Category: 1950s

Donald M. Campbell, 89, of New Smyrna Beach, passed away peacefully at 6:20 AM Saturday, June 22, 2024 at his home in New Smyrna Beach. Don was born November 20,1934 in Winchester, Virginia to Clyde and Anna Campbell. He graduated from Boyden High School in Salisbury, NC in 1953. He then attended Davidson College in Davidson, NC on a football scholarship. He graduated in 1957 with a degree in business and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army in the Armor Corps. He also earned a Master’s in Business Administration from Tulane University in 1970.

He served in the Army for over 27 years, retiring in 1983 at the rank of Colonel. He demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to his fellow Soldiers, earning many commendations for outstanding service including, the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal and Vietnam Campaign Medal. He also earned the coveted Ranger Tab, Parachutist Badge and the Army Staff Identification Badge.

He was a Vietnam Combat Veteran, serving there from 1967 to 1968 while assigned to the First Cavalry Division. He served around the world in Germany, Iran and multiple assignments stateside. He commanded the 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry from 1973 to 1975. He culminated a brilliant 27 plus year career in 1983 as the Program Manager Training Devices for the United States Army at the Orlando, Florida Navy Training Center. 

Following retirement from the Army, Don briefly worked for the St. John Lutheran Church in Winter Park, FL. He then became the President of Pulau Electronics, now Pulau Corporation, based in Orlando, FL. Based on his success and ties with industry, he became the Executive Director of the Training and Simulation Consortium in Orlando, FL. Using his leadership and organizational skills he grew that organization tremendously and was known for his innovation by the simulations community. He finally retired for good in 2005 in New Smyrna Beach, where he loved to boat, golf, play racquetball and host family and friends. He also loved to travel with his wife Gaye to Maine where they visited with family and friends.  

In New Smyrna Beach he was a proud member of the New Smyrna Beach Yacht Club and the Anglers Yacht Club, where he contributed many hours doing charitable work in the city and Volusia County. 

He is survived by his wife, Gaye Arthur Campbell of New Smyrna Beach, and predeceased by Sylvia Bennett Campbell; also survived by his brother Richard R. Campbell of Mount Pleasant, SC, three sons, Donald M. Campbell, Jr., Kure Beach, NC, Richard Ross Campbell II, Jacksonville, FL, Stephen L. Campbell, Saint Johns, FL , a stepson Jeff McClellan, China, Maine, six grandchildren, Craig, Leslie, Kaysee, Karlee, Brittney and Ryan, and two step grandsons, Matthew and Ryan and eight great grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date, contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in lieu of flowers.

Mr. Robert “Bob” L. Blevins, Jr., 90, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 31, 2024 In Bristol, TN. Bob was born on May 8, 1934 in Bristol, VA, to the late Les and Ruth Blevins.

Bob was a graduate of Bristol Tennessee High School, attended Davidson College and graduated from the University of Tennessee. Following college, Bob volunteered for the draft spending two years in the United States Army, 8th Infantry Division as a medic. Upon his return from Germany, Bob worked at Blevins Funeral Home (founded by his father) selling the company to a lifelong family friend and co-worker, R.E. Smith. He next worked in the Readi-Mix Concrete Business for his father-in law, Pete Litton, until he chose to begin a career as a Financial Advisor with Paine Webber Jackson and Curtis in 1972.

His career as a Financial Advisor resulted in his opening of an office in Bristol, VA for Wheat First Securities in 1980 with Bob as the Branch Manager. He retired in 2022 from the same location now known as Wells Fargo Advisors.

Bob loved basketball, having played the sport while at Tennessee High School. He went on to coach Parks and Recreation basketball for each of his three sons.

As many knew him will attest, he also loved the game of tennis. After each match, he would always state, “Boy, I had the best tennis game today.” He made countless lifelong friends playing tennis.

In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his sister, Margaret Blevins; and his son, Gordon Scott Blevins.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 59 years, Joday Blevins; sons, Robert L. Blevins III (Tracie) and John Litton Blevins; granddaughters, Sarah Blevins Birdsey (Thomas) and Mary Catherine Blevins; nephew, Stephen Thomas (Karen); and a host of friends.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, June 5, 2024 from 12 to 1:45 p.m. at State Street United Methodist Church. A Celebration of Life will follow at 2 p.m. at State Street United Methodist Church with Rev. Laura Rasor and Rev. Steve Patterson officiating.

Bob will be laid to rest at Mountain View Cemetery following the Celebration of Life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to State Street United Methodist Church.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Bob’s caregivers; Candice Bays, Debbie Dalton, Rose England, Becky Heath, Debbie Mudd, Joy Nelson, Jennifer Price, Donna White and Tammy White.

Dr. Paul W. Sanders III, a dedicated physician and beloved member of the Charleston community, passed away on Wednesday, May 29, 2024. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion and professionalism that will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Born on August 21, 1932 in Charleston, SC, Dr. Sanders was the son of Dr. Paul W. Sanders, Jr. and Florence Weaver Sanders.

