Harris Funeral Home Incorporated, 108 S Piedmont Avenue (PO Box 639), Kings Mountain, NC (2026)

06/05/2026

DATELINE: DAVIDSON, NORTH CAROLINA
Hilton Lamar Ruth Jr.

Hilton Lamar Ruth, Jr, better known as “Jack,” died June 3, 2026 at the age of 95. He was born November 19, 1930 in Rock Hill, SC, son of the late Hilton Lamar Ruth and Dorothy Meroney Ruth. Mr. Ruth graduated from Kings Mountain High School in 1949, where he is a member of the Kings Mountain Sports Hall of Fame. He graduated from Davidson College in 1953 where he was quarterback on the football team, President of the student body and a member of Omicron Delta Kappa Leadership Fraternity. After graduation, he joined American Trust Company in Charlotte and was in banking for 42 years in Charlotte, Fayetteville, Lumberton, Concord, and Hendersonville. While in banking Jack served as Chairman of the Carolina School of Banking, President of the Young Bankers Division and President of the North Carolina Bankers Association. In Hendersonville, Mr. Ruth served as President of the United Way, President of the Chamber of Commerce, President of Hendersonville Country Club and President of the UNCA Foundation.
He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Betty Kate Jones Ruth, and his children: Dorothy Elizabeth “Libby” Ruth of Monroe, NC; HL “Trip” Ruth III of Concord, NC; and R David Ruth and wife, Eva, of Kings Mountain, NC. He is survived by six grandchildren: Carolyn, HL IV, and Will Ruth; Andrew (Claire) Ruth, Mary Kate (Jayson) Humphrey, and Maggie (Timmy) Clifton and affectionally known as “Pop” to eight great grandchildren.
A Memorial Service will be held at The Pines, Davidson, NC at 2:00 pm on Saturday, June 13, 2026, followed by visitation and a reception celebrating Jack’s life. A graveside service will be on Sunday at 10:00 am at the Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, NC. Memorials may be made to The Residents Fund at The Pines, 400 Avinger Lane, Davidson, NC 28036.
GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM
ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

06/05/2026

DATELINE: CARY, NORTH CAROLINA
Peggy Watterson Fite

Peggy Watterson Fite, 87, of Cary, NC, passed away on May 29, 2026 at Cadence Garner in Garner, NC. Born July 3, 1938 in Cleveland County, NC, she was the daughter of the late George Andrew Watterson and Ella Faye Boheler Watterson. She was also preceded in death by her husband Paul Nelson Fite, brother Ronald Andrew Watterson, and granddaughter Ashley Nicole Fite.

Peggy spent her working years serving others before retiring from a dedicated career in nursing. She will be remembered as a loving wife, sister, mother, and grandmother.

SURVIVORS: Husband: Paul Goodwin of Cary
Children: Cheri Lynne Fite of Rocky Mount, NC, Todd Nelson Fite of Four Oaks, NC, and Kent Jeffrey Fite (Laura), also of Four Oaks
Sisters: Nancy Robbs (Eddie) and Betty Spears (Dean), all of Kings Mountain, NC
Grandchildren: Collin and Aaron
Great-grandchild: Hudson

GRAVESIDE SERVICE: Wednesday, June 10, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. at Mountain Rest Cemetery in the with Rev. Randy Patterson officiating

VISITATION: The family will visit with attendees in the cemetery following the conclusion of the graveside service

