the BRIEF this week
Parks and Rec puts out call for volunteers
Kenansville
Kenansville Parks and Recreation needs volunteers for their concession stand during the season’s games. If you are interested in helping, contact Courtney Brown at recreation@ kenansville.org
Poetry lovers unite at JSCC
Kenansville Words will take center stage at Partners in Poetry on April 24 from 6:30 -8:30 p.m. at James Sprunt Community College in the Boyette Building. Whether one wants to share your own work, read a favorite poem or simply enjoy the performances of others, the event offers a welcoming space for creativity and connection. The event is open to the public.
K-9 unit live demonstration
Pink Hill
Discover the responsibilities of the furry, four-legged members of the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Department K-9 unit on April 24 at 4:30 p.m. at the Pink Hill Public Library. Watch a live demonstration and learn more about their important work and ask questions. To register, call 252-568-3631.
Rose Hill Library to host free community baby shower
Rose Hill
Soon-to-be moms are invited to attend the Duplin County Community Baby Shower on April 26 at 10 a.m. at the Rose Hill Library. This free event offers valuable resources and support for pregnancy and postpartum. Participants will have access to informative sessions and can pick up gently used and new baby essentials. Expecting families or those with children aged 2 years or younger are encouraged to preregister.
See life as a released prisoner with reentry simulation
Kenansville
It’s challenging for those released from jail to rejoin society. Whether it’s finding a job, securing stable housing, attending treatment regularly or adhering to release conditions, many factors stand in the way of success. To help the public better understand what released prisoners face, Trillium is hosting a Reentry Simulation on May 13 at 9 a.m. at the Britt Agricultural Service Center, 165 Agriculture Drive in Kenansville. Visit trilliumhealthresources.org/ events for more.
$2.00
Local fire departments need volunteers amid nationwide shortage
“It’s not really just here, it’s an everywhere problem.” Cody Herring
New efforts focus on educating, training, and retaining homegrown heroes to protect Duplin County
By K.D. Beard Duplin Journal
FIRE
DEPARTMENTS
throughout Duplin County are actively seeking new recruits as departments nationwide face a steady decline in volunteer firefighters.
Community involvement plays a critical role in ensuring public safety for the county’s volunteer fire and rescue teams, owing to a long-standing tradition of neighborly support — though many of the surrounding areas and municipalities employ career or paid firefighters, all but two of the 20 active fire departments in Duplin County are operated on a volunteer basis.
“We’re in a very unique situation in Duplin County,” re -
Industry leaders
marked Cody Herring, Fire Training Coordinator with James Sprunt Community College’s Fire Academy, who says several factors have contributed to the shortage locally, including out-ofcounty work commutes and rigorous training standards.
For much of Duplin County’s history, volunteers in tight-knit communities have dedicated themselves to ensuring the public’s safety and well-being, often sacrificing time with family to answer life-saving calls.
“A lot of people don’t know these guys and girls work a full-time job. People are having to drive to Wilmington, Jacksonville, Goldsboro to work, so it’s harder for them to make the calls,” said Herring, adding that for a growing number of Americans, finding time to volunteer can be challenging, especially when some have to work two or
See FIRE DEPT, page A2
inspire next generation at roundtable
“Hearing their stories and advice firsthand has given me a deeper perspective on what it means to be a successful and ethical leader.”
Macy Parkhurst, moderator
The University of Mount Olive hosted a leadership event that connected students with leaders
By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal
THE TILLMAN Execu-
tive Roundtable recently held at the University of Mount Olive was a hit among students and faculty, providing a powerful platform for attendees to learn directly from business leaders.
“These individuals are not only accomplished professionals but also visionary leaders who understand the importance of service and community,” stated Kathy Best, Tillman School of Business dean, in a media announcement. “They provided our students
with sound and solid advice that will guide them as they prepare to enter and lead in the business world.”
The event attracted a full house at the Rodgers Chapel, where participants gathered to learn from the featured speakers:
• Bill Bryan is the executive chairman, former president, and CEO of Mount Olive Pickle Company. Bryan is known for promoting innovation and community support. He joined the company in 1985 and led it for 25 years, establishing it as the leading brand in the pickle industry.
• Drew Covert is the chairman and CEO of Southern Bank and Trust Company. With over 30 years in banking, Covert has guided the bank
Magnolia churches unite for a day of faith, fun and egg hunts
An adventurous egg‑hunter at Magnolia’s Easter Celebration proudly shows off her latest find. The Saturday event, sponsored by the town’s churches, celebrated both the holiday and the spirit of the Magnolia community with music, prayer, free food, egg hunting and more.
Turn to page B6 for more.
