Wilkinson Funeral Home

01/05/2026

Josephine Marinaro Long

Mrs. Josephine "Jo-Anne" Marinaro Long passed away Friday, January 2, 2026 at the Greens at Cabarrus in Concord, NC.

A funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Saint Peter Catholic Church in Charlotte, NC, officiated by Father Tim Stephens, SJ. Following Mass there is a reception in Benedict Hall.

Josephine Anne (also known as Jo-Anne or Jo) was born in July 1943 in Rochester, NY to Rosario (Ross) Salvatore Marinaro and Concetina (Connie) Speranza Marinaro. She was the third child of six brothers and sisters. Jo-Anne was preceded in death by her parents, her older sister, Connie Barbara Ludwig, her older brother, Vincent (Vinnie) Marinaro, and her younger brother, Ross Marinaro.

A proud graduate of Mercy High School in Rochester in 1961, Jo was elected as the school's May Queen that same year. In addition to her wedding ring, the other jewelry item she often wore was her silver Mercy High School medal.

In the fall of 1961, Jo-Anne entered the Sisters of St. Joseph of Rochester. She spent the next 18 years as Sister Cora, SSJ, teaching in various Catholic schools around Rochester. Her last assignment as Sister Cora was as Principal of Trinity Montessori School in Rochester. She always knew that she wanted to be a teacher, sometimes telling a story from her childhood about setting up her dolls on the sidewalk and playing teacher to them.

During the years 1961-1979, Jo earned a BA from Nazareth University (Rochester, NY), an ME with a speciation in Montessori education from Notre Dame de Namur (Belmont, CA), and an Advanced Certificate in Educational Administration from SUNY Brockport (Brockport, NY). Jo held both NY and NC state teaching certificates for teaching children ages 3-6 and 6-12, gifted and talented, and school administration principalship and superintendentship. In addition, she held Montessori teaching diplomas for Primary (ages 3-6) and Elementary 1 and 2 (Ages 6-12) from the American Montessori Society (AMS). She was a Lifetime Member of AMS.

Jo-Anne was a well-known and esteemed Montessori educator. As a teacher-trainer, for over forty plus years, she trained scores of Montessori teachers, first at CMTE-NY, then CMTE-NC, and finally Lander University (Greenwood, SC).

During her years as a sister, Jo taught hundreds of children, but as she grew older, she realized that there was a deepening desire to have her own children. Once she left religious life, she married Russell Long, a longtime friend who also shared the same desire to establish a family and had a love of Montessori education. They have been blessed with two wonderful sons and two delightful grandsons.

Jo-Anne and Russ moved to Chapel Hill, NC in 1979, to teach at Chapel Hill Montessori for a year. In 1980 they moved to Greensboro, NC, where Jo served as the Head of Greensboro Montessori School (GMS), and as a teacher, from 1980-1995. Guided by her leadership, GMS grew in enrollment and staff. The first building on the current campus of GMS is dedicated to Jo-Anne and Russell.

In 1995, the family moved to Charlotte to accept positions as teachers in Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) at Amay James Montessori, the first public Montessori school in North Carolina. Jo-Anne served as a teacher at Amay James Montessori, Highland Mill Montessori, and Chantilly Montessori. She retired from CMS in 2012 and began working as a Montessori consultant and facilitator in Swansea, SC and other school districts.

The Catholic Church has always been a source of faith and blessing for her. From her teenage years until recently, she taught children's religious classes wherever she was living. She was a beloved part of St. Peter Catholic Church's Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) program. Jo was a trained CGS catechist for Levels 1 (children ages 3-6) and 2 (children ages 6-9).

Jo loved people and she was at her best when she welcomed strangers, family and friends into her home and classroom. As one of the sons' friends said, "I came as a guest and I left feeling part of her family." If you were a child in her classroom, you became her child. If you were an adult learner becoming a Montessori educator, you became her colleague.

