 Michael "Mike" David Pate, 65, of Kenansville passed away quietly Friday, May 16, 2025 at the ECU Health, Home Health and Hospice - The Service League of Greenville. Michael affectionately known as "Mike" was born June 7, 1959 at Ellsworth AFB in Rapid City, South Dakota to the late Paul G. Pate and Eva Rosenlind Pate.
Left to cherish his memory are wife: Esther Rogers Pate of the home; daughter: Kaye Griffin and husband, Shane Griffin of Faison; grandchildren: Caden, Cheyenne, Joanna Griffin; siblings: Paul D. Pate and wife, Kimberly Pate of Nevada and their children nephew, Aaron Pate and wife, Lindsay and their kids Emma and Luke Pate, nephew Benjamin Pate and wife, Lacey and their kids Marius and Alethea, Lisa Pate Woodward and husband, Steven of Florida and their kids Kelsey and Alexis. Mike cherished all of his family. Aunts, Uncles, and many cousins. He held each of them near and dear to his heart and wanted you to know it when he saw you! For many years Mike dedicated his skills as an auto mechanic, becoming a familiar face at Frank Steed's Tire Service. His favorite part of the job was being able to run the wrecker service. Frank was someone he looked up to and cherished and called him friend. Through that friendship, he proudly volunteered with the Warsaw Fire Department and EMS for a few years, demonstrating a desire to serve his community. He enjoyed being around people and never met a stranger. He loved going fishing and always found time to go when he could with his friends. He enjoyed working with his Son in Law, Shane, with lawn care and landscaping. He found pride in it because as he often said "Shane is the son I never had and I love him". Mike often reminisced about his childhood, particularly his time in New Mexico and at his late grandparents, Clarence and Sudie Pate's home where he had fond memories of cousins, aunt, uncles and friends. Becoming deaf as an infant led to a strong sense of belonging within the Deaf Community where he encompassed meaningful bonds to friends at Eastern NC School for the Deaf of Wilson NC and NC School for the Deaf in Morganton NC. He met his wife, Esther of 41 years there. He continued after school as a known supportive friend and always offered assistance to many before his health declined. He possessed a notable sense of humor and often aimed to bring laughter to those around him. Most importantly, Mike was a sinner saved by grace. We find comfort knowing that in Heaven, in the presence of Jesus, his spirit now joins the choir of praise-singing with sound. Isaiah 35: 5-6 In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Community Funeral Home of Warsaw, P. O. Box 336, Warsaw, NC 28398. The family is receiving family and friends at the residence. In accordance with his wishes there will be no formal arrangements. A memorial fellowship for family and friends will be announced in the near future.
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 Dennis Lee Ezzell, 76, passed away Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at Novant New Hanover Regional Medical Center. Dennis was born June 26, 1948 in Duplin County to the late Norman Ezzell and Mattie Hare Ezzell.
Visitation will begin at 11:00 am, Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at Community Funeral Home of Warsaw. A funeral service will begin at 12:00pm in the funeral home chapel and burial will conclude the service in Devotional Gardens. Dennis is survived by his loving wife, Maybelle Darden Ezzell of the home; daughters, Pam E. Futrell and husband, Herman of Warsaw and Lisa E. Humphrey and husband, Dwayne of Warsaw, grandchildren, Ashley Atchley and husband, Seth of AL, Madison Humphrey and Jackson Humphrey both of Warsaw, and great granddaughter, Caroline Atchley. Dennis is also survived by brothers, Norbert "Pa" Ezzell of Albertson, and Dwight Ezzell of Warsaw and sisters, Doris Southerland of Bayboro and Angie Blake and Tommy Kornegay of Jacksonville, NC and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Dennis was preceded in death by brothers, Tommy Ezzell, Burgus Ezzell, and Steven Ezzell and sister, Becky Ward.  In loving memory of Erlene Buckholts Gavin 07/12/1950 - 05/07/25
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Erlene, a cherished wife, devoted mother, treasured mammy, and faithful servant of the Lord, who went home to be with Jesus on May 7, 2025, at the age of 74. Erlene was the heart and soul of her family, always full of love, laughter, and grace. A woman of deep faith, she loved Jesus with all her heart and lived her life as a shining example of His love and kindness. Her commitment to serving others was evident in all she did, especially through her work at Rose Hill Baptist Church, where she joyfully gave her time, talents, and heart to ministries that blessed so many. She was a passionate golfer who found great joy in the game, not just for the sport itself, but for the fellowship and fun it brought into her