Planning board appointments stir discussion over consent agenda use
Wastewater plant and board procedures dominated Warsaw’s meeting discussions
By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal
WARSAW — Last week’s town board for the town of Warsaw addressed some key governance and procedural issues that sparked internal debate among commissioners and prompted critical public commentary.
A central point of contention was the approval process for the meeting agenda. Initially, a motion was made and seconded to approve the agenda as it was presented. However, questions arose regarding the procedural correctness, reflecting ongoing tensions between board members and town leadership.
Commissioner Ebony Wills-Wells proposed an addition to the agenda to receive updates about the waste treatment plant, she also made a motion to remove consent agenda Item #5 for the approval of planning board members to move it to the regular agenda for discussion, which failed due to the lack of a second.
The planning board appointments drew criticism for being approved without open discussion. While the consent agenda passed, the process
See WARSAW, page A2
THE DUPLIN COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
K.D. BEARD / DUPLIN JOURNAL
CAROLINA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
THE CONVERSATION
Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
Listen up!
The Gospel requires you to be open to God’s truth that might confront your ways of thinking.
IN A CONVERSATION about the challenge of preaching in our politically divided society, a friend said, “The Gospel speaks for itself. The question is if anyone will listen.” His comment reminded me of Jesus’ Word to the crowd when he told the Parable of the Sower: “Let anyone with ears listen!” There is a difference between hearing and listening. When I introduce a scripture reading in worship, I invite the congregation to “listen for” rather than to “listen to” the Word of God. Simply listening to the words requires little effort. However, listening for the deeper meaning of the Gospel requires you to be open to God’s truth that might confront your ways of thinking.
I keep a quote journal in which I record interesting ideas from a variety of people. As I looked through my journal, I found several entries about the importance of listening for the truth and our tendency to resist the truth when it doesn’t agree with what we already think. Let me share some of these thoughts with you and, as
Jesus said, “Let anyone with ears listen!”
In a sermon at the Wallace Presbyterian Church, the Rev. Edward F. Johnston Jr. said, “The Gospel is true. It doesn’t depend on my preaching or anything else I do. The Gospel is true.”
The American author Mitch Albom wrote in his book “Have a Little Faith,” “Did you ever hear a sermon that felt as if it were being screamed into your ear alone? When that happens, it usually has more to do with you than with the preacher.”
In what I think is a good commentary on the purpose of Jesus’s parables, the Irish New Testament scholar Ernest Best describes the Gospel as “not a set of abstract truths to be announced but a way of life to be lived.”
Wilmington-born author and graduate of UNC Chapel Hill Sharyn McCrumb offers this unsettling but accurate description in her 2014 novel Prayers the Devil Answers: “People seldom thank you for telling the truth.” Along the same lines, British New Testament scholar N.T. Wright observes,
“People often get upset when you teach them what is in the Bible rather than what they presume is in the Bible.”
New York politician Thurlow Weed congratulated President Abraham Lincoln on his second inaugural address in which he called for “malice toward none, with charity for all,” Lincoln knew his speech would not be received well by those who wanted to punish the Southern states. He responded to Weed, “I expect (it) to wear as well as — perhaps better than — anything I have produced, but I believe it is not immediately popular. Men are not flattered by being shown that there has been a difference of purpose between the Almighty and them.”
The Message translation of James 1:22 is, “Don’t fool yourself into thinking that you are a listener when you are anything but, letting the Word go in one ear and out the other. Act on what you hear!” That’s still good advice. Philip Gladden is a retired minister who lives in Wallace.
North Carolina’s clean energy boom: a blueprint for economic growth and American energy independence
TBMNC is projected to bring over 5,000 high‑quality jobs to Randolph County, with salaries averaging $62,000.
NORTH CAROLINA is at the forefront of the clean energy economy, emerging as a national leader in research, innovation and technology. Lawmakers’ bipartisan efforts to advance clean energy are a direct investment in the middle class, revitalizing communities statewide.
North Carolina’s strategic clean energy investments are not just strengthening the state’s economy; they are reshaping global supply chains and strengthening the nation’s position on the world stage. By reducing reliance on foreign energy and bringing manufacturing back to American soil, these investments are stimulating innovation, creating high-paying jobs and advancing the nation’s energy independence — all of which are key to long-term growth and competitiveness in the global market.
North Carolina’s south-central region is the epitome of this, with major investments from Sunlight Batteries and Toyota transforming the historically rural and lowincome communities.
With a business-friendly environment that encourages private sector innovation, North Carolina can now be a prime destination for both international and domestic investment, ensuring that the benefits of the clean energy economy are widespread.
