497

2007 NORTH CAROLINA CONFERENCE THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

H i s t o r i c a l R e c o r d sH i s t o r i c a l R e c o r d sH i s t o r i c a l R e c o r d sH i s t o r i c a l R e c o r d sH i s t o r i c a l R e c o r d s

• MEMORIAL SERVICE BULLETINMEMOIRSROLL OF DECEASEDHISTORICAL STATEMENT

498

ALL SAINTS CELEBRATION AND MEMORIAL SERVICENORTH CAROLINA ANNUAL CONFERENCE • GREENVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA

FRIDAY, JUNE 15, 2007 • 10:45 A.M.

The Prelude ................................................................................................Everett Titcomb

The Greeting ............................................................................................. Bishop Al Gwinn

*The Call to Worship ........................................................................ Reverend Jon StrotherLeader: We gather to worship, O God, under the shadow of the cross.People: The sign of human shame and divine wisdom.Leader: Like Jesus, we would follow faithfully in your way;People: Like Jesus, we would live to you, and die to you.Leader: We are your people, O God. We belong to you.People: We offer you our worship and our lives.ALL: May your name be glorified this day, as your church is gathered, ......

open to your presence, and your leading, through Jesus Christ, ourLord. Amen.

*The Hymn of Praise .................................................................................. Alleluia, Alleluia

*The Opening Prayer ..................................................................... Reverend Molly Shivers

*The Psalter .................................. Psalm 46 ..................................... Reverend Lily Chou

The New Testament Reading Revelation 4:1-11 ........................ Reverend Donna Banks

Special Music ........................................................ The Native American Ministers Quartet

The Gospel Lesson ................... Luke 24:44-49 ....................................... Mr. Jay Locklear

*Hymn of Affirmation ...............................................................................Hymn of Promise

Introduction of the Preachers .................................................................... Bishop Gwinn

The Sermon .......................... After These Things ....................... Reverenc Judi. J. Smith

Special Music ............................Saints of God ............................................ arr. David Witt

The Reading of the Names(As the names of the departed are read, a chime will sound and family members will riseand be escorted to the altar. They may light a commemorative candle. As the chimesounds, friends are invited to stand as a tribute and support for the family. You may beseated at the sounding of the following chime.)

Clergy who have died since last Annual Conference:Paul Casto Browning ............................................................................. June 25, 2006Carol Dell Hayes ......................................................................................... July 7 2006Christian White .........................................................................................July 18, 2006Jerry Stephen Dodson ..............................................................................July 21, 2006Clyde Hugh Dunn .....................................................................................July 22, 2006

499

Brooks Bivens Little ..............................................................................August 7, 2006Michael Lawrence Tart ........................................................................ August 28, 2006William Earle Clements .............................................................. September 12, 2006Charles Maynard Litzenberger ......................................................... October 13, 2006Guy Vassar Soule, Jr. ........................................................................October 16, 2006James Millard Short ..........................................................................October 28, 2006Vassar Wilson Jones ......................................................................... January 14, 2007Rudolph Hart Hodge ......................................................................... January 16, 2007Wallace Bradford Lewis .................................................................... January 27, 2007Jerry Lowry ................................................................................................ May 4, 2007Paul David Granger ................................................................................ May 30, 2007

Spouse of Clergy who have died since last Annual Conference:Patricia Akers Barrs ................................................................................. April 16, 2006Hazel Vandalia Cline Stephenson .......................................................... April 16, 2006Helen Wortham Mitchell Pollard ............................................................ June 27, 2006Janette J. Riordan Singley ....................................................................... July 15, 2006Barbara L. Robinson Hayes ....................................................................July 27, 2006Hattie Lewis Musser .......................................................................... August 12, 2006Charles Sutton ................................................................................... August 30, 2006Helen Lucille Edwards Tyson ......................................................September 12, 2006Mary Thompson Minor ......................................................................... October 7, 2006Marie Davis Staton ............................................................................. October 14, 2006Lula Mae Smith Olive ........................................................................ October 16, 2006Helen Hill Bailey ............................................................................ November 21, 2006Alice Caldwell Richardson ............................................................ November 23, 2006Rose Marie Baron Snyder ............................................................ December 17, 2006Ollie M. Hogue .............................................................................. December 25, 2006Clementine Kirby Varnum ................................................................... January 6, 2007Naomi Woodley Green .................................................................... February 24, 2007Frances Zimmerman Layfield .............................................................. March 17, 2007Ella Mae Humphrey Brigman .................................................................... April 5, 2007Alice VonCanon Cotton ............................................................................May 17, 2007Etta Mae Moore Umstead ........................................................................May 26, 2007

The Litany For the Faithful Departed ....................................................... Mr. Jay LocklearLeader: God of Light, we anticipate what is not yet visible, and practice now yourLeader: God of Light, we anticipate what is not yet visible, and practice now yourfuture. We say and sing that all you have made - your creation - is good!People: God, you are good - all the time!Leader: Very slowly we work out your promise, in hope and fear. By your grace, westrive to build a city of peace - a new Creation where you will be our light, our all.People: God of light, shine upon us.Leader: We do not want it easy, Lord. But we did not contemplate that it would bequite this hard. Keep faith with us, O God, and be with us, holding our hands as weweep.People: Wipe the tears from our eyes and be our peace.Leader: Give us strength, O God, to persevere, and bring us to a happy end.People: In your mercy, teach us to number our days in this life - to never losesight of the coming day, which has no end.ALL: God of love, we are ever thankful for all those who have gone on before us,

500

whose souls rest secure in your merciful arms, through Christ our Lord.

* The Closing Hymn ................................................................................. For All the Saints* Benediction ................................................................................................ Bishop GwinnPostlude ...................................... Toccata in F .......................................... Everettt Titcomb

501

PAUL CASTO BROWNING1923 - 2006

Paul Browning of Burlington, NC died on June 25, 2006. Thefuneral was held at Lowe Funeral Home with the Rev. Thomas G.Holtsclaw officiating and the Rev. Gene Ferrell assisting.

Paul is survived by his wife Winnie, daughter Sherry Slate,grandson James L. Slate and granddaughter, Torii Boulangger.

Paul was born in Charleston, WV on August 28, 1923. Heserved in the USMC during WWII, seeing action in the South Pacific. He graduated fromMorris Harvey College/The University of Charleston and Duke University Divinity School.

He served the following churches in the NC Conference: Burlington Circuit,Wrightsville, Trinity: Fairmont, Trinity: Jacksonville; and Morehead City: First. Paul servedin Conference leadership positions, among those, he chaired the Commission onEvangelism for eight years. In 1975 Paul was appointed to the position to the position ofAdministrator for the United Methodist Retirement Homes in New Jersey; he continuedserving as administrator of Retirement Homes until his own retirement in 1989.

Paul exhibited a genuine love for Jesus Christ; his evangelistic zeal wasevidenced throughout his ministry as well as in his retirement years. The last sevenyears of his life, though very ill, he loved to sing the hymn “O, How I Love Jesus” as hecontinued his powerful witness. Just prior to this death, Paul shared with Winnie andhis brother-in-law, the Rev. Auburn Lore, his vision with this statement “You can’t believehow beautiful Heaven is”.

One of the last gifts Paul presented to his wife Winnie was a “10 ½” pendantencrusted with diamonds on a gold chain, with the statement “you are more than a 10,you are a 10 ½”.

