Harris Funeral Home Incorporated

04/04/2026

DATELINE: KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA
April Juanita Puckett

April Juanita Puckett, 46, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on April 1, 2026 at Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, NC. She was born April 27, 1979 in Henderson County, NC, and was preceded in death by grandparents, Christine and Joseph Belt and Stella Murph, an uncle, Jim Belt, a stepfather, Ricky Boone, and a brother-in-law, Steven Braswell. April was a loving mother, devoted Mimi, cherished sister, daughter, and aunt, whose presence brought warmth and light to everyone around her. She had the kind of sweet spirit that could be felt the moment she came into a room, and her smile had a way of lighting it up in the most effortless and genuine way. April's legacy lives on through the countless memories she created, the love she gave so freely, and the lives she touched so deeply. She will be missed more than words can ever express, but her spirit will continue to shine in all who knew and loved her.

SURVIVORS: Children: Avel Ward (Dylan), Reannia Anderson, and Chelsey Anderson (Paul), all of Southport, NC
Father of her children: Steven Anderson, Willow Springs, NC
Mother: Pamela Boone and Step-Father Ronnie Gosnell, Kings Mountain, NC
Father: Walter Puckett, Mills River, NC
Grandchildren: Amberlynn, Kinley, Kyler, Mason, and Sawyer
Siblings: Christy Braswell, KIngs Mountain, NC, Karen Davis, Hendersonville, NC, Cecilia Puckett, Hendersonville, NC, and Walter Puckett Jr, Aiken, SC
Nieces and Nephews: Lindsey Braswell, Kings Mountain, NC, Amber Hawkins (Brian, Denver, NC, Alyssa Hunter (Heath), Kings Mountain, NC, and Kale Braswell (Kelsey), Bessemer City, NC
Great nieces and Nephews: Liam, Azey, and Leo
Special Friends: Robin Sellers (Jerry), Melanie Jenkins (Paul), Todd Black, Debra Fletcher, Jason Upton, and Libby Upchurch Parsons

MEMORIAL SERVICE: Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Shady Grove Baptist Church with Pastor Dale Hendricks officiating

VISITATION: Wednesday, April 8, 2026 from 1:00 PM to 1:50 PM prior to the service at the church

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM
ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

04/02/2026

DATELINE: GROVER, NORTH CAROLINA
Thelma Houck Phifer

Thelma Houck Phifer, 71, of Grover, NC, passed away on April 2, 2026 at Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte, NC. She was born May 13, 1954 in Cleveland County, NC, daughter of the late Lee and Hazel Helms Houck and was preceded in death by her brothers, Donald Ray Houck and Ed Ed Houck. Thelma was a member of Boyce Memorial ARP Church for more than 30 years where she developed an intimate and faithful relationship with Jesus. She worked as a cleaner most of her life, mostly in industrial setting but also homes. Thelma enjoyed hard work and never left for tomorrow, what could be done today. She loved spending time outdoors, growing beautiful flowers and raising a garden. Thelma enjoyed the simple things in life and was always happy with what she had. She was a strong person who overcame much adversity throughout her lifetime. Thelma was a faithful wife and mother and an adoring grandmother who loved her family with all her heart. She will be missed greatly by all those who knew and loved her.

SURVIVORS: Husband: Doyt Phifer, of the home
Children: Benji Foster, Joyce Ann Houser (Wayne), and Jason Hannon
Siblings: Diane Voorhis, Patricia Hannon, Christine Craig (Toby), David Houck
6 Grandchildren and 5 Great Grandchildren
Numerous Nieces and Nephews and dear friends

FUNERAL SERVICE: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Boyce Memorial ARP Church with Reverend Robert Patrick III officiating

VISITATION: Tuesday, April 7, 2026 from 12:30 PM to 1:50 PM prior to the service at the church

INTERMENT: Family Cemetery, Blacksburg, South Carolina

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM
ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

04/01/2026

DATELINE: KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA
Ronny Jewel Roberts

