new births without having to go through the "snail mail" process from the hospital, the Department of Health, then to the Register of Deeds.

There are two drawbacks to the new system that has to be mentioned. One, the new system only allows people born in North Carolina to obtain a copy of their birth certificate. If you were born outside the state, the new system will not benefit you. Second, and possibly the most concerning, is the new system only allows people born on or after January 1, 1971 to obtain a copy of a birth certificate from any county. If you were born before this date, you need to visit your birth county to obtain a copy or apply for it by mail. Birth certificates are public record so anyone can get a copy, although it would not be certified. At this time, it's not known if any other records will be available such as marriage or death certificates.

So if you need a birth certificate and don't live near your birth county, travel to Guilford, Cumberland or Harnett County and save some time and energy...hopefully the rest of the counties will follow suit very soon!

Frank Young Jr. Dies

Frank Adolphus "Bucky" Young Jr., 70, passed Friday, September 10, 2010, at Forsyth Medical Center A graveside service will be 2 p.m. Monday, September 13, 2010, at Beck's Lutheran Church Cemetery with the Rev. Wayne Knight officiating. Born June 29, 1940, in Davidson County, to Frank Adolphus Young Sr. and Pauline Beck Young. Surviving are his wife, Brenda Gibson Young of the home; sons, Tony Young and wife, Libby, of Wilmington, Edward Young and wife, Ann, Frankie Young and wife, Stephanie, all of Lexington, and Stevie Young of Holly Springs; and 10 grandchildren, Mary Beth, Haley, Austin, Katie, Kevin, David, Jordan, Noah, Ryder and Christopher.

Betty Gills Crotts Dies

Betty JoAnn Gills Crotts, age 75 passed Friday, September 10, 2010 in Hinkle Hospice House after a four month illness. A Memorial service will be held at a later date. Born June 3, 1935 in Princeton, WV to Robert Gills and Minnie Gills. Preceded in death by her parents and a half-brother, Eugene Jones. Surviving are her husband, Tony Wayne Crotts of the home, a brother, Louis Gills and wife, Betty, a half-brother, Junior Jones and wife, Betty all of West Virginia, two sisters, Shirley Evans, Doris Evans both of West Virginia and several Nieces and Nephews.

Daron Linwood Skeen Passes

Daron Linwood Skeen, passed August 27, 2010 at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston Salem, NC. Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, August 30, 2010 at Poplar Ridge Friends Meeting; Pastor Randall Quate officiating. Interment will follow in the Meeting Cemetery.Born February 5, 1971 in High Point, NC to Murray M. Skeen and Ellen Jois Murchison Roach.Ppreceded in death by his grandparents, Troy and Annie Leigh Skeen, and Devoe and Rachel Murchison; Great Aunt Dessie Coggins and Great Uncles J.C. Coggins and H.C. "Pid" Kennedy and his Father in law Robert Hatfield. Surviving are his wife Nancy Hatfield who survives (married May 13, 1995); triplets Troy, Leigh, and Trent. Also surviving are his mother Jois Murchison Roach and husband Wayne of Trinity; Father, Murray M. Skeen and his wife Faye of Jamestown; Brother, Brian M. Skeen and his wife Shannon; Twin Brother Faron R. Skeen and his wife Joi; Nieces and nephews Nick Austin, Ben Austin, Elijah Austin, Katie Skeen, Ryan Skeen, Zoe Bumgarner Skeen, and Sydney Skeen; Mother in law Dessie Hatfield and sister in law Robin Austin all of Trinity. A Special Thanks to Great Aunt Radie Skeen Kennedy of High Point.

Late Notice: Lucille Berrier Darr

Lucille Berrier Darr, 98, passed August 20, 2010 Graveside Services will be held Friday, August 27, 2010 at Lexington City Cemetery, Lexington with the Rev. Jacob Sharpe officiating. Born April 22, 1912 in Davidson County to the late David Thomas Berrier and Louetta Hepler Berrier. Preceded in death by her husband Henry Edmond Darr. Surviving are one daughter, Carolyn L. Spurrier of Lexington; one sister Myrtle Everhart of Lexington; 2 Grandchildren; 5 Great-Grandchildren; and one Great Great Grandchild.

Hazel Cashatt Lowe Dies

Hazel Cashatt Lowe,85, passed Wednesday, August 25, 2010. Funeral services will be held 3:00 pm, Saturday, August 28, 2010 at Jamestown United Methodist Church; Reverend Dr. Gary Royals officiating. Interment will follow in Guilford Memorial Park Cemetery. Born April 29, 1925 in Randolph County, a daughter of the late James Madison Cashatt and Etta Cashatt. On October 25, 1947, she married Oscar Knight Lowe, who passed away February 22, 2010. Preceded in death her sister Magalene Bailey and brothers Arvil, Sidney, Glenn and Percy. Survived by their three children, Susan Johnson and husband Butch of High Point, NC, Ronnie Lowe and wife Sue of Cary, NC and Eric Lowe and wife Lisa of Summerfield, NC.; grandchildren, Katie Lowe Garcia and husband Steve, Jeffrey Knight Lowe and wife Lyndsey, Jennifer Johnson, Jordan Lowe and Corey Lowe; great-grandchildren, Lucy Lowe and Dima Garcia. She is also survived by her sisters Rosie Austin of Lexington, Pearl Hunt of Denton and Christine Tucker of Trinity, her brothers Elmer Cashatt and Clinton Cashatt and many nieces and nephews.

McCain Defeats Hayworth in Race for Senate

Senator John McCain has defeated J. D. Hayworth in the race for his senate seat in Arizona. With 96% of the votes in, McCain leads Hayworth by a huge margin, 56% to 32%. J.D. Hayworth, former United States Congressman is linked to the Briles Surname through marriage of course, but in two ways. Raymond and Red's mother was Mary Emma Hepler Hayworth. Her lineage dates back to Christopher Friederich Hepler (her great grandfather) who had two sons: Phillip, her grandfather and Christopher (great uncle). Christopher had a son named John Hepler who married Hannah Briles, daughter of Jacob & Susanna Plummer Briles. The second link is via "Red" and Raymond's sister Alice Hayworth who married Ernest Macon. His parents are Ashworth & Flora Spencer Macon whose parents are Michael & Anna Jane Hill Spencer. These fine folks had a daughter, Roxanna, who married my very own Joseph Lafayette Briles!

Annie Terry Briles Dies

Annie Frank Briles, 84, passed Monday, August 16, 2010 at Russellville Health Care. Funeral service will be Thursday, August 19, 2010, 2:00 p.m. at Pinkard Funeral Home, Russellville; Bro. Joe Lenox and Bro. Wade Wallace officiating. Burial will follow in Knights of Pythias Cemetery. Preceded in death by husband, Tracy Briles; parents, Willie Terry, Maggie and Clarence Moore. Survivors include children, Gary (Nelda) Briles, Russellville, Janet (Marshall) Waters, Mobile; grandchildren, Chris (Stephanie) Briles, Russellville, Brennan Waters, Lexington, Kentucky; great-grandchildren, Hunter and Carley Briles.

Hera Bullard Farlow Dies

SOPHIA-Hera Embla Farlow, age 82, passed Sunday, August 15, 2010 at her home. Wake: Tuesday, August 17, 2010 from 7:00 - 9:00 PM at Pugh Funeral Home, 600 South Main Street, Randleman, NC. Funeral will be Wednesday, August 18, 2010 at 1:00 PM at Pugh Funeral Home Chapel, 600 South Main Street, Randleman; Chaplain Dwight Ayers officiating. Burial will follow at Randolph Memorial Park, Asheboro. Born May 1, 1928 in High Point, NC the daughter of William Wesley Bullard and Pearlie Jane Blakley Bullard. Preceded in death by her husband, Tunney Farlow. Survived by son: Tony Farlow and his wife, Nina of Sophia, NC; daughter: Marsha Haithcock and her husband, Jeffrey of Cedar Falls, NC; grandchildren, Mindy Hankins and her husband, Ronald of Sophia; Wyatt Farlow of Sophia and Josh Haithcock of Cedar Falls; great grandchildren, Cody Richardson and Taylor Hankins; sister: Cherry Crotts of Glenola, NC.

Michael Trent Briles and the Jump!

In the skydiving world they call this a 3D Hybrid, whatever that is! And our own Michael Trent Briles was part of it last weekend in Raeford, NC. Michael Trent, or Mikey as they call him at the jump zone is the son of Rodney Trent Briles (Curator of the BIN). Mikey has been skydiving for over a year now and has completed over 150 jumps. Mikey also works as a private rigger and video tapes skydives for tandem jumps. We are very proud of Mikey, but we always ask why he likes jumping out of a perfectly good airplane! Click on the image to enlarge. Mikey is the one in the yellow helmet!