In addition to Paul’s ministry, he had a hobby of furniture making. The cedar chestand a magazine rack that he made are in their home at present.

At the conclusion of the graveside rites, the Marines presented Winnie with aUnited States flag and taps were played. The Marine’s acts of participation at the funeralhome, funeral service and at the Alamance Memorial Park, Burlington, NC were verytouching and greatly appreciated.

Thomas G. Holtsclaw

CHRISTIAN WHITE1920 - 2006

The Reverend Christian White, 85 of Croasdaile United Methodist RetirementCommunity in Durham, NC died on July 18, 2006. His funeral was held at the First

United Methodist Church in Graham, NC with Dr. Ken Hall, Sr.,Rev. Milton Hadley and Rev. Norman Fargis officiating. Theinterment was at Alamance Memorial Park in Burlington, NC.

Rev White was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years,Ada Mae Stocker White and is survived by his wife, Margaret W.White of Croasdaile, daughter, Faye White Stadler and husbandDavid of Raleigh, his son, David Christian White and wife Faye ofBurlington, NC and daughter Barbara White Crissman andhusband Eric of Graham, NC. He has four step-children:

daughters, Kay Walker Hauser and husband chuck of Washington, NC, Nancy W. Reillyand husband Jack of Lake Gaston, Debbie W. Ray of Kings Mountain, NC and sonWarren Walker and wife Dina of Kill Devils Hills, NC. There are nine grandchildren,twelve great grandchildren and one great great grandchild and four step-grandchildren.

502

Christian died after two years of declining health and four days of pneumonia. Hewas a beloved husband, father, grandfather and Shepard of many and will be missed byall.

He was born to Ellwood S. White and Carrie Elizabeth White on December 25,1920 in Medford, NJ. He and his wife Ada and two children came to North Carolina tofarm in 1945 and Christian was called into the ministry in 1947. He was the first non-Native American to graduate from Pembroke State College and he was then acceptedinto Duke Divinity School with three charge churches and three children. Christian wasthe first appointed minister to Wrightsville Methodist Church of Wrightsville Beach, NCon Harbor Island. He served at Epworth in Wilmington, NC, Seagate Methodist,Pembroke Methodist in Pembroke, NC, Faith United Methodist, Burlington, NC, St.Paul’s Methodist in Durham, Mt. Olive Methodist in Mt. Olive, NC, St. James Methodist inGreenville, NC, First United Methodist in Graham, NC, Rocky Mount United Methodistchurch and Hay Street United Methodist Church in Fayetteville, NC.

He became known for his ability to pull congregations together to get buildingprojects completed and built new church facilities wherever he served. He served onmany boards and committees and received many awards for his years of service in theNorth Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church.

Christian and Ada retired to Burlington, NC an in interim pastor. Ada died in 1993of cancer and he later married Sarah M. Walker and they evidently settled at CroasdaileUnited Methodist Retirement Community where they lived until the time of his death.

JERRY S. DODSON1950 - 2006

Jerry Stephen Dodson, Sr., 55, of Mebane, died July 21,2006. His funeral was held at Hebron UMC with the ReverendsWilliam Gattis, Burlington District Superintendent, WilliamHoliday, Minister of Hebron UMC, and Jeane Walker, AssociateMinister of Davis Street UMC officiating. Burial was at HebronUMC.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Wanda Hamilton Dodson of the home; son, JerryStephen Dodson II, of the home; daughter Shelley Dodson Whitescarver and husbandSlane of High Point; daughter Deborah Dodson Bierach and husband William ofRaleigh; mother Edna Crutchfield Dodson of Mebane; and granddaughter ClaireElizabeth Whitescarver.

Jerry passed away after a brief but valiant fight against a blood infection thatresulted in heart damage and blood clots. He was a beloved husband, father, brotherand friend to all who came in contact with him and knew him.

Jerry was born to Albert Nelsie Dodson and Edna Crutchfield Dodson in Mebane,NC, on October 28, 1950. The family continued to reside in Mebane where Jerryattended Eastern Alamance High School, graduating in 1969. Having felt the call toministry since his youth, Jerry then attended Appalachian State University, graduating in1973 with a BS in Business Administration. Feeling that the UMC was where the Lordwould have him serve, Jerry attended Duke University, graduating in 1976 with a Mastersin Divinity.

In 1973 Jerry married his high school sweetheart, the former Wanda LouiseHamilton, and shortly afterward began both his long and exciting journey of starting afamily and serving the Lord. With a deep passion and conviction on serving the Lord byreaching out to and ministering to His people, Jerry began his ministry career under theField Education Program at Phillips Chapel UMC in 1973. In 1974 Jerry was called as aStudent Pastorate at Union Grove UMC where he and Wanda’s first child Deborah was

503

born in 1977. From Union Grove, Jerry accepted the call as pastor at Salem UMC in1977. While at Salem, Jerry and Wanda’s daughter Shelly was born in 1979 and then in1981 their son Stephen was born.

In 1982 Jerry was appointed as Senior Pastor at New Hope UMC in Goldsborowhere he served faithfully until 1987 when he was appointed to the call at Grace UMC inBurlington. Following 6 years of growing and building Grace, Jerry accepted the call toGrace UMC in Wilmington in 1993. From Wilmington Jerry was appointed to HorneUMC in Clayton in 1998 where he served 2 years before feeling the strong call from theLord to plant a church in the Mebane area.

Following many weeks and months of prayer and discussions with the Bishopand DS, Jerry was given the green light to begin the planting of Faith Community. He leftHorne in 2000, moved to Mebane and began the seeding and planting of not just anychurch but a new and contemporary Methodist church to reach the baby boomer andgeneration X population.

Jerry worked tirelessly through the process of sending out mailings, makingphone calls, finding facilities, obtaining equipment and find a core group of people to bethe foundation on which to build the church. Jerry poured his life into these people,building them, equipping them and preparing them for what the Lord would do withthem.

In 2002, Jerry was appointed to Davis Street UMC in Burlington. At Davis Street, aswith all the churches Jerry had previously served, Jerry’s passion and conviction forserving the Lord never wavered, he consistently sought the Lord’s will in all he did. In2006 Jerry received the ultimate calling when the Lord called him home. Welcomehome good and faithful servant.

CLYDE H. DUNN1927 - 2006

Clyde Hugh Dunn passed away on July 22, 2006 after along and courageous battle with cancer. He was born on April8, 1927 in Mebane, North Carolina to Rudy T. Dunn and MaryCaroline S. Dunn.

Clyde is survived by his wife, Betty Z. Dunn of Raleigh, NC and five children: Markand wife, Katherine of San Diego, CA; Steve and his wife, Debra of Dalton, GA; Ted andwife, Chrissy of Sarasota, FL; David and wife, Cheryl of Apex, NC and Karen andhusband, Lawrence of Raleigh, NC. He was the proud grandfather of ten grandchildren.He was born into a family of eight children and is survived by one sister, Forence Funk,of Chapel Hill, NC and a brother, Jerry and wife, Barbara of Burlington, NC and a largenumber of nieces and nephews.

Clyde was very proud of having served his country during World War II as part ofthe U.S. Marine Corps, First Division, serving in the Pacific. While in the Marines, at theage of 17, he felt God calling him into the ministry. He returned to the United States,receiving his AB from Asbury College in Wilmore Kentucky; his BD from Candler Schoolof Theology and MA from Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia.