Ronny Jewel Roberts, 79, of Kings Mountain, NC, entered his eternal rest on March 31, 2026 at his home. He was born November 25, 1946 in Cleveland County, NC, son of the late Harry Junior and Myrtle Paige Roberts and was preceded in death by his sister. Ronny retired after many years working in the textile industry. After his retirement, he worked for the City of Kings Mountain as a crossing guard, making sure children were safe crossing the roadways. He loved spending time outdoors and enjoyed fishing with family and friends. Ronny also cherished time spent camping with family at Kings Mountain State Park. He was a wonderful husband, brother and stepfather. Ronny adored his grandchildren and was a wonderful grandfather to 3 generations of children. The many memories created and shared by Ronny will continue to comfort all those he leaved behind.

SURVIVORS: Wife: Ethel Inez Owens Roberts, of the home
Step-Children: Frankie Whittington and wife Pam, Edward Whittington, Pastor Kevin Whittington and wife Joy, Nicole McCain and husband Don, and Austin McCain and wife Brenda
Brothers: Vaughan Roberts and Ben Roberts
12 Grandchildren 16 Great Grandchildren 1 Great-Great Grandchild
10 Nieces and Nephews
Beloved Canine Companion: Tucker

GRAVESIDE SERVICE: Thursday, April 2, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Mountain Rest Cemetery with Pastor Kevin Whittington officiating

INTERMENT: Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, North Carolina

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM
ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

03/30/2026

DATELINE: KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA
Juanita Gunnells Blanton

Juanita Gunnells Blanton, 92, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2026 at her home. She was born May 1, 1933 in Gaston County, NC, daughter of the late Robert Ivan and Lela Elizabeth Gladden Gunnells and was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 75 years, Farchel Leggette Blanton, her son, Farchel Randy Blanton, and her four brothers. Juanita was a member of First Baptist Church and the Golden Fellowship group where she enjoyed spending time with friends. Juanita worked as an office assistant in medical practices, retiring from Gaston Internal Medicine in Gastonia, NC. She was a wonderful homemaker and wife to her husband, and devoted mother to her children. Juanita loved her family with her whole heart, especially her grandchildren whom she adored and cherished spending time with. She was a faithful friend to many. Juanita's memory will continue to warm the hearts of all those who knew and loved her.

SURVIVORS: Daughter Leigh Ann Long and husband Bryan, her grandchildren Ian Blanton, Ethan Blanton, and Kristen Hersek (Joe), and her great-grandson Brylan Krew Hersek.

GRAVESIDE SERVICE: Thursday, April 2, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Mountain Rest Cemetery, officiated by Reverend Jason Mills with thoughts shared by Bryan Long, Kristen Hersek, and Reverend Brad Ellis

VISITATION: The family will speak with attendees immediately following the service at the cemetery and will gather at Juanita's home from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM following the service

INTERMENT: Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, North Carolina

MEMORIALS: Memorial may be made in Juanita's memory to First Baptist Church Golden Fellowship fund at 605 West Kings Street, Kings Mountain, NC 28086

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM
ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

03/27/2026

DATELINE: SHELBY, NORTH CAROLINA
Helen Mathis Brackett

Helen Mathis Brackett, 85, passed away on March 26, 2026 at home in Shelby, NC. Born March 10, 1941 in Yancey County, she was the daughter of the late Lloyd Mathis and Annie Hall Mathis and was also preceded in death by her husband Albert Lee Brackett and numerous brothers and sisters. Helen was a waitress at The Pier restaurant for many years. She will be remembered as a loving grandmother.

Helen is survived by her son Chuck Brackett and fiancée Jennifer of Lincolnton, NC, brother Jimmy Mathis, four granddaughters, one grandson, six great-granddaughters, and four great-grandsons.

GRAVESIDE SERVICE: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. at Mountain Rest Cemetery with Pastor John Ray officiating

INTERMENT: Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, North Carolina

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM

ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

Compassionate funeral services in Kings Mountain, NC. Personalized memorials, pre-planning, grief support & more. Trust our funeral home to honor your loved one.

