THE TYRRELL COUNTY "ENQUIRER"

LOCAL OBITUARIES
LESTER CLARENCE RHODES, 89, of Chesapeake, Virginia died on January 19, 2000 in Elizabeth City, N.C. He was born in Tyrrell County and was the son of the late Emmaline and John Rhodes. He was a retired meat cutter/store keeper and a member of Columbia United Methodist Church. He was preceded in death by his wife: Helen B. Rhodes and a brother: Jennis Rhodes. He is survived by a cousin: Laura Newbern. A graveside funeral service was held at Chesapeake Memorial Gardens.
LINTON EARL FURLOUGH, JR., 36, of Chesapeake, Virginia died on January 21, 2000 at Chesapeake General Hospital. He was born in Tyrrell County and was the son of Linton Earl Furlough and Hilda Edwards Pollard. He was a member of Mount Tabor Freewill Baptist Church in Creswell and employed as a construction worker. He is survived by his parents: Linton E. Furlough and his wife Vonnie and Hilda Edwards Pollard and her husband Richard; his wife: Dorice Lee Furlough; two daughters: Jacqueline Bonner and Jennifer Mintz; four sisters: Deborah Graham, Marjorie Brannan, Deborah Liverman, and Sharon O'Neil; and four brothers: Richard Pollard, William Pollard, Robert Pollard, and John Earnshaw. A funeral service was held at Twiford's Colonial Funeral Home and burial was in Moyock Cemetery.
DENNIS HENRY REYNOLDS,87, of the Cross Landing community of Tyrrell County died on January 20, 2000 in Chowan Hospital. He was born in Tyrrell County and was the son of the late James Henry and Mary Jane Alexander Reynolds. He was retired from the N.C. Department of Transportation and a member of Cabin Swamp Church of Christ. He was preceded in death by his wife: Arbell Cooper Reynolds. He is survived by a son: Joseph W. Reynolds; a stepson: Dennis Basnight; a sister: Dorcus R. Arnold; six grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Cabin Swamp Church of Christ and burial followed in the church cemetery.
EDITH JANE PHELPS CLIFTON, 91, of Creswell died on January 19, 2000 at Chowan Hospital. She was born in Washington County and was the daughter of the late Carney and Tempie Furlough Phelps. She was a homemaker and member of Scuppernong Church of Christ. She was preceded in death by her husband: Howard D. Clifton. She is survived by a daughter: Billie Jean Swain; a son: Doug Clifton; one brother: Hence E. Phelps; four grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. A grave side funeral service was held at Scuppernong Church of Christ Cemetery in Washington County.
HELEN MELSON BERRY, 87, of Chesapeake, Virginia died on January 18, 2000. She was born in Tyrrell County on February 2, 1912 and was the daughter of the late Alonzo and Justine Pledger Melson. She is survived by a daughter: Sharron K. Brace; a son: Michael Berry; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a daughter: Cammie Olive Ligon. A funeral service was held at Twiford Colonial Chapel in Great Bridge, Virginia and burial was in Maplewood Cemetery in Durham, N.C.
GENEVA PLEDGER GIBBS, 84, of Fairfield died on January 13, 2000 at Cross Creek Health Care Center in Swan Quarter. She was born in Tyrrell County on January 27, 1915 and was the daughter of the late Samuel T. and Benettie Berry Pledger. She was a member of the Pleasant Grove Church of Christ. She is survived by her husband: Henry Jones Gibbs; two sons: Coley G. and David L. Gibbs; one daughter: Janice Faye Williams; seven grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by three brothers: Alton, Ira, and Melvin Pledger and three sisters: Katie Cahoon, Caddie Gibbs, and Gladys Pledger. A grave side funeral service was held at Fulford Cemetery in Hyde County.
AUBRA DEAN CURLING, 63, of Virginia Beach, VA died on January 11, 2000. She was born on March 22, 1936 in Washington County and was the daughter of the late Phillip and Edna Ambrose. She is survived by her former husband: Carl Curling; a daughter: Angelia King; a son: Michael Curling; one sister: Mary Snell; three brothers: Donald, Elwood, and Edward Ambrose; six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by one brother: Phillip Ray Ambrose. A funeral service was held at Kellum Funeral Home and burial was in Rosewood Memorial Park.
ASA JAMES HALSEY, 85, of Creswell died on January 16, 2000 at Washington County Hospital in Plymouth. He was born in Washington County and was the son of John W. and Asa Snell Halsey. He was a farmer and a member of Scuppernong Church of Christ. He is survived by his mother: Asa Snell Halsey; one son: Kevin Griffen; and one grandchild. A funeral service was held at Scuppernong Church of Christ and burial followed in the church cemetery.
NELLIE MAE CAHOON, 78, of the Kilkenny community of Tyrrell County died January 12, 2000 at Albemarle Hospital in Elizabeth City. She was born in Tyrrell County and was the daughter of the late Seaton and May Everton Cahoon. She designed crafts and was a member of the Gum Neck Church of Christ. She was preceded in death by her husband: James Madison Cahoon Sr; three brothers: Herbert, Jack, and Willard Cahoon; and one sister: Bertha Cahoon. She is survived by 4 daughters: Iris Fulk, Gloria Coker, Barbara Sawyer, and Sue Rose; three sons: James Jr., Jack, and Charlie Cahoon; one brother: George Cahoon; two sisters: Thelma Cahoon and Geraldine Silverdahl; twenty five grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Gum Neck Church of Christ and burial was at the Cedar Grove United Methodist Church Cemetery in Gum Neck.
WILLIAM ALBERT OWENS, JR, 72, of Newport News died January 12, 2000. He was a native of Washington County but had resided in Newport News for 41 years. He was retired from the USAF with 28 years of service. He is survived by his wife: Frances R. Owens; one son: W. Michael Owens; two daughters: Ann O. Nichols and Donna Fenner-Knoerr; and eight grandchildren. A funeral service was held at the W.J. Smith and Son Funeral Home Chapel and burial was in the Bodwell Family Cemetery in Tyrrell County.
MARIE ASHE, 67, of Plymouth died January 7, 2000. She was born in Tyrrell County on December 7, 1932 and was the daughter of the late Hodge Bowser and Tassie Tatem. She was a homemaker and a member of St. John Baptist Church. She is survived by two daughters: Rosie M. Best and Jean Ashe; three sons: Jerry, Richard, and Lewis Ashe; six sisters: Vida Barnes, Minnie Rhodes, Shirley Liverman, Erma Akin, Mary Collier, and Eileen Lockhardt; and three brothers: Hodges Jr, Clayton, and Grady Bowser. A funeral service was held at St John Baptist Church in Alligator community.
EARNESTINE A. ALEXANDER, 87, of Creswell died January 4, 2000 in Arizona. She was born September 3, 1912 in Washington County. She was a housewife and a member of St John's Missionary Baptist Church in Creswell. She is survived by three daughters: Earnestine Spruill, Buelah Bryant, and Rose Alexander; nine sons: Joseph, Rodger, Johnnie, Calvin, James, David Leroy, Edgar Jr, Ernest, and Melvin Alexander; 47 grandchildren; and 60 great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at St. John's Missionary Baptist Church and burial was in the church cemetery.
ERNEST LEE WRIGHT, 73, of the Sound Side community of Tyrrell County died on January 5, 2000 at his home. He was born in Pasquatank County and was the son of the late Ernest Lee and Dolly Mae Matson Wright. He was a member of the First Methodist Church, a two-time post commander of VFW Post #10659 in Columbia, and a member of VFW Post 6060 in Elizabeth City. He was the former owner of Manteo Body Shop and Wrecker Service. He is survived by his wife: Frances Scott Wright; four daughters: Connie W. Daniels, Becky W. Henry, Kelly W. Burton, and Nancy W. Peele; one son: Ernest Lee Wright Jr; six grandchildren; ten step-grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and two step-great-grandchildren. A graveside funeral service was held at Highland Park Cemetery in Elizabeth City.
THOMAS FREDERICK ARMSTRONG, 80, of Springmoor Life Care Retirement Community in Raleigh died on January 6, 2000. He was born in Tyrrell County on February 9, 1919 and was the son of the late Thomas W. and Alberta Cohoon Armstrong. He was a retired USNR Commander and veteran of WW II and Korea. He is survived by his wife of 55 years: Sara Sullivan Armstrong; one daughter: Laura A. Lassiter; two sons: Thomas F. Armstrong Jr and Heyward T. Armstrong; and six grandchildren. A memorial service was held at Saint Michael's Episcopal Church in Raleigh.
PEGGY WALKER McCAULEY, 66, of West Melbourne, Florida died on January 5, 2000. She was born in Tyrrell County and was the daughter of the late Aubrey and Clara Spear Walker. She had lived in Florida since 1962 and was a retired contract administrator for the USAF at Patrick Air Force Base. She is survived by a daughter: Cheri M. Pullen; a son: William C. McCauley; and one grandchild. A funeral service was held at Albemarle Church of Christ in Tyrrell County and burial followed in the church cemetery.
CLINTON RAY COSTIN SR, 56, of Creswell died on January 6, 2000 at Pitt County Hospital in Greenville. He was born in Pasquatank County and was the son of the late William and Mary Tarkenton Costin. He was a diesel mechanic with Arrants Logging and a member of Galilee Mission Episcopal Church. He is survived by his wife: Frances Dineen Costin; two daughters: Vanessa Costin and Wendi C. Alexander; one son: Clint Costin; and two brothers: James S. and William E. Costin. A funeral service was held at Mt Hermon United Methodist Church in Cherry and burial followed in the church cemetery.
THOMAS MILES BAILEY, 85, of the Alligator community of Tyrrell County died on December 30, 1999 at Britthaven Nursing Facility in Edenton. He was born August 24, 1914 in Tyrrell County and was a retired logger. He is survived by two daughters: Annie Spruill and Dorothy B. Arnold; seven sons: Linward Bailey, Timothy Bailey, Wilbert Bailey, Colon Bailey, Glenn Bailey, Horace Bailey, and Deon Bailey; two brothers: Willard Bailey and Lewis Bailey; thirty grandchildren; and twenty five great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Alligator Chapel Baptist Church and burial followed at the Bailey family cemetery.
AILEEN MOORE HAWLEY, 45, formerly of Washington County died on December 27, 1999 in Wheaton, Ill. She was born in Washington County and was the daughter of George Wilson and Eleanor Moore. She was the co-owner of Wheaton Bagel Shoppe and a member of Wheaton Bible Church. She is survived by her mother: Eleanor Moore; her husband: Dwight Hawley; two sons: David and Jonathan Hawley; a sister: Viola Brickhouse; and two brothers: Albert and Tony Moore. A funeral was held at Mt. Tabor Church and burial followed in the church cemetery.

MAY PRIMARY ELECTION TAKES SHAPE
The filing period for the May 2, 2000 Democratic Primary election ended February 7, 2000. Up for election are two Board of Education seats, three county commissioner seats, and register of deeds. Incumbent, Melanie Armstrong is uncontested for her Democratic nomination as Tyrrell County Register of Deeds. Incumbent, Janie E. Spencer has filed for her seat on the Board of Education and will be joined by new comers: Cecelia Edge and Teresa Howlett. Incumbent Jan Lilley is not seeking a second term on the board. Interim county commissioner Zack Brickhouse is seeking to retain his seat and will be challenged by fellow democrats: Carl Willis and William Smith. Republican incumbent Durwood Cooper Jr will run for a second term in November. Commissioner Florence Bryant who is unafiliated has until June 30th to announce her intentions of seeking a second term. The Election Board director, Shirley Swain, reports that there are currently 2,270 registered voters in Tyrrell County of which 1910 are Democrats, 206 are Republicans, 153 are Unafiliated, and 1 is a Libertarian.

PARCHED PEANUTS (A Fleming Recollection)
Do you ever look back on your childhood and recall something so miniscule yet so vivid in your memory? Since the first chill of winter, I have been fondly remembering the parched peanuts that my grandmother used to fix as an evening treat or bedtime snack. She used to keep a burlap sack of raw peanuts hanging in the smokehouse from the rafters. She would take a pan or small tub out there and get a good measure to bring to the house for parching. Sometimes she would put them in the big iron skillet and parch them over a burner on the gas stove. Other times she would layer a cookie sheet or biscuit pan and parch them in the oven. Either way, it was some good munching while we watched the old black and white TV or played a game of cards (she and I always enjoyed a game of war). I have many memories of sitting in the living room around the old wood heater and snacking on a batch parched peanuts. About a month ago I was in Oliver’s Market in Roper and noticed that they were selling raw peanuts for 50 cents per pound. I decided to buy 5 pounds and try my luck at parching them. Once home, I loaded up a baking pan with a good layer of peanuts, set the oven on 400 degrees, and baked them for about 20-25 minutes. The results were excellent! My family ate them hot off the pan and I stuffed the leftovers in a zip lock bag as a snack for work the next day. Stop by Oliver’s Market or anywhere you can find some raw peanuts and try you a batch parched. You’ll be glad you did!