Clyde was a member of the North Carolina Conference, United Methodist Churchand served faithfully for 42 years, holding pastorates in Durham, Clayton, Red Springs,Farmville, Garner and Jacksonville, NC. He served as Associate Director, ConferenceCouncil of Ministries from 1984-1990 and had been a missionary along with his familyon the island of Taiwan from 1960-1971.

His life was spent serving his Lord, enjoying life with his family and manyfriends spread throughout the world. His marvelous sense of humor, his genuine love

504

for people touched and influenced many during his years on this earth. He will alwaysbe remembered as a loving husband, a wonderful father and grandfather, and athoughtful friend. He will be missed by all who knew him.

WILLIAM E. CLEMENTS1937 - 2006

Rev. William Earle Clements, 69, of Gatesville, NC diedon Tuesday, September 12, 2006. A service of death andresurrection was held at Gatesville UMC with the ReverendsTracy L. Clayton and Won Namkoong officiating. Burialfollowed in West Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in ElizabethCity.

Rev. Clements was born on January 13, 1937 in Chester, SC to the late RobertWilliam and Thelma Collins Clements. He was also preceded in death by his belovedwife, Dorothy Elizabeth Jones Clements.

He is survived by one son, Mark Samuel Clements; daughter in law, ReneeClements; and granddaughter, Gina Marie Clements of Princeton, NC. Rev. Clements isalso survived by three brothers, Bobby Clements and Ronnie Clements, both ofCamden, SC and Russell Clements of Lugoff, SC.

Rev. Clements graduated from Camden High School in 1956 and went on earn aBachelor of Science degree in mathematics from Furman University in 1960. From1960 to 1964, he honorably served in the U. S. Air Force at Edwards Air Force Base inCalifornia. During his time in service he was an engineering aide with flight research.He worked at Emerson Electric Company in Bennettsville, SC as a design engineeringdraftsman from 1965 to 1969. It was at Emerson Electric where he met DorothyElizabeth Jones. They were married on October 13, 1967. Rev. Clements worked atThe Singer Company in Pickens, SC as a mechanical designer from 1969 to 1970. Itwas while working at Singer that he felt the call to ministry. He attended SoutheasternBaptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, NC from 1971 to 1973 and earned theMaster of Divinity degree. Rev. Clements was ordained a Deacon at the1974 AnnualConference and ordained an Elder at the 1976 Annual Conference. He faithfully servedGod and the North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church with pastoratesin Gaston, Laurinburg, Creswell, Rockingham, Winfall, Candor, Roanoke Rapids,Fayetteville, and Gatesville. He loved to preach and teach the Bible. Rev. Clementsretired in 2003. He was a member of Zion UMC, the Gatesville Ruritan Club, and hadbeen active in the Walk to Emmaus and Kairos Prison ministries.

The Clements Family

505

CHARLES M. LITZENBERGER1943 - 2006

Charles Maynard Litzenberger, known best by “Rev.Charlie”, of Chapel Hill died unexpectedly October 12, 2006. Amemorial service was held at University UMC with theReverends Sam Dixon, Jr., William Gattis, and Ruth Stevensofficiating. The Reverends Milton Hadley, Gary Allred and JohnWenberg also participated in the service. Burial was in CedarGrove cemetery in New Bern with the Reverends Milton Hadley and Langell Watsonofficiating. He was laid to rest beside of his infant son, Stephen Lancaster Litzenberger.

Charlie is survived by his wife, Annette Lancaster Litzenberger, of the homeand brothers Robert Litzenberger of Granville County, Karl Litzenberger of Bradenton,Florida and Harold Litzenberger of Cary.

He was born to Harold and Mary Litzenberger of Buffalo, New York on December 20,1943. He lived in Buffalo until he graduated from high school and joined the Navy. Hewas trained as a hospital corpsman and was stationed with the Marine Corps inJacksonville, N.C. where he met and married Annette Lancaster of New Bern on August8, 1965. He served in Santo Domingo during the 1964 conflict and was stationed atGuantanamo Bay in 1966. After an honorable discharge, he enrolled in CampbellCollege and majored in religion. Upon graduation from Campbell, he went to CandlerSchool of Theology at Emory University where he received his Masters of Divinity degree.

The churches he served included: Caledonia UMC in Laurinburg ,1974; Hay StreetUMC in Fayetteville,1975; Raeford Charge UMC in Raeford ,1977; Lake WaccamawUMC in Lake Waccamaw, 1976; Cedar Grove UNC in Orange County,1982; City RoadUMC in Henderson, 1984; Riverside UMC in Elizabeth City, 1986; Salem UMC inAlamance County, 1989; New Hope UMC and Purley UMC in Caswell County, 1992;Wesley Memorial UMC in Warrenton, 1994; Bethel UMC in Alamance County and CampSprings UMC in Caswell County, 1997; Pinebluff UMC in Pinebluff and Hoffman UMC inHoffman,2002.

Charlie has been described by his brothers as having a strong spirit and by manycolleagues as being authentic. At thirty years of age he underwent brain surgery for abenign tumor, but was able to continue in active service as a pastor for thirty years.Excessive radiation resulted in the loss of an eye and he wore a prosthesis for manyyears. Outside of the parish ministry, he was an active member in the Lion’s Club andsupporter of all their work with the visually impaired. He loved clowning and participatedin a clowning ministry while at Candler. He could be described as very eclectic as heloved sports, puzzles, history, golf, being with family, traveling, and he and Annette loveddancing! He simply loved life. At his request on his tombstone is engraved, “Anchoredby Life—Free to Fly in Death”. He is now truly at home.

506

GUY V. SOULE1943 - 2006

On October 16, 2006, the Reverend Doctor Guy VassarSoule Jr., of Burlington, went to be with his Heavenly Father. Thefuneral was held at Front Street United Methodist Church inBurlington, with the Revered Doctor H. Sidney Huggins, III andReverend Robert W. Simpson officiating. The interment was atShiloh United Methodist Church.

He was born to Guy and Suzette Soule of Charlotte, N.C. onAugust 22, 1935 and was the oldest of five brothers. He issurvived by his wife Francy of Burlington, N.C., and his children, Steve Soule of Asheville,N.C., John and Amanda Soule of Weaverville, N.C., Capt. Jeremy and Carla Soule ofOkinawa, Japan, Katy and Brantley O’Day of Gibsonville, N.C., and Cheryl and MarkSutton of Grayslake, I.L. He is also survived by seven grandchildren, Suzette, Paul,Charlotte, Hannah, Savannah, Noah, and Brantley II. Also surviving are his brothers,William, James, Phillip and John.

After graduating from Central High School in Charlotte, N.C., in 1954, Guycompleted two years at Lees McCrae Junior College in Banner Elk, N.C. He thenentered the United States Marine Corps and proudly served his country until 1962 whenhe received an Honorable Discharge. He then served 14 more years with the U.S.Marine Corps Reserve. After receiving his discharge he returned to college andgraduated from Lenoir Rhyne, in Hickory, N.C, where he was a member of the Delta ChiChapter of Theta Chi Fraternity. Throughout high school, the Marine Corps, and college,he was an avid track and cross country runner. Among his achievements was winningthe state title in low hurdles his junior year of high school.

After serving in industry for many years, he answered God’s call to enter theministry. A graduate of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, in Wake Forest, N.C,he was ordained in the North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church andbecame an Elder in 1980. He received his Doctorate of Theology, graduating summacum laude, from Trinity Theological Seminary in Newburgh, Ind. Before retiring in 2002,Guy served at Shiloh United Methodist Church in Gibsonville, N.C. Although retired, hewent on to serve as the Minister of Visitation at Front Street United Methodist Church inBurlington, N.C.

“Once a Marine, Always a Marine,” Guy was instrumental in founding the Lcpl. AlanD. Lam Det. #1209 of the Marine Corps League. He served as Chaplain to thedetachment and had the honor of being inducted as a Pup in the Military Order of theDevil Dogs.

Known as Ole Pa or Pa, Guy enjoyed fine scale modeling and trains, but most of allhe cherished the time spent with his family.

The Soule Family

507

JAMES M. SHORT1928 - 2006

The Rev. James. M. Short of Ellerbe, died Saturday, October 28,2006 at First Health Richmond Memorial Hospital, inRockingham.

He was born August 28, 1928, in Moore County, the son ofthe late Floyd and Ella W. Short. He was a graduate of PfeifferCollege, Elon College and Duke University. He started hisministry in 156 with The United Methodist Church and served until his retirement in 197.From 1997 to 2002, Rev. Short served as minister for Ledbetter United MethodistChurch.

Funeral services were held in the chapel of Carter Funeral Home in Ellerbe withRev. Donald Daniel and the Rev. Roger Thompson officiating. Interment will follow atLaFayette Memorial Park in Fayetteville.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Katherine Short in 2003; and adaughter, Gloria S. Haywood.

Surviving is a son, Jamie Short of the home; a daughter, Kay S. Hudson ofAlbemarle; five grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild;and one sister, Alma S. Scott.

WALLACE B. LEWIS1937 - 2007Wallace Bradford Lewis, 69, of Dover, North Carolina, went tobe with the Lord on January 27, 2007 in Key West Florida.Reverend Leland Heath and Reverend Sherman Guthrieofficiating held a celebration of life on Sunday, February 4,2007 at the Dover United Methodist Church. Interment waslater in the Daugherty Family Cemetery at Dover. Wallace issurvived by his wife of fifty years, Loretta Griffin Lewis; son Eric Bradford Lewis, and wifeShelly of Dover; daughter Nadine Lewis Hood, and husband Roger of Key West, Florida;granddaughter Shandi Lewis, of Wilmington, North Carolina; brother, Tommy Lewis;sisters Shirley Cauley. Grace Hayden, and Christine Aman.

He was born to Riley and Lilly Tew Lewis, in Kinston, North Carolina on February16, 1937. He grew up in and around the Kinston area. Wallace was a graduate of DoverHigh School and attended East Carolina University. He was employed in lawenforcement and accounting, until he answered God’s call to the United MethodistMinistry at age thirty-four. He entered the ministry as a Lay Pastor from the Dover UnitedMethodist Church under the leadership of Reverend Joseph Parker.

Wallace completed the United Methodist course of study at Emory University onAugust 13, 1976. He was an Associate member of the North Carolina Conferenceserving the following pastorates: Harker’s Island, 1971; Maury Mount Herman, 1977;Saint Mark-Woodington, 1980; Airboro-Zion, 1984; Jerusalem-Bethel, 1988; and Bethel(Wayne County), 1992. Wallace retired in 1999.

In December of 1981 he was stricken with an acute pancreas disorderresulting in a ruptured pancreas. Doctors gave no hope of survival, but through theprayers of God’s people his life was spared. God always has the last word, not man. Hereturned full-time ministry in 1984, but continued with various health issues.

Wallace’s greatest love was preaching and sharing God’s word with everyone hemet. He never failed to confront a person about their eternal destination, whether fromthe pulpit, in a home, on the street, or from a hospital bed. He was truly a fisher of men.He touched and blessed many lives. He fought a good fight and finished the race. Hehas entered into the glories of his Lord.

The Family

508

JERRY LOWRY1937 - 2007

Jerry grew up in a family which demonstrated that Godwas the most important thing in life. He and his brothers werealso taught the important thing in life. He and his brotherswere also taught the importance of education, hard work andcommunity. With these values, it soon became apparent thathis mission in life was to do the Lord’s work first and foremostand to bring others to know Christ’s love.Jerry was born on October 31, 1948 in Laurinburg, NC to the late Rev. Harvey and Mrs.Myrtle Locklear of Rowland, NC. He married his high school sweetheart, Doreen Lowryof Rowland, NC and they were blessed with 36 years of marriage. God granted themtwo daughters: Elena Maria of Apex, NC and Ana Alicia of Magnolia, TX. God also gavethem the joy of six grandsons: Ceth, Gavin, Cole, Chandler, Jacob and Ashton. His threebrothers are Jimmy Lowry of High Point, NC, Robby Lowry of Rowland, NC and HarveyLowry, Jr. of Maxton, NC.Obtaining an education was a key ingredient in Jerry’s mission to help others. In 1970,he graduated from Pembroke State University with a B.A. degree in Spanish. Later, hewould become Chairperson for the Board of Trustees at this university as well astrustee for Brunswick Community College and Methodist College. Jerry put his SpanishDegree in action by establishing the first foreign language program for elementaryschools in the state of North Carolina. He furthered his education in 1981 when heentered Duke Divinity School and graduated with honors in 1985. In addition, Jerryrecently received an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from the University of NorthCarolina at Pembroke.

Jerry’s twenty-five years of ministry have been centered on evangelism and socialmission ministries. As a child, youth and young adult, he was active in various churchministries in rural Robeson County. He was licensed to preach in 1981, ordained adeacon in 1985, and an elder in full connection in 1987. Most of the churches servedwere predominately Native American which included the following: Fairview UMC,Branch Street UMC, Sandy Plains UMC, First UMC at Pembroke.

For some people, it takes a lifetime to figure out what their purpose in life is. Jerrydiscovered early on that his purpose was to help others by being God’s faithful servant.He often said, “Wherever there is a hell we must bring heaven to it, for we are part of theKingdom of love and salvation (deliverance) not destruction and condemnation. We arecalled to usher in a Kingdom of Love.”

GEORGIA DAVENPORT1916 - 2005

Georgia Louise Collins Davenport was born onSeptember 14, 1916 to Raymond I. and Alice K. Collins. Shewas a graduate of Roper High School and a licensedcosmetologist.

In 1937, she and her childhood sweetheart, William Smith(Bill) Davenport, entered into a loving marriage that lasted for 41years. In 154, when Bill became a Methodist Minister, Georgia

s reported to have told him, “I’m not sure I know how to be aminister’s wife.” But over the years, her lovely disposition and

kind spirit made them a remarkable pastoral team as together they served TheJamesville Charge, Clark Street United Methodist Church in Rocky Mount, Trinity UnitedMethodist Church in Southport, Havelock United Methodist Church and LaGrange UnitedMethodist Church.

509

When Bill died in 1978, Georgia continued to devote herself to quiet, humbleservice, being a constant and never-failing blessing to her family and friends. She wasa faithful member of Salem United Methodist Church in Simpson, NC and especiallyenjoyed the love and fellowship of her Sunday School Class.

Georgia died on Thursday, December 22, 2005 at her daughter’s home inGrimesland. A celebration of her life was held on December 26, 2005 at Salem UnitedMethodist Church with the Reverend Bobby P. Tyson, Jr. officiating. Interment was in theDavenport Family Cemetery, Mackeys, NC.

She is survived by four children; Betty Tesh and husband Sam of Elkin, NC;Louise Boseman and husband of Grimesland; Emily Davenport of Winterville, NC andWilliam S. (Billy) Davenport and wife, Laura of Snow Hill, NC; Eight grandchildren:Tammy Coe, Georgia Mayo, Judy Donovan, Cindy Griner, Jerry Davenport, Wendy Pierce,Jennifer Dickerson and Will Davenport; And nine great-grandchildren: Madison Coe,Holly and Nick Griner, Cooper and Brenna Donovan, Jeremy Harris, Beau Dickersonand Kayla and Jonathan Davenport.

HELEN W. POLLARD1934 - 2006

Mrs. Helen W. Mitchell was born April 27, 1934, inGranville County to the late George Wortham and Mary ElmoreWortham. She died on Tuesday, June 27, 2006 at PittMemorial Hospital. Funeral services were officiated bylongtime friend the Rev. Jean Hood and Rev. Rose Hicks.

Helen was married to the Rev. John D. Mitchell, a retiredminister of the NC Conference for over 52 years. She was a talented hairdresser andenjoyed her job. She also loved her flowers and gardening, however, she received themost you when she was surrounded by her family, especially her grandchildren.

Mrs. Mitchell is survived by her husband, Troy Pollard; her daughter, Betty Jo Dentand her husband, Tommy, of Fayetteville; her sons, Billy Mitchell and his wife, Kathy ofStaley, Bob Mitchell and his wife April, of Kenansville and Brian Mitchell and his wifeSuzanne of Goldsboro; her grandchildren, Barton Mitchell and his wife Marion, JonthanDent and his wife Ruthie, Christopher Mitchell, Erin Haines, Catherine Mitchell, LeslieDent, Benjamin Haines, Alison Mitchell, Luke Mitchell, Phillip Mitchell and Ben Mitchell;and a great granddaughter, Hannah Mitchell. She is also survived by a sister, SallyBurgess and many nieces and nephews.

510

JANETTE R. SINGLEY1952 - 2006Janette Jacobs Singley, 54, of Bradshaw Farm Road, diedSaturday, July 15, 2006 at UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill.

A native of Johnstown, PA., she was the wife of the Rev.Dr. Kenneth Carl Singley of the home and the daughter ofDuane and Phyllis Jacobs of Stoney Creek. She received herBS and MA degrees in Nursing at the University of Buffalo inBuffalo, NY and her doctorate in Health Education & Medicineat UNC, Chapel Hill.Jan was commissioned as Deacon in June 2003 in Fayetteville. She was also aStephen Minister and Leader at Hebron UMC. She was happiest teaching the DiscipleBible study and shared that ministry with the churches they served.

Jan loved to sing, to teach and to counsel others burdened with problems. Shesang with her heart, feeling every word. She taught with focus, desiring that others woulddevelop a Bible study habit. She was not so much a hand holder of those with aproblem but rather gave encouragement and assistance by helping analyze theproblem. Through her dedication and devotion the faith of many was increased. Shereached out freely to others, knowing that God is a God of grace.

Other ways Jan shared her love of life was her displays of gardens and naturesurrounding her farm. Her twelve Irish Setter dogs were free to roam on this massivefarm. She cared for them as she did her family.Survivors other than her husband and parents include a daughter, Leigh Ann Singley ofMeredith College in Raleigh; a son, Jack K. Singley of Boone; and four sisters, LynetteDeBerardinis of Old Lyme, CT; Patricia Anderson of Boonsboro, MD, Joyce Kobel ofLouisville, KY; and Martha Callicott of Randleman.

A memorial service was held on Monday, July 17th at 11 a.m. at Hebron UnitedMethodist church by the Rev. Bill Holliday and the Rev. Jesse Staton.

Nancy Fennell and Kathie Blalock

511

MARIE D. STATON1924 - 2006

Marie Davis Staton was born February 29, 1924, inBeaufort, North Carolina, the daughter of Leslie and UldeneDavis, and she died October 14, 2006, at Gales Creek. Afuneral service was held at First United Methodist Church,Morehead City. Marie was the wife of The Reverend Jesse C.Staton, a retired member of the North Carolina Conference.Their marriage on October 18, 1946, lasted 53 years. Mama and Pop served as ministrypartners in churches throughout the Conference, prior to his retirement in__1986_____, and then during his fourteen years as Chaplain at Carteret GeneralHospital. A graduate of the University of Maryland, she ministered as a registered nursein many of the communities where the Statons served.

The fifth of eleven children in the Davis family, she knew the value of, and provided,a strong foundation for the Parsonage family she and Pop established. They rearedtheir four children in a home filled with love, laughter, discipline, and Christiancommitment. On many occasions this home served as safe harbor for family membersor others in time of transition.

Mama was never afraid of hard work, a trait she instilled in her children. Othersobserved her quiet dignity, and in many congregations, she was “Miss Marie,” the arbiterof manners and taste. That same dignity, not pride, was instilled in her children, whomshe admonished to “always hold your head up and remember who you are!”

The Staton home was a friendly port, a refuge where their children’s families couldhave their burdens shared, their dreams restored, and their joy increased.

Mama and Pop loved the happy confusion of holidays when the crowd descendedon their waterfront cottage home, when “Mama’s dressing” was the featured delicacyand laughter-unto-tears frequently erupted. She would clap her hands in unrestrainedglee. One memorable Christmas, seventeen people shared their one-bedroom house;all the grandchildren slept “lined up like cordwood in pallets on the porch.”

Mama navigated widowhood with grace and courage, relying on her Lord asalways for wisdom and strength. She held her personal devotions just before sunrisewhen she could watch day’s first light streaking across diamond-studded Bogue Sound.She would say, “the Lord is showing off today.”

We all, especially her grandchildren, found her to be a source of wisdom andcompassion, and we all drew courage from her strength of character.

Clear of mind and sound of body, Mama’s passing came as a surprise. But sheleft as she wanted, dying peacefully in her sleep, secure in the warm and joy-filled homeshe had shared with Pop at Gales Creek.

She is survived by her four children: The Reverend Jesse Staton, Jr., and wifeEmma, Ms. Carol Salter and husband The Reverend Neal Salter, Ms. Rebecca Bradyand husband Lee, Ms. Martha Dowty and husband Calvin; six grandchildren: AshleyBrady, Adam Staton and wife Betsy, Chris Salter, Sara Salter, Rachel Brady, JessicaDowty; great-grandchildren Ellie and Davis Staton.

512

LULA MAE S. OLIVE1936 - 2006Lula Mae Smith Olive was born November 29, 1936. She was married to Rev. John G.

Olive of Unicoi, Tennessee. She is also survived by her sons,Ken and wife, Diana Olive, and Jim Olive; daughters, Linda E.Rhodes and Darlene Fennel and husband, Kevin

Lula Mae enjoyed things such as leading the children insinging at Vacation Bible School, planting flowers and working inher vegetable garden. She enjoyed the outdoors and preferredbeing outside rather than cooped up inside the house. Shecouldn’t sit down and relax unless she had something in herhands, such as a crossword puzzle or crochet, anything to keep

herself busy.She was active in the United Methodist Women’s group in all of the churches John

served. She sang in the choir and supported John throughout his entire ministerialcareer. Lula Mae served her Lord and Saviour well throughout her 69 years on thiswonderful earth. Now she will serve Him throughout all Eternity.A service of Celebration was held at Unicoi United Methodist Church in Unicoi,Tennessee on October 21, 2006. The preacher’s who spoke at the service were: Rev.Mack Turner, Maryville, TN, Rev. Dennis Loy, Dr. George Edwin Odle and Rev. John G.Olive.

Lula Mae was laid to rest on October 22, 2006 in Roselawn Memory Gardenslocated I Johnson City, Tennessee.

FRANCES Z. LAYFIELD1917 - 2007

Frances Zimmerman Layfield was born August 2, 1917,in Decatur, Georgia. She died on March 17, 2007. A gravesideservice was held on March 20 in Waynesville, North Carolina,where she had lived for 22 years before moving to Atlanta,Georgia.

Frances was the widow of the late Reverend PearceH. Layfield, Jr., a member of the North Carolina Conference. She was also preceded indeath by her daughter, Mary Ann Layfield.

Frances’ husband Pearce chose to serve God in ministry after practicingdentistry for thirteen years. Following his graduation from Duke University School ofDivinity, the couple served churches in West End, Tabor City, Zebulon, Benson, andWilson (West Nash), before Pearce’s untimely death in 1976. Frances moved toWaynesville after completing the retirement home they had planned together.

She was a gifted professional artist and art teacher. As the Layfields movedfrom pastorate to pastorate, Frances became well known as a portrait artist, an expert inwatercolor and acrylic painting, and a teacher of young people and adults. Her paintingsdisplay her mastery of color and light, and in her portraits, her subjects come to life.

Blessed with an independent nature and a creative and resourceful spirit, sheled a rich, long life full of art, family and devotion to God. She was an avid student ofscripture. Her Bible classes were important to both youth and adults.

Frances Layfield is survived by a daughter, Sue Layfield Sandell and herhusband Cliff, of Decatur, Georgia; a son, Pearce Hudson Layfield, III and his wifeFrancine, of Nicholasville, Kentucky; and two grandchildren, Carrie Ann Layfield Drake ofHerndon, Virginia, and Katherine Ruth Layfield of Lexington, Kentucky.

513

ALICE V. COTTON1915 - 2007

Alice Worthy VonCanon was born in Moore CountyJanuary 29, 1915, the eldest child of Forrest W. and MargaretMcCaskill VonCanon. Born into a Christian family and rearedin the Methodist Church, Alice spent her early life in Pinehurstand later lived in West End. In her childhood, Alice learned toplay the piano and so it was that as a young woman she waspianist of West End Methodist Church when a new, young pastor came to thatcommunity. Worth Bagley Cotton and Alice VonCanon became husband and wife onAugust 12, 1935.

That marriage was the beginning of a partnership in which Alice enabled Worth’sministry. She was always patient and supportive. In the years that followed, they servedcharges in Garland, Newton Grove, Alamance County, Parkton, Rose Hill, Snow Hill,Richlands, Raleigh, Troy, Ahoskie, Wilmington and Fayetteville. To their union fivechildren were born: four sons, Worth, Jr., Solon Forrest, David Lee, Paul Frederick, and adaughter, Margaret Alice. As Worth served God through the churches, Alice kept thehome fires burning. A stay-at-home mother, she was able to stretch the always-inadequate resources, canning or freezing vegetables from the garden, making housesthat didn’t “fit” the family into a home, and encouraging the children to do their best andbe a good example for others. All the while she was involved in church affairs and mightbe found at the piano or organ on Sunday morning, sometimes on very short notice.Alice and Worth labored together for the Lord for 40 years.

In 1975 they retired to Mount Gilead where they spent time with family, remainedactive in church, gardened, fished and generally enjoyed life. By the time Worth died in1980, Alice had established deep roots in the community, and continued to cultivate andenjoy close friendships. She remained active in the church as she had been all throughher life. Her faith sustained her through the loss of Worth, and also in the terrible lossshe felt when her oldest son, Worth, Jr. died in 1987.

Alice continued to live in Mount Gilead for several years, but eventually realized thatshe needed to make other arrangements, and moved into an apartment at Quail Havenin Pinehurst. When she had to give up driving, with eyesight failing, she moved to SpringArbor Assisted Living in Wilmington. Even as she became more frail, her spiritremained serene. She never complained about her circumstances, but she had apeace and a sense of humor that served her well. She enjoyed reminiscing about allthe places the family had lived, and the wonderful people they had known.

Alice passed away May 17, 2007 in Wilmington at age 92. Her funeral was held atMount Gilead United Methodist Church, conducted by Jim Harris. She was buried nextto her husband, Worth, in Sharon Cemetery, Mount Gilead. Hers had been a long life, alife of self-sacrifice and service.

Survivors include sons Solon and wife Anita of Monroe, David and wife Esther ofMount Gilead, Paul and wife Lorraine of Wilmington, daughter Margaret Harriss-Footeand husband Allen of New Bern and daughter-in-law Carolyn Cotton of Greensboro.She is also survived by 11 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

Thanks be to God for a life well lived.

514

ETTA MAE M. UMSTEAD1915 - 2007

Etta Moore Umstead, wife of the late Rev. Charles I. Umstead, Jr. was born toWalter R. Moore, Sr. and Georgia W. Moore on October 10, 1925 in Saratoga, NC.

Etta and Charles were married on August 23, 1963. They were blessed with thebirth of a son, Walter Allan (Henry) and also by Etta’s daughter from a previous marriage,Georgia Willoughby of Farmville. In 165, Charles answered the call of God to theministry and served Him faithfully with Etta at this side. Together, they served a total ofsix pastoral appointments in the NC Conference between 165 and 1980.

Etta was a woman of God with an unwavering faith and an abundance of wisdomwho loved her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ with all her heart. She lived a selfless life,putting the needs of others ahead of her own. She exhibited the wonderfulcharacteristics of humility and servant hood that we would all do well to have in our ownlives. Etta was a prayer warrior throughout her years but especially at Core Creek UMC,where she was a vital part of the prayer team. She lived the life of a prayer that Paulinstructs us to live when he wrote “Pray without ceasing”.

Etta impacted the lives of many people during her lifetime and continued to do soright up to her final minutes with us. Being in church with family and friends was herfavorite place to be. During her last time at church, the choir dedicated a song to hercalled “The Anchor Holds”. This song speaks volumes of the faith that Etta had in herLord over the years. Her life of faith was a wonderful example for the rest of us to learnfrom and to follow.

Etta was admitted to Carteret General Hospital in Morehead City, NC on May 25,2007 after suffering a severe stroke. Denise and I were blessed to be with Etta at thehospital during her final hours. We prayed with her and read scriptures to her althoughshe could not speak, we knew she heard our words and was comforted by them.Moments before Etta passed away she looked right past Denise for a few seconds andthen laid her head back and breathed her last breath. Although Denise and I could notsee what Etta saw in those brief seconds, we believe she saw Jesus reaching out Hishand to her to take her home. His first words to her were undoubtedly “Well done thougood and faithful servant.” Etta left us to be with her Lord on May 26, 2007. Her funeralservice was held at Core Creek UMC hear Beaufort on June 3, 2007. Participating in theservice were the pastor, Diane LeBlanc and previous pastor at Core Creek, MichaelNelson.