Helen Loflin Yates Dies

Helen Loflin Yates, 87, passed Thursday, August 12, 2010 at her residence. Funeral services will be held 3:00 PM Sunday, August 15, 2010 at Bethel Baptist Church; Rev. Gerald Ward and Rev. Ron Nichols officiating. Interment will follow at the Denton Town Cemetery. Born August 6, 1923 in Randolph County to Julius Laughlin and Mamie Briles Laughlin. Preceded in death by her husband, Peter Colon Yates on November 23, 2004, by a brother Calvin Loflin, and by sisters, Nellie Hulin and Leona Shore. Survivors include; sons; Tony Yates and wife Kathy and Garland Yates and wife Janice all of Asheboro, two granddaughters Heather Yates Davis and husband Elvin of Lexington and Andrea Yates of Asheboro, one great grandchild, Lincoln Davis.

Annie Miller Cashatt Dies

Annie Miller Cashatt passed away on August 11th, 2010 at Hospice Home at High Point. A service celebrating Annie’s life will be held at Hopewell UMC on August 13, 2010 at 10:00 A.M. with Pastor Toni Ruth Smith officiating. Visitation will follow in the church fellowship hall. Burial in the church cemetery. Born in Randolph County on December 19th, 1919, to Ed and Minnie Kennedy Miller. Preceded in death by her parents and nine brothers and sisters. On February 14th, 1941, she married Clinton Cashatt who survives; a daughter, Donna Overcash, and husband Larry of Trinity; a son, Rick Cashatt, and wife Margie of Clayton, GA; four grandchildren, Cindy Neal and husband Jerry of Archdale, Marcie Cates and husband Chris, and Matthew Cashatt and wife Monica, all of Charlotte, and Christy Overcash of Asheboro. Annie also leaves behind ten beloved great-grandchildren, Catie, Alec and Zachary Neal ; Jackson, Max, Charlie, and Sophia Cates; and Amelia, Avery and Corinne Cashatt. In addition to her immediate family, Annie leaves behind many nieces and nephews, neighbors, and friends.

Dolan M. Ward Dies

Dolan M. Ward, 85, passed Tuesday August 10, 2010 at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center. Funeral service will be 2 PM Thursday August 12, 2010 in the J.C. Green and Sons Funeral Home Chapel in Thomasville; Rev. Jim Parsons officiating. Interment will follow in the Holly Hill Memorial Park Cemetery. Born October 4, 1924 in Thomasville, NC a son of Henry Beecher and Addie Miller Ward. Preceded in death by his parents, a brother; Henry Beecher Ward, Jr., and a brother-in-law; Eulan Workman. On October 4, 1947 he married Clara Elliott who died February 23, 1988. Surviving are his children; Larry Dolan Ward and wife Cathy of Denton, Swanee Elaine Ward of Thomasville, and Mark Steven Ward and wife Cindy of Thomasville, granddaughter; Lori Catherine Ward-Jones and husband Don of Winston Salem and a sister; Dorcas Workman of Thomasville.

Catherine Beck Leonard & Clois Gilmer Beck

Catherine Beck Leonard, age 92, passed Sunday, August 8, 2010 at Alston Brook Nursing Home. Funeral service will be held 4 pm Wednesday, August 11, 2010 at Davidson Funeral Home Chapel; Rev. Dr. Walter Patten officiating. Burial will follow in Lexington City Cemetery. Born in Davidson County, August 13, 1917 to Walter J. Beck and Alice Shirley Beck. Preceded in death by her parents; husband James "Roy" Leonard on March 2, 1994; six sisters, Savannah Younts, Eunice Wright, Nina Sledge, Elsie Everhart, Florence Beck and Ora Beck; two brothers, Oscar Beck and Howard Beck. Surviving are; one sister Velna Beck Swing of Lexington; special Nephew and Niece, Richard and Martha Swing of Lexington; other nieces and a nephew; long time friends, Eddie and Doris Sigmon of Hickory, NC and Al and Ruby Thomasson of Garden City, SC.

Clois Gilmer "Shorty" Beck, 89, passed Monday, August 9, 2010, at Hinkle Hospice House. Funeral will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, August 11, 2010, at Hedrick's Grove United Church of Christ, Revs. William Sowers and David Crook officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Born September 8, 1920, in Davidson County, to John Henry and Iva Lohr Beck. His wife, Della Mae Davis, preceded him in death October 30, 1996. Also preceding him in death were four brothers, Lohr Beck, Cromer Beck, Odell Beck and Lawrence Beck; and a sister, Kathleen Beck Thompson. Surviving are three sons, Larry Gilmer Beck and wife, Sue, Johnny Shelton Beck and wife, Sydney, and Tommy Davis Beck and wife, Kay; five grandchildren, Elizabeth Beck Cross, Julie Christie Beck, Ashley Beck Gentry, Johnny Shelton Beck Jr., and Lisa Beck Edwards; six great-grandchildren, Mikayla Simone Cross, Austin Davis Cross, Sydney Paxton Gentry, Davis Aidan

Alice Williams Nance Dies

Alice Williams Nance, 84, passed Sunday, August 1, 2010 in Winston Salem. Funeral service will be held at 4:00 PM Wednesday, August 4 from the Davidson Funeral Home Chapel; Rev. Howard Baker. Burial will follow in the Sandy Creek Cemetery. There will be no formal visitation. Born September 8, 1925 in Davidson County to Omar Emsley Williams and Hettie Crotts Williams. Her husband, Von Nance, preceded her in death, as well as her brothers, Omar Edgar Williams and James Williams, her sister, Eulala Leonard; and her grandson, Todd Craver. survived by her daughters, Hope Craver and husband, Tony, Connie Craver and husband, Bobby, and Melinda Lanier, all of Lexington; her brother, Donnie Williams; and her grandchildren, Melissa Cooper, Gina Gomez, Neil Craver, Jason Craver, Lisa Martin, and Derrick Lanier; and eight great grandchildren.

Death Takes Jerry Richard Kinley

Gerald (Jerry) Richard Kinley, 53, passed Friday July 30, 2010. Services will be held later. Born December 11, 1956 in Guilford County, NC a son of Barbara Whitt Kinley and the late Grady Richard Kinley. Survived by his children, Christopher Brandon Kinley and wife Jennifer of Thomasville, Justin Kyle Kinley of Level Cross, Heather Rae Everhart and Whitney Taylor Kinley both of High Point, his mother; Barbara Whitt Kinley of Thomasville, sisters; Jennifer Kinley Gallimore and husband Shannon of Lexington, Susie Kinley Fleming of Thomasville and close family friends Debbie Powell and husband Tom of Thomasville.

Virgie Floyd West Dies

Virgie Floyd West, 89, passed Wednesday, July 28, 2010, at Moses Cone Palliative Care in Greensboro. A private service will be held in the chapel for immediate and extended family at 3:30 pm followed by interment at Randolph Memorial Park. Native of Randolph County, born on February 22, 1921 to the late George Hamilton Floyd and Minnie Estelle Moore Floyd in the Township of Tabernacle. Preceded in death by her sister, Louise Summitt and brothers, Roy Floyd and Archie Floyd. Survivors include her children, Martha McGill and husband Clarence McGill of Greensboro, Foy Lee West and wife Beth West of Asheboro, Gayenelle Gray and husband Robert Gray of Charlotte, grandchildren, Diana Lynch of Greensboro, Ron Cook of Winston-Salem, Keith West of Sophia, Robert Gray, Jr. of Cary, great-granddaughter, Keana Lynch of Greensboro and her brother Tildon Floyd of Trinity in addition to many nieces, nephews and other beloved family.

Stokes Evert Hepler Sr Dead at Age 89

THOMASVILLE-Stokes Evert Hepler Sr., 89, passed Sunday evening, July 25, 2010, at Britthaven of Davidson Nursing Center. Funeral will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 28, 2010 at J.C. Green & Sons Chapel; Revs. Christopher Uren and Kenneth Miller officiating. Burial will follow in Holly Hill Memorial Park. Born April 11, 1921, in Davidson County to Lacy Evert Hepler and Ella Stokes Howard Hepler. On Aug. 29, 1968, he married Jewel Klass Rollins, who survives of the home. Also surviving are two sons, Stokes E. "Sunny" Hepler Jr. and wife Lu and Randy H. Hepler and wife Anne, all of Thomasville; a stepdaughter, Sherry Neeley of Thomasville; a stepson, Randall Rollins and wife Sandy of Thomasville; a sister, Mabel Clinard of Thomasville; a brother, Bobby Lee Hepler of Thomasville; two grandchildren, Bart Hepler and Christy Thomas and husband Kevin; great-grandchildren Austin Thomas and Jordan Thomas; stepgrandchildren Scott Neeley, Jay Rollins and wife Rebecca, Andrew Neeley and wife Courtney and Adam Rollins and wife Meredith; and stepgreat-grandchildren Kate Madison Rollins, Madeline Claire Rollins, Jordon Neeley, Lilian Neeley and Denver Rollins

Jerry Wayne Hunt Dies in Asheboro

Jerry Wayne Hunt, age 57, passed Friday, July 23, 2010, at Clapp's Convalescent Nursing Home in Asheboro. Funeral service will be conducted at 4 p.m. Tuesday, July 27, 2010, at the Ridge Funeral Home Chapel, Rev. Jody Harrison officiating. Born on July 16, 1953, in Randolph County, Mr. Hunt was the son of the late Winfred and Marie Kindley Hunt. Surviving are his wife, Jan Hunt of the home; daughters, Becky Wright and husband, Steve, Carrie Ann Dorrity and husband, Brent, all of Asheboro, Dana Jordan and husband, Jasper, of Eagle Springs; son, Darren Hunt of Asheboro; brother, O'Neal Hunt of Asheboro; grandchildren, Montana Sky Wright, Cody Wright, Kaz Wright, Kassie Dorrity, Tarra Dorrity, Tyler Jordan, Trenton Jordan, and Jordan Hunt.