03/26/2026

DATELINE: GROVER, NORTH CAROLINA
Roy Elmer Goins

Roy Elmer Goins, 83, of Grover, NC, passed away on March 24, 2026, surrounded by family at Atrium Health Cleveland. Born April 6, 1942 in Cleveland County, he was the son of the late Clyde Elmer Goins and Pearl Short Goins and was also preceded in death by all of his siblings: Chalmer, Sadie Mae, Inez, Ruth, Thelma, Bertha, Dorothy, Pearnell, Vera, and Margaret.

Roy retired from Wix Filters after more than 30 years of dedicated work. He was a member and former deacon at Union Primitive Baptist Church in McAdenville. He enjoyed the great outdoors, taking joy in fishing, farming, and maintaining a pristine lawn. He was an excellent gardner, growing delicious tomatoes and greens, along with an abundance of other tasty crops. Roy was a faithful husband, dedicated father, and loving Papaw.

SURVIVORS: Wife of 63 years: Edna Haney Goins
Daughters: Tammy Styers (Richard, Jr.) and Diane Injejikian (Marc), all of Grover
Grandchildren: Chris Styers (Sherri) of Grover, Brian Styers (Jess) of Boiling Springs, SC, Josh Styers of Kings Mountain, NC, Jessica Injejikian of Grover, Haley Injejikian (Brannon Melton) of Grover, Lindsey Lewis (Glenn) of Kings Mountain, and Logan Injejikian (Brooklyn Hodge) of Grover
Great-Grandchildren: Bella Styers, Justin Styers, Chloe Woods, Emory Styers, Owen Styers, Riley Lewis, Brayden Melton, and Maci Melton

FUNERAL SERVICE: Monday, March 30, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. in the Ollie Harris Memorial Chapel with Elders Tom Robinson and David Anderson officiating

VISITATION: Monday, March 30, 2026 prior to the service from 10:00 to 10:50 A.M. in the Parlor at Harris Funeral Home

INTERMENT: Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, North Carolina

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM

ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

03/25/2026

DATELINE: CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA
Thomas Woodrow Grayson, Jr.

Thomas Woodrow Grayson, Jr., 75, of Charlotte, NC, passed away on March 24, 2026 at Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center. Born October 31, 1950 in Mecklenburg County, he was the son of the late Thomas Woodrow Grayson, Sr. and Maxine Boggs Grayson and was also preceded in death by his brother, James Grayson, Sr.

Tom lettered in football and golf at Kings Mountain High School, then graduated from Gardner-Webb University with a Bachelors and built a career as an engineer and realtor. He carried a love for sports and adventure with him all throughout his life. He was always active and had many hobbies, including horseback riding, archery, and cycling. Tom loved snow-skiing, became an instructor in the North Carolina mountains, and led several ski trips out west with groups of up to 250 people through the Charlotte Ski & Snowboard Club. He also volunteered as a swimming official and was the Hole #2 Captain at the PGA Truist Championship hosted at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte.

Tom was one of a kind, remembered as a loyal friend, a fantastic athlete, and as the man who would eagerly prepare a delicious breakfast for everyone on ski trips and vacations. He was smart and incredibly loving, a dedicated husband, a great father, and a doting dog dad to Bubba.

Tom is survived by his wife of 36 years, Kim Grayson, daughters Kristina Johnson (Joshua) and Mary Anne Flores (Rafael), and his grandchild Jamie Johnson. Tom is also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

MEMORIAL SERVICE: Monday, March 30, 2026 at 2:00 P.M. in the Ollie Harris Memorial Chapel

VISITATION: Monday, March 30, 2026 prior to the service from 1:00 to 1:50 P.M. in the parlor at Harris Funeral Home

INTERMENT: Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, North Carolina

MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, donations in Tom's honor may be made to the following places:

Mountain Research Station, University of Colorado Boulder: One of Tom’s greatest joys was the mountains. In his honor, we invite donations to a field research facility in the Colorado Rockies dedicated to the study and preservation of alpine environments. Donate online at https://giveto.colorado.edu/campaigns/63400/donations/

American Cancer Society, Pancreatic Cancer Research: In remembrance of Tom, we invite donations to the American Cancer Society to advance pancreatic cancer research and provide support for those facing the disease. Donate online at https://donate.cancer.org/?campaign=Pancreaticcancermedia