life. Her greatest joys, however, were found at home-cooking up delicious meals in the kitchen, sharing stories and laughter around the table, and creating lifelong memories with her beloved children and grandchildren. She had a special gift for spoiling her grandkids, who lovingly called her "Mammy" and knew that a visit with her meant love, sweets, and plenty of hugs. Alongside her devotion to family and faith, Erlene was also a sharp and determined businesswoman. She proudly ran and operated Coastal Exterminating, where she was known for her strong work ethic, integrity, and dedication to excellence. Her leadership left a lasting legacy in the community she served with pride. Erlene united with her loving late husband, Lewis Gavin; her beloved children, Amanda Gavin, and Lee Gavin (Shannon Gavin); her adored grandchildren, Kaylee Gavin (Matt), Michael Peay (Makayla), Caden Gavin, and Mattie Gavin; and a host of extended family and friends who were all touched by her warmth, generosity, and unwavering faith. Though we mourn her loss deeply, we rejoice in knowing that she is now at peace in the presence of her Savior. Her life was a beautiful testimony of love, service, and strength, and her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Please join us in celebrating her life Saturday afternoon, May 17th, 2025. Visitation is at 1 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 2 p.m. at Rose Hill Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Lower Cape Fear Hospice LifeCare in her memory. 1414 Physicians Dr, Wilmington, NC 28401.  Betty Sue Deluca passed away peacefully Thursday May 8 2025 at the age of 81 after a long battle with Alzheimers. She was born in New Bern NC on May 26 1943.
Visitation will begin 1:00pm, Tuesday, May 13 at Fellowship Church of God, 3304 Hwy 117, Rose Hill, NC. A funeral service will held at 2:00pm at the church and burial will follow the service in Devotional Gardens. Betty was a sweet and gentle spirit. She lived her life each day worshiping God and sharing his word. She is now reaping the pay off of years of spiritual obedience. No more earthly pain and anguish, only peace and harmony of God's promise to us all. Now she is back with the love of her life “Baby Ray” in the presence of our lord. Betty is survived by her sons Tony Tucker and wife Cindy, Bobby Tucker and wife Regina, as well as many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Silvio Ray Deluca, father Elwood Wetherington, mother Christine Caton, a son David Tucker, brothers James Wetherington and Robert Wetherington, a sister Virginia Rill and Horace and Blonnie Mae Byrd who played a vital role in her life.  Gary Thomas Cook, 68, of Warsaw, North Carolina, passed away on Saturday, May 3rd, 2025, in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and community servant, Gary leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and quiet strength.
Gary is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Becky Rivenbark Cook. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, family, and dedication. He is also survived by his son, Thomas Cook and wife Jessica of Clinton, NC; daughter, Betsy Cook of Warsaw, NC; and his cherished grandson, Colton Ray Cook, who affectionately knew him as “Papa.” Colton was the apple of his eye, and Gary took great joy in spending time with him, especially attending his ball games. He is also survived by his sister, Jo Ann Barrett, and his brother, Jeff Cook and wife Eva. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Ollie Rifton Cook and Gladys Ann Cook. Gary served as a law enforcement officer for 18 years, including four years as Chief of Police, dedicating himself to the safety and well-being of his community. After his career in law enforcement, he transitioned to a maintenance role with Smithfield’s Hog Production, from which he retired. A talented woodworker, Gary spent countless hours in his backyard shop, crafting pieces with skill and care. He was especially proud of his involvement with the Boy Scouts of America. An Eagle Scout himself, he served for many years as a Scoutmaster, mentoring and guiding countless young men—even beyond his own son’s achievement of Eagle Scout. Gary was honored with the prestigious Silver Beaver Award and was a member of the Order of the Arrow, testaments to his lifelong commitment to scouting and youth leadership. Visitation will be held on Monday, May 12th at 11:00 a.m. at Community Funeral Home in Warsaw, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 p.m. Burial will take place at Devotional Gardens in Warsaw, NC. Gary will be remembered for his dedication to family, his service to others, and his unwavering integrity. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.  Kenansville - Nelson Sasser Baker, 67, of Kenansville passed away Friday, April 25, 2025 in Georgia. Nelson was born August 6, 1957 in Duplin County to the late Earl Nelson Baker and Carolyn Sasser Baker.
