Obituaries

Terry Wayne Bartlett

Wake Forest

Terry Wayne Barlett, born on March 16, 1949, passed away on May 11, 2024. He left the world better than he found it and gave more than he took.

A devoted husband, cherished son and brother, and a hero to his children and grandchildren, Terry’s legacy of love and generosity will endure. Born to Paul and Betty (Boyer) Barlett in New Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. He excelled in football at Redbank Valley High School, where he met Karen (Ochs), the love of his life. They celebrated 55 years of marriage, raising three children—William (his wife Carey), Lindy (her husband and Charles (Nicklis), and Joseph (his wife Candace)—and spoiling their 16 grandchildren:  Connor, Erin, Megan, Matt, Tylar, Jaxon, Charlie, Olivia, Ella, Josie, Caleb, Ashton, Madilynn, Kayli, Jacob, and Sara.

After attending drafting school, Terry worked for Boeing in Seattle before returning to New Bethlehem, where he spent 30 years with Columbia Gas as a meter technician, retiring in 1999. Relocating to Raleigh in 2000 to be closer to family, retirement didn’t suit him; he retired from retirement and spent another 20 years working for S&ME as a dispatcher.

He was driven by an unmatched work ethic and would generously share his talent to help anyone. There is really nothing he enjoyed more than lending his skilled hands and strong back to help a friend or stranger in need. In his leisure time, Terry found solace in hunting, strolling through the woods, napping through westerns, and a good porch-sit. His demeanor was always welcoming, his heart kind, and his actions selfless. Terry’s character was forged by years of farming and labor yet softened by his innate warmth and compassion. He was, and will forever remain, an adored figure who left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

A Visitation will be held on May 18, 2024 from 9:00-10:00 a.m. at Bright Funeral home in Wake Forest, NC. The funeral will immediately follow at 10:00 a.m.

Burial will take place at a later date at Oakland Cemetery in Distant, PA. 

Arrangements in the care of Bright Funeral Home. 

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Rickey Ray  Champion Sr.

Buffalo Junction, Virginia

Rickey Ray Champion Sr., 70, passed away Tuesday, May 7, 2024 at his residence in Buffalo Junction, VA.

Rickey was born on June 4, 1953 in Durham, NC to the late Relmer and Virginia Champion. He worked on the dairy farms in Wake Forest when he was young and was a plumber during his working career. He was a loving husband, father, and pawpaw who loved his family and enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. He will deeply missed by all his family. 

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Elmer Champion, Relmer Champion “Buddy”, Bruce Champion “Skip”, Mickey Champion, Robert Lynn McGee, Robin McGee. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 16 years, Sylvia Champion; children, Rickey Jr., Kenneth, Angel, Vanita, Mackie, and Ann; sister, Edith Dunn; grandchildren, Gavin, Garrett, Shawn, and Haley Champion; stepdaughters, Tonya Pearce and Nicole Oliveri and numerous other grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. 

Friends are welcome to visit with the Champion family on Monday May 13, 2024 from 11:00 am until 12:45 pm at Bright Funeral Home 405 S Main St, Wake Forest, NC 27587.

A graveside funeral service will be held Monday, May 13, 2024 at 1:00 pm at Pine Forest Memorial Gardens 770 Stadium Dr, Wake Forest, NC 27587.

Please visit www.brightfunerals.com to share words of comfort to the family.

Bright Funeral Home is serving the Champion family.

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Melvin Michael Burk

Franklinton

Melvin Michael Burke, age 67, was born on February 8, 1957 in Lexington, VA. and passed away on May 6, 2024 in Franklinton, NC.

He was preceded in death by his father, Melvin Dudley Burke, sister, Barbara Davis and niece, Kenan Koll.

Melvin is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Lynn Burke, children; Kristy Wiles (Danny) and Joshua Burke (Alyssa), mother, Louise Burke, sisters; Geri Fitzgerald (Donnie), Sue Colbert (Kenny), Jane Hagwood (Dean), grandchildren, Hailey Wiles, Kaitlyn Wiles (Chris), Kylee Wiles, Daniel Wiles Jr. great grandchildren, Jaxson Rice, Grayson Moss and his closest friend, Larry Eisenhour. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.

 He was a graduate from Franklinton High School Class of 1975 and was a Brick Mason for over 50 years, and later Retired from Murdoch Center- Maintenance Department.

Melvin was a fan of EVERYTHING TARHEELS; annual beach anniversary trips, horseshoes, video games, movies, all types of music, NASCAR, “Pig Pickins” thrift store shopping, and more than anything, his family. 

A special thank you to; Wake Med North ER, Wake Med Cancer Center- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Duke Raleigh Cancer Center, Transitions Hospice and Team Nurse Yolanda for listening to our concerns and helping in so many ways. FamSily and friends for their time, meals, support, and love. Our “village” stepped up in so many ways to keep our family held high during this difficult time.  

In lieu of floral tributes, any donations may be made to https://ecan.org/ 

ECAN launched the first esophageal awareness month in April 2009 and since then has been recognized as esophageal cancer awareness month year after year.

A visitation gathering was held at Franklinton Baptist Church -102 W Mason St, Franklinton, NC 27525 on Saturday, May 11, 2024 from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. A funeral service was conducted at 2:00 p.m. Burial followed in Fairview Cemetery in Franklinton, NC.

Arrangements in the care of Bright Funeral Home. 

www.brightfunerals.com 

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Edmund ‘Conrad’ Stuntz

Louisburg

Funeral services will be private.

Angelo Antonucci

Wake Forest

Arrangements in the care of Bright Funeral Home. Obituary to follow.

Dr. Davina Adrianne Cheek Miles

Wake Forest

Dr. Davina Adrianne Cheek Miles, 52, of Wake Forest, went home to be with her victorious King Jesus on Sunday, May 5, 2024. For more than three years, Adrianne fought a difficult, faith-filled battle with cancer until the Lord, in his sovereign timing, granted her eternal healing in his presence.

 Adrianne, born in Alamance County on October 20, 1971, embarked on a remarkable journey of academic and spiritual fulfillment. After graduating from Graham High School, she pursued higher education at North Carolina State University, earning both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in English with a concentration in linguistics. Her passion for learning led her to pursue her PhD studies at the University of Texas at Austin, where she continued to excel.

 Throughout her life, Adrianne served her Lord in various capacities, touching the lives of many with her unwavering faith and compassion. She served in many capacities at North Wake Church in their MOPS, women’s, and youth ministries and devoted many hours supporting Runner’s Camp. Most recently, she served as Associate Professor of English and Linguistics at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and the College at Southeastern, where she inspired countless students and shared her love for Christ.

 As a beloved wife and mother, Adrianne’s family was her greatest joy and priority. She poured her love and devotion into nurturing her loved ones, creating a home filled with warmth and love. Her unwavering faith served as a guiding light for her family, instilling in them the values of compassion, kindness, and service.

 In the years to come, Adrianne will be deeply missed, but her impact will endure through the countless lives she influenced.

 A funeral service will be held at 2 o’clock, Saturday afternoon, May 11, 2024 at the Binkley Chapel located on the campus of Southeastern Seminary. A private burial will be held in the Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary Cemetery.

 Adrianne is survived by her husband of 28 years, Scott Miles; sons, Zac Miles and Jake Miles, of Wake Forest; parents, Bobby & Ramona Cheek of Graham; siblings, Jacinta Wright & husband Brandon of Gibsonville, and Gabriel Cheek & fiancé Genny Davis of Graham; father-in-law & mother-in-law, Donald & Sally Miles; brothers-in-law, Wayne Miles & wife Dana, and Kevin Miles & wife Kimberly; nieces & nephews, McKenna Beddingfield & husband Byron, Madeleine Bond & husband Ivan, Ava Wright, Aaden Wright, Isabell Cheek, Andrew Miles, Amelia Miles, Sarah Miles and Julie Miles; great-nephews, Owen & Maddox Beddingfield; great-niece, Griffin Bond; extended family, friends and colleagues all over the world.

 In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made in honor of Adrianne to continue her legacy at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Dr. Davina Adrianne Cheek Miles Society for Women in Scholarship Endowment.

 Friends may visit with the family from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday evening, May 10, 2024 at North Wake Church “Building 1 Lobby”, 1212 South Main Street, Wake Forest, NC 27587.

 www.cswfuneralhome.com

###

James Kenneth ‘Ken’ Dew

Wake Forest

James Kenneth “Ken” Dew, Sr. (1951-2024), a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, left an indelible mark on his family and community. Known for his warm hospitality and making everyone feel welcome, he would gladly add extra chairs around any table to accommodate more people. Dew was a constant presence, never missing an opportunity to support his children and grandchildren’s activities and accomplishments, beaming with immense pride. His wise counsel and compassionate support were invaluable to countless individuals who sought his guidance.

Born in Scotland County, NC, he was raised in Raeford by H.C. and Betty Dew, as one of nine children in a large, loving family. After graduating from Hoke County High School, he embarked on a successful career, working for corporations like Heilig-Meyers and Frigidaire, as well as running his own businesses, Dew Motors and Dew Homes.

Mr. Dew is survived by his wife of over 38 years, Kathy House Dew; children, Allison Dew Reid & husband Paul of Wake Forest; James Kenneth “Jamie” Dew, Jr. & wife Tara of New Orleans, LA; Robert Harper Dew & wife Allie of Wendell and Diana Katherine Dew of Raleigh; grandchildren, Graham Paul Reid, Ansleigh Ruth Reid, Campbell Rebecca Reid, Natalie Ann Dew, Nathan James Dew, Samantha Lynn Dew, Samuel David Dew and Olive Harper Dew; siblings, Doris Jean Dew, Margaret Witten and Edward Dew. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Harold Dew, Fred Dew, Pete Dew, Harry Dew and Bobby Dew.

He cherished every moment spent with his family and, until his health declined, was ever-present at his children’s and grandchildren’s athletic events and artistic performances.

Friends may visit with the family from 11:00 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Monday, May 13, 2024 at his longtime home church, Greystone Baptist, 7509 Lead Mine Road, Raleigh, followed by the funeral service at 1:00 p.m. Burial will immediately follow in Pine Forest Memorial Gardens in Wake Forest.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, where James Dew, Jr. serves as President, honoring Mr. Dew’s lifetime of generosity.

Arrangements by Clancy Strickland Wheeler Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 1051 Durham Road, Wake Forest, NC 27587. (919-556-7400)

www.cswfuneralhome.com

Terry Wayne Bartlett

Wake Forest

Terry Wayne Barlett, born on March 16, 1949, passed away on May 11, 2024. He left the world better than he found it and gave more than he took.

A devoted husband, cherished son and brother, and a hero to his children and grandchildren, Terry’s legacy of love and generosity will endure. Born to Paul and Betty (Boyer) Barlett in New Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. He excelled in football at Redbank Valley High School, where he met Karen (Ochs), the love of his life. They celebrated 55 years of marriage, raising three children—William (his wife Carey), Lindy (her husband and Charles (Nicklis), and Joseph (his wife Candace)—and spoiling their 16 grandchildren:  Connor, Erin, Megan, Matt, Tylar, Jaxon, Charlie, Olivia, Ella, Josie, Caleb, Ashton, Madilynn, Kayli, Jacob, and Sara.

After attending drafting school, Terry worked for Boeing in Seattle before returning to New Bethlehem, where he spent 30 years with Columbia Gas as a meter technician, retiring in 1999. Relocating to Raleigh in 2000 to be closer to family, retirement didn’t suit him; he retired from retirement and spent another 20 years working for S&ME as a dispatcher.

He was driven by an unmatched work ethic and would generously share his talent to help anyone. There is really nothing he enjoyed more than lending his skilled hands and strong back to help a friend or stranger in need. In his leisure time, Terry found solace in hunting, strolling through the woods, napping through westerns, and a good porch-sit. His demeanor was always welcoming, his heart kind, and his actions selfless. Terry’s character was forged by years of farming and labor yet softened by his innate warmth and compassion. He was, and will forever remain, an adored figure who left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

A Visitation will be held on May 18, 2024 from 9:00-10:00 a.m. at Bright Funeral home in Wake Forest, NC. The funeral will immediately follow at 10:00 a.m.

Burial will take place at a later date at Oakland Cemetery in Distant, PA. 

Arrangements in the care of Bright Funeral Home. 

###

Rickey Ray  Champion Sr.

Buffalo Junction, Virginia

Rickey Ray Champion Sr., 70, passed away Tuesday, May 7, 2024 at his residence in Buffalo Junction, VA.

Rickey was born on June 4, 1953 in Durham, NC to the late Relmer and Virginia Champion. He worked on the dairy farms in Wake Forest when he was young and was a plumber during his working career. He was a loving husband, father, and pawpaw who loved his family and enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. He will deeply missed by all his family. 

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Elmer Champion, Relmer Champion “Buddy”, Bruce Champion “Skip”, Mickey Champion, Robert Lynn McGee, Robin McGee. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 16 years, Sylvia Champion; children, Rickey Jr., Kenneth, Angel, Vanita, Mackie, and Ann; sister, Edith Dunn; grandchildren, Gavin, Garrett, Shawn, and Haley Champion; stepdaughters, Tonya Pearce and Nicole Oliveri and numerous other grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. 

Friends are welcome to visit with the Champion family on Monday May 13, 2024 from 11:00 am until 12:45 pm at Bright Funeral Home 405 S Main St, Wake Forest, NC 27587.

A graveside funeral service will be held Monday, May 13, 2024 at 1:00 pm at Pine Forest Memorial Gardens 770 Stadium Dr, Wake Forest, NC 27587.

Please visit www.brightfunerals.com to share words of comfort to the family.

Bright Funeral Home is serving the Champion family.

###

Melvin Michael Burk

Franklinton

Melvin Michael Burke, age 67, was born on February 8, 1957 in Lexington, VA. and passed away on May 6, 2024 in Franklinton, NC.

He was preceded in death by his father, Melvin Dudley Burke, sister, Barbara Davis and niece, Kenan Koll.

Melvin is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Lynn Burke, children; Kristy Wiles (Danny) and Joshua Burke (Alyssa), mother, Louise Burke, sisters; Geri Fitzgerald (Donnie), Sue Colbert (Kenny), Jane Hagwood (Dean), grandchildren, Hailey Wiles, Kaitlyn Wiles (Chris), Kylee Wiles, Daniel Wiles Jr. great grandchildren, Jaxson Rice, Grayson Moss and his closest friend, Larry Eisenhour. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.

 He was a graduate from Franklinton High School Class of 1975 and was a Brick Mason for over 50 years, and later Retired from Murdoch Center- Maintenance Department.

Melvin was a fan of EVERYTHING TARHEELS; annual beach anniversary trips, horseshoes, video games, movies, all types of music, NASCAR, “Pig Pickins” thrift store shopping, and more than anything, his family. 

A special thank you to; Wake Med North ER, Wake Med Cancer Center- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Duke Raleigh Cancer Center, Transitions Hospice and Team Nurse Yolanda for listening to our concerns and helping in so many ways. FamSily and friends for their time, meals, support, and love. Our “village” stepped up in so many ways to keep our family held high during this difficult time.  

In lieu of floral tributes, any donations may be made to https://ecan.org/ 

ECAN launched the first esophageal awareness month in April 2009 and since then has been recognized as esophageal cancer awareness month year after year.

A visitation gathering was held at Franklinton Baptist Church -102 W Mason St, Franklinton, NC 27525 on Saturday, May 11, 2024 from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. A funeral service was conducted at 2:00 p.m. Burial followed in Fairview Cemetery in Franklinton, NC.

Arrangements in the care of Bright Funeral Home. 

www.brightfunerals.com 

###

Edmund ‘Conrad’ Stuntz

Louisburg

Funeral services will be private.

Angelo Antonucci

Wake Forest

Arrangements in the care of Bright Funeral Home. Obituary to follow.

Dr. Davina Adrianne Cheek Miles

Wake Forest

Dr. Davina Adrianne Cheek Miles, 52, of Wake Forest, went home to be with her victorious King Jesus on Sunday, May 5, 2024. For more than three years, Adrianne fought a difficult, faith-filled battle with cancer until the Lord, in his sovereign timing, granted her eternal healing in his presence.

 Adrianne, born in Alamance County on October 20, 1971, embarked on a remarkable journey of academic and spiritual fulfillment. After graduating from Graham High School, she pursued higher education at North Carolina State University, earning both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in English with a concentration in linguistics. Her passion for learning led her to pursue her PhD studies at the University of Texas at Austin, where she continued to excel.

 Throughout her life, Adrianne served her Lord in various capacities, touching the lives of many with her unwavering faith and compassion. She served in many capacities at North Wake Church in their MOPS, women’s, and youth ministries and devoted many hours supporting Runner’s Camp. Most recently, she served as Associate Professor of English and Linguistics at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and the College at Southeastern, where she inspired countless students and shared her love for Christ.

 As a beloved wife and mother, Adrianne’s family was her greatest joy and priority. She poured her love and devotion into nurturing her loved ones, creating a home filled with warmth and love. Her unwavering faith served as a guiding light for her family, instilling in them the values of compassion, kindness, and service.

 In the years to come, Adrianne will be deeply missed, but her impact will endure through the countless lives she influenced.

 A funeral service will be held at 2 o’clock, Saturday afternoon, May 11, 2024 at the Binkley Chapel located on the campus of Southeastern Seminary. A private burial will be held in the Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary Cemetery.

 Adrianne is survived by her husband of 28 years, Scott Miles; sons, Zac Miles and Jake Miles, of Wake Forest; parents, Bobby & Ramona Cheek of Graham; siblings, Jacinta Wright & husband Brandon of Gibsonville, and Gabriel Cheek & fiancé Genny Davis of Graham; father-in-law & mother-in-law, Donald & Sally Miles; brothers-in-law, Wayne Miles & wife Dana, and Kevin Miles & wife Kimberly; nieces & nephews, McKenna Beddingfield & husband Byron, Madeleine Bond & husband Ivan, Ava Wright, Aaden Wright, Isabell Cheek, Andrew Miles, Amelia Miles, Sarah Miles and Julie Miles; great-nephews, Owen & Maddox Beddingfield; great-niece, Griffin Bond; extended family, friends and colleagues all over the world.

 In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made in honor of Adrianne to continue her legacy at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Dr. Davina Adrianne Cheek Miles Society for Women in Scholarship Endowment.

 Friends may visit with the family from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday evening, May 10, 2024 at North Wake Church “Building 1 Lobby”, 1212 South Main Street, Wake Forest, NC 27587.

 www.cswfuneralhome.com

###

James Kenneth ‘Ken’ Dew

Wake Forest

James Kenneth “Ken” Dew, Sr. (1951-2024), a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, left an indelible mark on his family and community. Known for his warm hospitality and making everyone feel welcome, he would gladly add extra chairs around any table to accommodate more people. Dew was a constant presence, never missing an opportunity to support his children and grandchildren’s activities and accomplishments, beaming with immense pride. His wise counsel and compassionate support were invaluable to countless individuals who sought his guidance.

Born in Scotland County, NC, he was raised in Raeford by H.C. and Betty Dew, as one of nine children in a large, loving family. After graduating from Hoke County High School, he embarked on a successful career, working for corporations like Heilig-Meyers and Frigidaire, as well as running his own businesses, Dew Motors and Dew Homes.

Mr. Dew is survived by his wife of over 38 years, Kathy House Dew; children, Allison Dew Reid & husband Paul of Wake Forest; James Kenneth “Jamie” Dew, Jr. & wife Tara of New Orleans, LA; Robert Harper Dew & wife Allie of Wendell and Diana Katherine Dew of Raleigh; grandchildren, Graham Paul Reid, Ansleigh Ruth Reid, Campbell Rebecca Reid, Natalie Ann Dew, Nathan James Dew, Samantha Lynn Dew, Samuel David Dew and Olive Harper Dew; siblings, Doris Jean Dew, Margaret Witten and Edward Dew. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Harold Dew, Fred Dew, Pete Dew, Harry Dew and Bobby Dew.

He cherished every moment spent with his family and, until his health declined, was ever-present at his children’s and grandchildren’s athletic events and artistic performances.

Friends may visit with the family from 11:00 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Monday, May 13, 2024 at his longtime home church, Greystone Baptist, 7509 Lead Mine Road, Raleigh, followed by the funeral service at 1:00 p.m. Burial will immediately follow in Pine Forest Memorial Gardens in Wake Forest.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, where James Dew, Jr. serves as President, honoring Mr. Dew’s lifetime of generosity.

Arrangements by Clancy Strickland Wheeler Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 1051 Durham Road, Wake Forest, NC 27587. (919-556-7400)

www.cswfuneralhome.com

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