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

05/28/2026

DATELINE: CHESTER, SOUTH CAROLINA
Vicki Hullander Lundy

Vicki Hullander Lundy, age 73, of Chester, South Carolina, peacefully passed away on May 26, 2026, at White Oak Manor in Columbia, SC. Born on January 29, 1953, in Chester County, she was the beloved daughter of the late Paul Webb and Vivian Barnes Hullander and was preceded in death by her brother, Petey Hullander. A devoted educator, Vicki earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Winthrop University and later completed her master’s degree at Phoenix University. She dedicated many years to the Chester County School System, where she touched countless lives teaching adult education and GED preparation. Her commitment to learning and teaching left a lasting impact on her community. Vicki was a gifted seamstress, known for creating stunning tapestries and crafting special occasion dresses for her granddaughter, each piece made with love and care. She embraced an active lifestyle, finding joy in hiking and the beauty of nature. Travel and family beach trips were among her fondest memories, and her talents extended into the kitchen, where she was admired as an accomplished cook and baker. A passionate supporter of the South Carolina Gamecocks, Vicki’s spirit was as vibrant as her loyalty to her favorite team. Above all, she was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, whose warmth and generosity touched many hearts. Vicki Hullander Lundy’s life was a beautiful tapestry of love, dedication, and joy. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who were fortunate to know her.

SURVIVORS: Husband of 23 years: Roger Lundy of Chester, SC
Children: Adam Clark and wife Valerie of Columbia, SC and Elizabeth Miller and husband B.J. of Simpsonville, SC
Grandchildren: Alex, Jonah Grace, and Abel Davis
Sister: Lynda Lee of Rock Hill, SC
Stepson: Brent Lundy of Shelby, NC
Niece: Roxanne Hullander of Pageland, SC

GRAVESIDE SERVICE: Monday, June 1, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Mountain Rest Cemetery

INTERMENT: Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, North Carolina

In lieu of flowers, donations in Vicki's memory may be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation at www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org

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

05/28/2026

DATELINE: GASTONIA, NORTH CAROLINA
Deborah McAbee Crane

Deborah McAbee Crane, 72, of Gastonia, NC, passed away on May 26, 2026 at Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte. Born August 12, 1953 in Kings Mountain, NC, she was the daughter of the late William Brooks "Mac" McAbee and Mary Helen Melton McAbee. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Richard Crane, son Damon Patrick Crane, and stepbrother Dennis McAbee.

Deborah graduated from Kings Mountain High School and then began a fulfilling career as a floral designer. Her penchant for floral arrangements was a form of artistry, and she shared that God-given gift with others as often as she could. She owned and operated City Florist on Ozark Ave. in Gastonia for many years, and retired as the managing floral designer at BI-LO. Deborah was extremely talented in many other areas as well, including cooking, baking, and sewing. In every effort, she was not satisfied with anything less than perfection. Her attention to detail and eye for beauty inspired many wonderful creations, such as bridal bouquets, elaborate corsages, innumerable sewn projects, and jaw-dropping wedding cakes that were more impressive than those created in dedicated bakeries by professionals.

Deborah spent a lifetime devoted to her family. As the oldest, she took charge in helping to raise and nurture her younger siblings, and continued to serve as a family cornerstone into her adult years. To her children, she was an angel: a strong, reliable mother who was always there for them. She adored her grandchildren and great-grands, cherishing the time she spent with them. Always quick to take care of those around her, Deborah was known to many of her children's friends, her nieces and nephews, and even to some of her younger coworkers simply as "Mama."

Deborah loved sweets and treats and her favorite drink was Diet Sun Drop. She enjoyed trips to Myrtle Beach and Holden Beach with her family. She will be remembered for the love she showed and the passion for her gifts that she shared with others throughout her lifetime.

SURVIVORS: Daughter: Nikki Crane (Ken Adams) of Gastonia
Siblings: Keith McAbee (Brenda) and Angie McAbee, all of Gastonia, Sonya McAbee Gregory (Jeff) of Shelby, NC, and Shan McAbee Eaves (Howard) of Bessemer City, NC.
Grandchildren: Brittani Nicole Bolding (Randall Jones) of Crowders Mountain, NC, and Kaela Thompson of Gastonia
Great-Grandchildren: Daemon Maldoando, Myles Crane, and Brooks Jones
Deborah is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.