Nelson was a very loving husband, daddy to his children and poppie to his grandchildren. Nelson was a trusted member of the Kenansville Fire Department. He served as a Town Commissioner for many years and served on the board of the State Employees Credit Union Board for 11 years. Nelson was an avid supporter of James Kenan Sports. Nelson touched most of the lives of the people in our area in one way or another. A funeral service will be held May 1, 2025 at 2:00pm at Duplin Commons in Kenansville. Burial will follow in the Devotional Gardens. A visitation will be held from 12:30pm till 2:00pm prior to the service. Nelson leaves to cherish his memory, son, Brian Baker of Wilmington; daughter, Dana Baker and husband, Brian Jonesof McClellanville, SC ; brother Stanley Baker and wife, Maria of Magnolia; grandchildren, Ella Grace, Easton, Lucas and Elsa Rose. In addition to his parents, Nelson was preceded in death by wife, Pamela Sue Baker and son, Kevin Allen Chambers.  Tracy Carr Johnson, 67, of Warsaw, passed away Friday, April 11, 2025 at ECU Medical Center in Greenville, NC. Tracy was born on February 7, 1958, the son of the late John Anderson and Helen Brown Johnson of Warsaw, NC.
Tracy recently retired after a career as an IT/Computer Specialist with Carolina Turkey/ Butterball in Mount Olive, NC. In his free time Tracy enjoyed making music, taking care of his cats, rocking on the front porch, and spending time with those he loved. Tracy is survived by his brothers, John A. Johnson, Jr, William Clark (Bill) Johnson and wife, Lisa, sister, Mary Best Reichard and husband Don, nieces, Carmen Ellis and husband, Ryan, and Danielle Johnson, nephew, John-Daniel Johnson and great nephew, Archer Ellis. He is also survived by his girlfriend, Debra Miller. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, April 22, at 2:00 p.m. at First Baptist Clinton, 408 College St, Clinton, NC.  Warsaw - Jerry Allen Carter was born to Henry and Dora Mae Carter on April 18, 1948 in Bowden NC where they raised him and his 7 siblings working on the family farm.
At the age of 18, Jerry enlisted in the US Army where he was assigned to Army Artillery 5th Battalion 83rd Division and did his basic training at Ft. Dixon New Jersey as a Field Wireman. He served in St. Louise MO as well as foreign soil in Germany for 1 1/2 years until his Honorable Discharge where he was transferred to Army Reserves until August 1968 Shortly after discharge, Jerry met Brenda Eaves and they on May 7, 1976 they were married and raised 2 sons, Joey and Ryan, in their family home in Warsaw where Jerry often volunteered with the Warsaw Recreation Department as a coach. During his 31 years of marriage to Brenda, he was a tobacco farmer and later a carpenter along side 2 of his brothers. They were known as the Carter Brothers and if anyone needed any work done in the Warsaw area, they knew to call Jerry and his brothers. Although Jerry loved farming and carpentry, he still had another passion and that was still to serve his country in some capacity. Jerry decided to join the Charles R Gavin Post 127 American Legion where he eventually became the Commander of the post until it closed its doors. Jerry was there every time the doors opened to do whatever needed to be done whether it was his job or not. He loved the American Legion and what it stood for but his real legacy came with The Warsaw Veteran’s Day Parade. The Warsaw Veteran’s Day Parade is the longest continuous running Veteran’s Day Parade in the nation. The parade started in 1921 and they celebrated their 104th parade in 2024. Each year, Jerry had quietly but efficiently been the Parade Committee’s Chairman for 30+ years which was 1/3 of the years the parade has been in existence. In his time as Chairman, the NC General Assembly not only adopted the parade as the longest consecutive Veteran’s Day Parade in the nation, they also named it as the “official” State Veteran’s Day Parade. As Chairman, Jerry’s responsibilities consisted of finding and lining up volunteers; leading and conducting scheduled meetings throughout each year; contacting civilian and military participants; scheduling the US Air Force flyovers to kick off each parade; vetting, contacting and organizing Grand Marshalls to lead parades, organizing the 100+ participants which largely consisted of the military because that’s what the Veteran’s Day Parade was all about…..honoring our current AND retired servicemen and their service to our country. Jerry worked tirelessly to make sure this parade accurately represented all branches of the military service and was something the community could come together to enjoy and be proud of. He could be seen every Veteran’s Day wearing his red, white and blue button up with white stars zooming his golf cart up and down the parade route to be sure everyone and everything was in order and flowing smoothly. When Jerry wasn’t working on his parade