KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – Gloria Jean Slycord, 75, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on October 08, 2024, at Atrium Health Cleveland in Shelby, NC.
She was born in Gaston County, NC, daughter of the late Joseph and Ollie Smith Wheeler and was preceded in death by 2 sons, Larry Dean Slycord II and Larry Dean “Tripp” Slycord III.
 Butch was a lifelong member of East Gold Street Wesleyan Church. She worked in the clerical field for several industries during her career. Butch enjoyed reading and spending time at the beach and in the mountains. She was an avid photo taker and was known to snap pictures of her friends and loved ones frequently.
Butch loved spending time with those she loved. She was a loving mother, wonderful grandmother and great grandmother, and devoted sister. She will be missed dearly by all those who knew her.
She is survived by her son: Travis Slycord, Kings Mountain, NC; grandchildren: Payton, Josh, and Katie Slycord; great-grandchildren: Calvin and Isaac Slycord; siblings: Ronnie Wheeler (Joyce), Kevin Wheeler (Peggy), Buck Wheeler, and Betty Ingle all of Kings Mountain, NC and numerous nieces and nephews .
Funeral service was held on Sunday, October 13, 2024, at 2:00 PM at East Gold Street Wesleyan Church with Pastor Scott Whitney officiating.
Visitation was on Sunday, October 13, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 1:50 PM prior to the service in the church.
Interment was in Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, NC.      
Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.  
Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.

CASTLE HAYNE, NC – Preston Neisler (64) died peacefully at home on Sunday, September 29, 2024. He was the eldest son of Robert Preston Neisler, Sr. and Nora Jane Deese
Neisler. He was preceded in death by his parents. Preston spent his childhood years in Pageland South Carolina. He graduated from Central High School where he played football and was on the golf team. Preston loved competition. Whether it was sports, playing pub trivia or just life in general, he was happiest when he was competing. He was an adamant fan of the Clemson Tigers football team, the Colorado Avalanche hockey team, the Jacksonville Jaguars NFL team and the Atlanta Braves baseball team, he also enjoyed Nascar. He loved cheering on his favorite teams and could recall stats of each team by memory.
He attended Wingate College and eventually moved to Asheville, North Carolina where he worked in medical sales for a while and ended up working at Mission Memorial Hospital in the physical therapy department. He married Sheila Maphis in February of 1989, and they left Asheville and moved back to Pageland, South Carolina where he worked in the family textile business at Chesterfield Yarn Mills, Inc. Preston ran the sales department with his father, Robert Neisler, Sr. They travelled all over the northeast selling yarn. Preston never met a stranger and could always find something in common with anyone he met. He was Vice President of the Mill for many years and remained in sales until 2018 when he moved from Pageland, S.C. to Wilmington, NC where he worked for Manheim Auto Auction in Wilmington, He enjoyed his time there. Many of his co-workers were ex-military and Preston always had the highest respect for those who served our Country. The coast of North Carolina was not new to Preston. He spent many of his summers at Lake Waccamaw, North Carolina fishing, swimming and water skiing. He loved the water, sunsets and the pace of life in Wilmington.   He enjoyed hosting friends and customers on annual deer hunts at Oakland Plantation in Council, North Carolina.
Preston’s children, Katarina Marie Neisler and Robert Preston “Buckshot” Neisler, III. were his pride and joy. He took every opportunity to brag on their accomplishments. When the children were growing up in Pageland, S C. they owned horses. The family spent a lot of time riding horses and attending rodeos. Anything to do with being outside was close to Preston’s heart. He enjoyed bird watching and was especially fond of hummingbirds. He followed the weather apps on his phone and had a great appreciation of the power of the weather. He often referred to himself as a weather geek.
Preston had a larger-than-life personality and will be missed by so many people. His life and legacy will live on through his children, family and his friends. 
Preston is survived by his daughter, Katarina Marie Neisler of Charlotte, N.C. and his son, Robert Preston Neisler, III. of Wilmington, N.C., partner, Suzanne Sims, brothers Matthew Neisler and Chris Neisler from Pageland S.C., several nephews and many cousins.
Memorial may be made to: Hurricane Relief Fund
Donations in Preston’s memory may be made to the Western North Carolina Assistance Fund at https://pay.payitgov.com/ncdonations
Visitation was held on Thursday, October 10, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 10:50 AM at Harris Funeral Home with a graveside service following at Mountain Rest Cemetery
Interment was in Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, NC.
Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.  
Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – Early on the morning of Wednesday, September 11, 2024, Kathy Lynn Bush, 68, went to be with Jesus. She is now safe in the arms of Jesus, pain free and dancing on the streets of gold.
Born July 18th, 1956 in Gastonia, NC, she was the daughter of the late Mary Ethel Carroll Bush and William Bush. She was also preceded in death by her siblings Kenneth Bush, Sherry Blanton, and Texter Bush.
Kathy was a hard worker and dedicated homemaker with a knack for keeping everything clean and tidy. She was a strong woman with a strong will, and she kept everyone straight. She was always there for her family, through good and bad. She and Bob loved cooking Sunday meals and having their children and grandchildren over to eat and enjoy quality time. Kathy loved her family and was loved by her family very much, and will be missed dearly.
She is survived by the Love of her life of 40 years: Bob Burton; son: Chris Ledbetter of Kings Mountain; daughter: Maranda Scates and husband, Jason, of Kings Mountain; siblings: Roger Bush and wife, Diane; Earl Bush; and Cindy Woodward; grandchildren: Destiny Wilks and husband, James, Kaylin Craine, Dalton Ledbetter, and Hunter Ledbetter; great-grandchildren: Ryker Carter, Kimber Carter, and Landrie Wilks
Kathy is additionally survived by several nieces and nephews.