Mike Saulter

515

516

ROLL OF DECEASED MEMBERS, 1837 - 1998(SEE 2000 JOURNAL)

ROLL OF DECEASED MINISTERIAL MEMBERS, 1999 - 2000(SEE 2001 JOURNAL)

ROLL OF DECEASED MINISTERIAL MEMBERS, 2001 - 2006

DATE/PLACE JOINED DATE/PLACE PLACE OFNAME OF BIRTH CONFERENCE OF DEATH BURIALGeorge W. Ports, Jr. 1922 - Phoenix, MD 1956 - VA Conf. 2001 - Mebane (cremation)Millard W. Warren, Jr. 1932 - Raleigh, NC 1970 - N. GA Conf. 2001 - Kinston, NC Mooresville,NCMatt R. Gardner 1906 - Goldsboro 1936 - New Bern 2000 - Durham GoldsboroClarence E. Hix 1907 - South Carolina 1936 - New Bern 2000 - Fayette, MO Fayette, MOCecil T. Leonard 1940 - Raleigh (LP) 2001 - Raleigh Franklinton,NCDon P. Lee 1925 - Colorado 1972 - Durham 2001 - Goldsboro cremationJames E. Sponenberg 1914 - Pennsylvania 1943 - Rocky Mount 2001 - Lenoir SanfordCharles M. Mitchell 1917 - Buies Creek, NC 1943 - Rocky Mount 2001 - Raleigh cremationRoy L. Turnage 1917 - Ayden 1970 - Fayetteville 2001 - Ayden AydenAlbert D. Byrd 1928 - Wilmington, NC 1950 - Kinston 2001 -Lumberton Calypso, NCHerman S. Winberry 1923-Verona, NC 1947-Elizabeth City 2001-Lumberton LumbertonWilliam A. Crow 1902 - Grafton, W.VA 1936 -New Bern 2001 -Southern Pines South’n PinesRobert S. Pullman 1932 - Durham, NC 1957 -New Bern 2001 -Southern Pines AberdeenWorlise L. Knowles 1947 - New Bern 1998 -Fayetteville(LP)2001 -New Bern New BernClarence E. O’Briant 1917 -Durham 1974 -Fayetteville 2001 -Hookerton Snow HillWaverly D. Lamb 1926 -Henderson 1976-Fayetteville(AM) 2001 - Lumberton LumbertonE.M. Thompson 1931 - Raleigh 1956 - Greenville 2001 - Greenville GreenvilleKermit R. Wheeler 1912 - 1940 - Wilmington 2002 - Florida FloridaSamuel D. McMillan, Jr. 1934 -Jacksonville, FL 1957 -New Bern 2002 - South Carolina WilmingtonJohn Rogers Crew 1922 - South Carolina 1966 - New Bern 2002 - Durham Greer, SCWilliam E. Eason, Sr. 1922 1960-Rocky Mount 2002 -Durham SanfordRobert Abner MacLean 1921 - 1958 - Wilson 2002 - Henderson HendersonNoah Bright Hill, Jr. 1922 - 1953 - Durham 2002 - Fayetteville cremationDonald Francis Gum 1944 - Alamance Co. 1970 - Pennsylvania 2002 - Durham BurlingtonJohn David Mitchell 1930 - 1964 - Burlington,NC 2002 - Goldsboro GoldsboroRobert Norman Knight 1925 1953 - Durham 2002 - Raleigh RaleighJames Wesley Hicks, Jr. 1935- Goldsboro, NC 1972- Durham GoldsboroTommy Tyson 1922 - Farmville 1951 - Wilmington 2002 - Chapel Hill FarmvilleRobert C. Mooney, Jr. 1915 - Alabama 1942 2002 GrahamThomas Holmes House 1947 - New Bern 1998 -Fayetteville(LP)2001 -New Bern New BernAlton Pugh Hill, Jr. 1924 - Lenoir Co. 1950 - Kinston 2003 - Greenville GreenvilleJames Columbus Loy 1929 - Mebane 1961- Durham 2003 - Burlington BurlingtonSidney Grant Boone 1912 1941 - Durham 2003 NashvilleDonna Susan Moore 1946 - Alamance Co. 1984 - Fayetteville 2003 - Burlington BurlingtonDouglas R. Woodworth 1922 - New York 2003 AydenDaniel E. Meadows 1911-Columbus Co. 1963 - Greenville 2003-Bailey BaileyGilbert W. Crutchfield 1907-Carthage, NC 1943 - Rocky Mount 2003-Durham RaleighMary Leigh VonCannon 1917 1976 - Fayetteville 2003James H. Shiver 1906 1958 - Fayetteville 2003Theodore V. Carter, Sr. 1933-Maxton 1968 - Fayetteville 2003-Raleigh RaleighIrving E. Cook 1927 1957 - New Bern 2003John T. Greene 1911 1936 - New Bern 2003John T. Smith 1913-Virginia 1963 - Greenville 2003-Cary BurlingtonRichard R. Blankenhorn 1924 1961 - Durham 2003

517

DATE/PLACE JOINED DATE/PLACE PLACE OFNAME OF BIRTH CONFERENCE OF DEATH BURIALHunnings, Henry M. 1922-Beaufort 1976-Fayetteville(AM) 2003-Johnnie D. Aycock 1923 1947 - Elizabeth City 2003 RowlandBennie J. Tripp 1943 2003Henry B. Lewis 1908 -Mississippi 1937 - Raleigh 2004 RaleighChester Andrews 1907-Fairmont 1931 - Greenville 2004-High Point FairmontOscar B. Wooldridge 1916-Virginia 1942 - Richmond, VA 2004-FloridaLee A. Phillips 1913-Fayetteville 1958 - Wilson 2004-Rockingham Green LakeLuther V. Wesley 1946- 1973-Fayetteville 2004-CreedmoorWilliam N. Fulford 1920- 1973 - Fayetteville 2004-FarmvilleJohnie L. Joyce 1908-South Hills, VA 1932 - Rocky Mt. 2004-Durham,NC cremationClarence L. Warren 1923-North Carolina 1958 - Wilmington 2004-Lumberton, NC FayettevilleLeon R. Sparrow 1922-North Carolina 1958 - Kinston 2004-Bath, NC BathEvander Parnell 1930-Hope Mills 1969 - Fayetteville 2004-Lumberton, NC LumbertonJames A. Tingle 1935-Alliance, NC 1964 - Burlington 2004James H. Coile 1937-LaGrange, NC 1967 - Goldsboro 2004-New Bern, NC WilsonNorwood L. Jones 1923-Clayton, NC 1949 - Sanford 2004-Clayton, NC ClaytonJames G. Lupton 1919-Cedar Island, NC 1962 - Kinston 2004-Simpson, NC SimpsonRaegan V. May 1963-Muleshoe, TX 1987 - Fayetteville 2005-Chapel Hill CremationJohn W. Garrison 1924-Raleigh, NC 1950 - Kinston 2005-Brazil BrasiliaEbern E. Allen 1940-Greenville, NC 1992 - Fayetteville 2005-Graham, NC GrahamJohn M. Cline 1921-Lewisville, NC 1946 - Henderson 2005-Raleigh, NC RaleighJohnnie S. Huggins 1927-Newport News, VA 1971 - Fayetteville 2005Barney L. Jones 1920-New York 1944 - New York 2005-New York New YorkRobin J. Scroggs 1930 1955 - Fayetteville 2005-New Jersey New JerseyRobert S. Gibson 1925 1952 - Burlington 2005-Charlotte, NCJames C. Chaffin 1919-Burgaw, NC 2005-Robbins RobbinsWilliam P. Lowdermilk 1933-Norman, NC 1956-Greenville 2005-Fayetteville FayettevilleLester Jackson 1919-New Mexico 1952-Virginia 2005-Charles F. Eakin 1920-Virginia 1958-Virginia 2005-Yanceyville VirginiaSamuel L. Wood 1916-Tennessee 1964-Burlington 2005 GoldsboroRobert L. Bame 1924-Rowan County 1943-Rocky Mount 2005-Wilmington PikevilleLorenzo P. Plyler 1914-Pennsylvania 1955-York, PA 2005-Georgia GeorgiaJulian P. Moorman 1918-West Virginia 1942-Holston 2005-Raleigh cremationThomas A. Collins 1921-Georgia 1944-Raleigh 2005-Durham cremationRobert L. Nicks 1916-Yanceyville 1946-Henderson 2006-Florida FloridaO. Kelly Ingram 1918-Alabama 1940-Alabama 2006-Cary cremationWilliam E. Worley 1925-West Virginia 1957-Florida 2006-Wilson FloridaHelen G. Crotwell 1925-South Carolina 1973-Fayetteville 2006-Georgia GeorgiaRonald D. Cyr 1946-Massachusetts 1971-Fayetteville 2006-Greenville cremationJames R. Lancaster 1922-Fayetteville 1971-Fayetteville 2006-Fayetteville cremationArthur W. Winstead, Sr. 1923-North Carolina 1964-Burlington 2006-Raleigh RaleighPaul C. Browning 1923-W. Virginia 2006-Burlington BurlingtonCarol D. Hayes 2006-FloridaChristian White 1920-New Jersey 2006-Durham BurlingtonJerry S. Dodson 1950-Mebane 2006-Mebane MebaneClyde H. Dunn 1927-Mebane 2006-Mebane RaleighBrooks B. Little 2006-TennesseeMichael L. Tart 2006-Rocky Mount DunnWilliam E. Clements 1937-South Carolina 2006-Gatesville Elizabeth CityCharles M. Litzenberger 1943-New York 2006-Chapel Hill New BernGuy V. Soule, Jr. 1935-Charlotte, NC 2006-Burlington Alamance Co.James Millard Short 1928-Moore Co. 2006-Rockingham Fayetteville