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM

ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

03/25/2026

DATELINE: BESSEMER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA
Patricia Ann Payseur

Patricia Ann Payseur, age 72, of Bessemer City, North Carolina, peacefully passed away on March 24, 2026, at Wendover Hospice House in Shelby, NC. Born on January 2, 1954, in Cleveland County, Patricia was the beloved daughter of the late Elise and Carrie Turner Kimbell. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Luther Junior Turner. A devoted member of New Life Baptist Church for many years, Patricia lived a life full of warmth, kindness, and joy. She dedicated much of her career to the textile industry, where she worked diligently and with pride. Patricia treasured the simple pleasures of life, especially the moments spent on the water fishing alongside her family and friends. Her love of companionship extended to many joyful hours playing cards and going on shopping adventures. An avid lover of music, Patricia was a talented dancer who delighted in expressing herself on the dance floor, captivating everyone with her grace and enthusiasm. Above all, Patricia was a loving mother and a dear friend to many, whose friendship and care touched countless hearts. Her vibrant spirit and generous soul will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege to know her.

SURVIVORS: Daughter: Cassie Branning and husband Gabriel, Shelby, NC
Brothers: Harvey Lanier and wife Martha, Shelby, NC, Troy Kimbell and wife Fran, Phoenix City, AL, and Steve Turner, Bessemer City, NC
Special Friend: Nita Setzer and husband Dan, Lincolnton, NC

FUNERAL SERVICE: Saturday, March 28, 2026 at 11:00 AM in the Ollie Harris Memorial Chapel with Pastor Dennis Gomez officiating

VISITATION: Saturday, March 28, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 10:50 AM prior to the service at Harris Funeral Home

INTERMENT: Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, North Carolina

Donations in Patricia's memory may be made to VIA Hospice at 951 Wendover Heights Drive, Shelby NC 28150 or to New Life Baptist Church at 614 South 11th St. Bessemer City, NC 28016

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM
ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

03/25/2026

DATELINE: KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA
Farchel Leggette Blanton

Mr. Farchel Leggette Blanton, 98, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026 at home surrounded by family.

A native of Cleveland County, he was the son of the late Dwight and Lucile Blanton and was also preceded in death by his son Farchel "Randy" Blanton. He dedicated his life to his career with the Cleveland County Department of Corrections where he retired after 30 years as a custodian officer. He was a veteran of the United States Army and served a tour in Japan during World War II. He was a member of Fairview Masonic Lodge No. 339 and was an avid walker who enjoyed spending time outside at Kings Mountain National Military Park, Crowders Mountain State Park, and the Gateway Trails. Above all, he cherished his family and spending time with his grandchildren.

Mr. Blanton is survived by his wife of 75 years, Juanita G. Blanton, his daughter Leigh Ann Long and husband Bryan, his grandchildren Ian Blanton, Ethan Blanton, and Kristen Hersek (Joe), and his great-grandson Brylan Krew Hersek.

GRAVESIDE SERVICE: Sunday, March 29, 2026 at 2:00 P.M. at Mountain Rest Cemetery with Rev. Brad Ellis, Kristen Hersek, and Bryan K. Long officiating

VISITATION: The family will receive visitors at the home throughout the week.

INTERMENT: Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, North Carolina

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM

ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

03/24/2026

DATELINE: KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA
Roger Wayne Arrowood