Jo-Anne is survived by her husband of 46 years, Russell Long; son Nicholas Long and wife Sheila Duffy-Long of Columbus, OH; grandsons Alex and Andrew Long of Columbus OH; son Matthew Long and fiancée Katie Palmer of Columbia, MO; sister Susan Rinaldi of Rochester, NY; sister Mary Verellen and Patrick Verellen of Pacific Grove, CA; sister-in-law Carol Marinaro of Rochester, NY; sister-in-law Russlene Waukechon and Dr. John Waukechon of Round Rock, Texas; and many nieces and nephews, extended family, and friends.

Gratitude to Father Tim Stephens, SJ, and the staff at the Greens at Cabarrus in Concord for their compassion and care during Jo's final days.



In lieu of flowers donations may be made to:

Our Lady of Mercy School for Young Women

Attention: Alumnae Relations Department

1437 Blossom Road

Rochester, NY 14610



Wilkinson Funeral Home in Concord, NC is providing services.

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01/05/2026

01/05/2026

Jeffrey Riley

FORT LAUDERDALE- Jeffrey C. Riley left this Earth to be with the spirit in the sky and his beloved Dean on New Year’s Day, 2026. He was 61 years old.

Jeff was born on February 19, 1964, in Concord, North Carolina—the year of the Mustang and the Beatles. He spent the first 40 years of his life in the Tidewater area of Virginia before moving to Fort Lauderdale, Florida in 2006, where he resided until his passing.

He was preceded in death by his father, E.K. Riley, Jr.; his grandparents, Edna Blackwelder and Kyle Riley, and Katherine Taylor and Ransom “Peewee” Collins; his stepfather, Wayne Frieze; and his beloved partner of 33 years, Dean Smith.

Jeff built a career defined by leadership, dedication, and respect. He served as a supervisor for BP, where his exceptional service and commitment to excellence culminated in his being named Manager of the Year for the entire nation. He later retired as a supervisor with Cumberland Farms, concluding a professional life marked by integrity, responsibility, and pride in his work.

Jeff loved music (especially rock and roll) and treasured the many concerts he attended with his mother. These memories included unforgettable performances by the Rolling Stones, Bob Seger, Tina Turner, Cher, Annie Lennox, and U2. He also found joy in quieter moments, watching Friends and The Golden Girls, shows that reflected his humor, warmth, and appreciation for chosen family. One of Jeff’s greatest sources of pride was the beautiful orchids Dean grew with such care. Jeff loved showing them off to others, delighting in their beauty and in sharing the story behind each one. Jeff was a strong advocate for the LGBTQ community, but his compassion extended far beyond any single cause. He valued every person’s opinions and individual rights and truly “walked the walk” every day, leading with kindness, respect, and authenticity in all his relationships.

He is survived by his loving mother, Sue Riley Frieze of China Grove, NC; his mother-in-law, Doris Smith, and his sister-in-law, Debby Branch, both of Suffolk, VA; and many extended family members and dear friends in Virginia, Florida, and North Carolina who will miss him deeply. Special thanks to Jeff’s physician and treasured friend, Dr. Serge Gardere.

Services for Jeff will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Wilkinson Funeral Home, 100 Branchview Drive, Concord, North Carolina. The family will receive friends from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., with the funeral service beginning at 1:00 p.m., followed by interment at Carolina Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jeff’s memory may be made to Julian’s Fountain of Youth Charity, 1414 NE 26th Street, Wilton Manors, FL 33305, phone (954) 594-3473 or St. Jude Children’s Hospital

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01/02/2026

Annie Stancil

Mrs Annie Mae Leazer Stancil, age 83, of Concord, NC, passed away January 1, 2026 at Tucker Hospice House in Kannapolis. The family will receive friends Monday, January 5, from 10-11 AM at Mt. Hermon Lutheran Church and the funeral service to follow at 11 AM. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Pastor Cheryl Kester-Schmidt will officiate.