518

DATE/PLACE JOINED DATE/PLACE PLACE OFNAME OF BIRTH CONFERENCE OF DEATH BURIALVassar Wilson Jones 2007-Roxboro RoxboroRudolph H. HodgeWallace B. Lewis 2007-Dover DoverJerry Lowry 1948-Laurinburg 2007-Sanford Pembroke

519

HISTORICAL STATMENT

I. COMPOSITIONThe North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church is composed of:A. The eastern portion of the former North Carolina Conference of The United

Methodist Protestant Church.B. The former North Carolina Conference of The Methodist Episcopal Church South.C. The coastal region of the former Blue Ridge-Atlantic Conference of The Methodist

Episcopal Church.D. The Eastern District, North Carolina-Virginia Conference, Central Jurisdiction.

II. ORGANIZATIONThe organizing dates of the four former Conferences were as follows:A. The North Carolina Conference of The Methodist Protestant Church 1828, at

Whitaker’s Chapel in Halifax County, North Carolina.B. The North Carolina Conference of The Methodist Episcopal Church, South, 1837.C. The Blue Ridge-Atantic Conference of The Methodist Episcopal Church, 1879,

at Greensboro, North Carolina, first named Southern Central Conference; twoyears later, 1881, renamed Blue Ridge-Atlantic Conference.

D. The Eastern District North Carolina-Virginia Annual Conference was organizedat a special session on August 11, 1964, at Bennett College, Greensboro, NorthCarolina.

III. SESSIONS OF THE CONSTITUENT CONFERENCES BEFORE UNION IN 1939:(See 1988 Journal.)IV. UNION: The Unification of the North Carolina Conferences was accomplished by the

Unification of the three major branches of American Methodism in the United Statesat Kansas City, Missouri, May 10, 1939.

V. SESSIONS SINCE UNION IN 1939: (See 1988 Journal.)VI. SESSIONS OF OTHER CONFERENCES: (See 1988 Journal.)VII.SESSIONS SINCE UNION IN 1968 OF THE METHODIST CHURCH AND THE

EVANGELICAL UNITED BRETHREN CHURCHSessions of the NC Conference of The United Methodist Church, 1968 - 1999Held When President Secretary143 Fayetteville June 1968 Paul N. Garber W. Carleton Wilson144 Chapel Hill June 1969 W. R. Cannon W. Carleton Wilson145 Greenville June 1970 W. R. Cannon W. Carleton Wilson146 Fayetteville June 1971 W. R. Cannon W. Carleton Wilson147 Durham June 1972 W. R. Cannon W. Carleton Wilson148 Fayetteville June 1973 R. M. Blackburn A. Kimsey King149 Fayetteville June 1974 R. M. Blackburn A. Kimsey King150 Fayetteville June 1975 R. M. Blackburn James H. Coile151 Fayetteville June 1976 R. M. Blackburn James H. Coile152 Fayetteville June 1977 R. M. Blackburn James H. Coile153 Fayetteville June 1978 R. M. Blackburn James H. Coile154 Fayetteville June 1979 R. M. Blackburn James H. Coile155 Fayetteville June 1980 R. M. Blackburn James H. Coile156 Fayetteville June 1981 W. R. Cannon L. T. Wilson157 Fayetteville June 1982 W. R. Cannon L. T. Wilson158 Fayetteville June 1983 W. R. Cannon L. T. Wilson159 Fayetteville June 1984 W. R. Cannon L. T. Wilson160 Fayetteville June 1985 C. P. Minnick, Jr. L. T. Wilson161 Durham June 1986 C. P. Minnick, Jr. L. T. Wilson162 Fayetteville June 1987 C. P. Minnick, Jr. L. T. Wilson

520

Held When President Secretary163 Fayetteville June 1988 C. P. Minnick, Jr. L. T. Wilson164 Fayetteville June 1989 C. P. Minnick, Jr. James H. Coile165 Fayetteville June 1990 C. P. Minnick, Jr. James H. Coile166 Fayetteville June 1991 C. P. Minnick, Jr. James H. Coile167 Fayetteville June 1992 C. P. Minnick, Jr. James H. Coile168 Fayetteville June 1993 C. P. Minnick, Jr. James H. Coile169 Fayetteville June 1994 C. P. Minnick, Jr. James H. Coile170 Fayetteville June 1995 C. P. Minnick, Jr. James H. Coile171 Fayetteville June 1996 C. P. Minnick, Jr. James H. Coile172 Fayetteville June 1997 Marion M. Edwards James L. Bryan173 Fayetteville June 1998 Marion M. Edwards James L. Bryan174 Fayetteville June 1999 Marion M. Edwards James L. Bryan175 Fayetteville June 2000 Marion M. Edwards James L. Bryan176 Fayetteville June 2001 Marion M. Edwards James L. Bryan177 Fayetteville June 2002 Marion M. Edwards James L. Bryan178 Fayetteville June 2003 Marion M. Edwards James L. Bryan179 Fayetteville June 2004 Marion M. Edwards James L. Bryan180 Fayetteville June 2005 Alfred W. Gwinn James L. Bryan181 Greenville June 2006 Alfred W. Gwinn James L. Bryan182 Greenville June 2007 Alfred W. Gwinn James L. Bryan