responsibilities, he could be found 1 of 2 places. If it was morning, he could be found coffee in hand, sitting at his booth at Warsaw Friendly Mart laughing and sharing any local happenings with his favorite “coffee buddies”. This group of men became more than just friends with this morning routine through the years….they became family that looked after each other. These men knew if Jerry wasn’t sitting in the booth when they got there, then something was wrong. If he wasn’t found at the Friendly Mart, you could usually find him warming “his” personal chair at Napa Parts store in Kenansville where he worked as a parts delivery man for approximately 7 years. Throughout Jerry’s life, he was called by many names but one of his favorite was Pa and Pa Jerry by grandchildren, David, Payton, and Carly and his great grandchildren, Brody and Julia. He was a proud Pa who loved bragging on his family. Jerry Allen Carter was definitely one of kind who was loved by many and will truly be missed. He had a heart to serve his community and country, and worked tirelessly to improve his community and country and for this, we are thankful for his love and lifetime of service. A funeral service will be held 2:00 pm, Thursday, April 10, 2025 at Community Funeral Home of Warsaw, with burial to follow in Devotional Gardens. Visitation will be held at the home, 854 Blackmore Road, Warsaw, NC 28398. Jerry is survived by sons, Joey Burgette and wife, Melissa of Four Oaks, Ryan Carter of Warsaw; grandchildren, David Wayne Burgette and wife, Christa, Payton Burgette and fiancé, Blake McMillan, and Carly Burgette; great grandchildren, Brody Burgette and Julia Burgette; sisters, Margaret Ann Bohn of New York and Dianne Blackburn of Goldsboro. Jerry was preceded in death by wife, Brenda Eaves Carter, granddaughter, Lauren Grace Burgette, great grandson, Colton Burgette, brothers, Henry Ellis Carter, William "Dick" Carter, Ervin Carter, Danny Ray Carter; and sister, Betty Jane Holloman. Jerry Allen Carter, 76, passed away Monday, April 7, 2025 at Duke Regional Hospital in Durham, NC. Jerry was born April 18, 1948 in Duplin County, NC to the late William Henry Carter and Dora Mae Register Carter.
A funeral service will be held 2:00pm, Thursday, April 10, 2025 at Community Funeral Home of Warsaw, with burial to follow the service in Devotional Gardens. Visitation will be at the home, 854 Blackmore Road, Warsaw, NC.  Martin Alan Brown, 89, of Warsaw, died on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at Liberty Commons Rehabilitation in Benson, NC. Alan was born in Duplin County, NC on October 8, 1935 to James Mason and Lucy Parker Brown.
Alan retired from USDA as a meat inspector after a 39 year career. He loved mowing grass, gardening, singing and his Warsaw breakfast clubs. Alan adored his grandchildren and great grandchildren to whom he was affectionately known as Poppy. He loved his big family and felt each of his siblings, their spouses, nieces and nephews were very special to him. Alan had a love for music and sang on many special occasions. He took great pride in cleaning and maintaining the family cemeteries. Through the years he went on numerous mission trips, served as a Gideon for several years, and even passed out pickles at the Grand Ole Opry as a Mount Olive Pickle Ambassador. Visitation will be held 1:00pm, Saturday, April 5, 2025 at Community Funeral Home of Warsaw. A funeral service will follow at 2:00pm in the funeral home chapel, burial will conclude the service in Devotional Gardens. The family will receive visitors at other times at the home of Samuel and Pamela Brown, 731 Ebenezer Church Road, Coats, NC 27521. Alan is survived by wife, Millie I. Brown of Coats, NC, son, Samuel Alan Brown and wife, Pamela of Coats, daughter, Pamela B. Wallace and husband, Gerry of Lexington, SC, grandchildren, Ivey and Jason McCune, Alana and Mitchell Nelson, Samuel and Sarah Brown, Samantha and Scott Dunn, great grandchildren, Kennedy McCune, Karsyn McCune, Summerlin Nelson, Everleigh Nelson, Banks Brown, Tate Brown, and Smith Dunn, sisters, Jewel Brown and Sylvia Davis (Ray). In addition to his parents, Alan was preceded in death by brothers, James Mason Brown, Jr. Russell Brown, Morris Brown, Benjamin Brown, sisters, DeAlphia Robbins, Susan Joyner and Barbara Smith. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: The Alan and Millie Brown Scholarship Fund at James Sprunt Community College. P. O. Box 398, Kenansville, NC 28349. Checks should be made to JSCC Foundation and please note in the memo for The Alan and Millie Brown Scholarship Fund or Liberty Hospice, 105 Hunt Valley Drive, Dunn, NC 28334.  Warsaw - Walker Wilson "Mac" McNeill, 82, of Warsaw passed away Sunday, March 23, 2025 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center of Wilmington. Mac was born in Wayne County, November 26, 1942, to the late Archibald Walker McNeill and Edith Alline Wilson McNeill.
