Nancy Best Bates
Wake Forest
Nancy Best Bates, age 74, of Wake Forest died Monday, October 29, 2018, at Transitions LifeCare Hospice Home in Raleigh. Her death resulted from a six-month battle against a recurrence of breast cancer.
Born on November 17, 1943 in Summit, New Jersey, as Nancy Jane Best, Nancy was the eldest daughter of Frederick Sherman Best and Lois Phelps Gardner. Her childhood was spent in Berkeley Heights, New Jersey. She was a graduate of Governor Livingston Regional High School, Class of 1961.
Nancy became a registered nurse upon her graduation from Somerset Hospital School of Nursing in Somerville, New Jersey, Class of 1964. Shortly after her graduation, Nancy moved to Baltimore, Maryland, where she met and married Donald Duane Bates on January 8, 1966. They were happily together for 43 years.
During her almost twenty years as a resident in the Baltimore, Maryland area, Nancy was an active member of Grace United Methodist Church.
Nancy began her nursing career as a pediatric nurse in the Nephrology and Neurology units, at Johns Hopkins Hospital (1964-1970) in Baltimore, Maryland. She became a home health nurse and then transitioned into hospice nursing for the next twenty years, finishing her career as Director of Professional Services for Hospice of Wake County (1988-2000), now Transitions LifeCare Hospice. A woman who thrived on challenges and was continuously improving her skills and knowledge in all aspects of life, Nancy took considerable pride in mentoring and coaching, and was passionate about caring for all living things, especially people.
In 1999, Nancy wrote, “A hospice nurse can achieve great satisfaction and a feeling of accomplishment knowing that she’s helped a person struggling to cope with a disease process out of control to die comfortably and at peace. This is what makes ‘doing hospice’ so personally rewarding and special.”
Along with being an avid gardener, Nancy spent most of her retirement years enjoying her family, researching her family’s genealogy, and volunteering. As active as she was in her community, her family always came first and was what she enjoyed the most about her life.
Nancy was an active member of Wake Forest Presbyterian Church, where she served as a Stephen Minister and volunteered with many ministries within the church. As a 30-year resident of Wake Forest, she served on many advisory boards, and in various volunteer roles related to the Town of Wake Forest. Some of these activities included the Wake Forest Historic Preservation Commission, Wake Forest Garden Club, Wake Forest Cemetery Advisory Board, and the Wake Forest Urban Forestry Board.
Originally diagnosed with breast cancer in 1997, Nancy was treated at Duke University Hospital and initially survived the disease. As a breast cancer survivor, she became a volunteer with the National Breast Care Coalition and Breast Cancer Coalition of North Carolina, Reach to Recovery/American Cancer Society, and Educate Our Women Programs. In more recent years, Nancy volunteered in the Mended Hearts program at Wake Medical Center in Raleigh, after learning that her prior cancer treatments had weakened her own heart.
Nancy was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Duane Bates, and by her family members: father, Frederick Sherman Best; mother, Lois Gardner Best; sister, Suzanne Best Wheeler; sister, Audrey Best Gianakos; and brother, Lawrence Holloway Best.
Nancy is survived by her three children, Stephanie Bates Kaeberlein (Christopher Patrick Kaeberlein) of Franklinton; Lauren Bates Blue (Robert Elliot Blue) of Greensboro; Eric John Bates (Le Dao Bates) of Atlanta, Georgia; her sister, Jean Alice Best of Bedminster, New Jersey; and her beloved grandchildren, Jack and Madelyn Kaeberlein, Kennedy Blue, and Riley Bates; in addition to many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at Wake Forest Presbyterian Church on what would have been Nancy’s 75th birthday, Saturday, November 17, 2018 at 11 a.m. A reception will follow at the family’s home in Wake Forest, where the family will receive guests
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made in Nancy’s memory to Transitions LifeCare Hospice, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27607 https://transitionslifecare.org/donate/), or to Wake Forest Presbyterian Church, 12605 Capital Boulevard, Wake Forest, NC 27587 https://www.wakeforestpres.org/donate).
The family would like to extend their gratitude to the doctors, nurses and staff at Duke University Hospital and Transitions LifeCare Hospice, for their outstanding care and compassion.
A service of Bright Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 405 South Main Street, Wake Forest, NC (919) 556-5811)
Walter Ray Seiber
Youngsville
Walter Ray Seiber, 80, of Youngsville passed away peacefully while surrounded by family on Sunday, November 4, 2018, at UNC Rex Hospital in Raleigh. Known as “Walt” by family and friends alike, he was born in Briceville, Tennessee (on Seiber Mountain), the son of Homer and Flaura Seiber. He was preceded in death by his precious wife of 59 years, Emma Sue Foust Seiber, as well as his sister, Ruth Simonian, and brothers, Bill Seiber and Gene Seiber.