Annie was a member of Mt. Hermon Lutheran Church. She enjoyed helping make quilts for her church to distribute to people under hospice care. She was a loving wife, mother, mother- in -law and grandmother who enjoyed spending time with her family.

Mrs Stancil was born March 17, 1942 in Rowan County, NC to the late Everett Samul Leazer and Allie Mae Williams Leazer. In addition the her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband William Davis Stancil and her sister Shelby Jean Leazer Dunlap. Surviving family includes her sister Grace Coley, her 4 sons Tony Stancil and wife Ana, Steve Stancil and wife Lisa, Sam Stancil and wife Donna, and William Joseph "Joe" Stancil. Grandchildren Nick, Bianca,Jessica, Carrie, and Brandon and 5 Great-Grandchildren along with many nieces and nephews.

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Tucker Hospice House at 5003 Hospice Lane Kannapolis, NC 28081

Wilkinson Funeral Home, Concord, NC is serving the Stancil Family.

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01/02/2026

Are you looking to honor a veteran?s military service at their final goodbye? Check out these 20 ideas for how you can personalize a beloved veteran?s funeral to highlight and celebrate their military service in a way that is tailored to their one-of-a-kind story.

There are so many way to go about personalizing a veteran's final tribute. Here are 20 ideas to get you started with your own brainstorm!

01/01/2026

Robert Sitze

Mr. Robert "Bob" Lee Sitze, age 83 of Harrisburg, passed away December 27, 2025. No services are scheduled. The family asks that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers at this time.

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01/01/2026

Suzanne Rimer

Suzanne Richardson Rimer, age 64 of Surfside Beach, SC and formerly of Concord, NC passed away unexpectedly on December 28, 2025.

The family will receive friends and family on Monday, January 5th at Wilkinson Funeral Home in Concord from 6 to 8 pm. A funeral service will be held Tuesday, January 6th at 11 am in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Daniel Criscoe officiating. She will be laid to rest at Carolina Memorial Park.

Suzanne was born in Rowan County and was the daughter of the late Robert Witt and Phyllis Branhan Richardson. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Brian Richardson.

Suzanne was a person who loved life and being with her family and friends. She enjoyed taking long walks on the beach, reading and doing crafts. She also enjoyed working in her flower garden. Suzanne was loved dearly and will be missed beyond measure by all those who knew her.

Survivors include her loving husband, Clint E. Rimer; stepchildren, Courtney Harrison and husband, Kyle "Twix" and Tate Rimer and wife, Grace; step-grandchildren, Clay, Lexi and Lainey Harrison; sister, Kim Whitley and husband, Eric; nephew, Matthew Whitley and wife, Kristinia; sister-in-law, Jean Richardson; nephew, Nathan Richardson, and wife, Megan and a host of extended family and friends.

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01/01/2026

A new year has come. Let’s make the most of it by spending time with those we love most!

12/31/2025

Frank C. Barrier

CONCORD- Frank Caldwell Barrier, 88, passed away at his home on December 31, 2025.

A 3:00pm, Sunday January 4, 2026, Funeral will be held at New Gilead Reformed Church with Rev. Kevin Davis and Rev. Larry Bolick officiating. The family will receive friends at the church Sunday from 2 to 3pm. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Frank was born in Cabarrus County on February 23, 1937 to Ferdinand Louis and Margaret Katherine Penninger Barrier. He graduated from Winecoff High School in 1955 where he played in the Blue Devil marching band. In September 1957 he married Penny Weddington. Frank enjoyed a 50 year career in the fire protection industry finally retiring from Quality Sprinkler Company at age 70. He was a longtime member of New Gilead Reformed Church. He served several terms on the church consistory and other committees. He was a faithful choir member for over 50 years. Frank took pleasure in being an active grandfather. He maintained birdfeeders and developed a love for birdwatching.

In addition to his parents, Frank was preceded in death by his son, Brandon Barrier and his sister, Mary Marshburn.