A funeral service will be held 2:00pm Thursday, March 27, 2025 at the Warsaw Baptist Church with burial to follow in the Devotional Gardens. Mr. McNeill leaves behind to cherish his memory wife, Jean Chambers McNeill of the home; sons, James W. "Bo" McNeill and wife, Beth of Mt Olive, and Michael "Mike" McNeill and wife, Mara of Keller, TX; daughter, Catherine Alliene Barthel and husband, Doug of Greenville; grandchildren, Sydney McNeill, Zach McNeill and wife, Jess, Caleb McNeill and wife, Bri, Micah McNeill and Drew Barthel; brother, Dan Kelly McNeill and wife, Maureen of Fayetteville; sister, Barbara Miller, Warsaw. In addition to his parents, Mac was preceded in death by brother, Boone McNeill. Flowers welcome or memorials maybe made to Warsaw Baptist Church, 209 E. College Street, Warsaw, NC 28398.  Warsaw - Dorothy Irene Hinson Quinn, 81, passed away Thursday, March 20, 2025 at Navion of Goldsboro in Goldsboro, NC. Mrs. Quinn was born April 13, 1943 in New Hanover County, NC to the late Cranford William Hinson and Alma Louise Mitchell Hinson.
A memorial service will be held 2:00pm, Tuesday, March 25, 2025 at Warsaw Baptist Church with visitation to follow the service. Mrs. Quinn is survived by sons, Mitchell Quinn and wife, Darlene of Mount Olive, NC, Michael Quinn and special friend, Deborah Blake of LaGrange; daughters, Sarah Q. Lewis and husband, Darren of Willow Springs, Rebecca Q. Boggs and husband, Robert of Wilmington, grandchildren, Anna Boggs, Jonathan Boggs and Deanna, Allison Bialek and Jackson, Haley Lewis, Natalie Lewis, Kelli Lewis, Rachel Bryant and Blaine, Megan Quinn, Sarah Beth Quinn, Alexandrea Quinn; Great Grandchildren, Autumn and Aspen Bryant. She is also survived by brothers, David Hinson and wife, Marjorie of Kinston, Johnny Hinson and wife, Barbara; sister, Juanita Powell and husband, Charles of Goldsboro, and special friend, Kenneth Lanier of Durham. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Quinn was preceded in death by husband, Colon Kelly Quinn. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Warsaw Baptist Church, 209 E. College Street, Warsaw, NC 28398. Raeford-Brenda Kay Beddingfield Brock, 61, of Raeford passed away Friday, March 7, 2025 at MUSC Medical Center in Charleston, South Carolina. Kay was born in Wayne County September 3, 1963 to the late Mose David Beddingfield and Eloise Pate Beddingfield,
A funeral service will be held at 7:00pm Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at Community Funeral Home Chapel of Warsaw with visitation to follow. Kay leaves to cherish her memory husband, Victor Brock of the home; sons, D. J. Brock of Honeygrove, TX, and Adam Brock and wife Savannah of Raeford; grandchildren, Victor Brock II, Cameron Lee Brock, Victoria Kay Brock, Mose David Brock, Melia Brock, Dylan James Brock, Lacey Lynn Brock, and Aubree Ann Brock; brothers, Larry Beddingfield and wife, Pat of Mt. Olive and Mitchell Beddingfield and wife, Nikki of Chinquapin; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Kay was also preceded in death by brothers, Timothy Beddingfield and Ray Beddingfield. Warsaw - Jimmy Nelson Carter, 84, passed away Thursday, February 27, 2025 at ECU Health Duplin Hospital in Kenansville, NC. Mr. Carter was born October 24, 1940 in Duplin County NC to the late Ivey Carter and Winnafred Virginia Lane Carter.
A funeral service will be held 3:00pm Sunday, March 2, 2025 in Community Funeral Home Chapel, Warsaw, NC. Visitation will follow the service. A graveside service will be held 11:00am, Monday, March 3, 2025 in Devotional Gardens, Warsaw, NC. Mr. Carter is survived by wife, Fay Carter of the home; son, Ivey Steven Carter and wife, Pam of Warsaw; daughter, Wanda Stancil of Warsaw; grandchildren, Megan Stancil, Samantha Carter, Miranda Carter Campbell and husband, Jamal; great grandchildren, Cayden Carter, Alianna Campbell, Kaliyah Campbell, and Carter Dunn, brothers, Richard Carter, Edward Carter and wife, Barbara of Glen Allen, VA; and sister, Anna Faye Mimken and husband, Brian of Eden. Warsaw - William Carol Britt, 71, passed away February 26, 2025 at ECU Health Duplin Hospital in Kenansville, NC. Mr. Britt was born June 23, 1953 in Wayne County, NC to the late William Richard Britt and Doris Brock Britt.
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