He attended Charleston High School before pursuing higher education at The Citadel and Davidson College. Dr. Sanders then went on to the Medical College of SC in 1957, where he was a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honorary Medical Fraternity.

During his time at the Medical College of SC, he met the love of his life, Iona Waters Edwards, whom he was happily married to for 67 years. Dr. Sanders continued his medical training with internships and residencies at various prestigious institutions before returning to Charleston to establish a successful urology practice alongside his father. A Diplomat of both the American College of Surgery and American Board of Urology, Dr. Sanders was highly respected within his field. He was active in numerous medical societies and held leadership positions at Roper Hospital while maintaining a strong connection to his faith as a lifelong member of Bethel United Methodist Church. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Dr. Sanders had a passion for photography and was known for his exceptional skill as an amateur photographer.

Dr. Paul W. Sanders III is survived by his devoted wife, Iona Sanders; loving daughters Brenda Sanders (Mario Portela), Diane Davis (Tim), and Lorraine Stockman (Chip); grandchildren Miranda Manack (John), Winston Davis, Amelia Stockman, Chandler Davis (Mari), and Jacob Stockman; great-grandson Knox Manack; sister Neltie Sanders Linker; nieces; nephews; and his loyal canine companion Foxie, who remained faithfully by his side until the end. The family wishes to extend special thanks to Akeia Anderson, Dorthea Asbury, Ann Shaw, Deloris Dodier, and the Crescent Hospice care team for their exceptional care.

A visitation at 10:00 am followed by a funeral service at 11:00 am will be held on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at Bethel United Methodist Church 57 Pitt St., Charleston, SC. Interment will take place privately at Magnolia Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Bethel United Methodist Endowment Fund in honor of Dr. Paul W. Sanders III. Dr. Paul W. Sanders III will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to healthcare, his artistic talent behind the lens, and most importantly, his profound impact on those around him as a caring husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Rest in peace, Dr. Paul W. Sanders III – your kindness and expertise will forever be treasured in our hearts. Condolences can be shared with the family at www.jhenrystuhr.com.

Harry Vincent Lamon Jr., passed away of natural causes on Tuesday, May 28, 2024. Harry was born In Macon, Georgia, to Harry Vincent Lamon and Helen Hammond Bewley Lamon. Harry was a proud Eagle Scout of Troop 19 in Macon, where he attended Lanier High School and was awarded the Baker Scholarship to Davidson College.

At Davidson, Harry was a Phi Delta Theta Fraternity member and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. Following graduation, Harry served as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army. In a twist of fate, Harry’s lifelong love story began at the age of 8 when he met Ada Healey Morris, from Atlanta, whom he would later marry. Their bond was formed in childhood mischief as Ada playfully pushed “Buddy” into a lake, sparking a connection that would enrich 67 years of marriage. Ada’s spirit of fun and adventure complemented Harry’s life, creating a wonderful partnership while raising two children in Atlanta.

In 1956, Harry enrolled in Emory University School of Law, graduating with Distinction. Harry began his law career in Atlanta in 1958 with Crenshaw, Hansell, Ware & Brandon, which became Hansell & Post. In 1973, Harry co-founded the firm Henkel & Lamon PC. Harry practiced tax law for over 40 years and loved every minute. He wrote books and lectured around the country on employee benefits and tax law. Harry was a member of the State Bar of Georgia, the Bar of the District of Columbia, and the United States Supreme Court. In 1975, Harry was appointed by President Gerald Ford to represent the public on The Advisory Council on Employee Welfare and Benefit Plans, where he served until 1980. He was then appointed in 1980 as a Consultant to the Executive Office of the President (OMB) regarding retirement plans. Harry was the Founder, Trustee, and Past President of the Southern Federal Tax Institute and the Southern Benefits Conference. He was a Fellow of the American College of Tax Counsel, the American College of Employee Benefits Counsel, and the International Academy of Estate & Trust Law and served as President of the American Bar Retirement Association. Harry always aimed to expand and explore tax law, making many lasting friendships. Harry wrapped up his law practice with Troutman & Sanders and eagerly entered the Business world.

Harry valued education immensely and encouraged many law students during his 20 years as an Adjunct Professor at Emory Law School. He was challenged, inspired, and very proud of his students, some of whom became United States Congressmen, Senators, and Judges. He was honored when named a Distinguished Alumnus in 2007 from Emory Law.

Harry loved the Salvation Army. He loved their spirit, their sacrifice, and their mission. He was a life member of the Metro Atlanta Salvation Army Advisory Board. One of Harry’s greatest honors was serving as the Chairman of the Salvation Army’s National Advisory Board from 1991-1993. Harry valued the Salvation Army’s services for many people who needed a helping hand and “Doing the Most Good.” He made lasting friendships. Harry served as a Trustee Emeritus of Embry Riddle Aeronautical University.

Harry was an active Cathedral of St. Philip member for over 60 years. He served on the Chapter and served as a Trustee of the Cathedral and its Endowment Fund.

Harry was a life member of the Capital City Club and was a member of the University Club and Cosmos Club of Washington D.C.