Mr. Barrier is survived by his wife of 69 years, Penny Weddington Barrier; son, Mark L. Barrier(Frankie) of Concord; daughter-in-law, Jaymie Barrier-Baker; grandchildren, Benjamin Barrier, Seth Barrier, Samuel Barrier, Joshua Barrier, Matthew Barriew, and Paige McNamara; and great grandchildren, Grayson Barrier, Kagan Barrier, Cohen Barrier, Caroline McNamara and a great grandson on the way.

Memorials may be made to New Gilead Reformed Church, 2400 Old Salisbury-Concord Rd, Concord, NC 28025 or to Hospice and Palliative Care, 5003 Hospice Ln, Kannapolis, NC 28081.

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12/31/2025

Martha Livengood Tambini

Martha Ruth Livengood Tambini, gracefully departed from this world on December 24, 2025, in Goodyear, Arizona. She was a beacon of compassion and intellect, dedicating her life to the betterment of others through her remarkable career as a psychologist at the Perryville Women’s Prison. There, Martha utilized her profound understanding of the human psyche to guide and support women in their most challenging times.

A 1:00pm Wednesday (January 7, 2026) graveside service will be held at Carolina Memorial Park with Rev. Mike Roper officiating. She will be laid to rest next to her son.

Martha was born in Concord on July 14, 1946. She was the daughter of Jacob Ralph and Zula Elizabeth McDaniel Livengood. Martha graduated from Concord High School in 1964 before obtaining her Master's degree.

Having earned her Master’s degree, Martha’s educational journey laid the foundation for a life devoted not only to her profession but also to the ideals of empathy and service. Her steadfast commitment to her vocation was mirrored in her active membership at the Church of Christ, where she nurtured her faith and fostered a sense of community among friends and fellow congregants.

Martha was not solely defined by her career; she was a vibrant spirit who cherished life in all its dimensions. Her adoration for dogs brought warmth and joy to her days, as they were not just pets, but beloved companions that filled her home with love. In addition, her passion for music found expression at the piano, where she would often lose herself in melodies that resonated with her heart and soul.

She is survived by her son, Cameron (Tracy) Cook of Bullhead City, AZ, who carries forward her legacy of love and resilience. Martha was also Survived by stepson Allen (Diana) Tambini of Columbus, OH, who, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and a community of friends, held her dearly in their hearts. She was preceded in death by her siblings,Wilburn, Cecil, and Ralph Livengood Jr.

Martha’s memory is forever intertwined with the lives she touched—a tapestry woven with love, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to uplift others. Though she has been reunited with her beloved husband, Robert Tambini, and her son, Christopher Cook, in the eternal embrace of peace, her legacy of nurturing and compassion remains a guiding light for all who knew her.

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12/31/2025

As 2025 comes to a close and you prepare to celebrate 2026, you might be wondering how tomorrow became a holiday. Read more about the importance of New Year’s traditions in the link below! 🎉 cutt.ly/new-years-history

12/31/2025

William "Bill" Schaeffer Fisher

William "Bill" Schaeffer Fisher, 92, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2025, due to complications from the flu. He lived a long and full life, one marked by purpose, integrity, and deep devotion to the people and causes he loved. Always ready with thoughtful advice, he found joy in helping others - whether that meant offering a steady hand, a listening ear, or a practical solution to a tricky problem.

Born in Kannapolis, NC to Arthur William "A.W." and Loula Schaeffer Fisher, Bill grew up in Concord in the early 1940s, a time and place that shaped his values of hard work, honesty, and service. He attended Coltrane Grammar School, graduated from The McCallie School in 1952, and earned his BS in Textile Engineering with honors from North Carolina State University in 1956. At NCSU, he was President of the Tompkins Textile Council and Sigma Nu Fraternity. Upon graduation, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, later serving eight years as a Captain in the Army Ready Reserves.

In August of 1956, Bill married the love of his life, Gloria Anne Weaver. They began their journey in Fort Knox, Kentucky, during his service in the Armored Tank Division. Six months later, they returned to Kannapolis, where Bill began his career with Cannon Mills, following in his father's footsteps. In 1967, the family moved to Concord, where Bill and Gloria built a home that became a hub for holidays, backyard games, and countless family memories. Through their 61 years together, Bill and Gloria were true partners. When Gloria faced a 15-year battle with Alzheimer's, Bill became her constant caregiver, tending to her needs with unwavering love and ensuring she could remain at home.

Throughout his career at Cannon Mills, Bill rose to senior management positions in the Manufacturing Division, leading with wisdom, fairness, and respect. Former employees often told his family how much they enjoyed working with him - a man who listened, who led by example, and who believed in doing things right the first time. After retiring, he ran his own business, TRI Manufacturing, for more than a decade.

Faith was the cornerstone of Bill's life. A lifelong Lutheran, he was active in Kimbell Memorial Lutheran Church, St. James Lutheran Church, and the NC Lutheran Synod, serving as church council chair, Sunday School teacher, VP of the Home Mission Foundation, and trustee of the Lutheran Children's Home of the South. He approached service not as an obligation, but as a way to make the lives of others better.

Bill was also deeply committed to his community, and he looked for ways to support its growth and the needs of its residents. He served as: Chairman of the Cabarrus Airport Commission; Director and member of Cannon Foundation; Vice Chairman of the Central NC Boy Scout Council and Chairman of the Council's National Jamboree Committee (Ray C. Hoover, Order of Arrow, Silver Beaver and President's Awards recipient); Vice Chairman of the Cabarrus Red Cross; Kannapolis Rotary Club President (Paul Harris Fellow); County Chairman of the NC State Wolfpack Club; President of the Kannapolis Toastmasters Club; and member of the board of directors for CK Federal Savings Bank, Cabarrus Bank and Trust Co, Concord-Cabarrus Chamber of Commerce, Cabarrus County Boys Club and United Way of Cabarrus County.

For all his accomplishments, Bill's happiest moments were often the simplest: working on home projects (a gifted handyman), cheering on the NCSU Wolfpack, solving puzzles, watching a James Bond movie, or spending summers at Lake Norman teaching friends and family to water ski. He loved to laugh at a good joke, and when he did, his whole face lit up. He was a man who knew that joy is often found in everyday moments, shared with people you love.

He also had a gift for investing - not just in the stock market, but in people. He encouraged young Scouts, helped friends and neighbors, and offered guidance to colleagues. His legacy is built not only on what he accomplished, but on how he treated people.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife, parents, and sister, Margaret Fisher McIver. He is survived by his sister, Barbara Fisher of Winston-Salem; children Julie Anne Autrey (Greg) of Atlanta, GA, and Schaeffer Fisher Jr. (Tammy) of Concord, NC; grandchildren Trey Fisher, Caroline Fisher, and Rachel Autrey; great-grandson Liam Fisher; nieces Maggie Scarborough (Bruce) and Lucinda Human; grand-nieces Elizabeth Stavish (Forrest) and Lilith Hart; great-grand-niece Rose Stavish; and great-grand-nephew Oliver Stavish. In recent years, he was blessed with the companionship of his dear friend Mary Ann Graham, who brought joy and support after Gloria's passing.

Bill was a true gentleman and will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose generosity and leadership enriched many lives. His example of service, kindness, patience, and steadfast devotion leaves a lasting legacy.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Morningside of Concord and Hospice for their compassionate care.

A memorial service to celebrate Bill's life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday January 3, 2026, at Wilkinson Funeral Home,100 Branchview Drive, Concord, NC 28025, with visitation one hour prior at 10:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. James Lutheran Church, 104 Union Street South, Concord, NC, 28025, Hospice and Palliative Care Cabarrus or to a charity of your choice.

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