Clara Beatrice Trotter Dies

SOPHIA-Clara Beatrice Trotter, passed Saturday, July 17, 2010 at her home. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM Tuesday, July 20, 2010 in the Pugh Funeral Home Chapel; Victoria Newby officiating. Burial will follow at Randolph Memorial Park, Asheboro. Native of Randolph County. Preceded in death by her parents; Ross and Clara Linthicum, sister, Ethel L. Pugh and brothers, Jesse Ross (JR) Linthicum, Jack Linthicum, Warren Linthicum, Charles Linthicum and Samuel Linthicum, daughters, Jean Crotts and Betty Fagan and son, Nick Crotts. Survived by her husband of 55 years, William Hurley Trotter, son, Terry Lee Trotter of High Point, daughter, Victoria Newby of Sophia, her loving great grandchildren, Faith, Jarrett, Jordon, grandchildren, Brooke, Bruce, Beth, Mickie and Natasha, great great grandchildren, Crissa and Trinity.

Mary Magdalene Hulin Small Dies

ASHEBORO-Mary Magdalene Small, 85, passed Sunday, July 18, 2010, at Woodland Hills Nursing Center in Asheboro. Funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, July 20, 2010, at Pierce Chapel Primitive Baptist Church, followed by interment in the church cemetery. Born on Aug. 8, 1924, in Randolph County to Johnnie Hulin and Lily Allred Hulin. Preceded in death by her parents; husband, Clyde Lespy Small; sister, Ellen Flannery; and brothers, Lee and Hodge Hulin. Survived by sons, Roy Small and wife, Debbie, of Trinity, Henry Wade Small and wife, Donna, of Lexington, Ronald Dale Small and wife, Barbara, of Trinity; daughters, Peggy Bean and husband, Clinard, of Denton and Janice Hoover of Asheboro; brothers, Jay Hulin and wife, Bobby, Glen Hulin, both of Denton; sister, Betty Swaney and husband, J.B., of Trinity; grandchildren, Anita Dunn and husband Terry, of Denton, Tamera Watkins and husband, Jeff, of Randleman, Michelle Small of Asheboro, Kendra Jordan and husband, Rodney, of Asheboro, Bobby Small and wife, Jeanna, of Denton, Rhonda Small of Trinity, Matthew Cox of Trinity, Vickie Miller, Belinda Miller, Kenneth Miller and Chastity Winesett, all of Lexington, Brian Trivette Faith, N.C.; great-grandchildren, Jodie Burns, Anna Burns of Denton, Brennan Turner of Randleman and Anez Small of Denton

John William Swaim Dies

TRINITY- John William (Bill) Swaim, age 72, passed Tuesday, July 13 at Randolph Hospital in Asheboro. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, July 16 at High Rock Baptist Church; Rev. Ray Swaney and Rev. Jody Harrison officiating. Burial will follow at Pierce's Chapel Primitive Baptist Church. Born October 1, 1937 in Randolph County to Samuel Fairfield Swaim and Savanah Stilley Swaim. Survived by his wife, Jane Summey Swaim of the home; daughters, Vanda Hoover and husband Ronnie of Trinity; Joni Routh and husband Fred of Sophia; and Misti Prevatte and husband Doug of Asheboro; Grandchildren, Brandon Hoover and wife Carrie of Rogers, Ark.; Brent Hoover of Tuscaloosa, Ala.; and Dylan Prevatte of Asheboro; Step-Grandchildren, Anthony Routh and wife Erin, and Chad Routh all of Randleman; Step Great Grandchildren, Sadie Routh and Emma Routh. Brother Samuel Swaim and wife Gladys of Maiden and Sisters, Ruby Routh and husband R. P of Greensboro, Gladys McMasters and husband Clark of Staley, Linda Allred and husband Luther of Asheboro and Helen Lawhorn of Liberty.

Merrill Eugene Hughes Dies

LEXINGTON-Merrill Eugene Hughes, 60, passed July 7, 2010, in the Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center. Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 10, 2010, at 2 p.m. in Midway School Road Baptist Church; Rev. Robert Walker and Albert Craven officiating. Burial with military honors will follow in Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church Cemetery. Born December 31, 1949, in Davidson County, N.C., a son of the late Walter Guy Hughes and Annie Lee Hepler Hughes. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a step-daughter, Amy Mason. Surviving: his wife Linda Calhoun (married December 21, 1991); three sons, Jody Hughes and special friend Kay Lewis, Myron Hughes and wife Kim and Charles Hughes and wife Nichele, all of Thomasville; a step-son, Richie Batchelor and wife Sherry of Lexington; a sister, Kathryn Davis and husband Bud of Thomasville; and eight grandchildren.

UPDATE: Briles Murder Trial Set

A trial date has been set for Delmer Smith III who is accused of killing Kathleen Briles, wife of prominent doctor, Dr. James Briles. Smith will face the music on July 5, 2011 in the death penalty case in Florida. Smith also faces numerous other cases involving burglary, robbery, and rape, which will also occur in July, but after the Briles case. The BIN will keep you informed of developing news regarding the murder trial of Smith.

Bernard E. Briles Passes Away

Bernard E. Briles, 72, of West Lafayette passed at Wednesday, June 30, 2010, at Clarian Arnett Hospital. Services will be 1 p.m. Tuesday, July 6, 2010 at Simplicity Funeral Care. Interment at Independent Order of Odd Fellows Cemetery in Brookston; Rev. Dr. Clayton Kendall officiating. Born March 21, 1938, in Monon, he was the son of the late Fred and Opal Briles. On May 9, 1992, he married Rebecca "Becky" Titus Stephenson in Buck Creek, and she survives. Also surviving are three sons, Bernie Briles of Dayton, Larry Briles (wife: Regina) of Kentucky and Fred Briles of Lafayette; a daughter, Mary Snack of Lafayette; two brothers, Kenny Briles of Grand Rapids, Texas, and Dale Briles of Fowler; and a sister, Linda Austin of West Lafayette; 9 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild.

Ellen Jacqueline Hulin Small Flannery Dies

Ellen Jacquelene Hulin Small Flannery, age 78, passed Wednesday, June 30, 2010 at Randolph Hospital. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 am Friday, July 2 at Pierce's Chapel Primitive Baptist Church; Rev. Jeff Freeman officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Born January 13, 1932 in Randolph County to Johnny Franklin Hulin and Lillie Allred Hulin. Preceded in death by her first husband, Hoyle Franklin Small and a son, Donnie Ray Small. Survived by her husband, James Mark Flannery of Denton; son, Hoyle Larson Small of Jacksonville, FL: daughters, Sharon Lynn Hunt and husband Roger of Pleasant Garden, Patricia Gail Bray and husband Bobby of Denton, Teresa Elaine Williams and husband Larry of Asheboro and Kathy Denese Cashion and husband Joe of Lexington; brothers, Jay Hulin and Glen Hulin, both of Denton; sisters, Magdalene Small and

Virgil Lee Pierce Dead at age 75

Virgil Lee Pierce, age 75 passed Sunday, June 27 at Lexington Memorial Hospital. Funeral service will be 4:00 pm Wednesday, June 30, 2010 at Silver Valley Baptist Church; Rev. Gene Little officiating. Burial will follow in Mountain View Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Born July 12, 1934 in Davidson County to John Earlie and Jessie Metters Pierce. Preceded in death by a brother Willis Pierce and a sister Allene Martin. Survived by his wife, Jo Ann Robertson Pierce of the home, daughters, Teresa Ann Soles of Denton and Sandra Lee Everhart of Southmont and two grandchildren. He is also survived by a sister, Betty McGee of Winston-Salem.

Bernice Gallimore Myers Dies

TRINITY-Bernice Gallimore Myers, age 84, passed Friday June 25, 2010, in Forsyth Medical Center. Funeral services will be conducted Tuesday June 29, 2010 at 11:00 AM in Tabernacle United Methodist Church with Rev. Bill Fouts, Rev. Ray Swaney and Rev. Jeremy Pierce officiating. The interment will be in the church cemetery. Born June 7, 1926 in Randolph Co. NC daughter of the late Lewis C. Gallimore and Pallie Pierce Gallimore. Preceded in death by her husband Raymond Wayne Myers death on July 30,1988 (m. Nov.12,1944); brother Eugene Lewis Gallimore. Surviving are, Two Sons Gary Wayne Myers of Trinity, NC and Randall Lynn Myers and wife Cynthia of Asheboro,NC; Two Sisters, Marie Parrish and Carlene Cox both of Trinity, NC; Two Granddaughters, Katie Elizabeth Myers and Mindy Carlyn Myers.