Memorial service was held on  Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. in the Ollie Harris Memorial Chapel with Reverend Tim Setzer officiating.
The family spoke with friends and family following the service.
Memorials in Kathy’s memory may be made to VIA Health Partners Fort Mill/Rock Hill at 1061 Red Ventures Dr. Suite 130, Fort Mill, SC 29707.
Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.  
Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.

August 28, 1938 -
August 2, 2024

Orange County, CA – Nicholas Arthur Smith, Sr., former longtime resident of Colorado Springs, CO and Sewanee, TN, passed away on August 2, 2024 in his more recent place of residence in Orange County, CA, after a long illness, which he fought bravely and with good humor.
He was born on August 28, 1938 in Charlotte, NC and was raised in nearby Kings Mountain.
He attended Kings Mountain High School and the Fishburne Military School after surviving a devastating case of polio in 1952 that led to his temporary confinement to an iron lung, proving his tenacity even at a young age. He was a graduate of the University of Tennessee School of Law and the University of the South School of Theology. His myriad career saw legal practice in North Carolina and Virginia and work in academia at universities in North Carolina, Tennessee, Massachusetts, and Colorado.
Once considered a rising star in the party, he was the Republican nominee for Attorney General of North Carolina in 1972, at which time he became the first white candidate in a statewide election in North Carolina to employ an
African-American campaign manager. He also served as the Director of the North Carolina Department of License and Enforcement, which oversaw all State Patrol and DMV operations statewide. He was particularly proud to have founded and run legal aid clinics serving the Eastern Band of the Cherokee tribal population in Cherokee, NC and the impoverished population of Roanoke, VA.
Later consulting work in the 1980s and 1990s took him to places as far afield as Western Europe, Indonesia, Japan, and the Komi Province of Russia. The new century found him studying theology, discovering a renewed sense of faith, which showed in his interactions with others. He was never found without a stack of books and a legal pad with notes on subjects as diverse as anthropology, bioethics, history, philosophy, international affairs, and religion, among others.
He loved traveling, opera, documentaries, roaring fireplaces, and exploring new ideas and knowledge up until his final days. He wore his heart on his sleeve, never hesitated to say “I love you,” and was a friend and mentor to many. He will be missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by his four children: Nicholas A. Smith, Jr. (Antonia) of Philipsburg, NJ, Jocelyn Busby (Greg) of Memphis, TN, Edward Gideon Smith of Charlotte, NC, and Benjamin Woodford Smith (Karla) of Irvine, CA, as well as six grandchildren: Cole, Kathleen, Henry, Maxwell, Christina, and Vasilis and their spouses, and three great-grandchildren: Ann, Brantley, and Jennie, and his first wife, Carol Walker Jordan of Charlotte, NC.
He was predeceased by his parents, Edward A. Smith, Jr. and Eloise Moss Smith, older brother Edward H. Smith, and his second wife, Susan Woodford Smith of Colorado Springs, with whom he maintained a close friendship until her death in 2005 despite their amicable 1990s divorce, having served as one of her caretakers during her final illness.
He shared his life with numerous dogs who were faithful companions over many decades, beginning with Happy, a much loved Cocker Spaniel in his childhood, and concluding with Juno, an Aussie mix who was his traveling companion on many road trips around America prior to his illness and was a comforting presence for him after it descended upon him.  Most recently he enjoyed visiting with his son’s Terrier mix Edie, whom he affectionately referred to as his “granddog.”
The family wishes to extend special thanks to the staff of the Stanley Healthcare Center in Westminster, CA, which was his home for several years, as well as to The Rev. Charles Sumners, formerly of
Colorado Springs, CO, and The Rev. Nathan Biornstad of Huntington Beach, CA, who each provided great spiritual comfort to him over the long years of his illness.
Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to St. Wilfrid’s of York Episcopal Church in Huntington Beach, CA, the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region in Colorado Springs, CO, or the Mauny Memorial Library in Kings Mountain, NC, where his lifelong love of learning was born.
A memorial service will be held on September 28, 2024 at 11:00 AM at St. Wilfrid’s of York Episcopal Church in Huntington Beach, CA. It will be live-streamed for those unable to attend in person.

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – JoAnn Scarlett Smith, 91, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on August 6, 2024 at Wendover Hospice House in Shelby, NC.
She was born in Guilford County, NC, daughter of the late Tommy and Emmerline White Scarlett and was preceded in death by her
husband of 54 years, Odus D. Smith Jr. and her son-in-law, Marty J. Negus.
JoAnn was a longtime, faithful member of First Baptist Church where she participated in the Golden Fellowship. JoAnn worked as a hairdresser for a time. She and her husband owned Western Auto in Kings Mountain for many years, working side by side until their retirement in 1991. JoAnn enjoyed traveling the world. She and Odus visited countless countries worldwide.
A wonderful homemaker, JoAnn enjoyed cooking for friends and family, doing cross stitch and visiting people who were unable to get out. She especially loved visiting the local retirement and nursing homes. She loved her family with her whole being and always made sure they felt her love and commitment to them. She was a dutiful wife, loving mother, and doting grandmother and great grandmother. JoAnn’s memories and love will live in the hearts of many for a lifetime.