Harry enjoyed reading, traveling, and history and especially loved a good meal with friends and family at Bones. He was a dedicated fan of Henri’s Bakery and loved a Varsity Chili dog and onion rings “crisp.”

Harry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ada Morris Lamon. He is survived by their children, Hollis Morris Lamon and his wife, Jane of Atlanta, and Kathryn Lamon Gurley and her husband, James B. Gurley, Jr., of Keswick, VA. Grandchildren include Hollis Hunter Lamon, his wife, Annie of Glen Arm, MD, William Austin Lamon of Atlanta, Kathryn Taylor Gurley of Santa Monica, CA and James Benjamin Gurley, III, of Keswick, VA. Great-grandchildren include William Tristan Lamon, Annabell Healey Lamon, and Grace McCall Lamon of Glen Arm, MD.

A Memorial Service will be held at the Cathedral of St. Philip, Mikell Chapel, on Thursday, June 13, 2024 at 11 AM, followed by a reception in the Gould room. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Cathedral Endowment Fund, 2744 Peachtree Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30305 or to the Salvation Army, 1000 Center Place, Norcross, Georgia 30093.

Charles “Charlie” Darius Massey of Davidson, NC passed away peacefully on May 14, 2024, at S. Mitchell Mack Hospice House. He was 87 years old. Born and raised in Waxhaw, NC, Charlie is remembered as a man who served God, his family, his community, and all of mankind faithfully, as well as being a people person who loved to listen, give advice, and tell stories.

Growing up, he loved riding his horse Whiteflash with his cousin Fefe in the woods of Waxhaw, playing with his brother Henry and their dog Bobby, his paper route, and the game of basketball, which he played when he attended Waxhaw Senior High School.
Charlie grew up in the Waxhaw Presbyterian Church which impressed upon him the importance of serving, leading him to eventually serve as an elder at the First Presbyterian Church in Mt. Holly, the First Presbyterian Church in Gastonia, and at Davidson College Presbyterian Church in Davidson. Additionally, he taught Sunday school, served on numerous committees, and served as a delegate to the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church USA.

Charlie’s strong Presbyterian roots led him to Davidson College where his love of basketball grew as he cheered on the Wildcats. He was a member of Beta Theta Pi fraternity, graduating with a degree in English and a minor in history. Charlie honored his alma mater by serving as president of the Wildcat Club, the Davidson Athletic Foundation, and holding numerous alumni and volunteer positions.

Upon graduating from Davidson, Charlie spent time in New Orleans, taking classes at Tulane followed by a two-year stint in the U.S. Army. Subsequently, he began his career in his family business, The Massey Company, where he worked with his brother Henry for 40 years until they both retired on December 31, 2000.

In addition to his business career, Charlie was an active volunteer, serving on many boards, including several trade associations, numerous non-profit organizations including chambers of commerce, the United Way, and the American Red Cross, as well as numerous banks, including an almost 20-year run on the board of First Union Bank.

He served as president of Gaston Skills, a work center for people with disabilities, as chair of the Gaston County Heart Association, on the Gaston Regional Planning Commission, and was a founder and original board member of Covenant Village, Inc. a church-related retirement facility. Lastly, he served as president of the Residents’ Association at The Pines at Davidson. Charlie’s outstanding acts of service led him to receive the Alumni Service Award from Davidson College in 2019.

Along with Davidson College basketball, Charlie loved jazz music, dancing, good food and red wine, all things lemon and grape, key lime pie, searching for and collecting golf balls, and being at his vacation home on Seabrook Island with his family.

He had a passion for golf and was a member of the Southern Seniors Golf Association, the Senior Golfers of America, and the American Seniors Golf Association. Charlie got a hole in one at Pebble Beach and won the Senior Golfers of America Pebble Beach Championship in 2002.

Charlie is survived by his wife of 62 years, Sue Nance Massey; his son and son-in-law, Charles Chan Massey and Joseph Chan; his daughters, Susan Chesson and Katherine Noble; his grandchildren, Charlie Chesson and wife Melinda, Jake Chesson, Sarah Wunsch and husband Mike, Annie Echols, and Julia Noble; his great grandchildren, Addie Chesson, Ophelia Wunsch, and Ezra Chesson; his brother, Henry Heath Massey, Jr. and wife Emily; his cousins, Esther Prince, Fefe Booth and husband Richard; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, Henry Heath Massey, Sr. and Bessie Smith Massey; his parents-in-law, Earl VanBuren Nance and Vondola Biggs Nance; his son-in-law, Thad Chesson; and many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A celebration of Charlie’s life will be held on June 1, 2024, at 2:00 pm at The Pines at Davidson in the Davidson Room.

Memorials may be made to The Pines at Davidson Resident Support Fund, 400 Avinger Lane Davidson, NC 28036, 704-896-1489 and the S. Mitchell Mack Hospice House, Hospice & Palliative Care of Iredell County at mindyr@hoic.org or 704-873-4719.
Online condolences can be made at www.jamesfuneralhomelkn.com. James Funeral Home, of Huntersville, is serving the family and obituary lovingly written by the family.