​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.

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. 

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.