Walt is survived by his son, Geoffrey Ray Seiber (wife Sherri) of Fort Worth, Texas, and daughter Teresa Seiber Tate (husband Scott) of Wake Forest; and his cherished grandchildren, Timothy Alan Seiber, Colin Michael Tate and Cameron Bradley Tate; as well as his sister, Mary Seiber Brogan of Houston, Texas. Another very important person to both Walt and Sue was long time caregiver April Bumpers. April began aiding Sue over seven years ago, and then continued to care for Walt, which during the past few months extended to an almost 24/7 duty. Walt considered April, her husband, Craig, and their children as part of his family, and they were present as Walt passed into the arms of the Lord.
Walt and Sue grew up in East Tennessee around Briceville and Lake City. They followed his sister, Mary, and brother, Gene, to the Chicago area to work in the steel industry and while there, Walt studied to become an electrician. He was recruited to work for Hunter Douglas in Roxboro, North Carolina where Geoff and Teresa both completed high school and went on to local universities. Walt’s skill with both electrical work and metal extrusion earned him several job offers over the years and he was soon known as the “only guy who could fix anything.” Walt’s experience soon grew to that of a process engineer and he accepted a position in Rowlett, Texas where he and Sue lived for over 20 years. During their time in Texas, Walt and Sue enjoyed living close to their son, Geoff, and grandson, Timothy, and they made lifelong memories. Always working on something in his shop and owning “every saw known to man,” Walt enjoyed working with Geoff on countless building and remodeling projects over the years. Tim was very fortunate to have his “Papaw” close by during that time.
In 2008, Walt and Sue returned to North Carolina to be close to their daughter, Teresa, and grandchildren, Colin and Cameron. Walt built an even larger shop at his home in Youngsville, and children, grandchildren and friends alike always wanted to be there with him enjoying a “Miller’s” Lite and seeing what he was up to. He will be sorely missed.
Visitation was held on Tuesday, November 6, at Bright Funeral Home, and a private graveside service was held Wednesday, November 7.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the American Lung Association or the American Heart Association.
A service of Bright Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 405 South Main Street, Wake Forest, NC (919) 556-5811)
Thomas Richard (Ricky) Wright Jr.
Wake Forest
A native of Wake Forest, Ricky graduated from Wake Forest High School and Hargrave Military Academy. He spent his entire life in the family business, Electric Motor Shop, founded by his father, Thomas, in 1952. Under his leadership, the business has grown from a one-man operation to over 70 employees.
Ricky loved Wake Forest and was a member of Glen Royal Baptist Church his entire life. He served on various organizations: Wake Forest Volunteer Fire Department, President of Wake Forest Volunteer Fire Department Board of Directors, Masonic Lodge #282, Scottish Rite Bodies, Shriner of Amran Temple, Fidelity Bank Board of Directors, Northern Wake Rescue Squad Board of Directors, Co-Chairman of Building Fund for Northern Wake Senior Citizens Building, Planning Board for Town of Wake Forest, Economic Development for Wake Forest Chamber of Commerce, Wake County ABC Board, Wake Forest Library Board, North Carolina ABC Commissioner, Wake County Fire Board, Wake County Chittlin’ Club and was Wake Forest Citizen of the Year in 1994. Ricky was passionate about politics and entertaining friends at home.
He is survived by his wife of almost 48 years, Jane; daughter and son-in-law, Hollie and Jimmy Hicks.
He was so proud of his grandsons, Chandler and Chase who lovingly called him Big Daddy. He is survived by his sister, Jenny Wright; mother-in-law, Margaret Lloyd; and brother-in-law, Andy Gilleland.
Ricky was predeceased by his parents, Thomas and Thelma Wright.
A celebration of Ricky’s life was held at 2 o’clock Wednesday afternoon, November 7, 2018 at the Wake Forest Fire Department at 420 East Elm Avenue. Visitation was from 12:30 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. before the service
The family would like to thank Transitions Hospice and Stay At Home Senior Care for the excellent service they provided.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wake Forest Fire Deptartment, 420 Elm Avenue, Wake Forest, NC 27587 or to Transitions Hospice, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, NC 27607.
A service of Bright Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 405 South Main Street, Wake Forest, NC (919) 556-5811)
(Ret.) Willard Easley ‘Bill’ Booth Jr.
Youngsville
CSM (Ret.) Willard E. “Bill” Booth, Jr, 92, died Friday, November 2, 2018, at his home. He was born August 31, 1926 in Surry County, Virginia to the late Willard E. (Peter) and Mavis Williams Booth.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and his wife, of 49 ½ years, Alma Williams Johnson Booth.
A graveside service was held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, November 7, 2018, at Oak Grove Baptist Church Cemetery with military honors. Rev. Gary McNair officiated.
Mr. Booth served in the U.S. Army and retired with 25 years of service. He served in the Pacific Theater during World War II and Korea during the Korean Conflict and was awarded the Silver Star with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Bronze Star with the “V” for Valor and the Oak Leaf Cluster, the Purple Heart with three Oak Leaf Clusters, the Combat Infantry Badge, second award and the Army Commendation Medal. He also retired as a transportation management specialist from the U.S. Postal Service with a combined total of 42 years Federal Service.