Roger Wayne Arrowood, age 78, passed away on Monday March 23, 2026 at home.
Roger was born on September 2, 1947 to the late Dora and Albert Arrowood in Rutherford County, North Carolina. Roger was preceded in death by his stepmother, Mary Arrowood, four sisters Helen Joanne Bailey, Ruby Jean Hill, Francis Arrowood Brigman Shehan and Virginia Colene Arrowood Nanny, four brothers, W.J. Arrowood, Albert Arrowood,Jr, Glen Arrowood and Leonard Arrowood.
Roger is survived by his wife Susan Konicki Arrowood of the home, three children, Rodney Arrowood (Heike), Melissa Arrowood Ramey (Scott) of Shelby,NC and Megan Arrowood Waldrip (Stephen) of Memphis, TN. Six grandchildren, several great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews and several sisters and brothers-in-law.
Roger was drafted into the Army for the Vietnam Conflict, served overseas, and was honorably discharged in August of 1969. He spent his career as a mechanic. Working on a variety of cars, trucks and trailers throughout the years. He retired from Walmart Distribution Center as a truck mechanic in 2014. He enjoyed his yearly hunting trips with friends and family down on the coast. He would never miss breakfast at Chat-n-Nibble to reminisce with all his friends. Since slowing down he picked up some new hobbies. He loved to read, especially Western novels and enjoyed many Western shows on TV. He also loved doing word searches and would spend hours keeping his mind sharp.
Roger loved his children dearly and was very proud of all they have accomplished. He believed in working hard and being an honest person. Something those around him valued. His kids and grandchildren were a bright spot in his life. Never doing any wrong, he spoiled them until his last days.

Considerable thanks to Bobbie Martin, who was his caregiver and became very special to him over the last few months. And to Matt, who became more of a son to Roger in his retirement years.

The family will receive friends on Friday, March 27, 2026 from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM at Harris Funeral Home. Presentation of Military Honors will follow on the front lawn of Harris Funeral Home

MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, donations in Roger's memory may be made to
K9s for Warriors at donate.k9sforwarriors.org

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM
ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

03/16/2026

DATELINE: KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA
Martha Bell Harrelson

Martha Bell Harrelson, 91, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on March 15, 2026 at Wendover Hospice House in Shelby, NC. She was born March 24, 1934 in Cleveland County, NC, daughter of the late Roscoe and Nellie Patterson Green and was preceded in death by her husband of 40 years, Clyde Junior Harrelson. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Madge Wright and her brothers, Curt, Lloyd, Steve, and CJ Green. Known as "Mot" to most, Martha was a former member of Westover Baptist Church and a current longtime member of Macedonia Baptist Church. She worked in textiles most of her life and retired from Bed and Bath as a textile inspector. Mot was a dedicated volunteer at the Patrick Senior Center. She enjoyed taking day trips with her friends and attending bible studies at the senior center. Mot enjoyed traveling with Christian Tour Lines and visited Canada on one of her many trips. She was a wonderful and dedicated wife, mother and homemaker. Always making sure her children were raised up the correct way. Mot was a doting grandmother to 3 generations of grandchildren and loved spending time with those she loved. Martha's love and guidance will be remembered always by those she leaves behind to cherish the memories made.

SURVIVORS: Sons: James Harrelson (Lisa), Randy Harrelson (Carolyn), and Paul Harrelson (Connie) all of Kings Mountain, NC
Daughter: Brenda McAbee (Keith), Gastonia, NC
7 Grandchildren 16 Great Grandchildren 12 Great-Great Grandchildren

FUNERAL SERVICE: Thursday, March 19, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Macedonia Baptist Church with Reverend Michael Horne officiating

VISITATION: Thursday, March 19, 2026 from 1:00 PM to 1:50 PM prior to the service at Macedonia Baptist Church

INTERMENT: Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, NC

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM
ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

03/10/2026

DATELINE: GASTONIA, NORTH CAROLINA
Barbie Leanne Penny

Barbie Leanne Penny, 56, passed away on March 7, 2026 at home in Gastonia, NC. She is now reunited with her parents, Bobby Penny, Sr. and Shirley Randolph, and the father of her children, Timothy Davis. Barbie was born August 28, 1969 in Cleveland County, and she grew to be a beloved daughter, mother, and friend. She was that rare breed of person in whom you could confide anything, loyal and true. As anyone who knew her could tell you, she loved her cats. Barbie will be remembered as a loving mother and MawMaw and will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Barbie is survived by her children Gracie, Lewis, Lynsie, Nicolas, Brandon, Dylan, and Isabella, her grandchildren Khia and Ivie, and her nephews Daryl and Kevin.

In accordance with Barbie's wishes, no services are planned at this time.

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM

ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA