Rudy Slezak

Moyock-Rudolph Joseph Slezak (Rudy), 83, of Beechwood Shores, Moyock, NC, passed away on Saturday, April 26, 2008.He was born in Binghamton, NY on Nov. 5, 1924. Rudy was the husband of Ora Ellen Wheeler Slezak of Moyock. He attended Providence Baptist Church in Shawboro, NC and was a veteran having retired from the U.S. Army Air Force as a Master Sgt. after 20 years of service. He later worked for the American Consulate in the countries of Belgium and Holland. Rudy was predeceased by his first wife, Bernice, and grandson Maarten, of Belgium. He is survived by a son, Freddy, and grandchildren Rudy, Michel, Kim, and Marijke, and one great grandson, Koby, all of Belgium. He is also survived by Jim and Debra Wheeler and family of Moyock, Susan and Ray Ryan and family of Richmond, VA, Jack and Janet Davis and family of Keysville, VA and many nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends at Twiford Funeral Home Chesapeake, VA on Tuesday from 7-8:30 pm. A service will be held on Wednesday at Providence Baptist Church at 11am in Shawboro, NC with Pastor Charles Stevens officiating. Interment will follow services in Moyock Cemetery with Military Honors. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.twifordfh.com. Funeral arrangements are under the care and direction of Twiford Funeral Home.

Guy Hartwell “Chief” Midgette

Manteo,NC

Guy Hartwell ‘Chief’ Midgett died Sunday, April 27, at his home. He was born in Manteo, NC the son of Charles Francois and Lucille Meekins Midgett.

For most of his life, Chief worked as a finish carpenter, both self-employed and eight years for the County of Dare from which he retired in 1995. Early in his working life, he was a clerk and manager of the Manteo ABC store.

Chief was a Mason and Shriner. At his death he was serving on the Dare County Farm Bureau Board of Directors and on the Dare County ABC Board.

He is survived by his wife, Marion Wilson Midgett; his sister, Camille Midgett Podolski; eleven nieces and nephews; many cousins, great nieces and nephews; and many loving friends. Chief was preceded in death by a brother, Charles Francois, Jr and five sisters: Margaret Midgett Tillett, Irene Midgett Davis, Hulda Midgett Swindell, Anne Midgett Greene and an infant Myrtle Midgett.

A service of remembrance will be on Thursday, May 1, at 7:00 p.m. at Twiford’s Colony Chapel, Manteo. Visitation with family will be from 5:30 pm before the service and also following the service at the chapel.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that expressions of sympathy go to the Sudan Shriners, P.O. Box 490, New Bern, NC 28563 for Shriners Hospitals for children or a charity of your choice. Twiford’s Colony Chapel is assisting the family.

Twiford Colony Chapel, Manteo is assisting the family with arrangements.
Visit www.twifordfh.com to sign the online register.

Gerald Winslow Bray

Gerald Winslow Bray, the son of Lessell and Lillie Winslow Bray was born in the Water Swamp Area of Gates County on January 20, 1935. He died Saturday, April 26, 2008.

Gerald was educated in the public schools of Gates and Pasquotank counties and by Elon College, Mexico City College, Duke University and Purdue University. He was an educator having been a teacher, a counselor and as administrator at the elementary, secondary and college levels. In retirement he operated a mobile home park, was a fish farmer and a community volunteer.

Gerald was predeceased by his loving wife Ellen Martiny of 42 years. They leave three sons with their families: Lessell Martiny (Marty) and Margaret Tate Bray of Carrollton, GA. with children Tyson, Rebecca and Thomas; Gerald Zachary (Zach) Bray and his best friend Maggie Lou of Hertford, N. C.; and Jeremy Winslow and Lou Heald Bray of Durham of Durham, N. C. with children John Winslow, Christiana (Ana) and Ashley.

Gerald has one sister, Dorothy Bray Thomas and husband Colen of Greensboro, N. C. and a niece Beth Mueller and her husband Jeff also of Greensboro. Additionally he leaves behind in-laws Joanne Martiny Spears, husband Larry of Bismarck, ND. and their family; and Charles Martiny, wife Karen and their family of Beaverton, OR.

Gerald was blessed with abiding love by and for parents, sister, wife, children, grandchildren, and many friends and acquaintances. The love for each was different but only strengthened, never diminished, by its diversity.’—but the greatest of these is love.’

It was an honor to watch and be a part of growth and development of many students and colleagues over a life-time. This was rewarding and fun but some moments of suffering as pain was felt with the other.
Gerald and Ellen were founding members of Rockingham County Friends Meeting (Quakers) perhaps the most reward of Spiritual experiences.

Gerald asks that no flowers or memorials be sent. In lieu thereof please lend a helping hand to someone in need as often as thee can, If so led, think of Gerald when you help your neighbor.

A memorial service for our father will be held Saturday, May 3, 2008 at 2:00 P. M. at the Up River Friends Meeting House, 523 Up River Road, Belvidere, N. C. All are invited and welcomed. Come worship with us.

Visitation will be held in our father’s house at 1226 North Road Street in Elizabeth City from 10AM to 6 PM on Friday, May 2. The family wishes to thank Albemarle Hospice for all their help and care during Gerald’s final days. If you want to make a donation, one to Albemarle Hospice in Gerald’s name would be appreciated.

‘Don’t grieve for me as I have only passed through the door to life’s next great adventure. I know you are sad for my family. Tell them about it.’ Gerald Bray

Faye Ambrose Garrett

Faye Ambrose Garrett, 71, ‘affectionately known to many as Aunt Faye’ of 729 Mt. Hermon Church Road, Elizabeth City, NC died Sunday, April 27, 2008 at her home. She was the daughter of the late Tom Ambrose and Ruth Bundy Ambrose. She was a retired waitress with the Colonial Restaurant for thirty-eight years, and attended the Mt. Hermon United Methodist Church. `

Survivors include her husband; Lloyd T. Garrett, Sr., her daughter Thomasa Bateman of Elizabeth City, NC, her sons Lloyd T. Garrett, Jr. and his wife Elaine of Hertford, NC and Martin Garrett of Elizabeth City, NC two brothers, Hubert Ambrose and Dallas Ambrose both of Elizabeth City, NC her grandchildren Lloyd Bateman and Wilson Bateman, and her great-grandchildren Cody Gibbs and MacKenzie Bateman. She was preceded in death by two sisters, Margaret Halsey and Marian Ambrose, and one brother Thomas Ambrose, Jr.

A graveside funeral service will be held Wednesday, April 30th at 2:00 P. M. at the New Hollywood Cemetery with Rev. Max Edwards officiating. The family will receive friends at her home.

Twiford Funeral Home, 405 East Church Street, Elizabeth City is assisting the Ambrose family with arrangements. You may sign the on line register at www.twifordfh.com 252-335-4395

Patricia Anne McPhee Tarkenton

Patricia Anne McPhee Tarkenton, age 61, of 4198 Caratoke Highway, Barco, NC, died Sunday, April 27, 2008 at Norfolk General Hospital. Mrs. Tarkenton, a native of Boston, MA, was the daughter of the late William James McPhee, Sr., and Providencia Santiago McPhee and the wife of Junius Chadwick Tarkenton of the residence. She was a homemaker and a Christian.

Besides her husband she is survived by two daughters, Tanya Zimmerman Lantz and husband James of Shawboro, NC, and Marlo Providencia Zimmerman Reel of Hertford, NC; a son, Jack Wayne Zimmerman, Jr., and wife Gayle of Rayne, LA; a sister, Lorraine Swain of Grandy, NC; a brother, William James McPhee, Jr. of CA; eight grandchildren, Jack Wayne Zimmerman, III, Ashley Zimmerman, Ian Zimmerman, Alexandria Greene, Kimmie Greene, Mia Greene, Caroline Zimmerman, Kayley Zimmerman; two nieces, Rachel Derby, Jocelyn McPhee, and Lauren McPhee; and three nephews, David Derby, Joshua Swain, and William James McPhee I.

A graveside funeral service will be Tuesday, April 29, 2008 at 3:00 PM at Laurel Memorial Gardens Cemetery with the Rev. David Blackman officiating. The family will receive friends at the residence. You may sign the online register at www.twifordfh.com. Twiford’s Memorial Chapel, 405 East Church Street, Elizabeth City, NC is in charge of arrangements.

Blanche O’Neal Styron

Ocracoke, NC

Blanche O’Neal Styron, 85, died Friday, April 25, 2008 at her residence. Born in Ocracoke, she was the daughter of the late James Calvin O’Neal and Iva Spencer O’Neal and was the widow of David Barnett Styron. She was also preceded in death by a daughter, Belinda Styron Teeter. Mrs. Styron was a member of the Ocracoke United Methodist Church and its Women’s Society and was always involved in her community.

Mrs. Styron is survived by a son, David B. Styron, Jr. and wife Kari of Ocracoke; a brother, Calvin O’Neal of Ocracoke; two grandchildren, Samantha Styron and David B. Styron, III both of Ocracoke; and many other relatives and friends whom she loved.

A funeral service will be conducted on Tuesday, April 29, 2008 at 1:00 PM at the Ocracoke United Methodist Church by the Rev. Joyce Reynolds. Burial will be in the family cemetery. The family will receive friends and relatives at the church on Monday from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Memorial donations may be made the the Ocracoke United Methodist Church.

Twiford’s Island Chapel, Hatteras is assisting the family with arrangements.

Vicki Williams Midgett

Vicki W. Midgett
Native of Dare County, NC

Vicki Williams Midgett, 68, formerly of Elizabeth City, NC, died Saturday, April 26, 2008 at Britthaven of the Outer Banks. She was born in Buxton, NC, the daughter of the late Vetter and Sarah Quidley Williams and was the widow of James Graves Midgett, Jr. Mrs. Midgett was a Protestant.

Mrs. Midgett is survived by two sons, James Midgett, III and wife Anita of Kitty Hawk, NC, and Timmy Midgett of Wilson, NC; a brother, Johnny Williams and wife Barbara of Buxton, NC; three grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held Tuesday, April 29, 2008 at 2:00 pm at Twiford Memorial Chapel. Burial will be in West Lawn Cemetery. Following the service the family will receive friends in the lobby of the funeral home. Twiford Funeral Home, 405 East Church Street, Elizabeth City, NC, is in charge of funeral arrangements. To sign the online register, visit www.twifordfh.com.

Gene Meads

Harvey Eugene ‘Gene’ Meads, 69, of 2600 Dan and Mary Street, Elizabeth City, NC, died Saturday, April 26, 2008 at Albemarle Hospital. He was born in Pasquotank County, the son of Delia Luton Meads and the late Everett Eugene Meads and was the husband of Shirley Sawyer Meads. Mr. Meads was a member and former deacon of First Christian Church, owner of Standard Tile, developer of Forest Park, Peartree, and Olivet Lakes sub-divisions, part owner of Albemarle Builders Supply, former owner of Spinning Wheels Roller Skating Rink and Alton E. Meads Swimming Pool, former director of Girls Inc., and former member of the Zoning Adjustment Board.

Besides his wife and mother, Mr. Meads is survived by a granddaughter, Terri Lynn Meads of Elizabeth City, NC; two sisters, Bessie Harris of Elizabeth City, NC, and Hope Baccus and husband Aubrey of Hertford, NC; a brother, Mark Meads and Jenny Wooten of Elizabeth City, NC; two sister-in-laws, Donna Jones and Martha Bundy and husband William; and a brother-in-law, Don Sawyer. He was preceded in death by his sons, Alton E. Meads and Terry Meads, and a sister, Renia Belle Lamb.

A funeral service will be held Tuesday, April 29, 2008 at 11:00 am at First Christian Church with Rev. Michael Barnes, Rev. Roland Cooper and Rev. William Rembert officiating. Burial will follow in West Lawn Cemetery. The family will receive relatives and friends at the home. Twiford Funeral Home, 405 East Church Street, Elizabeth City, NC is in charge of funeral arrangements. To sign the online register, visit www.twifordfh.com.

Patrick Gilpin

Patrick O. Gilpin

Virginia Beach – Patrick O’Bryan Gilpin passed away on April 26, 2008 in Manteo, NC. Patrick was born in Liberal, KS on May 2, 1977. He graduated from Larned High school in 1995. He then went into the Navy for four and a half years doing search and rescue and special ops. Then continuing onto Old Dominion University, where he received his Bachelors in History and double minor in Political Science and Education. After achieving his degree he was hired by Vitamin Water as an Area Sales Manager.
Patrick was an amazing soul who always strived to be better and accomplish more despite the many hardships he endured throughout his life. He still achieved and excelled at everything he did. He was an MMA fighter and boxer, never losing a fight. He also enjoyed working out every chance he got and always prided himself in his appearance. Patrick had a huge heart for those that he loved and would do anything for them. He always had a strong desire for a family of his own to be able to do things the way he always wished they had been done for him during his childhood. Regardless of all the negative that was presented to him, he always overcame it and turned it into a positive. Patrick’s resilient character gave him the strength to overcome all his tragedies with love and laughter.
Left to cherish his loving memories are his girlfriend, Elizabeth Casella, his best friend and brother, Don Bailey, and many, many other friends who he considered and loved like family. Patrick was a strong person who finally got what he always wanted, a family and being loved like he always deserved. Patrick died in peace and is now in a better place looking down over us all.
A memorial service will be held in his honor Thursday, May 1, 2008, 6:00 pm at Twiford Colonial Chapel, 929 S. Battlefield Blvd., Chesapeake. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the family in Patrick’s memory, care of Twiford Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.twifordfh.com.



Emily Jo Arndt Piscorik

Emily Jo Arndt Piscorik, 60, of 411 Carter Road, Elizabeth City, NC, died Thursday, April 24, 2008 at Norfolk General Hospital. Mrs. Piscorik, a native of Newton, NC, was the daughter of Clifteen Sherrill Arndt of Elizabeth City, NC and the late Joe F. Arndt and the wife of John A. Piscorik of the residence. She was an administrative assistant with the Elizabeth City/Pasquotank County School System for over twenty years and had previously worked at Wachovia Bank. She was a loving daughter, wife, mother and grandmother.

Besides her mother and husband she is survived by a daughter, Julie Piscorik Hill of Elizabeth City, NC; a son, Jeff Piscorik and wife Michelle of Winterville, NC; and four grandchildren, Drew Piscorik, Peyton Piscorik, Mattox Piscorik and Adam Hill.

A funeral services will be Sunday, April 27, 2008 at 2:00 PM at Twiford’s Memorial Chapel with the Rev. Toni Wood officiating. Burial will follow in West Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 7:30 PM Saturday at the funeral home and at other times at the residence. You may sign the online register at www.twifordfh.com. Twiford’s Memorial Chapel, 405 East Church Street, Elizabeth City, NC is in charge of arrangements.