Surviving are a son, Andy Johnson; granddaughter, Libby Johnson; grandson, Chase Johnson; their mother, Ann Johnson; three sisters, Rachel (Hank) Rotter of Texas, Nancy Provenzano and Betty (Amel) Lopez of Florida; a brother, Bobby Booth of Florida; many nieces and nephews; and his dedicated caregiver, Tammy Parrish.
A service of Bright Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 405 South Main Street, Wake Forest, NC (919) 556-5811)
Toshia Griffin Lowery
Youngsville
Toshia Griffin Lowery, 45, died Wednesday, October 31, 2018, at her home. She was born May 26, 1973 to Pamela J. Gillam and Harry M. Griffin. She was a nurse for many years.
Funeral services were held Saturday afternoon, November 3, 2018, in Harris Chapel Baptist Church with Pastor Steve Kirk officiating. Burial followed in the church cemetery.
Toshia is survived by her husband, Bruce N. Lowery; son, Luke Lowery; daughter, Sarah Lowery; father, Harry M. Griffin of Raleigh; mother, Pamela J. Gilliam of Youngsville; mother-in-law, Mary M. Lowery of Youngsville; brother-in-law, Jake Mae Lowery of Youngsville; several nieces, nephews, cousins; and her dog, Buster.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society,
PO Box 42040, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 73123-3000 or website: www.cancer.org
A service of Bright Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 405 South Main Street, Wake Forest, NC (919) 556-5811)
Carol Dianne Hartgrove
Raleigh
Carol Dianne Hartgrove, 75, passed away on Tuesday, October 30, 2018. She was born in Wake County, the daughter of the late Juanita Cyrus Atkins and Elmo Atkins. She was preceded in death by her husband, William “Bill” Hartgrove, and her brother, Kenneth Atkins.
A funeral service was held Friday afternoon at the Forest Hills Baptist Church in Raleigh. Burial followed in Montlawn Memorial Park.
Mrs. Hartgrove is survived by her daughter, Dee Liggins and husband. Randy; grandchildren, Jordan and Hayden Liggins; a niece, Merritt O’Havor and husband, Brian; and a nephew, Cyrus Atkins.
A service of Bright Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 405 South Main Street, Wake Forest, NC (919) 556-5811)
Icie Lee Strother
Raleigh
March 31, 1932 ~ October 29, 2018 (Age 86)
Icie Lee Strother, 86, of Raleigh, passed away October 29, 2018 at Liberty Commons Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. Mrs. Strother was born in Graham County to the late John Benjamin Rose and Sarah Alma Wright Rose. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and sister who will be greatly missed.
A celebration of Mrs. Strother’s life was held Sunday afternoon, November 4, 2018, at Clancy Strickland Wheeler Funeral Home.
Mrs. Strother is survived by her children, Elaine (Bud) Lewellyn of California, Maryland, Elizabeth Colleen Jones of Conway, South Carolina, Kimberly Woolard of Raleigh, and John (Jackie) Strother of Wake Forest; 10 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and sisters, Blanche Bradshaw of Almond and Faye Crisp of Robbinsville.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Lewis Strother; children, Robert Strother and Linda Massey; and siblings, Richard Rose, Lorene Smith, Hardee Rose, James Hill Rose and Lavelle Cooper.
A service of Clancy Strickland Wheeler Funeral Home, 1051 Durham Road, Wake Forest, NC. (919)556-7400
Ronnie Layton ‘Ron’ Johnson
Wake Forest
Ronnie Layton “Ron” Johnson, 68, of Wake Forest, passed away, November 1, 2018. He is now eternal in Heaven after an extended illness. He was a native of Franklin County.
A true southern gentleman, he greatly impacted all who knew and loved him for his genuine love and kindness. He was a general contractor and worked for the City of Raleigh and Wake County as an inspector in the 1980s.
His passions were driving heavy machinery, tractors, chicken on the grill, diet Pepsi and all fur babies. He was a man of great faith and integrity. He was quick-witted and always had a story to share. He will be greatly missed by many. His amazing heart and spirit will live on in those who loved him.
Ron is survived by his daughters, Aaron Johnson Snider, Cassie Lynn Strong and Meghan Christine Strong; brothers, Steve Johnson, Timmy Johnson and Jimmy Johnson; sister, Sandra Macon; many nieces and nephews; and his former wife and best friend of many years, Kelly Bombaro Johnson and her fiancé Linwood Young. He is preceded in death by his parents, Elvin “Nick” Johnson and Maxine Layton Johnson.
“To be absent of the body is to be present with the Lord”
Flowers are welcome or memorial contributions can be made to the SPCA of Franklin County, PO Box 1194, Youngsville NC 27596.
A service was held Sunday, November 4, 2018 at Clancy Strickland Wheeler Funeral Home, 1051 Durham Road Wake forest, NC 27587.(919-556-7400)