FUNERAL SERVICE: Monday, June 1, 2026 at 1:00 P.M. in the Ollie Harris Memorial Chapel with Pastor Dennis Pruitt officiating

VISITATION: Sunday, May 31, 2026 from 5:00 - 7:00 P.M. in the Parlor at Harris Funeral Home

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM

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

05/27/2026

DATELINE: KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA
Donna Jean Johnson

Donna Jean Johnson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, peacefully passed away on May 26, 2026, at Robin Johnson House in Dallas, North Carolina. Born on May 22, 1960, in Sioux City, Iowa, Donna was the cherished daughter of the late Bob and Barbara Bruneau Williams. She was also preceded in death by her brothers Norris Rayfield and Larston "Skip" Williams, and her sister Carol Oliver. A devoted member of Harvest Baptist Church, Donna lived a life marked by compassion and dedication. She spent much of her career as a production worker in textiles and manufacturing, demonstrating a strong work ethic and commitment. Later, her caring nature led her to serve as a home healthcare worker, where she touched many lives with kindness and empathy. Donna had a deep love for her family, and her heart was fullest when surrounded by them during joyful beach trips. She was an avid cat lover and found happiness in the simple pleasures of life. Known for her steadfast loyalty, Donna was a devoted friend who stood by those she called friends through every season, always ready to offer support and love. Her warm spirit and generous heart made her an unforgettable presence to all who knew her. Donna's legacy of love and kindness will remain forever in the hearts of her family and friends. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives she graced.

SURVIVORS: Husband of 46 years: Tim Johnson
Son: T.J. Johnson
Siblings: Bobby Williams and wife Sherri and Joanne Smart and husband Lee
Brother-in-law: Randy "Smiley" Oliver
Grandchildren: Nicholas Johnson and Israel Johnson
Niece: Kami Williams

FUNERAL SERVICE: Sunday, May 31, 2026 at 1:30 PM at Harvest Baptist Church with Pastor Gary Teague officiating

VISITATION: Sunday, May 31, 2026 from 12:30 PM to 1:20 PM prior to the service at Harvest Baptist Church

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

05/27/2026

DATELINE: SHELBY, NORTH CAROLINA
Jerry Lee Paysour

Jerry Lee Paysour, 76, of Shelby, NC, passed away peacefully at home on May 26, 2026. Born June 4, 1949 in Kings Mountain, NC, he was the son of the late George Paysour and Earsie Grigg Wood. He was also preceded in death by his wife of more than 20 years, Virginia Allen Paysour, brothers Donald Paysour and George Paysour, and stepdaughter Barbara Clark.

Jerry was a hard worker. He spent most of his working years as a truck driver and was employed by Randle Brothers and Morris Scrap Metal. He was known for his dedication and efficiency, earning him the CB radio nickname "Runner." He was always an early riser and was quick to let you know if you were "burnin' daylight time" by getting too late of a start.

Jerry was an avid NASCAR fan and rooted for a number of drivers over the years, including Dale Earnhardt, Mark Martin, Jeff Gordon, and Kyle Busch. He enjoyed fishing and jumped at any opportunity to eat oysters. He loved his family, calling to check on individual family members at least once every day. He adored his grandchildren, giving each their own unique nickname, and delighted in sneaking them sweets, ice cream, and treats. Jerry will be missed dearly by those he leaves behind.

SURVIVORS: Children: Jerry Lee Paysour, Jr. (Sherry) of Cowpens, SC, and Michelle Paysour of Gaffney, SC
Stepdaughters: Angela Berry of Kings Mountain and Pamela Wilson of Gastonia, NC
Brother: Guy Dean Paysour, Sr. (Faye) of Shelby
Jerry is also survived by 16 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, and numerous nieces and nephews.