THE TYRRELL ENQUIRER CELEBRATES 3RD BIRTHDAY
It's hard to believe the Tyrrell Enquirer is three years old this month. It all started when Barbara and I subscribed to the Internet in December of 1996. I saw all those wonderful web pages on the Internet and wanted to be part of it myself ... even though I didn't have a clue as to how to do it. One Sunday in January 1997 as I was driving to Bulls Bay for a family cook out, I thought how great it would be if I were away from home and was able to look on the Internet and find news from Tyrrell County. With the help of my son, Ty and some helpful web pages on writing HTML, the Tyrrell County Enquirer was begun. In the beginning, I was distracted with using my newly acquired HTML skills to put too many buttons, sounds, blinks, and animations on the pages. I soon learned that I didn't need those things and began focusing more on content and organization. Even today, I am still looking for ways to improve the Enquirer: for example just this month I have organized the archives into a year of arcived editons to one page. On this 3rd Enquirer birthday, I would like to thank my wife and kids for putting up with my sometimes compulsive behavior when it's time to update my page. I also want to thank all of the many visitors that have graced the pages of the Enquirer, signed the guestbook, and sent email ... you are what make the Tyrrell County Enquirer worth while. The Enquirer has allowed me to make contact with old friends as well as meet new friends from every generation of Tyrrell County. I look forward to providing all of you with a little news from home as we enter a new century and new millennium. THANK YOU FOR ALLOWING ME TO BE PART OF YOUR LIVES!

ANOTHER GREAT WILDGAME SUPPER
Saturday night, February 5, 2000, hosted another great Tyrrell County Wildgame Supper. The weather was crisp, the food delicious, and the band hot. About 250 people gathered at Tyrrell Hall to enjoy many versions of wildgame: deer, bear, goose, quail, wolf, squid, salt herrings, etc. My favorite had to be grilled tuna salad prepared by Lantz Vanhorn ... it was fabulous! After enjoying a wonderful meal, everyone renewed old aquaintances and danced the night away to music by The Rondells. It was a superb night of food and entertainment. If you get chance, you should try to get tickets (usually $25-$35 per couple) for next year ... you'll be glad you did!

MONTH OF JANUARY 2000 WEATHER DATA
The Tyrrell County weather data is collected by Jacob & Arnette Parker at their residence in Gum Neck, NC. Thanks Jacob & Arnette for sharing your data with us.

JANUARY

• Average High Air Temperature ...... 51`
• Highest Air Temperature ...... 73` on January 4 & 5
• Average Low Air Temperature ...... 27`
• Lowest Air Temperature ...... 15` on January 24
• Monthly Precipitation ...... 5.91"
• Most Precipitation in 24 Hours ...... 1.18" on January 25 (snow)
• Year To Date Precipitation for 1999 ...... 5.91"

LOCAL OBITUARIES
ALEATHEA AMBROSE PHELPS, 82, of Creswell died February 21, 2000 at Pitt Memorial Hospital in Greenville. She was born in Washington County and was the daughter of the late Norwood and Alethea Spruill Ambrose. She was a homemaker and a member of Philippi Church of Christ in Cherry. She is survived by three sons: Charles T., Edward H., and Wilson E. Phelps; seven grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wilson E. Phelps. A funeral service was held at Philippi Church of Christ and burial followed at the Phelps Family Cemetery in Cherry.
JOSEPH WOODARD, 88, of WyanDanch, New York died February 11, 2000. He was born June 11, 1911 in Tyrrell County and was the son of the late Pauline and Joe Woodard. He is survived by seven sons: Clinton, Joseph, James, Robert, William, John, and Freddrick Woodard; one daughter: Delores Johnson; two brothers: Johnnie Woodard and James Bryant; eighteen grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Salem Missionary Baptist Church and burial followed at Chapel Hill Baptist Church Cemetery in Travis.
CHARLIE PERKINS, 93, of Columbia died February 15, 2000 at Hallmark Center. He was born February 2, 1907 in Tyrrell County and was a fisherman. He is survived by a brother: James C. King. A funeral service was held at Mt. Morish AME Zion Church and burial followed at the community cemetery in Columbia.
JAELYSA M. BRICKHOUSE, 21, of Creswell died February 17, 2000 at Pitt Memorial Hospital in Greenville. She was born February 1, 1979 and was the daughter of James E. Brickhouse and Jacqueline Jones. She was a correctional officer with the NC Department of Corrections. In addition to her parents, she is survived by a son: Jajuan S. Cox; and two sisters: Jawanda Lee and Karina Brickhouse. A funeral service was held at St. John Missionary Baptist Church in Creswell and burial followed in the church cemetery.
MARIAN BALDWIN TROW, 81, died on February 14, 2000 at Britthaven Nursing Facility in Dare County. She was a native of Philadelphia, Pa and was a homemaker and member of Columbia Christian Church. She was born August 4, 1918 and was the daughter of the late Ralph M. and Evelyn Baker Baldwin. She is survived by her husband: William Newton Trow; one daughter: Eve Trow Turek; and one grandson: Jason Michael Rowland. She was preceded in death by a brother: Frank Baldwin and a sister: Beatrice Baldwin Boggs. A memorial service was held at Colinton United Methodist Church in Dare County and interment was in Azalea Memorial Gardens in Tyrrell County.
CHARLIE ONSLOW BASNIGHT, 87, formerly of Gum Neck died February 15, 2000 in Dare County. He was the son of the late Davis and Lena Combs Basnight. He was retired from the National Park Service as a ranger. He was predeceased by two sons: Jimmy Basnight and David Williams and two grandchildren: Ruby Cooper and Michael Tarkington. He is survived by friend and companion: Odessa Miller; three daughters: Margaret Tarkington, Bonnie Cooper, and Cavell Tarkington; two sons: Mathew Basnight and Russell Miller; twenty grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren. A grave side funeral service was held at Hilltop Cemetery in Dare County.
NITREL MARNER, 19, of Columbia died February 11, 2000 at Chowan Hospital in Edenton. He was born June 3, 1980 and was the son of Shirl Marner and Cherry R. Basnight. He was a recent graduate of Columbia High School and was attending college. Besides his parents he is survived by his maternal grandparents: Billie and Johnnie Marner; three brothers: Corey Marner, Zoran Marner, and Cherry R. Basnight; and one sister: Porcha Marner. A funeral service was held at Salem Baptist Church and burial followed at Zion Grove Church Cemetery.
JAMES WARREN ROUGHTON, 71, of Road Street in Columbia died on February 9, 2000 at Pitt Memorial Hospital. He was born in Tyrrell County and was the son of the late Roy Roughton and Pearl R. Cutrell. He was a member of Malachi Free Will Baptist Church and a retired rural mail carrier. He was also an army veteran of the Korean War. He is survived by his mother: Pearl Fleming Roughton Cutrell; his wife: Peggy Ramsey Roughton; one son: Kevin Roy Roughton; and one sister: Peggy Roughton Brickhouse. A funeral service was held at Malachi Free Will Baptist Church and burial followed in the church cemetery.
GILBERT LEE OWENS, 95, of the Gum Neck community of Tyrrell County died February 9, 2000 at Chowan Hospital. He was born in Hyde County on May 12, 1904. He was a member of Gum Neck Free Will Baptist Church and retired from Allied Towing Company as an engineer. He is survived by a son: Derl R. Owens; one sister: Lillie Owens Merrell; and seven grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Walker Funeral Home Chapel and burial followed at Azalea Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
ALICE JACKSON LIVERMAN, 80, of RFD 2 in Columbia died on February 6, 2000 at Washington County Hospital. She was born May 18, 1919 in Tyrrell County. She was a homemaker. She is survived by three sons: Kenneth, Earl F., and Lawrence R. Liverman; two daughters: Stella Spencer and Alice Basnight; one brother: Treadville Jackson; three sisters: Georgianna Olds, Maxine Lewis, and Abbie Littlejohn; and nine grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Alligator Chapel Baptist Church and burial followed at Alligator Community Cemetery.
CHARLES STEWART COHOON, 71, of Raleigh died February 2, 2000 at Rex Healthcare. He was born in Columbia on August 29, 1928 and was the son of the late Raymond and Sarah Reynolds Cohoon. He was a veteran of the US Army and a member of St. James United Methodist Church. He was a steam fitter at NCSU for 30 years and later employed at Wake Medical Center for 10 years. He is survived by two daughters: Catherine Hatchett and Charlene Cohoon and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ada Badders Cohoon in 1998. Funeral services and burial were held in Raleigh.
TRUMILLA LUGENE BRICKHOUSE of Creswell died February 1, 2000 at her home. She was the daughter of the late Minnie B. McCleese and Arthur Alexander. She was an educator in the Washington County School system until retiring in 1975. She is survived by one son: Leroy Brickhouse; three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held St. John Missionary Baptist Church and burial followed in the church cemetery.
ZUELINE SAWYER BLOUNT, 58, of Creswell died on January 28, 2000 at Nash General Hospital in Rocky Mount. She was born in Washington County on April 29, 1941 and was the daughter of Rubell W. Sawyer and the late Richard Sawyer. She was a homemaker and a member of St John's Missionary Baptist Church. She is survive by seven sons: Garry Blount, Victon Blount, Calvin Blount, Henry Bount, Michael Blount, David Blount, and Danny Sawyer; three daughters: Debra Rouson, Loretta Honablew, and Timeka Honiblew; six brothers; three sisters; and twenty grandchildren. A funeral service was held at St. John's Missionary Baptist Church in Creswell and burial followed in the church cemetery.

MARCH 2000

DENNIS SWAIN RESIGNS AS TYRRELL FIRE CHIEF
Dennis W. Swain resigned as the top man in the Tyrrell County Volunteer Fire Department in a telephone call to TVFD president, Phil House, on February 15th. He gave no reasons for leaving as chief, a position he has held since December 1, 1965. Dennis has been a fire fighter in Tyrrell County over 40 years and has been appointed fire chief annually since 1965. He resigned on the night that the position of chief was due to be appointed for 2000. The TVFD board of directors appointed long time fireman, George Griffin Owens Jr as the new Tyrrell County Fire Chief. George, age 50, has more than 25 years experience as a volunteer fire fighter in Tyrrell County. A retirement dinner honoring Dennis for his many years of service to Tyrrell County is planned for March 18, 2000.

LOCAL FARMER ELECTED TO NC SOYBEAN PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION
Tyrrell County farmer, Bryan Foster, was elected to the board of directors of the NC Soybean Producers Association. He was elected during the 33rd annual meeting of the association that took place in mid-January. He will replace Jesse Allen of Pantego and represent soybean producers in Bertie, Chowan, Dare, Tyrrell, and Washington counties. He will serve on the board for a three year term.

MONTH OF FEBRUARY 2000 WEATHER DATA
The Tyrrell County weather data is collected by Jacob & Arnette Parker at their residence in Gum Neck, NC. Thanks Jacob & Arnette for sharing your data with us.

FEBRUARY

• Average High Air Temperature ...... 57`
• Highest Air Temperature ...... 75` on February 20 & 27
• Average Low Air Temperature ...... 36`
• Lowest Air Temperature ...... 24` on February 3
• Monthly Precipitation ...... 2.21"
• Most Precipitation in 24 Hours ...... 1.95" February 12
• Year To Date Precipitation for 1999 ...... 8.12"

33rd REYNOLDS FAMILY REUNION PLANNED FOR MAY 7th
The 33rd annual reunion of the Reynolds Family will take place Sunday, May 7, 2000. The gathering is a reunion of the descendants of William Reynolds Sr who came to Tyrrell County from England in 1849. The meeting will include honoring those family members who have passed away in the last year, celebrate the birth of new family members, reward the oldest member present and the member who came the farthest to be at the meeting. There will be old family photos and artifacts on display as well as a great meal to end the gathering. The reunion is to be held at the Bethlehem Primitive Baptist Church in the Riders Creek community with registration beginning at 10:00 a.m. Come out and enjoy the fellowship of the Reynolds Family Reunion.

LOCAL OBITUARIES
LEONAS "LEE" EDWARDS, 58, formerly of Columbia died on March 16, 2000 at Chowan Hospital. He was a native of Washington Count and was the son of the late Edgar M. and Betty Ambrose Edwards. He was employed as a auto body repairman and was known as a long time singer/guitarist in both Tyrrell and Washington counties. He is survived by three daughers: Julie Keeter, Leaha Edwards, and Emily Edwards; one son: Troy Edwards; four brothers: Donald, Mitchell, Russell, and Junior Edwards; and five grandchildren. A graveside service was held at the family cemetery in Cherry.
DORIS COOPER DAVENPORT, 75, of the Gum Neck community of Tyrrell County died on March 14, 2000 at her home. She was born in Pasquatank County and was the daughter of the late Thomas and Lennie Cahoon Cooper. She was a retired insurance and real estate office manager. She was predeceased by her husband, Rudolph W. Davenport. She is survived by her daughter: Nancy D. Styron; her son: Norman R. Davenport; two sisters: Carma C. Sawyer and Christine C. Pope; her dear friend and companion: Herman Cahoon; and four grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Cedar Grove United Methodist Church in Gum Neck and burial followed in the Cahoon Family Cemetery.
GARY HALL DAVENPORT, 59, of Creswell died on March 13, 2000 at Chowan Hospital. He was born in Washington County and was the son of Ernest and Leona Phelps Davenport. He was a farmer and a member of Phillippi Church of Christ in Cherry. In addition to his parents he is survived by two brothers: Jimmy S. Davenport and Ernest G. Davenport Jr. A funeral service was held at Phillippi Church of Christ and burial followed at the Davenport Family Cemetery near Cherry.
RUTH BATEMAN OLIVER, 75, of Creswell died on March 10, 2000 at Plumblee Nursing Center following a long illness. She was born in Tyrrell County and was the daughter of the late Alice E. and Warren Bateman. She worked for the Washington County Health Department for many years and was a member of Sound Side Missionary Baptist Church. She is survived by four sons: Everett, Michael, Glenn, and Stanley Oliver; nine daughters: Teresa Cooper, Angie Cahoon, Cindy Jones, Edith Comstock, Virginia Grimes, Annette Rose, Alice A. Meads, Linda Brooks, and Lillie Mae Comer; 34 grandchildren; and 7 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband: Stanley Oliver Sr and a brother: Rommie Bateman. A funeral service was held at Sound Side Missionary Baptist Church and burial followed in the church cemetery.
EDWARD CALVIN MELTON,70, of RFD 2 in Tyrrell County died on March 5, 2000 at his home. He was born on October 5, 1929 in Tyrrell County. He was a veteran of the US Army and a logger by trade. He is survived by his wife: Ola M. Melton; two daughters: Geneva M. Hill and Mary Yasper; seven sons: Calvin, Johnnie, Allen, Bobby, Willie, Tony, and Robert Melton; two brothers: Lindsey Melton and Jarvis Melton, Jr; three sisters: Ruth Melton, Bernice Melton, and Norma Menard; 24 grandchildren; and 8 great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Chapel Hill Missionary Baptist Church and burial followed at the Melton Family Cemetery.
ROYCE RAYMOND WEATHERLY, 83, of Winston-Salem died February 23, 2000 at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center. He was born in the Gum Neck community of Tyrrell County on March 18, 1916. He was the son of the late Dora Lee Jones and James Wesley Weatherly. He was a merchant seaman from 1932-1941, an engineer in the US Merchant Marines form 1941-1946, and retired Superintendant of Buildings 1947-1981 of Wake Forest College/University. He is survived by his wife: Opal Cahoon Weatherly; one son: Royce R. Weatherly Jr; one daughter: Marcia Weatherly-Barnes; and three sisters: Louise Ausbon, Vivian Cahoon, and Lucille Spruill. He was preceded in death by one brother: Herman McCoy Weatherly. A graveside service was held at Forsyth Memorial Park.

APRIL 2000

POCOSIN ARTS, MOLASSES CREEK, & LOCAL MUSICIANS = GREAT SHOW!
Pocosin Arts along with the group; Molasses Creek (from Ocracoke), gave local musicians the opportunity to show off their talents Friday night, March 31st. Many styles, original compositions as well as traditional favorites, were showcased to a full house at Madge Vanhorn Auditorium on the Columbia High School campus. The project was modeled after an effort by the Ocracoke Preservation Society and Molasses Creek with their production of a CD of local Ocracoke musicians entitled "OCRAFOLK". The Friday night concert was recorded with high hopes that it can be edited and produced into a CD at a later date. The project is sponsored in part by Pocosin Art's Community Arts Connection Committee and funded by the N.C. Arts Council and the N.C. Rural Center. Concert goers paid $3 to attend and local craftsman, Max Liverman donated a hand-made banjo that was raffled off during intermission, money which will go toward the production of the CD. The concert included the following musicians: The Happy Followers (Barbara Jones, Burvell Jones, James Jones, Marietta Liverman, Alice Smith, and Jack Donahue), David Furlough, Tessie Hollis, Jimmy Fleming, Ty Fleming, Brandon Todd Brickhouse, Bryan Owens, Jimmy Swain, Bobby West, Marie Knotts Graham, Earl Carawan, Maxwell Carawan, Robbie Mackie, Nikki Armstrong, and Molasses Creek (Gary Mitchell, Kitty Mitchell, and David Tweetie). It was a wonderful night for Tyrrell County and many thanks should go to Feather Phillips (Pocosin Arts) and Molasses Creek (Gary, Kitty, and David) for their wisdom, guidance, hard work, and organization bringing everyone together to produce such an enjoyable performance.

2ND FOLKWAYS JAMBOREE COMING IN MAY
The Pocosin Arts' Community Arts Connection Committee is planning the 2nd Folkways Jamboree. The event is scheduled for Saturday, May 6th from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. The Jamboree will include music, dance, arts, food, stories, and occupational-cultural expressions. Tyrrell county students are planning to demonstrate local traditions learned during the school year. Last year, the Jamboree was a great way to spend a Saturday: good food, good music, good people, and fine Carolina weather. Make plans now to join me on Main Street in Columbia, Saturday May 6th, for FOLKWAYS JAMBOREE II!

CEMETERY DISCOVERY
While researching cemeteries in Tyrrell and Washington counties for a new cemetery book I'm working on, I made a discovery that may be of interest to some of you. I visited a cemetery site in the Travis area that was in the middle of a large field and had obviously been plowed over. There were no visible tombstones but I saw several overturned bases that indicated there used to be some markers there. I returned to the site some days later with a metal rod and a shovel. I used the metal rod to probe the ground in search of possibly buried headstones and soon hit something that felt promising. I used the shovel to dig the area and soon I was looking at the inscription of an old tombstone long buried by a senseless act of vandalism. In a short time I unearthed a second long buried stone. The two tombstones belonged to the following persons: Allen Alexander b. Oct 2, 1796 d. Dec 28, 1866 Nathan Alexander b. No Date Listed d. Sep 1863 (Son of Anthony Alexander) There is evidence of at least one more headstone but I could not locate it in the time I had to work there. There was another vandalized cemetery about 150 yards away in the same field with evidence of several possible headstones. I probed in this cemetery and shortly found two of the three headstones that I thought might be there. These two stones belonged to the following persons: Demcy Fenner, Sr b. Dec 26, 1825 d. Aug 6, 1917 Margarett Fenner b. Oct 7, 1849 d. Apr 6, 1917 (Wife of Demcy Fenner, Sr) There were several graves in this cemetery that were marked with ballast stones and there was one more base that I couldn't locate the headstone for. If anyone is interested in more info on either of these cemeteries (including exact location), feel free to email or call me.

33rd REYNOLDS FAMILY REUNION PLANNED FOR MAY 7th
The 33rd annual reunion of the Reynolds Family will take place Sunday, May 7, 2000. The gathering is a reunion of the descendants of William Reynolds Sr who came to Tyrrell County from England in 1849. The meeting will include honoring those family members who have passed away in the last year, celebrate the birth of new family members, reward the oldest member present and the member who came the farthest to be at the meeting. There will be old family photos and artifacts on display as well as a great meal to end the gathering. The reunion is to be held at the Bethlehem Primitive Baptist Church in the Riders Creek community with registration beginning at 10:00 a.m. Come out and enjoy the fellowship of the Reynolds Family Reunion.

LOCAL OBITUARIES
JOAN PLEDGER KELLY, 57, died on March 26, 2000 in a Nags Head nursing home. She was born in Tyrrell County and was the daughter of the late Joseph H. and Mavis Etheridge Pledger. She was a homemaker and member of Roanoke Acres Church of Christ. She is survived by one daughter: Valeria Peyton; one son: Irvin Kelly Jr; one sister: Janice Mueller; one brother: Joseph E. Pledger; and two grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Twiford's Colony Chapel and burial was in Washington Memorial Park in Sandston, Virginia.
MILDRED MAGDELINE SPENCER BAILEY, 75, of Elizabeth City died on March 24, 2000. She was born in Pasquatank County on February 2, 1925 and was the daughter of the late Leland Hubert and Alma Armstrong Spencer of Tyrrell County. She was preceded in death by her husband: Harry L. Bailey Jr, a brother: Russell B. Spencer, and a sister: Doris S. Rhodes. She is survived by two daughters: Nancy Bailey and Irene Overton; two sons: Harry L. Bailey III and Marvin S. Bailey; one sister: Elsie S. Jones; and one brother: Leland Hubert Spencer Jr. A graveside service was held at Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Elizabeth City.
WADE SYKES ALEXANDER, 74, of Chesapeake, Virginia died March 23, 2000. He was born on March 2, 1926 in Tyrrell County. He was employed as a construction worker. He is survived by three brothers: Milfred Alexander, Charlie Bowser, and John Sykes; one step-brother: Oliver Faytown Jr; one adopted brother: George Fayton; five sisters: Hazel Sparks, Gertie Hill, Anaky Ho Sang, Ruby Vickers, and Bertha Vickers; five grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. A funeral service was held at St John Baptist Church and burial was at Chapel Hill Baptist Church Cemetery in Tyrrell County.

MAY 2000

MONTH OF APRIL 2000 WEATHER DATA
The Tyrrell County weather data is collected by Jacob & Arnette Parker at their residence in Gum Neck, NC. Thanks Jacob & Arnette for sharing your data with us.

APRIL

• Average High Air Temperature ...... 66`
• Highest Air Temperature ...... 76` on April 4 & 18
• Average Low Air Temperature ...... 46`
• Lowest Air Temperature ...... 33` on April 1
• Monthly Precipitation ...... 5.54"
• Most Precipitation in 24 Hours ...... 1.72" on April 13
• Year To Date Precipitation for 1999 ...... 16.62"

TYRRELL PRIMARY ELECTION RESULTS
1,064 Tyrrell County citizens came to the polls on Tuesday, May 2, 2000 to cast their votes. There were only two local issues on the ballot: liquor by the drink and two board of education seats. Liquor by the drink was defeated 655 to 350. The two board of education seats will be filled by Cecelia Thorne Edge who received 466 votes and incumbent: Janie Spencer who received 326 votes. Teresa Howlett was also running for a seat on the board but only received 214 votes. Tyrrell County voters favored the following candidates: Bill Culpepper (633 votes) NC House of Representatives, Mike Easley (625 votes) Governor, Beverly Perdue (455 votes) Lt Governor, and Al Gore (510 votes) US President. Tyrrell County has 2378 registered voters of which 1064 voted in the primary (44.78%).

2ND FOLKWAYS JAMBOREE!
The 2nd Folkways Jamboree took place under clear Carolina skies and summer-like temperatures on Saturday, May 6th. The festivities got under way at 10:00 a.m. under the big tent with a performance by The Healing Force. This was followed by a performance by Molasses Creek and then the New Friends of Molasses Creek joined in for a recreation of the finale of the recent public concert. A new local group, The Great Shoals Band followed with a performance of several original songs and top 40 tunes. The Great Shoals Band consists of Ty Fleming, Jimmy Fleming, Brandon Todd Brickhouse, Tim Howlett, and Brian Owens. The afternoon was filled with many performances by local musicians. Along with great music, there were many displays and demonstrations. There were displays of taxidermy by Sandra S. Owens, blacksmithing by Randy Hodges, candle dipping by Karen Hayes, pound net fishing by Walter & Ray Davenport, walking stick carving by William Braxton, potting by Carol Lee, and many other interesting displays. The Columbia Theatre Museum was open free to the public with many great exhibits from Tyrrell County's past. Tyrrell Elementary students participated in the festivities by telling stories and performing many dance numbers. It was a great day of music, dance, and of course - great food including barbeque and soft crab sandwiches.

51st TYRRELL 4-H LIVESTOCK SHOW
The 51st Tyrrell County 4-H Livestock Show and Sale took place on Wednesday, April 19th at Tyrrell Hall. There were 17 hogs and 17 lambs exhibited by Tyrrell 4-h'ers. The Grand Champion hog was shown by Justin Suter and was bought by Pamco Implement Company for $830.20. The Grand Champion lamb was shown by Matthew Swain and was bought by Pioneer Seed Company for $724.00. Many other awards were handed out to participants and a great time was had by all.

NEW BUSINESS OPENS IN COLUMBIA
Jimmy and Barbara Fleming have recently opened a new business on the northern edge of Columbia at the property once known as Mike's Repair Shop. FLEM'S GAME GARAGE opened on April 20th. The business is located in a 2000 square foot building and has 3 pool tables, air hockey, foosball, electronic darts, video games, and a great CD jukebox. Snacks and sodas are available and live music has been provided on two occassions. The local young folks have been very supportive of the new business and we hope that FLEM'S Game Garage will provide an alternative to just hanging out for the local kids.

LOCAL OBITUARIES
WILLIAM DOUGLAS PHELPS formerly of Washington County died May 24, 2000 in Courtland Health Care Center in Franklin, VA. He was born in Washington County and was the son of the late James Henry and Arel Blanch Jones Phelps. He was retired as an owner/operator of a general contract business and a member of Galilee Mission Episcopal Church at Lake Phelps near Creswell. He is survived by his wife: Katie M. Phelps; four daughters: Brenda P. Strickland, Diane P. David, Macey P. Robertson, and Sherry P. Parson; one brother: H. Floyd Phelps; nine grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Sidney F. Harrell Funeral Home and burial followed at Meadowbrook Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
PEARL FLEMING ROUGHTON CUTRELL, 93, of Road Street in Columbia died May 23, 2000 at Chowan Hospital in Edenton. She was born in Johnston County and was the daughter of the late James William and Daisy Mae Hines Fleming. She was a retired nurses aid from the former Columbia Hospital and long time member of Malachi Chapel Free Will Baptist Church. She was the widow of the late Roy Roughton and Henry C. Cutrell. She is survived by her daughter: Peggy Joyce Brickhouse; son-in-law: Roy Brickhouse; daugher-in-law: Peggy Roughton; four grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by a son: James Warren Roughton; three brothers: Jimmy, John Robert, and Wilbert Fleming; and a sister: Sara Bays. A funeral service was held at Malachi Chapel Free Will Baptist Church and burial followed in the church cemetery.
BESSIE MORRIS NORCOM COOPER, 91, of Columbia died May 22, 2000 in Washington County Hospital. She was the daughter of the late Willie Morris and Carrie Mae Harrell Cooper. She was a retired owner/operator of Rodney & Bessie's Country Store and a member of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Columbia. She is survived by her husband: Rodney William Cooper; a daughter: Peggy Cooper Allen; a son: Ronnie Cooper; a brother: Joe Norcom; a sister: Carrie Dill Gregory; five grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church and burial followed at Oakwood Cemetery in Columbia.
MARY DeNEAN KIRKMAN, 34, of Jamesville and formerly of Columbia died on May 4, 2000 following an extended illness. She was born October 25, 1965 and was the daughter of Thomas L. "Tink" Kirkman and Ann S. Kirkman. She was a 1983 graduate of Columbia High School and spent 3 years at East Carolina University which was cut short by illness. Besides her parents, she is survived by three brothers: Tommy, Nolan, and Greg Kirkman; and one sister: Ramona K. Armstrong. A graveside service was held at Hillside Memorial Gardens cemetery.
MABLE LEE JONES DUNBAR, 75, of Creswell died on May 1, 2000 at Elizabeth City. She was born August 28, 1924 an was the daughter of the late James and Mollie Jones. She is survived by one son: Howard K. Dunbar Jr; two daughters: Esther Jones and Cathy Leigh; three brothers: Fred Jones, Lee Ernest Jones, and Edward Jones; three sisters: Alice M. Halsey, Helen Barber Florence, and Maxine Stephens; 14 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at St. John Missionary Baptist Church in Creswell and burial followed in the church cemetery.
JACKIE RAY MARNER, 46, of Columbia died on April 20, 2000. He was born October 6, 1953 in Tyrrell County and was the son of Johnnie Mae and Billy R. Marner. He was a sanitation worker and member of Salem Missionary Baptist Church. Besides his parents, he is survived by one son: Bamien Davis; four brothers: William A. Marner, Ray Marner, Andre Marner, and Perry Skinner; two sisters: Shirl Marner and Arethia Dunbar. A funeral service was held at Salem Missionary Baptist Church and burial followed in the church cemetery.
JAMES A. COLLINS, 79, of Columbia died April 1, 2000 at Plumblee Nursing Home. He was born February 2, 1921 in Tyrrell County. He was a retired truck driver for a cement company. He is survived by one daughter: Vera Hill; one brother: Delton L. Collins; three sisters: Virginia Dunbar, Elnora Cherry, and Laura Basnight; five grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Piney Grove Church of Christ and burial followed in the church cemetery.
ERNEST EDWARD SPEAR, 54, of Greenville died April 8, 2000. He was a native of Tyrrell County and had lived in Greenville since 1974. He worked for Nichols Discount City for 16 years and was self employed in the rental business for the past 10 years. He is survived by his wife: Dallas Mae; his mother: Mable Phelps Spear; two sisters: Patricia Cabacar and Carolyn Spear; three stepsons: George, John, and Gary Shaver; and 10 grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Wilkerson Funeral Chapel and burial followed at Pinewood Memorial Park in Greenville.
MILDRED ANN HOLMES, 90, of Greenville died April 9, 2000. She was born in Washington County and was the daughter of the late Charlie D. and Sarah Holmes. She was a retired Registered Nurse with Kings Daughters Hospital and a Navy veteran of WW II. She is survived by three sisters: Ruth H. Ambrose, Elizabeth H. Davenport, and Hannah H. Madden. A graveside service was held at Azalea Memorial Gardens Cemetery near Columbia.
MILLIE J. PALIN, 64, of Creswell died on April 3, 2000. She was born March 18, 1936 in Washington. She is survived by her daughter: Cherlisa Johnson; one brother: Emanuel Johnson; one sister: Malvine Walker; and one grandchild. A funeral service was held at St Mark AME Zion Church in Creswell and burial followed at the church cemetery.
ETHEL CAHOON CHERRY, 85, of Fairfield died on April 7, 2000 at Chowan Hospital. She was the daughter of the late Ransom and Sarah Armstrong Cahoon and the widow of Rufus D. Cherry. She was a member of the Nazareth Church of Christ in Kilkenny and a retired practical nurse and receptionist at Bob Cartwright Realty. She is survived by one son: Robert Cartwright; one sister: Eva C. Hudson; five nephews; and three nieces. A memorial service was held at Walker Funeral Home chapel in Columbia.

JUNE 2000

WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENT!
Kristie Lee Webb and Michael Earl Holliday, Jr. have chosen the first day of their new life together as Saturday, the fifth of August Two thousand. You are invited to share in their joy as they exchange marriage vows at two o'clock in the afternoon at Poplar Chapel Church of Christ in Jamesville, NC. Reception will follow in the Church Hall.
Kristie is the daughter of Glenn and Brenda Denton of Jamesville, NC.
Mike is the son of Michael and Carol Holliday of Columbia, NC.

COLUMBIA HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2000
Columbia High School held its 81st annual graduation ceremonies on Friday night, June 9th at 8:00 p.m. The CHS gymnasium was at capacity with parents, friends, school staff, and 50 graduating seniors. Rachel Checketts was Valedictorian and Dennis Grimsley was Salutatorian. Dorothy Spruill Redford gave the graduation address. She is the author of "Somerset Homecoming" and her graduation speech gave the seniors some good points to live by as they prepare to leave Columbia High School. William Moye, assistant principal, presented the prestigous Citizenship Cup to senior, Beth Everett. Dennis Grimsley was the winner of the 1st annual William J. and Doris Nichols scholarship which was presented by Nelson Smith, acting superintendant of Tyrrell County Schools. CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2000!!!!!!!

MONTH OF MAY 2000 WEATHER DATA
The Tyrrell County weather data is collected by Jacob & Arnette Parker at their residence in Gum Neck, NC. Thanks Jacob & Arnette for sharing your data with us.

MAY

• Average High Air Temperature ...... 80`
• Highest Air Temperature ...... 7693` on May 14
• Average Low Air Temperature ...... 59`
• Lowest Air Temperature ...... 44` on May 1 & 2
• Monthly Precipitation ...... 3.67"
• Most Precipitation in 24 Hours ...... 3.67" on May 30
• Year To Date Precipitation for 1999 ...... 20.29"

LOCAL BUSINESS LAUNCHES INTERNET STORE
James Earl Cutrell, owner of Columbia Aquarium, recently launched an Internet shopping site called, "PET GENERAL". The site has been under construction for some time and was recently made available on June 15th. PET GENERAL will offer a large selection of pet supplies via an online shopping website. The site is in the form of a catalogue with pictures of most products that are available. One product that he will specialize in is stamped name/address tags for dog collars. If you would like to check out James Earl's PET GENERAL online shopping site, you can visit it at "http://www.petgeneral.com .

SON OF COLUMBIA NATIVE WINS PHOTO PRIZE
Brian Fleming, a senior at Rocky Mount Senior High School, recently won first prize in the Artistic Discovery Congressional Arts Competition. His winning artwork was a double-exposed photograph of an old farmhouse near Louisburg, NC entitled "Bonnie's House". The winning photo will hang in the U.S. Capitol complex for the next year along with winners from congressional districts nationwide. Brian will also be flown to Washington for a ceremony honoring all of the winners on June 22nd and is elligble for a $10,000 scholarship to an art school. This is not Brian's first photographic award. He has already won a National Wildlife Federation contest, published a photo in Nature's Best Magazine, and had two photos published in Twin Counties Phone Book. Brian is the son of Hal and Cindy Fleming. He is the grandson of Effie Fleming and Marvin and Elsie Sawyer; all of Columbia.

COLUMBIA NATIVE QUALIFIES FOR SUMMER OLYMPICS
Charlie Ogletree, a Tyrrell native and current resident of Newport Beach, California, recently qualified for the 2000 Summer Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia. Charlie and his partner, John Lovell, made the grade in Tornado class sailboat racing during Olympic trials recently held in Santa Cruz, California. They finished first in the trials which were held March 25 - April 2. They are currently ranked 10th in the world in Tornado class sailboat racing. The pair finished in 8th place at the last Summer Olympics held in Atlanta, Georgia. They hold six national championships in the Tornado class of sail racing. Charlie is the son of Charles and Midge Ogletree of Columbia. GOOD LUCK CHARLIE IN SEPTEMBER!!!!

SEVERE STORM DOES DAMAGE IN SOUND SIDE COMMUNITY
A severe thunder storm rolled through the Tyrrell County area on Saturday evening, May 27. High winds, hail, and 1 - 4 inches of rainfall struck the area Saturday evening and into the early morning hours of Sunday. A possible tornado may have touched down in the Sound Side community inflicting serious damage to several residences. Some of the storm damage reported was as follows: large trees down at the J.J. Roughton home, large trees down and structure damage at the Billy Oakes home, trees down in the Roy Brickhouse yard, tree limb through the roof of the Tommy Everett home, storage shed destroyed and large tree down at the Elbert Jones home, chimney destroyed at the Margaret Lassiter home, damage to porch and house at the Tony Sawyer home, tree fell on car at the Alma Hunter home, tree fell on car at the Jerry Banks home, parsonage trailer destroyed at Sound Side Free Will Baptist Church, and large trees down at the Chris Reynolds home. Although there was much physical damage done to the area, the residents of Tyrrell County were very fortunate that no life was lost or families left homeless. A great debt of thanks is due to all who pitched in to help clean up the debris and storm damage.

LOCAL OBITUARIES
ESTHER WHITE MERCER, 87, of Columbia died June 17, 2000 at Plumblee Nursing Center. She was born September 13, 1912 in Tyrrell County. She is survived by one daughter: Harriet Spruill; two sons: Lassie Mercer and Richard Mercer; one sister: Hattie Franklin; two brothers: Howard White and Noah White Jr; 28 grandchildren; 63 great-grandchildren; and 15 great-great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Zion Grove Church of Christ and burial followed in the church cemetery.
GAIL LENDORA BRICKHOUSE, 39, of Tyrrell County died June 20, 2000 at Chowan Hospital. She was born July 16, 1960 in Tyrrell County and was employed as a teacher's assistant with the Tyrrell County School System. She is survived by one son: Andre' Brickhouse; and two sisters: Malinda Spruill and Theresa Spruill. A funeral service was held at Attmore Holy Temple and burial followed in the Alligator Community Cemetery.
MILDRED CRADDOCK HAIRE, 79, of Creswell died on June 16, 2000 at Chowan Hospital. She was the daughter of the late Onesimus and Mary Ann S. Craddock. She was a member of Mt Tabor Freewill Baptist Church. She is survived by her daughter: Dormanda Spear; two sisters: Iris Bennett and Frances Scott; one brother: David Craddock; three grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband: William Edward Haire and a brother: Charles Craddock. A funeral service was held at Mt Tabor Freewill Baptist Church and burial followed in the church cemetery.
MECIE ALEXANDER FAYTON, 88, of Creswell died on June 16, 2000 at Washington County Hospital. She was born March 10, 1912 in Washington County and was the daughter of the late Estelle and Harry Alexander. She was a housewife and member of Chapel Hill Missionary Baptist Church. She is survived by her husband: Wilbert Fayton; foster son: William Carter; a brother: James L. Carter; three sisters: Mary L. Carter, Essie Carter, and Carrie Gilliam; and one grandchild. A funeral service was held at Chapel Hill Missionary Baptist Church and burial followed in the church cemetery.
WILLIAM WALLACE HUDSON, 88, of the Kilkenny community of Tyrrell County died June 10, 2000 at Pungo District Hospital in Belhaven. He was a native of Tyrrell County and was born May 23, 1912. He was the son of the late Warren and Amanda Cuthrell Hudson. He served in in the US Army in WW II and was at Pearl Harbor during the infamous attack on December 7, 1941. He is survived by his wife: Eunice Gibbs Hudson; a son: Roger C. Hudson; a daughter: Faith H. Williams; a brother: Chestley Hudson; a sister: Zona Bell Barefield; and six grandchildren. A funeral service was conducted at Nazareth Church of Christ and burial followed at Azalea Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
AUGUSTA CLARK SWINDELL, 84, of the Gum Neck community of Tyrrell County died on June 8, 2000 at Guardian Care of Elizabeth City. She was a native of Hyde County and a member of the Methodist church. She was the daughter of the late Samuel and Ethel Ballance Clark and the widow of Inez Willie Swindell. She is survived by a daughter: Nina S. Davis; a son: David Swindell; one brother: Edward Clark; seven grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Twiford's Memorial Chapel in Elizabeth City and burial was in the St. George Episcopal Church Cemetery in Engelhard.
IVA OWENS NIXON, 83, of Columbia died May 29, 2000 in New Jersey. She was born March 19, 1917 in Tyrrell County. She is survived by her husband: Herbert Nixon Sr; four sons: Herbert Jr, Robert, Milford, and Rickey Nixon; three daughters: Nancy Alexander, Pattie Nixon, and Mary Nixon; 15 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Chapel Hill Baptist Church and burial followed in the church cemetery.
WILLIAM LEE, 42, of Columbia died June 2, 2000 at Washington County Hospital. He was born March 14, 1958 in Tyrrell County and was the son of Carrie S. Lee. He was a logger and a member of Zion Grove Church of Christ in Columbia. Besides his mother, he is survived by one son: Omar Alexander; one daughter: Chastity Leary; three brothers: George Lee, David Lee, and Quillis Basnight; and four sisters: Lena Hill, Valerie Phelps, Phyllis Middleton, and Michelle Basnight. A funeral service was held at Zion Grove Church of Christ and burial followed at the church cemetery in Columbia.

JULY 2000

JULENIA CORDINE ROUGHTON, 83, of the Sound Side community of Tyrrell County died on July 3, 2000 at Pungo District Hospital in Belhaven. She was born in Tyrrell County and was the daughter of the late Joseph Benjamin and Annie Louise Roughton. She is survived by three sisters: Anna Brickhouse, Mary Jones, and Janie Roughton; two brothers: Dearl Roughton and Alver Roughton; and several nieces and nephews. A grave side service was held at Sound Side Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery.
MATILDA ALVERTA SPENCER, 81, of Elizabeth City died June 26, 2000 in Albemarle Hospital in Elizabeth City. She was born in Tyrrell County on November 16, 1918 and was the daughter of the late Haywood and Brittie B. Basnight. She was a member of Piney Grove Disciples Church in Gum Neck. She is survived by two daughters: Mary Williams and Jeannie Gilyard; one son: Isaiah Spencer; two sisters: Salma Basnight and Delia Swain; two brothers: Abner Basnight and Booker T. Basnight; 14 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Piney Grove Disciples Church and burial followed in the church cemetery.
CLARA VIRGINIA BLOUNT, 75, of Creswell died on June 24, 2000 in Sebring, Florida. She was born May 3, 1925 in Washington County and was the daughter of the late Jordan and Melinda Blount. She is survived by four daughters: Clara B. Sawyer, Faye Blount, Lourie Blount, and Delisa Johnson; two sons: Robert Blount and Johnnie Blount; and 24 grandchildren. A funeral service was held at St. Mary Church of Christ in Cherry and burial followed in the church cemetery.
EDRIA HASSELL ROUGHTON, 91, of the River Neck community of Tyrrell County died on June 27, 2000 at her home following an extended illness. She was born on April 20, 1909 and was the daughter of the late Steward and Malissa Hassell. She was the widow of James W. Roughton and a member of Gum Neck Church of Christ. She is survived by a son: Obbie James Roughton; two daughters: Loretta R. Simmons and Geraldine R. Moran; sixteen grandchildren; thirty great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at the Walker Funeral Home chapel and burial followed at Sound Side Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery.
J. EDMOND BRICKHOUSE, 73, of the Sound Side community died on June 23, 2000 at Chowan Hospital in Edenton. He was born in Tyrrell County and was the son of the late Joseph W. and Beatrice Sawyer Brickhouse. He was a farmer and a member of Sound Side Free Will Baptist Church where he served as chairman of the board of Deacons and treasurer for many years. He is survived by his wife: Betty Everton Brickhouse; four daughters: Marie B. Cutrell, Kathy B. Cahoon, Linda B. Holton, and Jeanie B. Garrell; one brother: Roy W. Brickhouse; and eight grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Sound Side Free Will Baptist Church and burial followed in the church cemetery.
ANNIE MAE RASCOE BRICKHOUSE, 78, of Tyrrell County died on June 23, 2000 at Chowan Hospital in Edenton. She was born in Beaufort County and was the daughter of the late George W. and Charlotte Daniels Rascoe. She was preceded in death by her husband, Troy F. Brickhouse. She is survived by her sons: Charles D. Brickhouse and Milton R. Brickhouse; one daughter: Karen J. White; two sisters: Nora Jefferson and Carolyn Edwards; three brothers: Billy Rascoe, Andrew Rascoe, and Leon Pratt; ten grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. A graveside funeral service was held at the Sound Side Free Will Baptist Church Cemetery.

AUGUST 2000

WEDDING INFORMATION!
*Leigh Ann Armstrong and Jim C. Schreckengost, Jr married on July 22, 2000 at Sound Side Missionary Baptist Church. Leigh Ann is the daughter of Pat and Junior Armstrong. Jim is the son of Mr. & Mrs. James C. Schreckengost of Texas.
*Christy Sue Armstrong and Glenn H. Hassell exchanged vows on July 29, 2000 at Faith Baptist Church in Columbia. Christy is the daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Robert Armstrong. Glenn is the son of Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Hassell.
*Kristie Lee Webb and Michael Earl Holliday, Jr. will marry August 5, 2000the fifth of August Two thousand at 2:00 p.m. at Poplar Chapel Church of Christ in Jamesville, NC. Kristie is the daughter of Glenn and Brenda Denton of Jamesville, NC. Mike is the son of Michael and Carol Holliday of Columbia, NC.
*Kimberly Paige Joyner and George Griffen Owens III plan to marry on November 4, 2000 at First Free Will Baptist Church in Tarboro, NC. Kimberly is the daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Wilbur Glenn Joyner of Tarboro. George Owens III is the son of George and Rae Owens of Columbia.

A FRIEND IS GONE
On August 2, 2000 ... my good friend Cedric Williams decided to take his own life. I do not pretend to know what troubled him so much to bring him to this decision. I do know that he was one of the nicest, friendliest, most loving persons that I have had the pleasure to know. Barbara and I have had the great pleasure to share many meals, shopping trips, and vacations with Marsha and Cedric. His presence will be deeply missed by Barbara and I, but the real impact of his decision will be felt by the family he left behind. A wife, two children, a new son-in-law, his mother, his mother-in-law, his sister-in-law, a nephew, three brothers, and hundreds of friends who had the pleasure to make his aquaitance over the past 48 years will miss this man. I wish someone could have intervened before he made this irreverisble decision ... just to remind him of all the lives he was about to impact. I think if he had taken a moment and pictured his grieving family and friends, he might have made a different choice. Cedric Williams ... you were a good man and you will be greatly missed ... Goodbye My Friend.

MONTH OF JULY 2000 WEATHER DATA
The Tyrrell County weather data is collected by Jacob & Arnette Parker at their residence in Gum Neck, NC. Thanks Jacob & Arnette for sharing your data with us.

July

• Average High Air Temperature ...... 84`
• Highest Air Temperature ...... 90` on July 12
• Average Low Air Temperature ...... 67`
• Lowest Air Temperature ...... 60` on July 3 & 8
• Monthly Precipitation ...... 5.00"
• Most Precipitation in 24 Hours ...... 1.53" on July 7

TYRRELL FACT OR FICTION?
The headline of The Daily Advance, March 30, 1939, proclaims: Headstone of Virginia Dare's Grave Found In Tyrrell County? Virginia Dare, first child of English speaking parents born in America, died at the age of 10 and was buried in Tyrrell County if a stone now reposing in the living room of the home of Thomas B. Shallington, hardly two blocks east of the Tyrrell County courthouse is authentic. The stone bears the following inscription: Virginia Dare ... B. August 17, 1587 ... D.1597 The letters, crudely formed by holes punched in the hard and uneven surface of the flinty rock are barely legible, but stand out clearly when the holes are joined with chalk. Tom Shallington, surveyor and native of Tyrrell County, and his son Billy found the stone, the central one of three, in the old graveyard across Alligator Creek from Fort Landing, long since covered by the waters of that estuary of Alligator River. The stone is about 26 inches long and weighs about 100 pounds. Tom Shallington, born in Alligator where the tradition that the Lost Colony came over to Tyrrell from Dare has been current for generations, is confident that the old ballast stone is the headstone of Virginia Dare's grave. If the colonists had fled from the approach of the Spaniards, as Paul Green's drama has it, what more natural direction would they have went but west? If the colonists had fled west, it must be admitted that the first dry land that they would have found on the Carolina mainland would have been in Tyrrell County. Along with the stone, Henry Alexander and Ben Spruill, reported observing coffins hewn from trees in the old graveyard in Alligator Creek at low tide. They reported that the lids of the coffins were fastened on by wooden pins such as those used by Sir Walter Raleigh's colonists and other early settlers. This is just a brief excerpt from the very intriguing story from the Daily Advance. The story had accompanying photos of the stone, Tom Shallington, and a map of the area where the stone was found. I have heard that the stone was taken to a university in South Carolina to determine its authenticity and never returned. What a great story and just think of the historical implications. This could confirm the rumors of white men to the far south of the Jamestown, Virginia colony when it was founded in 1607. Fact or Fiction?

LOCAL OBITUARIES
CAMILLE BATEMAN EVERTON, 89, of Columbia, died August 24, 2000. She was active in all phases of her much beloved church, Columbia Missionary Baptist Church. After graduating East Carolina Teachers College she taught first grade for over forty years in the Tyrrell County School System. She was a very active member of the retired teachers organization of Tyrrell County and served as President for many years. She was a member of the Honorary Teachers Society Delta Kappa Gamma Pi Chapter. After her retirement from teaching she pursued two related avocations, genealogy and cemeteries, and published her book Tyrrell Cemeteries 1732-1984. She was a member of the Edenton Tea Party Chapter of The Daughters of the American Revolution, the Museum of the Albemarle, and the NC Museum of History Associates. Miss Camille is survived by her son Robert Stuart Everton and wife Pamela; daughter Pat Everton Stogner and husband Bob; and eight grandchildren. Funeral services will be conducted 3 PM Sunday August 27, 2000 at the Columbia Missionary Baptist Church and burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery.
JANETTE BOWEN LILLEY, 72, of Columbia died on August 9, 2000 at her home. She was born in Washington County and was the daughter of the late Luther and Nell Wilson Bowen. She was co-owner of Lilley Furniture Company in Columbia and a charter member of the Tyrrellinean Club. She is survived by her husband of 51 years: Grover Cecil Lilley Sr; two daughters: Jan L. Bishop and Mary Kay McClees; one son: Cecil Lilley Jr; three sisters: Anna Goodwin, Betty Jo Phelps, and Laura McNair; two brothers: Luther Bowen Jr and John Mack Bowen; and nine grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Columbia Baptist Church and burial followed at Azalea Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
JOHN CEDRIC WILLIAMS, 48, of Creswell died on August 2, 2000 in Tyrrell County. Cedric was a long time employee of Carolina Telephone and Telegraph and most recently Sprint as a repairman for Washington and Tyrrell counties. He is survived by his wife: Marsha Williams; his daughter: Amanda Williams Cole; his son: Justin Williams; his mother: Elizabeth Williams; and three brothers: Jimmy Williams, Morgan Williams, and Don Williams. A memorial service was held at First Christian Church in Plymouth.
INDIA BATEMAN ROBBINS, 88, of Jamestown, Virginia died August 1, 2000. She was the daughter of the late Jim Henry and Mattie Virginia Swain Bateman of Tyrrell County. She was a retired educator after 28 years of teaching. She is survived by her daughter: Jean Ray Robbins; one brother: Rodney Swain Bateman; two sisters: Frances B. Triplett and Laura B. Lawrence; two grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband of 50 years, James Raymond Robbins. A funeral service was held at the Jamestown United Methodist Church and burial followed at Guilford Memorial Park in Greensboro, NC.
ELMOND SPENCER OWENS, 96, of Columbia died on July 26, 2000 at Plumblee Nursing Home in Plymouth. She was born February 10, 1904 in Hyde County and was the daughter of the late Agnes B. and Samuel Spencer. She is survived by three daughters: Earnestine Brickhouse, Calzetta Fenner, and Shirley Owens; three sons: Wade Owens, Richard Owens, and Thurman Owens; three sisters: Mary Marner, Charlotte Fenner, and Jenny Bowser; two brothers: Linwood Spencer and Samuel Spencer; 36 grandchildren; 63 great-grandchildren; 17 great-great-grandchildren; and one great-great-great-grandchild. A funeral service was held at Salem Missionary Baptist Church and burial followed in the church cemetery.

SEPTEMBER 2000

MUSIC, CRABS, AND ART: A GOOD TIME IN COLUMBIA!
Pocosin Arts' announces the 3rd annual "Steamed Blue to Red-Hot Lively Crab Dinner and Art Auction to be held Saturday, September 16th. The fund-raiser will be held under a huge tent in downtown Columbia starting at 4:30 p.m. and continuing until 10:00 p.m. Approximately 100 works of art donated by regional artists will be sold at a live auction and to high bidders in a silent auction. The dinner will feature appetizers, all the crabs you can eat, and desserts. Wine and beer will be available at a cash bar. Live music entertainment will be provided by Laura Martier and her band. Only advance tickets will be sold for $25 each and can be obtained by calling 252-796-2787 or by stopping by Pocosin Arts Center on Main Street in Columbia. Seating is limited to 225 and tickets will be sold on a first come, first serve basis. COME ON OUT AND SUPPORT POCOSIN ARTS AND SPEND AN ENJOYABLE EVENING OF MUSIC, CRABS, AND ART!

ARE YOU READY FOR SCUPPERNONG RIVER FESTIVAL 2000?
The 2000 Scuppernong River Festival will be held on Saturday, October 14th and this year's festival promises to be the best one yet! The festival committee is doing a great job getting this year's event ready. Musicians who wish to participate may call Barbara Spencer at 252-796-1371. Those wishing to have booth space at the festival should contact the Columbia Town Hall for an application. Anyone wishing to take part in the parade should contact Nelson Smith at 252-796-1121. To enter the 5K run, call David Kitts at 252-796-4431. The festival will offer many activities and attractions this year. There will be special events on the water, an art show, auctions, Uncle Sam on stilts, horse shoe pitching, local crafts for sale, and some of the best food you could imagine. The Elizabeth II will return to the Columbia waterfront for this year's festival and will be available for onboard tours during the day. The festival is a great opportunity to see old friends and family since many families and and school classes schedule their reunions to coincide with the festival. MAKE PLANS NOW FOR SCUPPERNONG RIVER FESTIVAL 2000 ON OCTOBER 14TH!

PARTNERSHIP FOR THE SOUNDS PHOTO CONTEST
Photographers interested in submitting their work to the Partnership for the Sounds photography contest should do so before the deadline of September 30, 2000. Photos submitted should represent the natural beauty of the Albemarle-Pamlico region including wildlife, landscapes, water scenes, interesting shots of Hurricane Floyd flooding or other storm related items. Photos must be taken in Beaufort, Bertie, Hyde, Pamlico, Tyrrell, or Washington counties, or surrounding waterways. There is a $10 entry fee for each photo from the adult categories but no charge for student entries. A maximum of 4 photos are allowed per entrant. Cash awards include prizes of $400, $200, and $100 in the professional/experienced category and $200, $100, and $50 in the amatuer/novice category. Merchandise will be given to the winners in the student category. The winning photos will be made into a traveling display that will be exhibited at Partnership forth the Sounds facilities and regional visitors centers. Contest rules and entry forms may be obtained at Partnership facilities such as the Columbia Theater Cultural Resources Center, Tyrrell County Visitors Center, and the North Carolina Estuarium or call 252-796-1000 for more information.

MONTH OF JULY 2000 WEATHER DATA
The Tyrrell County weather data is collected by Jacob & Arnette Parker at their residence in Gum Neck, NC. Thanks Jacob & Arnette for sharing your data with us.

July

• Average High Air Temperature ...... 84`
• Highest Air Temperature ...... 90` on July 12
• Average Low Air Temperature ...... 67`
• Lowest Air Temperature ...... 60` on July 3 & 8
• Monthly Precipitation ...... 5.00"
• Most Precipitation in 24 Hours ...... 1.53" on July 7

LOCAL OBITUARIES
HILTON COMSTOCK, 83, of Fayetteville and formerly of Columbia died on September 11, 2000. He was the son of the late Milton and Addie Comstock. He was a retired farmer and member of Albemarle Church of Christ. He is survived by his daughter: Glenda Mann; two sons: H. Wayne Comstock and John Robert Fleming; one sister: Virginia C. Perry; two brothers: Winfred Comstock and Jimmy Comstock; seven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. He was prededed in death by his wife Chancy Reynolds Comstock. A graveside service was conducted at Azalea Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Tyrrell County.
JEFFERSON DAVIS RHODES JR, 70, died September 11, 2000 at Martin General Hospital in Williamston. He was the son of the late Jefferson Davis and Estelle R. Rhodes. He was a retired Transportation Supervisor of the Tyrrell County School System, veteran of the Korean War, and member of Sound Side Missionary Baptist Church. He is survived by his son: Ty Rhodes; a sister: Phoebe R. Davenport; a grandson: Devon Rhodes; and several nieces and nephews. A graveside service was held at Azalea Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Tyrrell County.
ANDREW SIMPSON BAUM SR, 86, of Creswell died on August 29, 2000 at his home. He was born on December 28, 1913 in Washington County and was the son of the late Madison and Minnie S. Baum. He is survived by his wife: Elsie R. Baum; a daughter: Minnie L. Hill; two sons: Andrew Baum Jr and Ronald Baum; one sister: Elizabeth Collins; a brother: Ronald Baum; six grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at St. Mary Church of Christ in Cherry and burial followed in the church cemetery.
LILLIAN PHELPS SPEAR, 86, of Creswell died August 31, 2000 at Washington County Hospital. She was born is Washington County and was the daughter of the late James W. and Mary Snell Phelps. She was a homemaker, member of Pettigrew Home Demonstration Club, and member of Philippi Church of Christ in Cherry. She is survived by two daughters: Maisie S. Ervin and Daphne S. Barnes; one sister: Frances Mann; five grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Mitchell E. Spear. A funeral service was held at Philippi Church of Christ and burial followed in the church cemetery.
DAVID LEE SYKES, 54, of Creswell died August 26, 2000 at Chowan Hospital in Edenton. He was born in Bristol, VA and was the son of the late William and Gladys Mae Sykes. He was the pastor of Philippi Church of Christ in the Cherry community for 30 years. He was also a member of the Creswell Volunteer Fire Department for over 20 years. He is survived by his wife: Betty Ann Sykes; one son: Scott Sykes; three brothers: William L. Sykes, Thomas McFadden, and Robert McFadden; and one sister: Patricia Losch. A funeral service was held at Philippi Church of Christ in Cherry and burial followed in the church cemetery.
WORTH BAGLEY COHOON JR, 46, of Creswell died on August 23, 2000 at his home. He was preceded in death by his parents: Worth B. and Eva A. Cohoon Sr. He is survived by two sisters: Inez C. McGowan and Minnie C. Sawyer. A graveside service was held at Azalea Memorial Gardens Cemetery near Columbia.
PEGGY ANN MARSHBURN of Rocky Mount and formerly of Columbia died August 12, 2000. She was a teacher for 30 years in the Tyrrell County school system where she taught biology at Columbia High School for many years. She participated in the Tyrrell County community as a member of the board of directors for The Partnership for the Sounds and a member of Chapel Hill Baptist Church. She is survived by her mother: Bernice Hunter; sisters/cousins: Barbara Jean Watson and Doris Garrett; nephew: William Watson Jr; and many friends from Tyrrell County. A funeral service was held at Ebenezer Baptist Church near Rocky Mount and burial followed at the Gardens of Gethsmane Cemetery.
HESTER ANN FURLOUGH CANIPE, 65, formerly of Creswell died August 11, 2000 at St. Luke Hospital in Florida. She was born January 24, 1935 and was the daughter of the late David and Annie Furlough. She is survived by her son: David M. Furlough; a sister: Levetta Patrick; and three grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Tom Canipe. Cryptside services were held at Greenlawn Cemetery near Jacksonville, Florida.

OCTOBER 2000

HOMEMADE POCOSIN JAM CD NOW AVAILABLE
The long awaited music CD: "Homemade Pocosin Jam - Finger Pickin' Good" is now available. The CD will be released for sale on the morning of the Scuppernong River Festival for $15. The CD was sponsored by Pocosin Arts and produced by Gary Mitchell of the band, Molasses Creek of Ocracoke. It contains 22 original and traditional songs performed by musicians from Tyrrell, Hyde, and Dare counties. The songs were recorded live during a two week artistic residency in Tyrrell County which culminated in a live public performance at Madge Vanhorn Auditorium this past March. Performers on the CD include: Jimmy Fleming, Ty Fleming, Brandon Brickhouse, Bryan Owens, Jimmy Swain, Bobby West, Marie Graham, Tessi Hollis, Jack Donoghue, Robbie Mackey, David Furlough, Nikki Armstrong, the Carawan Brothers, and the Happy Followers. The CD also includes an original song, "The Waterman", by Molasses Creek which they performed last March on National Public Radio's Prararie Home Companion competition. The CD will be available at the Pocosin Art's booth at the Festival and at the Pocosin Art's office after the Festival. For more information about mail orders you can call 252-796-ARTS or visit their website POCOSIN ARTS

5th ANNUAL CAHOON REUNION
The 5th Annual Cahoon Family Reunion will be held on October 21, 2000. This year the reunion will be held at the home of William Thomas and Martha Cartwright Cahoon. The event starts at noon and please bring a covered dish or refreshments. You may also need to bring a lawn chair ... So tell one and all to come out to the descendants of Thomas & Martha Cahoon family reunion! For more information about this reunion, contact Jean Pennell at the following email address: jpennell@earthlink.net

CAMILLE BATEMAN EVERTON: A Tyrrell County Icon

Tyrrell County has lost a great citizen with the passing of Camille Bateman Everton on August 24, 2000. Though she will not be here in body, the legacy of her teaching career and cemetery research will have a positive impact on the citizens of Tyrrell County and eastern North Carolina for many years to come. Her book, Tyrrell Cemeteries 1732 - 1984, was researched, compiled, and indexed after many years of work. Due to the ravages of time a great number of headstones have disappeared and a great number of graves have never had markers erected. She identified and verified through death records many unknown graves in addition to all the marked graves she could find. I can attest to both of the credits listed above. Mrs. Camille was my first grade teacher and I have told many times that she got me started on the right path for education and life as a student in her class. I am following in her foot steps as a cemetery researcher and genealogist also. I have revisited the cemeteries in Tyrrell, Washington, and Dare counties as Mrs. Camille did during the late 1970's and 80's in my quest to publish a new book of cemetery information in the near future. I gained a lot of respect for the effort Mrs. Camille put into researching her book. Searching for barely readable headstones in woods, fields grown over with weeds and briars, mosquitoes, ticks, hot/cold weather, old muddy country paths, and long walks are just some of the hardships I know now that she endured. At her funeral, Camille was eulogized by one of her grandsons. I think it was a fitting tribute to her and I would like to share a portion of it with you.

Camille Bateman Everton, born April 22nd, 1911, died August 24th, 2000
"You gotta wonder if any pair of eyes ever witnessed a more amazing moment of history. Eight years before Camille Bateman arrived, the first plane took flight just down the road a ways and made it all of 120 feet, and Grandmama lived to see a man on the moon. Grandmama's childhood coincided with the early days of the radio and the automobile. Two World Wars, the Holocaust, the Great Depression, the Nuclear Age, horses replaced by cars, ferry rides replaced by bridges, and old bridges replaced by new ones. Change unimaginable, relentless change was the context for the near century long life that Camille Everton lived."
"But amid all the change of her time, Camille Everton stood for consistency and stability. Hers was a life grounded by deep swamp roots. She never needed to leave her town, her church, her home. To talk with Grandmama was to journey back not merely into the time of her life, but to the times of her ancestors. I will forever cherish my visits here, when Grandmama would guide me all over Tyrrell County, telling me the true stories of the people who put us here, and then putting me to work at clearing their graveyards and cleaning their gravestones. It was a time of connection. It was a time to honor where we both came from. Camille Everton's life portrayed the dignity that comes from consistency and the strength that comes from stability. To all who are her family, she gave us the gift of deep swamp roots."
"God gave Camille two loving parents in Stuart and Zuleine Bateman. He gave her a crowded home full of life, with her big sister, Ursula, and her two brothers Stuart and Russell. In 1931, Camille married Russell Everton, her devoted husband who loved her, who loved to sing, and who — thank goodness — loved to cook. God gave Camille two beautiful, healthy, loving children, Bob and Pat. And he enriched her life with five grandchildren and five more great grandchildren."
"Grandmama taught the children of Tyrrell County for nearly forty years. She started a girl scout troop. She served actively in her church and taught Bible School. When the girl's basketball team needed a coach, Grandmama stepped in and sure enough, the team won the tournament. Without fanfare or pretense, Grandmama was always helping other people. She was a giver. And though the last few years of Mrs. Camille's life were extra tough, her son and daughter will testify that it was not until she was in her eighties, that they ever heard their mother complain one single time."
"Camille Bateman Everton: daughter, sister, wife, friend, mother, teacher, basketball coach, grandmother, genealogist, author, and great grandmother. Hers was a long, rich, well-lived life."

CHS WILDCATS UNDEFEATED!!
The Columbia High School Wildcat football team is undefeated and in first place in the Tobacco Belt Conference. The first place position was sealed last Friday night when the Cats defeated Camden 26-21 at the Bruins' home field. Columbia stands alone at the top of the conference with at perfect 5-0 conference record and 8-0 overall. There are two games remaining in the season before State Playoffs begin: Creswell & Hatteras. The Wildcats are coached by Olian Spencer.

LOCAL OBITUARIES

ESTHER MAE DAVIS JOHNSON, 94, formerly of Columbia died October 16, 2000 in a nursing facility in Onslow County, NC. She was the daughter of the late Maynard and Viola Wynne Davis of Tyrrell County. She is survived by her daughter: Viola Johnson Crowder and husband Mike; and her grandson: Warren Crowder. A graveside service was held at Oakwood Cemetery in Columbia.

ANNIE MASON WILLOUGHBY, 91, of Creswell died October 13, 2000 at Chowan Hospital. She was born in Hyde County and was the daughter of the late Zion and Lilly H. Mason. She was a retired clerk at Pritchett's Department Store and a member of Creswell Baptist Church. She is survived by her daughter: Cecilia White and her husband Bill. A funeral service was held at Creswell Baptist Church and burial followed at Azalea Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Tyrrell County.

PEARL DAVENPORT AMBROSE, 90, of Creswell died October 6, 2000 at her home following a lengthy illness. She was born in Washington County and was the daughter of the late Aaron and Lear Overton Davenport. She was a homemaker and member of Mt Tabor Free Will Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, Odell Ambrose. She is survived by her daughter: Jean Davenport; her son: Ross Ambrose; twelve grandchildren; and twenty great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Mt Tabor Free Will Baptist Church and burial followed at Azalea Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

DENORA KAY BASNIGHT BRINKLEY, 45, died on October 4, 2000 at Chowan Hospital. She was born in Tyrrell County and was the daughter of Eva Basnight. She was employed in the administrative department of a New York bank. She is survived by her husband: Ralph Brinkley; one son: Jamar Brinkley; four brothers: Arnold L., George L., Herman R., and Ervin Basnight; and five sisters: Virgie Carter, Jean C. Wiltshire, Lou Ella Bethea, Della F. Basnight, and Mary L. Bowser. A funeral service was held at Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church in Gum Neck and burial followed in the church cemetery.

LINDSAY HAROLD MELTON, 62, of Columbia died October 1, 2000 at Chowan Hospital. He was born in Tyrrell County on November 13, 1937 and was employed as an X-Ray technician. He is survived by his brother: Jarvis Melton Jr; and three sisters: Ruth M. Banks, Bernice Graham, and Nora M. Menard. A funeral service was held at Chapel Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Travis and burial followed in the Melton, Dunbar, Hill family cemetery.

JOE COLLINS, 93, of Columbia died September 29, 2000 at Chowan Hospital. He was born in Hyde County on April 1, 1907. He was a retired meat cutter. He is survived by two sons: Joe D. and George M. Collins; four daughters: Beunia Moore, Bonnie Alexander, Lucy Rogers, and Mary Moore; 47 grandchildren; 98 great-grandchildren; and 52 great-great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Mt Pleasant Baptist Church in Gum Neck and burial followed in the church cemetery.

BELVER BENNETT PHELPS,64, of Creswell died September 27, 2000 at Chowan Hospital. She was born February 25, 1937 in Washington County and was the daughter of the late Ludie and Susan Bennett. She was employed as a sewing machine operator. She is survived by her husband: James Phelps; two sons: Shelton Coger and James B. Phelps; two daughters: Shirley and Tiffany Phelps; two brothers: Robert and Ludie Bennett Jr; two sisters: Mildred Ashton and Elizabeth Blount; four grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. A funeral service was held at St. Mark AME Zion Church in Creswell.

JOSEPH CHARLES DAVENPORT, 51, of Creswell died on September 27, 2000 at the Jackson County Health Facility in Stockbridge, Michigan. He was born in Tyrrell County and was the son of the late Clyde and Irene Ambrose Davenport. He was a minister and a member of Cherry Church of God. He is survived by his wife: Diane Davenport; one daughter: Tracy Davenport; one son: Joseph C. Davenport; one sister: Peggy C. Dail; one brother: Eddie Davenport; and two grandchildren. A graveside service was held at St. David's Episcopal Church Cemetery in Creswell.

WILLIAM EDWARD CLIFTON, 68, of Norfolk, Virginia died September 24, 2000 at the VA Hospital in Hampton. He was born May 24, 1932 in Washington County and was the son of the late James and Lucreasy Clifton. He was a Korean War veteran of the United States Army and a retired cab driver. He is survived by his son: Michael Clifton; three sisters: Louise Ambrose, Verdie Pierce, and Elma Alexander; two grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. A grave side service was held at Azalea Memorial Gardens near Columbia.

NICY CAHOON WEST, 94, of Columbia died September 20, 2000 at Plumblee Nursing Center. She was born in Beaufort County and was the daughter of the late Mary and Alfred West. She was a home maker and a member of Cabin Swamp Church of Christ. She is survived by her daughter: Estelle W. Byrum; ten grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-granchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband: Dackie West and a daughter: Mavie West Armstrong. A grave side service was held at the West Family Cemetery in the Crosslanding community of Tyrrell County.

AUDREY PHELPS, 75, of Creswell died September 18, 2000. She was born on September 15, 1925 and was the daughter of the late Robert and Georganna Phelps. She is survived by three sons: William, Wilbert, and James Phelps; two daughters: Audrey G. Cabella and Delores P. Knight; a step-daughter: Shirley McCray; three brothers: Johnnie, Frank, and Bobby Phelps; four sisters: Alverta Boughton, Ella Smack, Emma Leigh, and Lula Owens; eight grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held at St. John Missionary Baptist Church in Creswell and burial followed in the church cemetery.

NOVEMBER 2000

TYRRELL COUNTY ELECTION 2000 RESULTS
Election 2000 went off without a hitch last Tuesday in Tyrrell County. There was lots of interest in Election 2000 with this vote to determine the US President, NC Governor, and 3 Tyrrell County commissioners. When it was all said and done, 1578 of the 2411 registered voters in the county came to the polls and cast their ballots (65.45% voter turnout). Here's how the voters of Tyrrell County marked their ballots in some of the more interesting races:

US PRESIDENT

• Bush/Cheney ...... 706
• Gore/Lieberman ... 849
• Brown/Olivier ...... 5
• Buchanan/Foster .... 6 (none by mistake I might add)

NC GOVERNOR

• Easley .... 1118
• Vinroot .... 402
• Howe ........ 11

NC LT GOVERNOR

• Perdue .... 1065
• Cochrane ... 377
• Carter ....... 3

NC MEMBER OF CONGRESS

• McNairy .... 825
• Jones,Jr ... 708
• Russell ..... 15

NC STATE SENATOR

• Basnight ... 1355
• Toppin,Sr ... 175

NC STATE HOUSE OF REP

• Culpepper ... 1074
• Byrd ......... 361

TYRRELL COUNTY COMMISSIONERS(top 3 elected)

• *Zack Brickhouse ..... 440
• *Florence Bryant ..... 375
• *Carl Willis ......... 278
• Durwood Cooper, Jr ... 270
• William Smith ........ 162

TYRRELL COUNTY REGISTER OF DEEDS

• Melanie L. Armstrong ... 1209 (unoppossed)

SCUPPERNONG RIVER FESTIVAL 2000
It was another truly memorable day for Scuppernong River Festival IX. Festival 2000 took place under the most perfect down east weather conditions you could ask for ... Carolina blue skies. bright sun shine, and a high temperature of about 78. The day started with vendors setting up their booths along Columbia's Main Street at about 7:00 am. The Great Shoal Band kicked off the entertainment at 9:00 am with an hour long performance under the big tent on West Main Street. The parade began at 10:00 with Mrs. Doris Nichols as the Grand Marshal and me, Jimmy Fleming, as the Master of Ceremony. The parade consisted of 65 entries which represented everything from high school bands to Harley motorcycles! Some of the parade high lights were: area politicians and political hopefuls such as Walter Jones Jr, Bill Culpepper, Leigh McNairy, and Cheryl Byrd; Bear Grass Marching Bears Band, Uncle Sam on stilts, and many other great floats. After the parade, there were food vendors, craft vendors, antique car exhibits, games, rides, musical performances, art show, art exhibits, and so much more. Many people took advantage of the opportunity to visit aboard the Elizabeth II sailing replica which graced the Scuppernong with a visit this year. Many visitors enjoyed the TRIBUTES performance that took place from 2:00-5:00 under the big tent on Main Street. These performers imitated such artists as Elvis Presley, Willy Nelson, Neil Diamond, James Brown, and many more in a very enjoyable show. The evening fireworks display was one of the best that I have ever had the pleasure to witness, almost 30 minutes of continuos explosive beauty. This was followed by the street dance which was held on Broad Street in front of the Agriculture Building again this year. When the day was done, it was estimated that between 7,000-9,000 people enjoyed the festival in Columbia again this year, making this one of the largest crowds yet to attend the Scuppernong River Festival. The Scuppernong River Festival brings the streets of Columbia to life with crowds of folks enjoying crafts, entertainment, food, and the things that make down east North Carolina special. The Scuppernong River Festival committee deserves a huge THANK YOU!! for the great job they do each year making our festival one of the best in North Carolina. Check out the new Festival 2000 photo page below!

CHS WILDCATS FOOTBALL CONFERENCE CHAMPS & Win 1ST Round Of Playoffs
The Columbia High School Wildcat football team remains undefeated and is the 2000 Tobacco Belt Conference champs. The first place position was sealed when the Cats defeated Camden 26-21 at the Bruins' home field. The CATS added another victory with a conference win over the rival Creswell Tigers ... 41-6 on October 27th and a non-conference win over the Cape Hatteras Hurricanes 40-0. The Wildcat's ended the regular season with a perfect record of 6-0 conference and 10-0 overall. The conference champs played their first state 1A playoff game on November 10th at Columbia High School against Tarheel, NC which the CATS won 23-0. The wildcats will host the upcoming 2nd round game this Friday night featuring (7th in the state 1A) Midway (10-1) against (2nd in the state 1A) Columbia (11-0). The Wildcats are coached by Olian Spencer who is assisted by Carlos Armstrong, Randal Morgan, Warnton Hill, and Chris Davidson. GREAT JOB WILDCATS!

1951 TOM THUMB WEDDING
The following photos were sent to me by Fred Swain. The pictures are of the "Tom Thumb Wedding." A play performed 3 times in 1951 while he was in the first grade with Camille Everton as teacher. It was such a hit that the last performance was an encore requested by local Tyrrell County folks to the school. Most of the teachers in the elementary section of CHS chipped in to help Miss Camille. Many parents helped to ensure the performance would be successful by making the tuxedos and wedding gowns. Some of the performers were: Neil Spencer & Shirley Cahoon as the Bride & Groom, Fred Swain & Brenda Hales as the Best Man & Maid of Honor for 2 performances then Nancy Hassell filled in for Brenda once, due to sickness(Nancy was in 2nd grade at the time). Bud Spencer played the part of the Preacher and many other students had acting parts in the wedding party. Thadine Hopkins sang the wedding song. The ring bearers were younger than the main performers. Fred believes that they were W.J.Smith's kids (he ran the jewelry store in Columbia at the time). The "Tom Thumb Wedding" was a huge success according to all the reviews ... first graders in a performance with all the regalia and done the Camille style(professional). This crew was the Columbia High School graduating class of 1963.

Good luck identifying the performers in the pictures above. I would like to thank Fred Swain for telling me the story of the 1951 Tom Thumb Wedding and allowing me to use his great photos.

LOCAL OBITUARIES

NELLIE MAE HOLADIA BARNES, 87, of Columbia died November 19, 2000 at Plumblee Nursing Center in Plymouth. She was born in Tyrrell County and was the daughter of the late Joseph and Ethel Voliva Holadia. She was preceded in death by her husband: Robert W. Barnes. She is survived by her son: Gordon Barnes and wife Teresa; two grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. A grave side service was held at Bethlehem Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery in the Rider's Creek community of Tyrrell County.

HESTER BRYANT REID, 89, of Kentucky died November 18, 2000. She was born in Tyrrell County on December 17, 1910 and was the daughter of the late Annie and Willie Bryant. She was a retired school teacher in the Chowan County school system. She is survived by her son: George W. Reid; a daughter: Gloria R. Alford; one brother: Alvin Bryant; one sister: Maebella Rowsom; six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. A funeral service was held at First Missionary Baptist Church and burial followed at Roadside Cemetery.

BOBBY NELSON FURLOUGH,54, of Creswell died November 14, 2000 at Chowan Hospital. He was born in Washington County and was the son of the late Herbert and Mamie Davenport Furlough. He was a retired Millwright with Weyerhaeuser Corporation. He is survived by his wife: Judy Furlough; one daughter: Tracy Spencer; two sons: David and James Furlough; two brothers: Wayne and Leo Furlough; a sister: Frances Prendergrass; and six grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son: Tony Furlough. A funeral service was held at Cherry Church of God and burial followed at Philippi Church of Christ Cemetery in Cherry.

HAZEL SARVIS BEASLEY, 51, of Manns Harbor died November 14, 2000 in Elizabeth City. She was born in Tyrrell County and was the daughter of Clifton and Mae Ambrose Payne Sarvis. She was employed with Dare County Farm Bureau. She is survived by her husband: Robert Beasley; a daughter: Gayle Grubbs; a son: Ty Beasley; a brother: Chuck Sarvis; and seven grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Harbor Light Church and burial followed in the Mount Carmel United Methodist Church Cemetery.

SAMUEL ELWOOD MERCER, 89, of RFD 2 in Columbia died November 6, 2000 in Chowan Hospital. He was born in Washington County and was the son of the late William and Lucinda N. Mercer. He was a former employee of Norfolk Southern Railroad. He is survived by his wife: Annie Mercer; two daughters: Hester Harris and Deborah A. Mercer; two sons: James W.D.L. Mercer and Stephen A. Mercer; 15 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Zion Grove Disciples Church and burial followed in the church cemetery.

DORCUS REYNOLDS MOORE ARNOLD, 92, died on November 1, 2000 at Washington County Hospital. She was the daughter of the late James Henry and Mary Jane Alexander Reynolds of Tyrrell County. She was a homemaker and member of Cabin Swamp Church of Christ in Cross Landing. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Sammy F. Moore. She is survived by her husband: Joseph A. Arnold; one daughter: Elva Rae Basnight; one son: James F. Moore; five grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and one great great-grandchild. A graveside service was held at Cabin Swamp Church of Christ Church Cemetery in the Cross Landing community of Tyrrell County.

GORDON DWIGHT "DJ" FENNER, 19, of Columbia died on October 31, 2000 at Albemarle Hospital. He was born on April 1, 1981 and was the son of Dwight and Precilla Fenner. He was a recent graduate of Columbia High School and was attending Elizabeth City State University. In addition to his parents he is survived by one sister: Malika Fenner; his grandmother: Linea A. Fenner; and grandfather: Emanuel Swain. A funeral service was held at Chapel Hill Baptist Church and burial followed in the church cemetery.

BILLY RAY SPRUILL, 58, of Creswell died October 28, 2000 at Chowan Hospital. He was born February 21, 1942 and was the son of Blanche and Otto Spruill Sr. He was employed at Atlantic Forestry. In addition to his parents, he is survived by his wife: Ernestine A. Spruill; four sons: Kenneth Spruill, Timothy Spruill, Billy J.Spruill, Michael Alexander; two daughters: Sonya Basnight and Jaleena Spruill; six sisters: Lucy Spruill, Linda Moore, Carolyn Childress, Betty Spruill, Shirley Spencer, and Peggy Spruill; four brothers: Otto Jr, Bobby M., Tony M., and David Spruill; and eleven grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Salem Missionary Baptist Church.

JAMES WILLIAM BASNIGHT, 67, of New York died October 30, 2000. He was born in Tyrrell County on May 1, 1933. He is survived by his wife: Laverne Basnight; one son: Quillicy C. Basnight; daughters: Valerie G. Phelps and Marchelle Basnight; step-daughter: Peggy Spencer; three brothers: Mack Basnight, Steenie Basnight, and Leo Basnight; four sisters: Rosetta Burwell, Daisy McGruder, Virginia Basnight, and Lillie Basnight; and five grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Salem Missionary Baptist Church and burial followed at Zion Grove Cemetery.

DECEMBER 2000

RIVER TOWN CHRISTMAS 2000
The River Town Christmas 2000 weekend was quite a time. It was certainly Christmas like weather with snow during the week and high temps in the 30's and 40's during the week end. The town of Columbia is decorated beautifully for the holidays and my compliments to Durwood Cooper,Jr for his fine looking holiday display at his main street establishment, "Junk D' Jour". The River Town Christmas is a four day event held in Columbia to kick off the holiday season. The festivities started on Thursday night (Dec 7th) and ended Sunday (Dec 10th). The festivites included the annual lighting of the Courthouse Christmas tree on Thursday night which has always served as a great way to get into the Tyrrell County holiday spirit. Friday's events were a bazaar, a Christmas flotilla of beautifully decorated boats, Christmas movies, and Christmas music by local performers at the Columbia Theater Cultural Resources Center. Saturday's events included breakfast with Santa at Side Street Cafe, a silent auction, Turkish bazaar at Pocosin Arts, and the annual Christmas parade with Mike Basnight as grand marshal (Mike is from Tyrrell County and is now a running back with the NFL Cincinnati Bengals). Saturday's festivities included many other programs such as Micha's Polish Dance Ensemble, community choir performances, the Tarheel Boys blue grass band from Rocky Mount, and a Christmas nature walk along the Scuppernong boardwalk. Saturday's program concluded with a wonderful oyster roast ($15 per peck) with local musicians, The Great Shoal Band performing and Christmas music by Ricky Sexton. It was a great time! Sunday's finale included more of the Turkish Bazaar at Pocosin Arts and performances by the Columbia High School band and chorus at Madge Vanhorn Auditorium. It was a great River Town Christmas On The Scuppernong and I would like to invite all of you to join us next year in our holiday celebration.

WILBERT & WINNIE SIMMONS CELEBRATE 50TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY
Friends and family recently celebrated the Fiftieth Wedding Anniversary of Wilbert and Winnie Simmons. The couple was married by Horace G. Thompson (Baptist Minister and Teacher) on December 3, 1950 at Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church with the blessings of Methodist Minister Earl Meekins. An open house reception was held at Hearts Delight Bed and Breakfast in Columbia. Wilbert and Winnie have two children, Rex Simmons and Karen Michelle Creef. They have a total of four grandchildren. Wilbert and Winnie lived most of their life in a house on Light Street in Columbia, North Carolina. They currently reside at Davenport Bay in the house where Winnie spent her childhood. Wilbert and Winnie wish to thank all of their friends and family that were present at the recent celebration. Those that attended as well as those that were unable to attend have been inspirational and encouranging throughout their marriage.
I would like to congratulate Wilbert & Winnie on the occasion of their 50th Wedding Anniversary and thank their daughter, Michelle, for providing me with the above article.

CHS WILDCAT FOOTBALL SEASON ENDS
The Columbia High School Wildcat football season ends in the second round of the state 1A playoffs. The Cats were defeated at home by Midway 16-6 in a tough loss. The Cats gave up a touchdown on the opening play from scrimmage and were denied a touch down from the 2 yard line after a long drive in the first half which would have tied the game. Another let down came when Midway scored its second touch down with just 24 seconds left in the first half. The Wildcat's ended the regular season as the Tobacco Belt Conference Champs with a perfect record of 6-0 and ended the season with a record of 11-1 overall. The Wildcats are coached by Olian Spencer who is assisted by Carlos Armstrong, Randal Morgan, Warnton Hill, and Chris Davidson. GREAT JOB WILDCATS!

GAME RECIPE WEB SITE
Friend and reader, Myron Everton, wanted to share a web site with me and the readers of the Tyrrell Enquirer. In looking for new ways to enjoy venison, he came upon this web site: Just Game Recipes It occurred to him that many of the Enquirer readers probably enjoy venison and other wild game and would appreciate the information this site provides. The site actually has wild game recipes for just about every thing you can imagine: alligators, bear, opossum, etc...

LOCAL OBITUARIES

MARY ALEXANDER SPENCER, 100, formerly of Columbia died on December 18, 2000 at Winslow Memorial Home in Elizabeth City. She was born in Tyrrell County and was the daughter of the late Jim and Sally Alexander. She was the oldest living member of Malachi Chapel Free Will Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husband, H. Gilliam Spencer. She is survived by a daughter: Bernice S. Fleming; a son: William E. "Billy" Spencer; and five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Malachi's Chapel Church and burial followed in the church cemetery.

FENTRESS L. SIMMONS, 78, of Creswell died December 17, 2000 at Washington County Hospital. He was born in Tyrrell County and was the son of the late Leondias and Dora Simmons. He was retired from the NC Department of Transportation Maintenance Department and a veteran of the US Navy. He is survived by his wife Doris; sons: L. Craig Simmons and Freddie L. Simmons; one daugher: Rose Mohler; one sister: Maxine Godwin; and two brothers: Wilbert Simmons and Grady Simmons; and two grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter: Katherine L. Simmons. A funeral service was held at MT. Tabor Free Will Baptist Church where he served as Deacon for 50 years and burial followed in the church cemetery.

MARY SNELL VANHORN, 81, of Creswell died December 9, 2000 at her home. She was born in Washington County and was the daughter of the late Willie and Hattie Snell. She was retired from the Washington County Hospital Housekeeping Department. She is survived by her sons: Harlan, Emory, and Sidney Vanhorn; her daughter: Sharon V. Spruill; sisters: Hattie Spear, Alice Barnes, and Violet Jewell; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. A funeral service was held at Cherry Church of God where she had been a Sunday School teacher for 28 years and burial followed at St. David's Episcopal Cemetery in Creswell.

IVA SUTTON CULLIPHER, 94, formerly of Columbia died on December 8, 2000 in Texas. She was born in Tyrrell County and was the daughter of the late James and Matilda A. Sutton. She is survived by her sons: Dennis and Juddie Cullipher; one daughter: Iona Holt; one sister: Ina Simmons; sixteen grandchildren; and sixteen great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband: Benjamin H. Cullipher. A funeral service was held at Malachi's Chapel Church and burial was in Oakwood Cemetery.

RUTH OWENS ARMSTRONG, 80, of Columbia died on December 1, 2000 at her home on Godfrey Avenue. She was born in Tyrrell County and was the daughter of the late John and Anne B. Owens. She is survived by her husband: Raymond Armstrong Sr; two daughters: Delores A. Wood and Rosa A. Harris; two sons: Raymond and Claud Armstrong; three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by one son: Dallas R. Armstrong. A funeral service was held at Columbia Christian Church of which she was a member and burial followed at Sound Side Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery.

ELIZABETH BAUM COLLINS, 92, of Columbia died on November 22, 2000. She was born on January 1, 1908 in Washington County and was the daughter of the late Minnie and Madison Baum. She is survived by her son: William H. Baum; a brother: Chester Baum; and one grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband: Harry Collins. A funeral service was held at Zion Grove Church of Christ and burial followed at the church cemetery.

GREGORY TAYLOR DAVIS, 41, of Portsmouth, VA died November 19, 2000. He was born in Tyrrell County and was the son of Peggy Davis and the late William J. Davis. In addition to his mother, he is survived by his fiance': Rachel P. Richey; two sisters: Shari Roughton and Misty Adams; and two brothers: William J. Davis and Preston J. Davis. A graveside service was held at Oakwood Cemetery in Columbia.