She is survived by her children: Reverend Gregory Roy Smith and wife Reverend Dana C. Smith, Fort Mitchell, AL, and Teresa S. Negus, Kings Mountain, NC; grandchildren: Jonathan Smith (Samantha), Gregory Smith (Madison), Heather York (Houston), Joshua Negus, and Austin Negus (Destiny); great-grandchildren: Mallory Bell, Chloe Eva, Saylor Ann, Maisey Grace, and Ella Catherine Smith.
Funeral service was held on Monday, August 12, 2024 at 2:00 PM at First Baptist Church with Reverend Dr. John Sloan officiating.
Visitation was held on Monday, August 12, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 1:50 PM prior to the service in the Stained Glass Room of First Baptist Church.
Interment was in Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, NC.
In lieu of flowers, donations in JoAnn’s memory may be made to your local Salvation Army.
Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.  
Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – Edith Atwell Forbes, 84, of Kings Mountain, North Carolina, passed away on August 6, 2024 at Peak Resources in Cherryville, NC.
Born September 30, 1939 in Graham County, NC, she was daughter of the late Rockwell Cole Atwell and Cora Lee Atwell-Pearson and was also preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Darrell Mitchell Forbes, Sr., her stepfather, Charles Pearson, and her brothers, David Atwell, Hugh Atwell, Gary Pearson, and Randall Atwell.
Edith worked as a seamstress in many textile mills in the Kings Mountain area and was also known for her cooking. As her kids were growing up, she fed many of their friends in the Bethlehem community and also did some cooking for the greater community. She was especially known for her delicious fried chicken.
She loved her siblings dearly and enjoyed traveling with her husband to the mountains and on cruises. She also loved shopping at Hamrick’s, Belk, and QVC. Edith was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who will be missed by all who knew and loved her.
She is survived by her son: Darrell Mitchell Forbes, Jr. and wife Annette, of Grover, NC; daughter: Tina Forbes Champion and husband Mark, of Kings Mountain, NC; sister: Sue Lewis; brother: Darrell Pearson and wife Jane; grandchildren: Dustin Forbes and girlfriend Jessica Panther of Grover, NC; Chelsea Champion Webster and husband Ryan of Kings Mountain, NC; Tiffani Champion Hudson and husband Andrew of Winston-Salem, NC; Hunter Champion of Kings Mountain, NC; great-grandchildren: Landon and Carter Webster of Kings Mountain, NC.
Funeral service was held on Saturday, August 10, 2024 at 2:00 P.M. at
Bethlehem Baptist Church with Rev. Steve Taylor officiating.
Visitation was held on Friday, August 9, 2024 from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. in the parlor of Harris Funeral Home.
Interment was in Bethlehem Baptist Church Cemetery.
 In lieu of flowers, donations in Edith’s memory may be made to the Bethlehem Baptist Church Youth Ministry or Building Fund at 1017 Bethlehem Rd., Kings Mountain, NC 28086 or www.bethlehemkmnc.org/give
Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.  
Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – Evelyn Vaughn Brown, 100,  of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on August 8, 2024 at Wendover Hospice in Shelby NC.
Mrs. Brown was born September 16, 1923 in Greenville, SC. She was the daughter of the late Otis Kemp Vaughn and Lavada Corbin Vaughn. She was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. Norman F. Brown, her son Michael Brown, her daughter Elaine Brown, and her son-in-law Jerry Morris.
Mrs. Brown spent her adult years as a Mother to her three children and a Baptist Minister’s wife. She served along with her husband in several churches in North and South Carolina, including Bethlehem Baptist Church in Kings Mountain, NC, and Second Baptist Church in Shelby, NC.
Mrs. Brown, along with her husband, retired from the International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention in 1986 after serving seven years in Germany. She was a remarkable example of a Christ follower and dedicated prayer warrior! She made it her mission, even while in the nursing home, to pray for and encourage other residents. Upon her retirement and move back to Kings Mountain, she joined First Baptist Church of Kings Mountain. Mrs. Brown was a member of the PEO sisterhood organization, Shelby Chapter AH. She was a very sweet, kind, and humble lady whose memory will be treasured by all who knew her.
She is survived by her daughter: April Brown Morris, of Cherryville, NC; grandchildren: Neil Morris, of Shelby, NC, Amy Morris Reed (Timothy) of Kings Mountain, NC, Chris Morris of Cherryville, NC, Jeremiah Brown (Brittany) of West Chester, PA, and Jessica Brown Scott (Josh) of Tega Cay, SC; great-grandchildren: Sydney Morris, Evelyn “Evey” Morris, Jamie McGinnis (Mara), Carter Grace Reed, Chloe Brown, Hudson Brown, Keller Brown, Beckett Brown, Izabella Scott, and Quinn Scott.
The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff at Summit Place Kings Mountain and Wendover Hospice House of Cleveland County.
Funeral service was held on Saturday, August 10, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. at First Baptist Church of Kings Mountain with Rev. Dr. John Sloan and Rev. Dr. Steve Taylor officiating. Family spoke with friends immediately following the service.
The family held a private interment ceremony at Bethlehem Baptist Church.
Memorials may be made to: First Baptist Church Missions fund, and/or VIA Health Partners founded as Hospice of Cleveland Co.
Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.  
Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – Ginger Camp Davis, 88, of Grover, NC, passed away surrounded by her loving family on July 19, 2024 at Peak Resources in Shelby, NC.
Ginger was born in Cleveland County, NC. She was the daughter of the late Raymond Oscar Camp and Mary Ella Clark Camp. She was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Charles Glen Davis. She also was preceded in death by her daughter Glenda Davis Dyke, son Charles Guy Davis, siblings Doris Short, Shirley Sisk, Bobby Acuff, Geraldine Stewart, and Hoppy Camp.
Ginger was a good caretaker always putting others first. She was a
loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and sister and enjoyed working jigsaw puzzles. She loved her grandbabies and was a good storyteller, always honest and loyal, who could find good in any situation. She will be greatly missed by all her family and friends.
She is survived by sons: Gene Davis and wife
Beverly, Kings Mountain, NC; Crowder Oscar Davis and wife Denise, Shelby, NC; George Nathan Davis, Grover, NC; daughters: Ginger Davis Mews and husband Scott, Gastonia, NC; Sally Davis Short and husband Billy, Kings Mountain, NC; Rose Davis Crawford and husband Chris, Kings Mountain, NC; sister: Toby Owens, Liberty, SC; daughter in law: Mary Davis, Patterson Springs, NC; grandchildren: Christoper Michael Dyke, Buddy Glen Davis and wife Kari Jane, Brandon Gene Davis and wife Vanessa, Tiffany Dawn Lail and husband Kenny, Macey Deering, Hunter Deering, Cade Crawford, Steven Short and Monica Miller and numerous great-grandchildren.
Graveside service was held at Davis Family Cemetery, Mallard Drive,
Grover NC on Tuesday July 23, 2024 at 4:00 PM  with Rev. JR Robbins,
officiating.
Visitation was at 6:00- 8:00 PM at Harris Funeral Home, Monday July 22, 2024.
Interment was held in Davis Family Cemetery, Grover, North Carolina.  
Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.  
Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.

GROVER, NC – Daisy “Marie’ Robinson Beam, affectionately know as Granny, passed away peacefully and went to be with her Lord on Thursday July 18, 2024 at Springs Hill Assisted Living in Pageland, SC.
Marie was born September 2, 1934 in Kings Mountain and was a lifelong resident of Grover, NC and a member of the First Baptist Church. She is proceeded in death by her parents Thomas and Virgie Mae Robinson and her loving husband of 62 years, Harry Lewis Beam also of Grover NC.
Marie was born one of the oldest of 11 children. As a child she was an avid roller skater. When she was about 12, her parents decided they needed to get the kids out of the city and onto the farm. Leaving King Mountain they started tenant farming a number of properties in Cleveland and Cherokee County. Most notable one was the Beam homestead.
Marie graduated from Grover High School in 1952. She married Harry Beam in 1954 while he was in service. They made their home in Grover, having two sons: Tony Edward Beam of  Belews Creek, NC and
Herbie Lee Beam of Cheraw, SC. Marie always a worker went to work at Minette Mills and then a long time production controller at Magnolia Mills. Upon retirement Marie continued working as church secretary of Grover First Baptist Church for over 20 years.
Marie was known for her quiet loving personality and her quick wit. She loved and cared for all she met and made certain that her sons were raised to follow Christ. She was a long time Sunday School teacher and nursery worker at Grover First Baptist. She became the matriarch of the Robinson clan after her dear sister and prayer partner Inez passed away and performed admirably with love and grace.
Marie is survived by three siblings Ray “Bud” Robinson of Gastonia. Brenda Sipes of Kings Mountain and
Emogene Arrowood of Gastonia. She was proceeded in death by her siblings Inez Jones, Thomas, Edward, Elaine, Mickey, Barry and Teddy Robinson.
In addition to her two sons Granny is survived by five grandchildren: Kristy Watkins, Katie Toste and Jordan, Jason and Jaret Beam. She is survived by 17 great-grandkids: Harper and Holden Beam; Ryan, Hank and Kinsey Watkins; John, Terri, Melissa, Isabella, Catherine, Luke and Michael Toste; Koen, Navy, and Kade Beam; and Lucas and Easton Beam.
Funeral service was held on Monday, July 22, 2024 at 3:00 PM in the Ollie Harris Memorial Chapel with Reverends John Bridges and Jack Buchanan.
Visitation was held on Monday, July 22, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 2:45 PM prior to the service at Harris Funeral Home.
Interment was in Grover City Cemetery, Grover, NC.  
In lieu of flowers please make contributions to Grover First Baptist Church. Grover First Baptist Church, PO Box 237, Grover, NC 28073.
Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.  
Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – Marie Baker Morrow, 83, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on July 15, 2024 at White Oak Manor of Kings Mountain.
Born September 3, 1940 in Gaston County, NC, she was daughter of the late Joseph David and Della Randolph Baker and was preceded in death by her husband of 40 years, Clyde Ervin Morrow, and siblings Jeanette Hice, Larry Baker, Judy McNeely, and Vernon Baker.
Marie worked for most of her life as a seamstress in many locations, including local textile mills, dry cleaners, and in her home. She made dresses for all her sisters and hemmed pants for all her brothers for many years. Marie also worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant at White Oak Manor of Kings Mountain. Marie was a longtime member of
Family Worship Center in Kings Mountain, where she served as head of the ladies ministry for nearly two
decades.
Despite her work outside of the home, Marie was also an outstanding homemaker. She was one of the best cooks in Kings Mountain, leading many people to beg her to open a restaurant. She was a devoted wife and a loving mother who raised her sons to love the Lord and continued that tradition with her grandchildren. She loved her family dearly and cherished her role as grandmother and great-grandmother. Marie truly did it all. Her love, strength, and kindness will be remembered fondly by all who loved her.
She is survived by her sons: Bryan Morrow and wife, Cindy, of Kings Mountain, NC; Barry Morrow and wife, Elaine, of Mt. Holly, NC; Bruce Morrow and wife, Kristi, of Kings Mountain, NC; and Mitch Morrow and wife, Angie, of Kings Mountain, NC; siblings: J.D. Baker and wife, Pat; Richard Baker and wife, Diane; Roger Baker and wife, Vicky; Fred Baker and wife, Marie; Sylvia Whitesides and husband, Robert; and Everette Baker and wife, Angie; grandchildren: Jessica, Nikki, Brittney, Brandy, Zach, Elijah, Michelle, Justin, Hannah, Harrison, Jonathan, and Jackson; great-grandchildren: Atlas, Persephone, Spencer, Asher, Ashley, Elaina, Mackenzie, Conleigh, Leyton, Thatcher, and Bennett
Marie is additionally survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral service was held on Thursday, July 18, 2024 at 2:00 P.M. at Family Worship Center of Kings Mountain, NC with Pastor Roger R. Woodard officiating.
Visitation was on Thursday, July 18, 2024 prior to the service from 1:00 to 1:50 P.M. at Family Worship Center.
Interment was held in Westview Gardens Cemetery, Bessemer City, North Carolina.
Memorials in Marie’s memory may be made to Family Worship Center Ladies Ministry at 1818 Shelby Rd., Kings Mountain, NC 28086 or at www.familyworship.org/give
Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.  
Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.

Bonnie Bumgardner Huffstetler of Kings Mountain age 74 years passed away on July 8, 2024 at her home.
Bonnie was  born on August 18, 1949 in Kings Mountain, NC.
She was a member of Cherokee Street Baptist Church in Kings Mountain since 1997, where she was the Sunday School Superintendent for many years. Retired after 30 years from Bullard Electronics, she was an avid reader and loved to travel.
She was preceded in death by her husband of nearly 41 years, Ernest Flay Huffstetler, father J.P. (Pete) Bumgardner, mother Vesta Anderson Bumgardner, sister Peggy Bumgardner Freemen.
She is survived by sisters: Mary (Dottie) Bumgardner King and Kathy Bumgardner Bullard and husband (Kenneth); stepdaughter: Cheryl Cook, and step-granddaughters: Natasha Peterson, Rebecca Sweeten; nephew: F. Douglas King and wife Susie; niece: Rosemary King Queen and husband (Leslie); nephew: Christopher Wright and wife Edie; grand-nieces: Victoria Martin Rodden, Cecily and Pearl Wright; Grand-nephews: Taylor King, Tyler King and Justin Queen and great-nephew Josiah Queen.
A Celebration of Life Service was held at Cherokee Street Baptist Church 421 Cherokee Street in Kings Mountain on Tuesday July 16 at 6:00 PM, officiated by Rev. Roger K. Greene, Rev. Kevin Rife, Rev. Van Vasvinder. Visitation was from 4:00 to 6:00 at the church. Interment was in Mountain Rest Cemetery in Kings Mountain.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Hospice of Cleveland County 951 Wendover Heights Drive Shelby, NC 28150.
An online guestbook is available at greenefuneral.com.
Arrangements are with the West Chapel of Greene Funeral Service located at 216 Archie Whitesides Road Gastonia.

 

LAKE WACCAMAW, NC – Marlene was born in Caldwell County on March 13, 1933, the middle child of three daughters born to the late Dr. Clyde Reitzel Hedrick and Stella Lamkin Hedrick.
She spent her childhood years in Lenoir, North Carolina. She was a graduate of Salem Academy and attended Salem College. In the summer of 1953 she met the love of her life, Joseph “Joe”
Andrew Neisler, Jr. at Crescent Beach. They married June 19, 1954 and lived in Kings Mountain, NC and Lake Waccamaw, NC. They raised four children: Stella N. Putnam (Gerald),
Joseph “Rick” Neisler, III. (Kim), Melissa N.
Lawrence, and Theresa N. McKeithan (Garry). Marlene was ‘Nanny’ to nine grandchildren: Lee Howell (Drew), Russ Putnam (Jenna), Janna Myers (Doug), Will
Neisler (Amber), Will Lawrence (Danae), Marlin Scott (Sean), Joe Lawrence (Brooke), Lauren Stone (Austin), Drew McKeithan (Ashlynn) and sixteen great-grandchildren: Luke and Grayson Howell, Parks and Josie Putnam, Douglas and Teddy Myers, Will and John Neisler, Melia Scott, Max and Anna Stone, Fin and Clara McKeithan, Eli and Elyse Lawrence, and Morgan Scott who is expected to come into this world on July 12, 2024.
Marlene was devoted to her family, who spent every holiday with her at Lake Waccamaw. She treasured their visits and enjoyed watching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren jump off the pier, swim in the lake, and ride the little boat built by Joe in 1961. Family was of upmost importance to Marlene. Her expectation was for them to love and cherish one another. The bond between her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was one of her most precious blessings.
She was always a gracious hostess, welcoming many friends and family to her Lake Waccamaw home and helping Joe entertain at Oakland. She was a member of Lake
Waccamaw Presbyterian Church, where she was an honorary life member of the Presbyterian Women, served the church as a choir member, Sunday school teacher, circle teacher, and Elder. Over the years she enjoyed volunteering with the Red Cross Blood Mobile, the Girl Scouts, the American Heart Association, and the Lake Waccamaw Food Mission. She served on the boards of the Lake Waccama Depot Museum, the Rube McRay Memorial Library, and helped organize the Lake Waccamaw Book Club of which she was a charter member.
Marlene loved music. She taught many children how to play the piano. She had wonderful friends, far and wide, whom she loved dearly. Over the past few weeks she has been blessed by her caregivers, who took care of her every need. They truly are angels on this earth. Her family sincerely appreciates their love and support. Marlene was preceded in death by her loving husband Joe, and her sisters Theresa H. Sherman and Phyllis H. Miller and her son-law
William “Bill” Lawrence, Jr. She is survived by her brother-in-law Hugh Neisler and his wife Jane, numerous cousins, nieces, and
nephews.
A Memorial Service was held Monday, July 8 at 2:00 P.M. at First Presbyterian Church in Kings Mountain, NC. Visitation was held prior to the service downstairs in the Fellowship Hall from 1:00 P.M. - 2:00 P.M. Interment was at Mountain Rest Cemetery following the service.
Pallbearers were her grandsons and grandson-in-laws. The family plans to have a celebration of
Marlene’s life at Oakland at a later date.
McKenzie Funeral Home of Whiteville and Harris Funeral Home of Kings Mountain are serving the family. Memorials may be made to Lake Waccamaw Depot Museum, PO Box 386, Lake Waccama, NC 28450; Rube McRay Memorial Library, PO Box 478, Lake Waccamaw, NC 28450; First Presbyterian Church, PO Box 1188, Kings Mountain, NC 28086.
Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.  
Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – Norma Sue Bridges Phifer departed from this life on Sunday, July 7, 2024 at White Oak Manor in Kings Mountain, NC.
Sue was born in South Carolina on August 18, 1934 to the late Everette Theodore “Jack” and Florence Valeri Faircloth Bridges.
She was preceded in death by her brothers, Everette “Buck” Bridges and Charles R. Bridges, and her sister, Geraldine Delores Bridges Falls.
Sue enrolled at Cleveland Community College at age 48 after years of working in administrative support roles where she earned her degree and registered as a Radiology Technician. Sue loved working in the medical field which fulfilled her dreams of helping others. She, with her husband, helped teach her daughters and grandchildren the value of hard work and helping others.
Sue loved to sing, laugh and play. Her humor will be missed by all that knew her. She sang with the Cleveland County and Gaston County Choral Societies. She was actively involved with El Bethel United Methodist Church serving at one point as the choir director. Prior to her illness, she taught Sunday School and was a Lay Minister. Sue’s dedication and love for her friends, family, and community has created memories that will live on in the lives  of all those who loved her.
She is survived by her husband of 71 years: John Rufus Phifer, Kings Mountain, NC.; daughters: Johnanna Phifer Francis (husband Paul) of Shelby, NC; Julee K Phifer (partner Robert “Buzz” Ellis) of Mount Airy, NC; grandchildren: John Preston Cole of Rock Hill, SC; Jennifer Cole Siravanta (husband Andy) of Lawrenceville GA; special great nephew and nieces: Thomas Bridges, Elizabeth Bridges Galloway and Rebekah Bridges.
Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 at 11:00 AM at El Bethel United Methodist Church with Reverends Julie Roberts and John Bridges officiating.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 10:50 AM prior to the service in the sanctuary of El Bethel United Methodist Church, Kings Mountain, NC.
Interment will be in  El Bethel United Methodist Church Cemetery.
Donations and or memorials to the charity of your choice or to the Micheal J. Fox Parkinsons Foundation at https://www.michaeljfox.org or El Bethel United Methodist Church.
Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.  
Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.   

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – Lynn A. Bennett, 73, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on July 4, 2024 at Atrium Health Pineville in Charlotte, NC.
He was born in Gaston County, NC, son of the late John William Bennett Sr. and Margaret Faye Capps Bennett and was preceded in death by 2 brothers, Jim and John Bennett. Lynn attended Kings Mountain Baptist Church. He worked in the warehouse at Clevemont Mills for 25 years.
Lynn enjoyed fishing and was an avid football fan, always rooting for his beloved Redskins. He also enjoyed NASCAR and drag racing events. Lynn was a people person who never met a stranger. Living at Battle Forest Apartments for 15 years, Lynn made many dear and lasting friendships. He loved spending time with those he cared about and would often give nicknames to his friends. Lynn always took time to listen to people and learned as much about them as he could. He was a wonderful brother and a great friend to many. He will be missed greatly by all those who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his brother: Ricky Bennett and wife Ann, Kings Mountain, NC and  nephew: Alex Bennett, Los Angeles, CA.
Graveside service was held on Tuesday, July 9, 2024 at 9:00 AM at Mountain Rest Cemetery with Pastor Tim Whitesides officiating
Memorial service was held on Tuesday, July 9, 2024 at 10:00 AM at Kings Mountain Baptist Church with Pastor Tim Whitesides officiating.
The family spoke with attendees immediately following the memorial service in the sanctuary of the church.
Interment was in Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, NC.
Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.  
Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.   

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – Melba Watterson Boyles, 94, of Kings Mountain, North Carolina, passed away on July 2, 2024 at White Oak Manor in Kings Mountain.
Born December 1, 1929 in Cleveland County, NC, she was the daughter of the late John Wilburn and Lizzie Lovelace Watterson and was preceded in death by her husband Willard Boyles, who passed in 1993.
Melba held a number of occupations, including positions at Foote Mineral, the US Postal Service, in the banking industry, as a business owner at Accent Florist, and as the owner and operator of Willard’s Tours. Melba started Willard’s Tours in 1980 with her husband, taking trips to Nashville, TN, then trips to Knoxville in 1982 for the World’s Fair. For more than 20 years, she gained many devoted friends and frequent travel companions who traveled with her all throughout the North American continent. Melba operated Willard’s Tours well into her 80s, and her devoted travelers would follow her anywhere.
She was a longtime member at First Baptist Church of Kings Mountain, and previously for many years at Oak Grove Baptist, where she served in a variety of capacities including Sunday School teacher, church historian, treasurer, and, along with Willard, as youth director and newlyweds counselor. Melba was a loving mother and devoted grandmother; always giving and endlessly energetic. She was an incredible, one-of-a-kind woman whose memory will be treasured by all who knew and loved her.
She is survived by her children: Janet Suber and husband, Claude, and Bruce Boyles and wife, Laura, all of Kings Mountain; grandchildren: Lauren Martin and husband, Alex; Bennett Salter and husband, Blair; Caitlyn Adcox and husband, Graham; Will Boyles; and Gretchen Boyles; great-grandson: Judson Adcox; siblings: Elouise Spigelmyer and late husband, Glenn; Bill Watterson and wife, Hazel; Judy Woody and late husband, John.
Melba is additionally survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to extend a special thanks to the staffs at White Oak Manor and Summit Place for their care and friendship.
Funeral service was  held Sunday, July 7, 2024 at 3:00 P.M. at First Baptist Church of Kings Mountain with Dr.
Jonathan Bundon and
Pastor Jason Allen officiating.
Visitation was held prior to the service from 2:00 P.M. to 2:50 P.M. in the Stained Glass Room at First Baptist Church of Kings Mountain.
Interment followed the service at Oak Grove Baptist Church Cemetery, Kings Mountain, NC.
Memorials in Melba’s memory may be made to the charity of your choice.
Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.  
Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – Donna Smith Gann, 76, of Kings Mountain, North Carolina, passed away on July 4, 2024 at Wendover Hospice House in Shelby.
Born April 24, 1948 in Cleveland County, she was daughter of the late Palmer and Irene Haynes Smith and was also preceded in death by her great-great-grandson Carter.
Donna was born and raised in Kings Mountain, where she worked many years at Margrace Mill and was most recently employed as a manager at Sub Factory.
She was a longtime member at Harvest Baptist Church in Kings Mountain and was also known in the community for her outstanding shag dancing. She would go shagging by the pool or down at the American Legion, and often times the dance floor would clear for her and her dance partner to put on a show. Donna also enjoyed browsing in stores and malls; her motto was “shop ‘til you drop.”
Donna was a loving mother, grandmother, great and great-great-grandmother who was dedicated and devoted to her family. Her love and kindness will be missed by all who knew and loved her.
She is survived by her children: Tammy
Towery, Penny Norwood and husband, Mike, and Josh Gann, all of Kings Mountain, NC; siblings: Jan Huntsinger, Mike Smith and wife, Gail, Vickie Parker, and Johnny Mixon; grandchildren: Mindy, Megan, Nikki, and Emily; great-grandchildren: Luke, Kayla, Hunter, Samantha, Dakota, Tucker, and Garrison and great-great-grandson: Preston.
Funeral service was held on Tuesday, July 9, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. in the Ollie Harris Memorial Chapel with Rev. Perry Hines
officiated.
Visitation was Tuesday, July 9, 2024 prior to the service from 10:00 to 10:50 A.M. in the parlor at Harris Funeral Home.
Interment was in Westview Gardens Cemetery, Bessemer City, NC.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Donna’s honor may be made to VIA Health Partners Founded as Hospice of Cleveland County at 951 Wendover Heights Dr., Shelby, NC 28150.
Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.  
Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.   

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – Lydia Jane Edwards, 85, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on June 17, 2024 at White Oak Manor Kings Mountain in Kings Mountain, NC.
She was born in Cleveland County, NC, daughter of the late Richard Patrick Croker and Ellen Bertie Falls Croker Petrosino and was preceded in death by her sister, Kathryn Huffstickler and her brother, Richard “Dick” Croker.
Jane was a lifetime member of Central Methodist Church where she attended faithfully until her declining health. She enjoyed reading biographies, studying genealogy and family ancestry. Jane loved learning and keeping her mind active. She also was an avid classic movie fan.
She worked in textiles as an inspector and in the lab for many years. After leaving textiles, wanting to keep busy, Jane worked in retail for several years. She was a talented ceramics maker and enjoyed nothing more than being around her beloved family. Jane loved to care for people and enjoyed sitting with the elderly and providing care to those in need. She was a wonderful and loving mother and grandmother whose memory will live on in the lives of those who knew her for a lifetime.
She is survived by her children: Karen “Stevie” Edwards, Kings Mountain, NC; Charles Lee “Butch” Edwards Jr. and wife Donna, Dallas, NC; Donald Scott Edwards and wife Beth, Cherryville, NC, and Ellen Faith “Missy” Edwards, Kings Mountain, NC  and grandchild: Spencer Edwards.
Funeral service was held on Thursday, June 20, 2024 at 11:00 AM in the Ollie Harris Memorial Chapel with Chaplain Daniel Rushing and Reverend Rebekah Carpenter officiating
Interment was held in Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, North Carolina.  
Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.  
Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – Francis John Sincox, Jr. passed away peacefully at home Tuesday June 11, 2024.
He was born May 11, 1932 in Saginaw, Michigan, the only child of Francis J Sincox and Erna Hefka Sincox.
His formative years were spent in New Jersey. Then the family moved to the Atlanta, GA area, where he finished high school in 1950 at Decatur Boys High School. Dr. Sincox went on to further his education at Emory University where he earned his Bachelors Degree in 1954 and his Doctorate of Medicine in 1958. While in medical school, Frank entered inactive Naval Reserve and began active duty after graduating. Dr. Sincox was on active duty from 1957 to 1963, serving in Atlanta, GA, St. Albans Naval Hospital, Long Island, NY, Pensacola, FL, and Norfolk, VA. His sea duty as a flight surgeon was aboard the aircraft carrier, USS Randolph in the North Atlantic. His unit was involved in the astronaut recovery activities and the Cuban missile crisis.
In June 1958, he married Frances L. Barker of Charlotte, NC and Decatur, GA. This marriage lasted 25 years, producing 2 children, Douglas John Sincox and Kathleen Sincox McCurry. In 1996 he married Joyce R. Sellers and acquired a stepson, Rick Rhea and a step daughter Kimberly. He was sadly widowed by Joyce’s death in 2020.
In October 1963, he left the Navy and moved to Kings Mountain where he joined the medical group, McGill Clinic with Dr. John McGill and Dr. Charles Adams, practicing for 36 years, until the office closed. As a General Practitioner, he was proud to help bring over 700 babies into the world. He continued to practice medicine in Kings Mountain, Cleveland County Health Department and in Clover, SC. Even up to age 91, he continued his medical practice providing aviation medical exams to pilots for the FAA for 60 years.
He joined the Navy Reserves in 1987, serving as a “Weekend Warrior” in Charlotte, NC and with the Marines in Atlanta, GA. In October 1990, his reserve unit was called to active duty for Operation Desert Storm in the first Persian Gulf War. Frank, “Attack Quack” served with the Marines in Atlanta, GA, California, Pearl Harbor and the Philippines before arriving in Saudi Arabia and Iraq at sea aboard the USS Tripoli and the USS Janeau. He retired from the Navy in 1996 with the rank of Captain with 15 ribbons, medals and campaign medals with the highest being Combat Action Ribbon.
Frank was also active in the community. He was a member of Kings Mountain Rescue Squad, Kings Mountain Police Reserves, Kiwanis Club, American Legion, Civil Air Patrol, and the Marine League as well as past president of the Kings Mountain Chamber of Commerce, deacon and elder at First Presbyterian Church and Chief of Medical Staff at Kings Mountain Hospital on several occasions. He felt honored to be able to serve his country in the Navy and the Marines, his profession as a caring physician, his community and his patients who placed their trust in him.
Frank will be sorely missed and fondly remembered by his family, his many friends and his former patients. He is survived by his son Douglas Sincox and wife Kim of Wilmington, NC, daughter Kathleen Sincox McCurry of Kings Mountain, NC, stepson Rick Rhea and wife Freida of Gastonia, NC, stepdaughter Kimberly of Dallas, NC and very special, close friends Lynn and David Hendrick of Shelby, NC and Arnold and Deloris Clayton of Grover, NC.
A memorial service will be held by the family at First Presbyterian Church of Kings Mountain, NC on Saturday, July 27, 2024 at 3:00 PM.
Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.  
Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.

KINGS MOUNTAIN, NC – Ronnie Keith Long Sr, 82, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on June 4, 2024 at Caromont Regional Medical Center in Gastonia, NC.
He was born in Gaston County, NC, son of the late William Avery and Helen McGill Long and was preceded in death by 2 sons, Jeff and Renn Long. Ronnie was a member of Oak Grove Baptist Church.
He worked as a truck driver for many years and was affectionately known by his handle, “Stanley Steamer”. Ronnie was an avid collector and enjoyed spending time shooting his collection of guns. He also enjoyed spending time fishing and working in his yard. Ronnie was a die hard western television and movie fan, spending many hours watching classic TV. He possessed a larger than life personality and loved entertaining people around him with countless stories of his past. Above all else, Ronnie loved his family. A devoted husband, father and grandfather to 2 generations of children. His guidance, warmth, and love will be cherished by all who knew him for a lifetime.
He is survived by his wife of 30 years: Linda Jan Fisher Long, of the home; children: Ronnie Keith Long Jr. (Mary), Kellie Long, and John McPurdy (Barbara); siblings: Linda Miller, Carolyn Benenhaley, Gary Long (Libby), and Eddie Long (Wanda); grandchildren: Aaron Long, Brandon Adair, Renn Adair (Melissa), Taylor Adair, Joseph McPurdy, Brittany McPurdy, and Lauren Dixon; great-grandchildren: Amerisa, Braiden, Trevor, LeeAnne, Carley, and a newborn baby girl; special Niece and Nephew: Carolee Bultman and Marty Messer.
Funeral service was held on Tuesday, June 11, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Oak Grove Baptist Church with Pastor Jason Allen officiating.
Visitation was on Tuesday, June 11, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 1:50 PM prior to the service in the Sanctuary of Oak Grove Baptist Church.
Interment was in sGaston Memorial Park, Gastonia, NC.      
Guest register is available at: www.harrisfunerals.com.  
Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kings Mountain, NC is in charge of arrangements.