MEMORIAL SERVICE: Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 12:00 P.M. in the Ollie Harris Memorial Chapel

VISITATION: Saturday, June 20, 2026 from 11:00 - 11:50 A.M. in the Parlor at Harris Funeral Home

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM

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

05/25/2026

DATELINE: BESSEMER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA
Alicia Evelyn Boone

Alicia Evelyn Boone, 53, of Bessemer City, NC, passed away on May 23, 2026 at CaroMont Regional Medical Center in Gastonia, NC. She was born August 22, 1972 in Iredell County, NC. She was the daughter of Bryant Campbell and Patricia Holland Roberson and was preceded in death by her father, and a son, Steven Campbell. Alicia worked in textiles and as a waitress throughout her lifetime, until she became disabled. She enjoyed taking beach trips and was an avid reader. Alicia loved a good novel and spent many hours reading. Alicia enjoyed spending time with her family, whom she loved very much. She loved dogs, and leaves behind her precious canine companion, Little Bit. Alicia will be missed greatly by all those who knew and loved her.

SURVIVORS: Husband: Edward Boone
Mother: Patricia Holland Roberson
Children: Krystal Stroup, Lanny Stroup, and Micheal Stroup and wife Amber
Brothers: Steven Campbell and Curtis Campbell and wife Alicia
Grandchildren: Cheyenne, Mariyah, Khloe, Desiree, Anthony, Bentley, Curtis, Sierra, Makenzie, Karsyn, and Carter
Great Grandchildren: Skylah and Elijah

VISITATION: Wednesday, May 27, 2026 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM in the parlor of Harris Funeral Home

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

05/24/2026

DATELINE: KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA
Jimmy Dale Ervin

Jimmy Dale Ervin, 61, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on May 23, 2026 at Wendover Hospice House in Shelby, NC after a courageous and hard-fought battle with a terminal illness. In the same moment, he was welcomed into Heaven with open arms by his late son, Anthony Dale Ervin. Jimmy was born on May 17, 1965 in Kings Mountain, the son of the late Robert Gene Ervin and Mary Elizabeth Barnette Ervin. He was also preceded in death by two beloved companions, his horse Levi and dog Sampson.

Jimmy graduated from Kings Mountain High School with the Class of 1983, then began a career in manufacturing with long stints at Harris Welco and Firestone. He worked hard his whole life, modeling a strong work ethic for his family. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially deep-sea fishing trips with his brother and father.

Jimmy was one of the most kindhearted people you could meet. Up until his very last moments, he maintained his good spirits and always made the effort to put others at ease with a joke and a smile. Jimmy was a lifelong jokester, quick to kid and work for a laugh. He loved his children dearly and was a fantastic PawPaw to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Jimmy prioritized time spent with his family, friends, and loved ones, providing them with cherished memories of him to treasure for the rest of their lives.

SURVIVORS: Daughter: Elizabeth Reynolds (Frankie) of Kings Mountain
Siblings: Robbie Ervin (Beth) of Roanoke, VA and Teresa Warner of Bessemer City, NC
Grandchildren: Jeremy Reynolds, Courtney Jones, both of Kings Mountain, and Katelynn Reynolds of Chattanooga, TN
Great-Grandchildren: Mia Kirby, Roman Kirby, Taylin Jones, Ariana Jones, and Kai Jones
Jimmy is also survived by his aunt Linda Newton (David) of Casar, NC, uncle Jackie Barnette (Patty) of Kings Mountain, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Graveside Service: Bessemer City Memorial Cemetery, Friday, June 12, 2026 3:00 P.M.

Family will speak to friends immediately following the service in the cemetery

INTERMENT: Bessemer City Memorial Cemetery, Bessemer City, North Carolina

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM

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

05/21/2026

DATELINE: KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA
Murray Council "M.C." Pruette, Jr.

Murray Council Pruette, Jr., better known as M.C., 96, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on May 20, 2026 at Summit Place of Kings Mountain. Born November 1, 1929 in Grover, NC, he was the son of the late Murray Council Pruette, Sr. and Ola Falls Pruette. M.C. graduated with the Grover High School class of 1948 and loved his hometown dearly for the rest of his life. He served his country honorably with the US Army during the Korean War and retired after a fulfilling 38 year career at Southern Bell/BellSouth/AT&T.

