It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Joel Ray Baker, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend. Joel passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026, at the age of 68. Born on December 30, 1957, in Charlotte, North Carolina, Joel was the cherished son of Ray and the late Alice Baker. Joel's journey began in the city of Belmont, where he was born and raised. He graduated from South Point High School, where he formed many lifelong friendships and laid the ...

Mount Holly lost one of its most beloved mothers and faithful servants with the passing of Betty Black, who blessed this world for 97 wonderful years. She was born in West Virginia in 1928, to her mother Elizabeth and father James. She was preceded in death by her sisters Emogene and Eleanore. Betty was known and loved by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Her kindness, gentle spirit, and genuine love for people made her a joy to be around. She never met a stranger, and she had ...

Glenda Blackley Moore, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2026, at Terrace Ridge Assisted Living. Born on November 18, 1934, in Charlotte, NC, Glenda was the cherished daughter of Rodney Thomas Blackley and Mary Geneva Killian Blackley, both of whom predeceased her. She was also the devoted wife of the late Carl Calvin Moore, Jr., whom she married in 1955, sharing a wonderful life together until his passing. She was also ...

Harry L. “Sonny” Weber Sr. of Belmont, North Carolina, passed away on Friday February 20,2026 and entered his eternal home with the Lord. He is survived by his loving wife of many years, Donna K. Weber; his children: Harry L. Weber Jr. and wife Marie A. Weber, Anthony S. Weber and Delia M. Bradley, Kristen F. Weber, Kimberly P. Pickett and husband Tyrek J. Pickett; his beloved grandchildren: Jonathon B. Weber, Nathon A. Weber, Samuel J. Bradley, Aydinn R. Bradley, Lorelai P. ...

Teri Lea Mainard, a devoted mother, loving grandmother, and compassionate caregiver, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026, at the age of 56. Born  September 12, 1969, in the heart of Oklahoma, Teri brought warmth and kindness into the world from the very beginning. She was the cherished daughter of Pauletta Sixkiller Ralston and the late Ken Mainard, who instilled in her the values of empathy and resilience that she carried throughout her life. Teri's life was a testament to the ...

Roger Eugene Rape Sr., 60, of Gastonia, passed away on February 5, 2026, at Sovah Health Hospital in Martinsville. Born on December 21, 1965, in Charlotte, he was the son of the late Eugene Rape and Pauline Smith Rape. Roger worked as a sub contractor in construction. He loved to hunt and fish, and cherished spending time with his grandkids. He is survived by his son, Roger Rape Jr., of Gastonia; his daughter, Crystal Rape of Lincolnton, NC; and his grandchildren, Nevaeh Rape, Novah Rape, ...

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Charles Barrier, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, who departed this life on February 3, 2026. He was born September 19, 1954, in Cabarrus County, and lived a life full of love, dedication, and joy until his final moments. Charles was the cherished son of the late Thomas and Kathleen Barrier, who instilled in him the values of hard work and compassion. He graduated from NW Cabarrus High School, where he ...

Rusty Lee Ford, 54, originally from Stanley, North Carolina, passed away on January 31, 2026.  Born on October 11, 1971, in Gaston County, Rusty had an easygoing way about him and genuinely enjoyed being around people. He was a loving father who shared time and created memories with his son in those early years. Rusty had a real knack for connecting with others. He loved hanging out with friends and family—swapping stories, enjoying casual get-togethers, telling jokes that got ...

John Wayne Whitener Jr., beloved son of the late John Whitener Sr. and Laura Grace Whitener, passed away peacefully. He is survived by his three sisters, Teresa Holloway, Lorie Lemmons, and Tina Whitener; his son, Chance Whitener; his granddaughter, Scarlett; and numerous nieces and nephews. John will be deeply missed by all who knew him.