A descendant of Ansel & Mary Briles Pierce

Lyde Bernice Nance Delk Passes

Lyde Bernice Nance Delk, age 90, passed Saturday, June 26, 2010 at High Point Regional Hospital, High Point. Wake: Monday, June 28, 2010 from 6:00-9:00 pm at Pugh Funeral Home, 437 Sunset Avenue, Asheboro, NC. Funeral will be held on Tuesday, June 29, 2010 at 4:00 pm at Piney Grove United Methodist Church; Rev. Benny Clodfelter officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Born July 28, 1919 in Denton, NC the daughter of Benjamin and Elizabeth Hall Nance. Preceded in death by her husband, Astor Delk; son, Alton Delk; and grandson, Derrick Delk. Survived by sons: Richard Delk and wife Donna of Denton, NC, Dempsey Delk of Asheboro, NC, Henry Delk and Wife Barbara of Denton, NC; 8 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.

Carroll "Bim" Hunt Dies

Carroll Delmonte "Bim" Hunt, 87, passed Wednesday, June 16, 2010, at his home. Funeral services will be conducted 11:00 am Saturday, June 19, 2010 at Mt. View Independent Methodist Church, Rev. David Hunt officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Native of Randolph County, born August 31, 1922, the son of the late Samuel and Zula Pierce Hunt. Survivors include his wife of 68 years, Frances W. Hunt, of the home, daughters, Brenda H. Thomas and husband, Paul, of Biscoe, Ruth H. Brady and husband, Roger, of Sophia, Gail H. Bailey and husband, Darrell, of Asheboro, Lucy H. Lucas and husband, Bobby, of Asheboro; sons, Samnmy Hunt and wife, Janet, Clifford Hunt and wife, Virginia, Rev. David Hunt and wife, Kathy, all of Asheboro; grandchildren, Angela Brock, Jerry Bim Harris, Tonya Shepherd, Christina Holt, Olivia Blanton, Kim Cox, Jeff Hunt, Brian Hunt, Katherine Lucas, Timothy Lucas; twelve great grandchildren and seven great-great grandchildren.

B. Reitzel Nance Passes Away

This line goes back to Ansel & Mary Briles Pearce and Crawford & Mary Briles Rush.

HIGH POINT-B. Reitzel Nance, 85, passed June 15th, 2010 at Hospice Home in High Point. Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, June 17, 2010 in the chapel of the Cumby Family Funeral Service in High Point; Rev. Carroll Upton, Rev. David Keith and Dan Price officiating. Interment with military honors will follow in Floral Garden Park Cemetery. Born October 12th, 1924 in Guilford County, a son of the late Glenn and Hattie Jackson Nance. Preceded in death by a brother, Glenn Nance Surviving are his wife, the former Peggy Jackson (married June 11th, 1972); two daughters, Becky Reid and Susan Davis both of Kernersville; two sisters, Jewel Ridgeway of High Point and Veva Lewallen of High Point; a brother, Max Nance Sr. and wife Lorene of High Point; a granddaughter, Christi Reid of Clemmons; a great-granddaughter, Shelby Reid of Clemmons and a sister-in-law, Joyce Nance of Thomasville.

Willie Harris Lewis Dies

Willie Harris Lewis, age 90, passed Sunday, June 13 at Moses Cone Hospital in Greensboro. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM Thursday, June 17, 2010 at Fairview United Methodist Church; Rev. Doug Rowe and Elder Cleo Robertson. Burial will follow in the Church Cemetery. Born November 23, 1919 in Davidson County to W. Hayes Harris and Della Hoover Harris. She was married to Charles B. Lewis who died December 12, 1992. Survived by her son Charles Michael Lewis and special friend Marci Allen of Greensboro; a sister Mrs. Mary Noble Parker of Old Hwy # 109; and grandchildren Christopher Lewis; Johnathan Lewis and Jeremy Lewis. Note: This line dates back to Jonas and Rachel Briles Hoover

Howard Elmer Byerly Passes

THOMASVILLE-Howard Elmer Byerly, 100, passed June 8 2010. Funeral Service was held at 2:00 PM Saturday, June 12th at Thomasville Funeral Home Chapel; Reverends Pete Bumgarner, Hillis Burton, Jeff Burton, and Ronnie Kendrick officiating. Interment will follow at Holly Hill Memorial Park. Born on May 25, 1910 to Will Byerly and Lujeannie Medlin Byerly. His wife Anno Mae Byerly passed on September 10, 2001. Surviving are his daughters, Shirley Loftin and husband Donald, Carolyn Bumgarner; grandsons Steve Loftin and Landis Bumgarner; and great grandchildren, Whitney Freeman, Josh Loftin, and Luke Bumgarner.

Several Death Notices

Golden Delk Hunt, age 93, passed Monday, May 31, 2010 at her home. Funeral will be Thursday, June 3, 2010 at 2:00 pm at Pugh Funeral Home Chapel; Rev. Ronald D. Van Lente, Rev. Harold Shives, Rev. Steve Wood and Rev. Randy Kelley officiating. Burial will be in Oaklawn Cemetery. Native of Randolph County; preceded in death by her son, Ronnie Dale Hunt and brother, J.C. Delk, Jr. Survived by her husband, Olan L. Hunt; son, Gary Lee Hunt and his wife Cathy of Archdale; daughter-in-law, Sherri Hunt of Ramseur; grandsons, Jonathan Lee Hunt and Matthew Daniel Hunt both of Archdale.

Michael Davis Skeen, 59, passed Sunday May 30th, 2010 at North Carolina State Veterans Home in Salisbury NC. A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 1, 2010 at Floral Garden Park Cemetery ; Reverend Tim Steen officiating. Born to Ralph Joseph Skeen and Daffie Hazel Davis Skeen on September 26th, 1950 in Guilford County. Preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Peggy Fletcher and a brother, Grover Skeen. Surviving are three sisters, Marie Kady and husband Wayne of Royal Oak MI, Jane Richardson and husband James of Archdale NC and Sara Burton and husband Marty of Caswell Beach NC; one brother, Hershal Skeen and wife Barbara of China Grove NC; one sister-in-law, Jitsy Skeen and several nieces and nephews.

ASHEBORO-Esther Hoover Shortsleeve, age 86, passed Saturday, May 29, 2010 at Cross Road Retirement Community, Asheboro. Funeral services will be held Monday, May 31, 2010 at 2:00 pm at Pugh Funeral Home Chapel, Pastor Danny Jarrell officiating. Burial will be in Randolph Memorial Park. Native of Randolph County, preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Jack Lee Shortsleeve. Survived by daughters, Susan S. Hill and her husband Kenneth of Asheboro, Brenda Bumgarner and husband Don of Asheboro; grandchildren, Kennan Hill and his wife Danielle Hill of Asheboro, Kevin Hill and his wife Carla of Asheboro, Holly Cogan and her husband Chris of Archdale, Bryan Bumgarner and his wife Bonnie of Asheboro, Matthew Bumgarner of Asheboro, Stacey Hodge and her husband William of Asheboro, Jaclyn Bumgarner of Asheboro; great grandchildren, Haedyn Hill, Kenzie Hill, Hunter Hill, Keaton Hill, Devyn Cogan, Riley Cogan, Luke Bumgarner, Logan Hodge, Liza Hodge, Drew Hodge, Laura Hodge, Carrie Hodge, Brook Hodge; sisters, Wilma Patterson and her husband Roger of Asheboro, Bevilee Gallimore of Archdale, Stella Murray of Greensboro, Clara Smith and her husband Marshall of Denton. NOTE: This lineage dates back to Nancy Briles, daughter of Noah & Rebecca Carlise Briles.

Evelyn Barton Beck, 94, passed Friday, May 28, 2010, at Cary Health and Rehabilitation Center in Cary. Funeral will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 2, 2010 at Forest Hill Memorial Park Mausoleum Chapel; Rev. Allan Van Meter officiating. Entombment will follow in Forest Hill Memorial Park Mausoleum. Born July 14, 1915, in Forsyth County to the late Walter Lee and Blanche Myers Barton. Preceded in death by her husband, Avery Edward Beck. Surviving are son, Larry Beck and wife Ellen of Morrisville; daughter Anita Beck of Wake Forest; two grandchildren, Larry Eugene Beck Jr. of Lexington, and Amy Burgoyne of Richmond, Va.; and three great-grandchildren, Jack Burgoyne, Anna Burgoyne and William Burgoyne.

LEXINGTON-Maynard Wellington Wilkins passed Friday, May 28, 2010 at Hinkle Hospice House in Lexington. Memorial service will be held at Pugh Funeral Home on Tuesday, June 1, 2010 at 4:00 p.m. , Dr. Ron Hamilton officiating. A graveside service will follow at Mt. Shepherd United Methodist Church. Born in Ararat Top, Pennsylvania on April 29, 1925, the son of Ralph Lyman Wilkins and Nettie Jenks Wilkins. Preceded in death by his parents, his brothers and his wives Eva Spencer and Jo Doris Trotter McMasters . Survived by his son, Rob Wilkins, his daughter-in-law, Cindy Allred Wilkins and his two granddaughters, Carlye and Cloie, all of Asheboro. He is also survived by two nieces, Marilou Galluser of California and Linda Siegel of Illinois, as well as by his stepdaughter, Denise Deaton, who lives in Asheboro with her husband Buster and their sons Tony and Ryan and their families. NOTE: Eva Spencer's lineage goes back to Crawford & Mary Briles Rush.

Nathan Allen Robbins Dies

ARCHDALE-Nathan Allen Robbins, 86, passed May 29th, 2010 at Westwood Health and Rehabilitation Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 2, 2010 in the chapel of the Cumby Family Funeral Service in Archdale; Pastor Phillip O. Biggs officiating. Interment will follow in Floral Garden Park Cemetery. Born June 24th, 1923 in Randolph County, a son to the late Gertrude Jarrell and Nathan Allen Robbins Sr. Preceded in death by his first wife, Dorothy Brown Robbins in 1996 and two sisters and one brother. Surviving is a son, George Robbins and wife Linda of Sophia; two step-sons, Darrell Greenway and wife Sharon of Archdale and David Greenway of Louisiana; three step-daughters, Joyce Kinley of Trinity, Gloria Jennings and husband Eddie of Trinity and Sharon Irving and husband Glen of Havelock; a brother, Bryce Robbins of Asheboro; ten grandchildren, Natsha Greenway of Raleigh, Joshua Greenway of Wilmington, Ella Greenway of Louisiana, Laura Greenway of Louisiana, Tory Greenway of Louisiana, Maddie Greenway of Louisiana, Jeff Jennings of Goldsboro, Joy Daniel of Trinity, Amy Irving of Havelock and Alex Irving of Havelock and several great-grandchildren.

Nova Alice Hunt Kennedy Dies

THOMASVILLE-Nova Alice Hunt Kennedy, 95, passed Monday evening, May 24, 2010 in the Hospice Home at High Point. Funeral services Thursday, May 27, 2010 at 1 P.M. in J.C. Green & Sons Chapel; Rev. Brien Brown officiating. Burial will follow in Faith Community Chapel Cemetery. Born April 23, 1915 in Davidson County, a daughter of William Causey Hunt and Daisy Imbler Hunt. Preceded in death by her husband Arthur Clifford Kennedy on August 15, 2001 (married August 20, 1931 ); sisters, Bertha and Myrtle and brothers, Harvey, Dewey and Alvah; and her grandson, Joel Segers. Surviving are two daughters, Tula Joyce Ward and husband Bruce and Vida Segers and husband Richard, all of Thomasville; a granddaughter, Julie Segers Byrum and husband Brent of Kernersville; several nieces and nephews.

Eula Skeen Pugh Dies

GREENSBORO- Eula Skeen Pugh, 103, passed away May 22, 2010 at Friends Home West. A Celebration of Life Service will be held Wednesday, May 26, 2010 at 3 p.m. at Hanes Lineberry Sedgefield Chapel in Greensboro; Billy M. Britt and family members officiating. Interment will follow at Guilford Memorial Park. Preceded in death by her husband, J. Morris Pugh, and her son, Norman M. Pugh. She is survived by her son, J. Loyd Pugh and wife Pat of Fancy Gap, VA; five grandchildren, Lynn Faw and husband Arnold of Danville, VA; David Pugh and wife Pam of Efland, NC; Rolland Pugh and wife Kay of Winston-Salem, NC; Rhea Kafer and husband Tim of York, PA; Laurie Moon and husband Bobby of Apex, NC; eleven great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren

Murder in Davidson County

A Davidson County man has been charged with murder that occurred yesterday in the Churchland Community. Adam Courtney Hartley is being held without bond for the murder of William Dean Sink Jr., 29. No motive has been released. Adam Courtney Hartley is the son of Phillip Stanford and Jacqueline Louise Wallace Hartley. This lineage goes back to Marcia Ava Crotts line, which is already in the main databases.. The BIN will monitor this story as details are released.

Bertha Varner Evans Dies

ASHEBORO-Bertha Josephine Varner Evans, 99, passed away Monday, May 24, 2010 at Randolph Hospital. Family will receive friends from 6:30-8:30 PM on Tuesday, May 25, 2010 at Pugh Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, May 26, 2010 at Asheboro Friends Meeting; Rev. Ken Thames, Rev. Pat Thames and Rev. Leslie N. Winslow officiating. Interment will be in Mt. Pleasant Community Church Cemetery, Hoover Hill Road, Asheboro. Preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, John Allen Evans; her parents George and Eugenia Varner, and 10 sisters and brothers. Survived by sons Clarence Evans and wife Sue of Leland, North Carolina; Gene Evans and wife Linda of Durham, North Carolina; five grandchildren and seven great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, and special caregiver Cora McDowell.

Rex Gallimore Dies

THOMASVILLE-Rex Gallimore, 87, passed Saturday, May 22, 2010. Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday at 3 PM at J.C. Green & Sons Funeral Home Chapel in Thomasville; Rev.David Hedrick and the Rev. Billy Joe Yates officiating. Burial will be in Holly Hill Memorial Park Cemetery. Born in Randolph County, February 25, 1923, the son of the late Seaph and Mary Alice Snider Gallimore Preceded in death by his first wife, Mozelle Foust Gallimore; two brothers, Boyd Gallimore and Aster Gallimore. Survivors include Rex and Mozelle Foust Gallimore's daughters, Jean Hege and her husband Mike of Thomasville , Debbie Slack of Florence, SC, and Rex Gallimore's second wife, Edith Rider Lambeth Gallimore of Thomasville. Surviving siblings include Oleene Pierce and Hosea Gallimore of Denton, James Lee Gallimore and his wife Violet of Jasper, Alabama, and Doak Gallimore and his wife Nancy of Thomasville. Surviving grandchildren are Eric Hege and his wife Mary, Rexanne Hege, and Michele Slack. Surviving great grandchildren include Zachary Hege, Dylan Hege, and Richard Slack.

Death Penalty for Briles Murder

The State of Florida will seek the death penalty for murder suspect Delmar Smith III. Smith is the only suspect in the murder of Kathleen Briles, wife of Dr. James Briles. Assistant State Attorney Brian Iten filed court papers notifying Smith's attorney, Michael Reiter of the state's Office of Regional Counsel, of his intent to seek the death penalty. The trial is more than a year away. The BIN will keep you updated regarding this case.

Tura McDowell Lowe Dies

Tura McDowell Lowe, age 100 years, passed Thursday, May 13, 2010 at the Hospice Home of High Point. Memorial service was held May 15, 2010 in the chapel of Cumby Family Funeral Service in Archdale officiated by Rev. Stuart Noell, Rev. Harold Shives. Born in Randolph County on January 27, 1910, the daughter of late John Riley and Claudia Louvinia Hoover McDowell. On April 16, 1927, she was married to William Clarence Lowe, Jr., who preceded her in death in 1994. Survivors include her daughter, Lucille L. Nieman, of Archdale; son, Harold Edward Lowe, Sr. and wife, Darine, of Denton; a granddaughter, Mrs. Claudia Stoltz and husband, Thomas, of Charlotte, and great granddaughter Erin Stoltz, of Charlotte; a grandson, Harold Edward Lowe, Jr., of Thomasville, and great granddaughter, Mallory Lowe, of Trinity.

Iris Leonard Queen Dies

LEXINGTON-Iris Leonard Queen, age 86 passed Saturday, May 15 at Kindred Hospital in Greensboro. Funeral service was at 3:00 PM Tuesday, May 18 at Piedmont Funeral Home Chapel; Rev. Tommy Wilson officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Hill Memorial Park. Born August 5, 1923 in Davidson County to Ira Odell Leonard and Hallie Marie Tysinger Leonard. Preceded in death by her husband Richard Murphy Queen who died November 19, 2004. Survived by a daughter Rosalind "Lindy" Queen of the home; a sister Bonnie Smith and husband Charles of Lexington and several nieces and nephews.

Lillian Beck Anderson Dies

THOMASVILLE- Lillian Frances Beck Anderson passed Friday, May 14, 2010. Private service at Holly Hill. Born on April 24, 1923 to Fletcher H. Beck and Winnie Clodfelter Beck. Preceded in death by her husband William Quinton Anderson on December 24, 1974 (married:June 29, 1946 ); brothers Clayborn Beck, Lawrence Beck and Harry V. Beck. Survived by sons; William Mark Anderson, Dr. David Anderson and wife Anne, Robert S. Anderson and wife Marta, and grandchildren Amy, Paul, Melissa, Natalie and great granddaughter Phoenix.

Earl Henderson Hepler has Died

LEXINGTON-Earl Henderson Hepler, Jr. age 92, passed Wednesday, May 12, 2010 at Piedmont Crossing of Davidson County. A funeral service will be Saturday, May 15 at 2:00 pm, at JC Green and Sons Chapel; Reverend Ricky Payne and Reverend George Stowe officiating. Visitations will be held at 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm on Saturday May 15, at JC Green and Sons Funeral Home. Interment will follow the service to Emanuel Reformed Church Cemetery. Born March 26, 1918 in Davidson County to Early Henderson Hepler Sr. and Mattie Hanner Hepler. Preceded in death by his wife, Modina Black Hepler. Surviving are one sister, Hannah Watford and husband Roy of Thomasville. One brother, Stewart Hepler of Bennettsville. Also several nieces and nephews.

Ralph Eugene Briles Jr. Passes

CEDAR RAPIDS-Ralph Eugene Briles Jr., 74, passed Thursday, May 6, 2010, at Mercy Medical Center, Cedar Rapids. Services: 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 11, 2010 at Gospel Light Baptist Church in Marion; Pastor Ronald Morrow officiating. Burial will be in Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery, Cedar Rapids. Born Jan. 29, 1936, in Cedar Rapids, son of the late Ralph and Bertha Harris Briles Sr. Survived by his wife, Alma Jean Hartman (married- June 22, 1957); four children, Karla (Gary) Park of Walnut Creek, Calif., Paul (Doreen) Briles of Davenport, Chris (Ross) Edgerton of Cedar Rapids and Andy (Renee) Briles of Marion; nine grandchildren, Ryan, Kari, Alex, Tyler, Amanda (Tyler), Amber, Zac, Matt and Mitchell; one great-grandson on the way; and a sister, Bev (Bob) Etzel of Marion.

Dolores Dennis Kinley Passes

LEXINGTON-Mrs. Dolores Dennis Kinley, 70, passed Friday, May 7 at Lexington Memorial Hospital. Funeral service will be held at 4:00 PM Thursday, May 13 at Lakeview Baptist Church; Rev. David Wooten. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Born September 12, 1939 in York County, SC to Arthur Lee Dennis and Ada Walser Dennis. Preceded in death by her husband Charles "Sonny" Kinley and her son, Charles Steven Kinley, Survived by her brothers, Arthur L. Dennis, Jr., of Wilmington and Bennie R. Dennis, Sr., of Linwood; and several nieces and nephews.

Harold Thomas Hunt Dies

DENTON-Harold Thomas Hunt, 62, passed Tuesday, May 4, 2010 at Randolph Hospital in Asheboro. Memorial service was held today, Friday, May 7, 2010 at 11 AM at Briggs Funeral Home Memorial Chapel in Denton; Rev. Jody Harrison officiating. Born in Randolph County on February 9, 1948, he was the son of Howard Thomas Hunt and Naomi Caroline (Hunt) Hunt. Survived by his wife, Debbie Reeder Hunt of the home; 2 brothers, Wiley Hunt and wife Debbie of Denton and Don Hunt of Denton; 2 sisters, Lucille Surratt and husband Donnie and Hope Johnson and husband Carl all of Denton; mother-in-law Betty Reeder of Denton; father-in-law Yancey Reeder of Asheboro; Brother-in-law Mark Reeder and wife Lynn of Asheboro; sister-in-law Vickie Hulin of Denton. He is also survived by 14 nieces and nephews and 14 great-nieces and nephews.

Eva Hughes Lewallen Passes

THOMASVILLE-Eva Hughes Lewallen, 90, passed May 4, 2010. Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, May 7 at Liberty Baptist Church in Thomasville; Reverend David Bowman officiating, followed with Interment at Westfield Baptist Church in Trinity. Born March 6, 1920, in Randolph County to the late Walter Reid and Mary Elizabeth (Mamie) Parrish Hughes. Preceded in death by her husband Reginald "Fred" Lewallen (m.October 25, 1947, in Asheville, NC); son, the late Kenneth Reid Lewallen and wife Leona, and a daughter, Martha "Marti" L. Anderson and husband Frank; two brothers, Guy Hughes and Max Hughes; two sisters, Lois Hughes and Fay Loflin. Surviving are her grandchildren; Norm Anderson and wife Gail, Sandy Lackey and husband Brad, Beth Kennedy and husband Michael, Karen DePolo and husband Mike; great grandchildren, Mackenzie Anderson, Emory Anderson, Lucas Kennedy, Eva Claire Anderson, Byerly Kennedy, Carter Anderson and Layla DePolo. Special friends that meant a lot to Eva were Frances Miller Rash, Carolyn Miller Plaxco, Susan Miller Medlin and Henry Miller.

Dwight Monroe Stout Passes

Dwight Monroe Stout, 90, passed Friday, April 30, 2010 at Universal Health Care in Ramseur. Wake: 7 PM to 9 PM Sunday, May 2, 2010 at Loflin Funeral Home in Ramseur. Funeral Services will be 2 PM, Monday, May 3, 2010 at Parks Crossroads Christian Church in Ramseur; Rev. Randy Kelley, Rev. James Turner officiating. Interment will be in the church cemetery. Born in Randolph County, he was preceded in death by his wife Doris Briles Stout. Survivors: son, Larry M. Stout and wife Linda, of Ramseur, sister, Nancy Moffitt, of Ramseur, grandchild, Jamie Fogleman and husband Mike, of Liberty, great grandchildren, Blakeley Fogleman and Brody Fogleman.

Death Finds Bennie Lee Kinley

Bennie Lee Kinley, 71, passed April 26th, 2010 at High Point Regional Hospital. Funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday at Trindale Community Church with Rev. Otis Collins, Rev. Joe Horrell and Rev. David Collins officiating. Interment will follow in Randolph Memorial Park Cemetery. Born December 1st, 1938 in Randolph County; preceded in death by a sister, Elize Elizabeth Kinley; a brother, Lewis Edward Kinley; a half sister, Anna Marie Hunt and a half brother, Frank Kinley. In addition to his wife he is survived by two sons, Bennie Lee Kinley II of Archdale and Billy Dean Kinley of Archdale; a brother, William Arthur Kinley of FL; three half sisters, Stella Lucille Mae Edwards of Franklinville, Edith McElreath of Asheboro and Mary Lois Kinley of Franklinville; and four grandchildren, Kaley Kinley, Brooklyn Kinley, Bennie Lee Kinley III and Billy Dean Kinley II.

Death Takes John Ollie Crotts

John Ollie Crotts, Jr., age 90, passed Monday, April 26 at Mountain Vista Health Park in Denton. Graveside service will be 11:00 am Thursday, April 29 at Lineberry United Methodist Church Cemetery; Rev. Kelly Creekmur and Rev. Derald Smith officiating. Born May 9, 1919 in Davidson County to John Ollie Crotts, Jr. and Maggie Sidden Crotts. Ppreceded in death by his wife Virginia Dare Lanier Crotts and by a sister Avonell McVey. Survived by sisters, Fleta Crotts Ford of Denton and Sybil Crotts Jermane and Bobbie Crotts Rosser, both of New London and several nieces and nephews.John Ollie Crotts, Jr., age 90, passed Monday, April 26 at Mountain Vista Health Park in Denton. Graveside service will be 11:00 am Thursday, April 29 at Lineberry United Methodist Church Cemetery; Rev. Kelly Creekmur and Rev. Derald Smith officiating. Born May 9, 1919 in Davidson County to John Ollie Crotts, Jr. and Maggie Sidden Crotts. Ppreceded in death by his wife Virginia Dare Lanier Crotts and by a sister Avonell McVey. Survived by sisters, Fleta Crotts Ford of Denton and Sybil Crotts Jermane and Bobbie Crotts Rosser, both of New London and several nieces and nephews.

Judy Meacham Crotts Dies

Judy Meacham Crotts passed Monday, April 26, 2010. Funeral services will be Thursday, April 29, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at Friendship Baptist Church; Rev. Tommy R. Kidd Sr. officiating. Burial will be in the Mt. Pleasant Community Church Cemetery. Wake will be an hour before at the church. Born on May 19, 1943 in Troy, NC to Walker Poole "WP" Meacham and Pauline Smith Meacham. Survived by her husband, Reid Crotts of the home; son, Brent Crotts and his wife Lisa of Asheboro; daughters Darlene Hackett and her husband Daniel of High Point, Melissa Jones and her husband Dale of Asheboro, Julie Tysinger and her husband Pastor Brent Tysinger of Asheboro; grandchildren, Melanie Nance and her husband Todd, Erinn Frazier and her husband Ben, Emma Hackett, Kaleigh Jones, Lydia Jones, Aiden Tysinger, and Liam Tysinger; great granddaughter, Isabelle Nance; and mother, Pauline Smith Meacham of Asheboro.

Elizabeth Ann Farlow Rich Dies

SOPHIA-Elizabeth Ann Farlow Rich 63, of Sophia, passed Saturday April, 17, 2010 at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center. Graveside Service will be held on Monday, April 19, 2010 at 2:00 pm at Marlboro Friends Meeting; Rev. John Sides officiating. Born in Guilford County, the eldest daughter of McLain and Vadalia Farlow. Preceded in death by her mother, Vadalia Farlow and sister, Elaine F. Smalley. Surviving: her husband, Larry W. Rich and sons, Bryan Rich and wife Laurie of Greensboro and Eric Rich and wife Bia of Sophia. Her three grandchildren, Alexandria, Cannon, and Cole Rich; her father, McLain Farlow of the home and sisters, Amelia F. Davis of Cedar Square and Beverly F. Hilliard of Sophia. She was preceded in death by her mother, Vadalia Farlow and sister, Elaine F. Smalley. NOTE: Mrs. Rich was an avid genealogist and author of the book, "Marlboro Friends Plain and Simple". The Briles Information Network extends it's condolences to the Rich and Farlow families.

James Lewis Briles Dies

WINCHESTER-James Lewis Briles, 49, passed Fri., April 16, 2010 at the Clark Regional Medical Center. Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 p.m., Wed., April 21 at Scobee Funeral Home; Rev. Lee Cruse officiating. Burial will be in the Winchester Cemetery. Born in New Albany, IN on Oct. 7, 1960 to the late Charles L. and Elizabeth Caroline Reffitt Briles. Preceded in death by his sister, Cathy Lynne Briles. Survived by his wife, Vickie Watkins Briles; a son, Darrel J. Boshers, Jr. (Ashley Mills) of NC; four daughters, Lori Rogers (Richard) of Winchester, Cherri R. Madhat (Jacob Leach) of Winchester, Tabitha A. Davis (Tommy Leach) of Winchester, and Kimberly Lynn Walker (Scott Blaisdell) of Nicholasville; six grandchildren, Dalton Rogers, Shawn Davis, Seth Williams, Emily Rogers, Kaiden Boshers, and Ashley Rogers; a brother, Kenneth N. Briles of Winchester; three sisters, Linda Creech of Clay City, Anna Profitt of Winchester, and Patricia K. Briles of Paris; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Briles Murder Update

A Sarasota man has pleaded no contest to pawning the jewelry of Kathleen Briles who was murdered by suspected thug Delmer Smith. Kathleen Briles was the wife of Dr. James Briles. James Cellecz will spend the next 15 months in prison and have five years probation in exchange for his testimony in Smith's murder trial. Cellecz is a registered sex offender, already entered into a similar plea agreement with prosecutors in Sarasota on drug and failure to register charges, in exchange for testimony on several cases involving Smith there. Smith faces rape, home invasion robbery and false imprisonment charges in the 2009 attacks of four women in Sarasota. Smith may be responsible for as many as 11 similar attacks on women in both counties between February and August 2009. The State of Florida has not decided if they will seek the death penalty against Smith. The BIN will keep you informed of this story.

Albert Ray Plummer Dies

LEXINGTON-Albert Ray Plummer, passed Tuesday morning April 13, in Lexington Health Care. Funeral service 2:00 p.m. Sunday, April 18, 2010 at Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church; Rev. Karen Smith, with burial to follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held 6-8 p.m. Saturday, April 17, 2010 at Davidson Funeral Home Lexington Chapel. Born in Davidson County August 19, 1926 to the late Kearney Philmois and Leona Parrish Plummer; preceded in death by his first wife Helen Beck Plummer in January 1990. Survived by his wife Jean Swing Plummer of the home; two sons Mike Plummer and wife Diane and Phil Plummer and wife Cheryl both of Lexington; one daughter Mary Nell Loflin and husband Dale of Lexington; four grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Larry Wade Nance Passes

LIBERTY-Larry Wade Nance, 63, of Liberty, passed away April 6, 2010 at Wesley Long Hospital. Celebration of life will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 8, 2010, at First United Methodist Church in Liberty; Reverend Gene Dean officiating. Born June 12, 1946 in Randolph County to the late Daniel and Angie Farlow Nance. Survived by his wife, Jane P. Nance; daughters, Angie Vickrey of Greensboro, and Patricia Redding (Joe) of Liberty; son, Gregory W. Nance of Raleigh; sisters, Thyra Nance of Liberty, and Rachel Westmoreland of Staley; seven grandchildren.

Eugenia Lassiter Bell Passes

RANDLEMAN-Eugenia Lassiter Bell, 93, passed Tuesday, April 6, 2010. Wake: Wednesday, April 07, 2010 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Pugh Funeral Home, Randleman, NC. Funeral services Thursday, April 8, 2010, at First Baptist Church, Randleman; Rev. Chris Heppding and Rev. Kenneth Reaves Officiating. Burial will follow at Randolph Memorial Park. Preceded in death by her parents, Eugene and Alice Farlow Lassiter; husband, Paul Bell; grandson, Adam Bell; sister, Jessie Lassiter Causey; and brother, Charles "Bud" Lassiter. Surviving are son, R. Eugene and his wife, Cynthia Williams Bell of Bahama, NC; son, Alton Bell of the home; sister, Ruby Lassiter Culver of Asheboro; and granddaughter Diana Bell-Kite and her husband, Jeff Kite of Raleigh.

Maxine Carriker Floyd Passes

THOMASVILLE-Maxine Carriker Floyd, 86, passed Monday, March 29, 2010, at her home in Thomasville. Wake & Funeral information: Wednesday from 2 until 3 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in Thomasville. Funeral service will follow at 3 p.m.; Rev. Chris Uren officiating. Interment will be at Holly Hill Memorial Park. Born June 5, 1923, in Davidson County to the late Wiley and Frances Carriker. Preceded in death by her husband, Ciscero Floyd; sisters, Ruby Tyler and Zona Skeen; brothers, James Carriker and Wiley Carriker. Survived by her caregivers, daughter, Patsy Coe, and beloved son-in-law, Larry.

Hayworth & Briles...Linked Together!

Not that we needed to add more famous folks to the Briles list...we have plenty to include Jill Briles-Hinton, Jim Briles, Art Briles, and the late Worthie Briles & Nelson Briles. The Briles Surname is linked to three other famous folks, all within one family lineage! J.D. Hayworth, former United States Congressman and current candidate for the United States Senate from Arizona is linked along with his great uncle Myron "Red" Hayworth & and grand father Raymond Hayworth . "Red" and Raymond Hayworth were former Major League Baseball players in the 40's. "Red" spent nearly fifty years in baseball as a player, coach, and scout and won the pennant with the St. Louis Browns. Raymond Hayworth also spent nearly 50 years in baseball and played with Ty Cobb and the Tigers, Dodgers, Browns, and Giants.

The Hayworth's are linked to the Briles Surname through marriage of course, but in two ways. Raymond and Red's mother was Mary Emma Hepler Hayworth. Her lineage dates back to Christopher Friederich Hepler (her great grandfather) who had two sons: Phillip, her grandfather and Christopher (great uncle). Christopher had a son named John Hepler who married Hannah Briles, daughter of Jacob & Susanna Plummer Briles.

The second link is via "Red" and Raymond's sister Alice Hayworth who married Ernest Macon. His parents are Ashworth & Flora Spencer Macon whose parents are Michael & Anna Jane Hill Spencer. These fine folks had a daughter, Roxanna, who married my very own Joseph Lafayette Briles! Are you keeping score?

Dermont Alexander Beck Dies

LEXINGTON-Dermont Alexander Beck, age 92, passed Saturday, March 27 at his home. Wake: Two hours before the service. Funeral service will be 4:00 pm Tuesday, March 30 at Davidson Funeral Home Chapel; Dr. Maria Copeland and Rev. Butch Conrad officiating. Burial will follow in Holly Grove Lutheran Church Cemetery. Born March 3, 1918 in Davidson County to Thurman Cleveland Beck and Minnie Foust Beck. Veteran: U.S. Army Veteran of World War II, serving in the 949th Field Artillery Batallion. Preceded in death by brothers and sisters, Goldie Hedrick, Clyde Beck, Fred Beck, Treva Hedrick, Martha Frank, George Beck, Paige Nance, Darland Beck, Hoy Beck and Helen Plummer. Survived by his wife of almost 63 years, Gladys Fritts Beck of the home, daughters, Donna Kepley and husband Larry and Marie Palmer and husband James, all of Lexington, brother, Wayne Bryce Beck and wife Mary Sue of the Midway Community and sisters Lois Gallimore of Denton and Sadie Peacock of Lexington. He is also survived by 3 grandchildren, Ben Palmer and wife Angela, Laurie Kepley and Bryon Palmer and wife Carrie and 3 great-grandchildren, Ellie, Anna and Rebecca.

Pierce Chapel Baptist Church Cemetery

The Briles Information Network, in conjunction with the Randolph Project , is proud to post yet another transcribed cemetery in the county. Pierce Chapel Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery has been transcribed and photographed. You can view photos of grave markers, directions to the cemetery and the index. Next up in the series will be Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church.

Mystery Solved?

A mystery may have been solved in Tabernacle! Danita Hunt Crotts contacted the BIN several years ago regarding her grandfather Tennyson Wesley Hunt who was born in 1901 to a Julia E. HUNT (Garren). Danita wanted to confirm who Tennyson's father was and needed help from the genealogy world. The family believed that Wesley H. Briles, son of Jacob & Rachel Fouts Briles is the father of Tennyson.

The story is that Wesley was killed in a saw mill accident in 1901 before Tennyson was born. Julia Hunt gave her maiden name to Tennyson because Wesley was killed before they were married. It was a known fact that Wesley was his father, but verification is needed from reliable sources. The BIN has always believed that family information outweighs any other source, especially during that time period. Danita has located a picture believing to be Wesley, which hung in Tennyson's living room. This photograph was given to him by Mary Elizabeth Briles Hoover, who is the brother of Wesley Briles (verified).

Danita has since contacted the BIN with the photograph of Wesley in search of further verification. The BIN believes Wesley Briles is buried at Poplar Ridge Friends Meeting since the majority of the family is buried there. Overall, the BIN believes there is enough evidence to support the claim that Wesley Briles is Tennyson Hunt's father, however we want to assist Danita in seeking additional information for this lineage. If you have any information regarding the lineage or Wesley H. Briles, Tennyson Hunt or Julia E. Hunt Garren please contact the BIN.

Michael Craig Briles Passes

ARCHDALE-Michael Craig Briles, 57, passed Tuesday March 16, 2010, at Annie Penn Hospital in Reidsville. Wake: Sechrest Funeral Service on Friday, March 19, 2010 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Funeral services Saturday, March 20, 2010, at 11:00 a.m. in the Sechrest Funeral Chapel in Archdale; Reverend Kenneth Welborn officating. Interment will follow in Floral Garden Park Cemetery. Born May 19, 1952, in High Point a son of the late Russell Rae and Nona Thomas Briles. Survived by his wife, Sarah Yow Briles of the home; two sons, John Russell Briles and wife Becky of High Point, Michael Corey Briles of the US Territory of Guam; three step-sons, Robert C. Blakley and wife Chelsea of Archdale, Cory L. Blakley of Greensboro, Johnny R. Yow and wife Della of Reidsville; one grandson, Matthew Craig Briles and 10 step-grandchildren.

Inez Skeen Pierce Passes Away

ASHEBORO-Inez Skeen Pierce, age 76, passed Monday, March 15, 2010 at Randolph Hospital, Asheboro. Wake: Tuesday, March 16, 2010 from 6:00-8:00 PM at Pugh Funeral Home. Graveside service will be Wednesday, March 17, 2010 at 2:00 PM in Randolph Memorial Park; Dr. Vern Peterson officiating. Native of Randolph County, born August 23, 1933 to the late Noah W. Skeen and Bessie L. Beasley Skeen. Preceded in death by her daugher Celeste Carol Pierce. Survived by her husband, Lacy E. Pierce; sons, Eric Pierce and his wife Rita of Henderson, NC, Brian Pierce and his wife Donna of Denton, NC; daughter, Angela Talley and her husband Johnny of Denton, NC; grandchildren, Andrew, Callie and Krista Pierce; step grandchildren, Jodi Hearn and Jessica Talley; brothers, Alvah Lee Skeen of Asheboro, NC, Howard Skeen of Asheboro, NC; and sister, Mattie Ward of Randleman, NC.

2010 CENSUS AND THE "OBAMA FACTOR"

Article by R.T. Briles
Curator, Briles Information Network

Earlier this week I was listening to Glenn Beck on the radio who was coming out of a commercial break. [My choices were Neal Bortz, Beck, or the four-in-a-row local music stations]. I left the dial sitting on Beck as he was raving about the 2010 Census, which of course caught my attention since I kinda like that genealogy stuff ya know.

Anyone who listens to Beck understands his talking points and his ability to raise a crisis, laugh about it, and move on to the next topic. After the continuous commercial plugs, constant interruptions, and his wife on the phone, Beck finally conveyed his complaint about the pending census which will arrive to all of us within the next few weeks. Beck let everyone in America know (he is the “3rd Most Listened to Show”--his words not mine) that he was not going to fill out the 2010 Census. Beck insists that the 2010 Census contains too many invasive questions and his privacy will be compromised if he completes the form.

Now anyone who has met me or has read my writing about privacy rights understands that I'm an ultra-conservative Republican. Protector of the Constitution and adamant about our protecting our rights as citizens of our great land. Could Beck's argument be centered around the privacy issue or is it because of the Obama Factor?

If you remember one of the first acts President Obama (within first three weeks) did was to transfer the oversight of the 2010 census from the Department of Commerce to the White House, i.e. Rahm Emanuel. Certainly this raised a few eyebrows and set off a firestorm in the GOP. What we have learned so far in this administration the actions are all about power and control, not about counting numbers. Some insisted that ACORN would be playing a vital role in the process of collecting census data, however this has been dispelled by Census Director Robert M. Groves. In June of 2009 Rep. Michele Bachmann echoed Beck's comments by refusing to fill out the census and believes the upcoming census to be "very intricate" and "very personal" and expresses concerns about ACORN's involvement in the data collection. Rep. Bachmann references the United States Constitution, which I will dive into in the next paragraph. Let it be known here that I believe the actions of the President is about total power and control, from the banks, the auto industry, to our health care system. But should the “Obama Factor” persuade you in fulfilling your obligation as a citizen?

OK, here comes the short history lesson for this article. Article I, Section 2 of our constitution reads: “The actual Enumeration shall be made within three Years after the first Meeting of the Congress of the United States, and within every subsequent Term of ten Years, in such Manner as they shall by Law direct.” The purpose of the census is to apportion the number of seats in the House of Representatives and derived from that, along with two senators from each state, the number of electors to the Electoral College. Simple eh? If you take a look at the 2010 Census, there are only ten questions with the first one satisfying Article 1 Section 2: “How many people were living or staying at this house, apartment or mobile home on April 1, 2010?” Being the “ultra-conservative” Republican I' am you think my form would have one check and the rest of the boxes unchecked. Beck and Bachmann will probably line their kitty litter box with the Census form, ignoring the threat of a fine by those pesky door knockers (The census even wants a telephone number if you forget a box). But let's look at the 2010 Census and see if any of the questions look familiar to you...the genealogist.

1.How many people were living or staying at this house, apartment or mobile home on April 1, 2010?
2.Were there any additional people here April 1, 2010 that you didn't include in Question 1?
3.Is this house, apartment, or mobile home--(it asks if either is owned, has a mortgage, or is free and clear from same, has a rent or is occupied without rent.
4.What is your telephone number?
5.What is the First and Last Name of everyone living in this residence?
6.What is the person's sex?
7.What is the person's age and date of birth?
8.Is the person Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin?
9.What is the person's race?
10.Does anyone sometimes live or stay somewhere else?

Now looking at this list I have highlighted the ones that are questionable, but the rest are innocuous. Take a look at the image below from the 1900 census. As you can see the “innocuous” questions were asked then just like today. In fact, most or all of these questions have been asked by the government since 1790.




Sec. 221. Refusal or neglect to answer questions; false answers:
(a) Whoever, being over eighteen years of age, refuses or willfully neglects, when requested by the Secretary, or by any other authorized officer or employee of the Department of Commerce or bureau or agency thereof acting under the instructions of the Secretary or authorized officer, to answer, to the best of his knowledge, any of the questions on any schedule submitted to him in connection with any census or survey provided for by subchapters I,II, IV, and V of chapter 5 of this title, applying to himself or to the family to which he belongs or is related, or to the farm or farms of which he or his family is the occupant, shall be fined not more than $100.


As a amateur genealogist I value the power of the census. The census has solved numerous issues during difficult research periods and corroborated other sources such as death records and obituaries. As a conservative I also value my privacy and the desire to protect my identity when I'm still on this planet. The current system allows public viewing of the United States Census seventy-two years after the process takes place. In short, we still have two years left before we can view the 1940 census. If the 2010 Census, in it's short form, mirrors the census from the 1800's I believe the privacy argument is flawed if the same or even more information is provided when you send in that yearly 1040 Tax Form?

In closing, I don't believe the White House has ACORN waiting around the corner to slap that $100 fine if you fail to answer the census in its entirety. Glenn Beck will answer at least question one, which is mandated by the Constitution. If you are reading this article then you have some interest in genealogy and the preservation of family history. The census is a valuable research tool and your privacy is protected by the laws in place. The 2010 census will not be available to the public until 2082. Hopefully, by then, our great land will be returned back to the it's people.

Sources: Image provided by United Census: 1900
2010 Census: http://2010.census.gov/2010census/