M.C. was an active, foundational member at First Baptist Church of Kings Mountain, where he took on any role he could to be of service, including stints as deacon, usher, and Sunday School superintendent. He was also a proud member of State Line Masonic Lodge #375 and a 32° Mason. M.C. enjoyed his brotherhood with the Masons very much and this fellowship was a big part of his life. Very community-minded, he was also a Shriner, a member of the Moss Lake Authority, and a Kings Mountain City Councilman from 1973 to '75.

M.C. spent as much time as he could in his Bible, even up to his final days. More than just a passive reader, he devoted himself to the study of Scripture and was steeped in the history and context of God's Word. He kept various passages posted all around his home on little notes to reinforce their relevance to his everyday life. He loved fixing things, spending time with his family, and doting on his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

SURVIVORS: Wife of 69 years: Joanne Bridges Pruette
Daughters: Sharon Chapman (Tim), Jenifer McCachren (Steve), and Andrea Whitesides (Tim), all of Kings Mountain
Sister: Elaine Pruette Anton of Grover, NC
Grandchildren: Kristin Shelton (H.G.), Rachel Canipe (Seth), Jeremy Tucker (Taylor), and Alex McCachren
Great-grandchildren: Reese Shelton, Cade Canipe, Cooper Canipe, and Molly Tucker

FUNERAL SERVICE: Sunday, May 24, 2026 at 2:00 P.M at First Baptist Church with Dr. John Sloan officiating

VISITATION: Sunday, May 24, 2026, prior to the service from 1:00 to 1:50 P.M. at First Baptist Church

INTERMENT: Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, North Carolina

MEMORIALS: Donations in M.C.'s memory may be made to First Baptist Church of Kings Mountain at 605 W. King St., Kings Mountain, NC 28086 or online at www.fbckm.com/give or to The Masonic Home for Children at 600 College St., Oxford, NC 27565 or online at www.mhc-oxford.org

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM

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

05/14/2026

DATELINE: KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA
Samuel Carsylie Pryor Jr

Junior Pryor, 76, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on May 14, 2026 at Atrium Health Cleveland in Shelby, NC. He was born October 29, 1949 in Gaston County, NC, son of the late Samuel Pryor Sr and Kathleen Kuykendall Pryor and was preceded in death by a son, Tim Moore. Known as Junior to most people, He was a longtime faithful member of First Baptist Church Kings Mountain. Junior's interests were many. He never stopped learning and had countless projects and hobbies throughout his lifetime. He was a master cabinet maker and an accomplished construction professional. He was a wonderful friend to many and mentored countless people during his lifetime. Junior never met a stranger and possessed a contagious personality that drew so many people to him. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. His devotion, strength, love and guidance will live on in the lives of everyone he touched.

SURVIVORS: Wife: Debbie Pryor
Children: Jack Moore, Robby Pryor, Rebekah Schemahorn (Craig), and Ben Thulin (Rhiannon)
Grandchildren: Kevin Moore, Blake Pryor, Jamie Moore, Eleanor Thulin, and Arianwen Thulin
Great Grandchild: Malachi Moore

FUNERAL SERVICE: Monday, May 18, 2026 at 3:00 PM at First Baptist Church with Reverend John Sloan officiating

VISITATION: Monday, May 18, 2026 from 2:00 PM to 2:50 PM prior to the service at First Baptist Church in the Stained Glass Room

INTERMENT: St. Luke's Lutheran Cemetery, Kings Mountain, NC

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, Kings Mountain in memory of Junior.

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

Harris Funeral Home Incorporated

06/05/2026

06/05/2026

05/28/2026

05/28/2026

05/27/2026

05/27/2026

05/25/2026

05/24/2026

05/21/2026

05/14/2026

Address

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Shortcuts

Share

Category