Our congressional district exemplifies how clean energy projects are no longer confined to urban tech hubs as they are revitalizing communities across the state. More than 62% of new clean energy jobs, 70% of new clean energy investments and nearly half of all projects in North Carolina are located in low-income communities. These investments are fostering job creation, strengthening supply chains and promoting long-term economic stability.
Toyota’s first North American battery plant (TBMNC) is taking shape in Liberty, marking a $13.9 billion investment in advanced manufacturing. TBMNC is projected to bring over 5,000 high-quality
jobs to Randolph County, with salaries averaging $62,000 — more than 60% higher than the county’s current average wage. This is a major win for the American industry, strengthening domestic production and reducing reliance on foreign supply chains.
In Alamance County, Sunlight Batteries USA — a tech company specializing in energy storage systems — seeks to transform Mebane with its $40 million investment in a lithium-ion production facility. Projected to create more than 200 jobs and contribute approximately $390 million to the state economy, the company reflects North Carolina’s broader commitment to American energy dominance and statewide economic prosperity.
Nevertheless, the clean energy transition comes with its own set of challenges. Wolfspeed, a silicon carbide chip manufacturing company, plans to invest $5 billion in Chatham County, which is projected to create 1,800 well-paying jobs and transform a county that is 84% rural. However, following the company’s massive stock drop, leadership changes and uncertainty surrounding federal incentives like the CHIPS Act, the future of Wolfspeed remains uncertain. Such setbacks underscore the importance of bipartisan efforts to provide long-term policy stability and ensure North Carolina remains a leader in clean energy manufacturing.
While market challenges have slowed some projects, several other new clean energy projects are on the horizon in the district, putting the state in a great position to remain a technology and energy epicenter. Most recently, Gov. Josh Stein announced Pennsylvania Transformer Technology, LLC’s (PTT) plan to expand its transformer manufacturing capacity in Hoke County. A leading domestic manufacturer of power and distribution transformers for innovative energy markets, PTT will advance clean American energy and economic growth.
Sadly, the pursuit of a cleaner, healthier future has long been hindered by its politicization, yet North Carolinians know economic growth and environmental progress can go hand in hand. The state’s investments in clean energy have yielded tangible benefits, from spurring innovation to new infrastructure to record-breaking job creation, proving we do not need to sacrifice the economy in the name of the environment.
Public opinion reflects this reality, with polling data from Clear Path Action finding that 62% of Republicans believe it is important that their congressional representative support clean energy policies. This widespread support aligns with North Carolina’s pro -growth, pro-business approach to energy, which prioritizes market- driven solutions and strategic investments that attract private -sector innovation. By leveraging tax incentives and fostering a competitive business climate, the state has positioned itself as a leader in the energy markets of the future. Ultimately proving that conservative principles and environmental progress can go hand in hand to bolster American energy independence.
As a North Carolinian in the 9th district, I have witnessed firsthand how clean energy investments have transformed our state. The future is bright. With artificial intelligence expanding at an unprecedented pace alongside President Donald Trump’s new $500 billion vision for advancing infrastructure, North Carolina has both the resources and the opportunity to be at the forefront of groundbreaking technologies. By embracing innovation and fostering an environment where economic growth and environmental stewardship move in unison, the state can continue to lead the way for a more prosperous and sustainable future.
Kira Walsh is a volunteer with the American Conservation Coalition, based in Pittsboro.
COLUMN | PHILIP GLADDEN
COLUMN | KIRA WALSH
Service‑learning initiative enriches student education
Student volunteers completed nearly 100 returns during the 2024 tax season
By K.D. Beard Duplin Journal
ACCOUNTING students at the University of Mount Olive seized an opportunity to earn real-world experience by offering free tax preparation services to qualifying community members through the university’s Tillman School of Business Volunteer Income Tax Preparation (VITA) program.
Student volunteers completed IRS tax law training and examinations to assist clients who may not be able to afford tax services otherwise. Following preparation, students re-
“It’s an opportunity to give back while gaining so much in return”
Kate Carter
viewed the returns with clients before electronic submission to the IRS.
“VITA gives students practical experience and offers the community a much-needed, reliable service,” said senior accounting major Kate Carter, adding that the experience reaffirmed her desire to pursue a career in accounting. “It’s an opportunity to give back while gaining so much in return.”
Carter noted that the program plays an important role in bridging the gap between classroom education and profession-
Winners crowned at Miss Harrells Christian Academy Pageant
The annual event awarded scholarships and raised $8,000 for future pageants
By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal
HARRELLS CHRISTIAN Academy recently celebrated a sparkling milestone with the 20th annual Miss Harrells Christian Academy Pageant, recently held at the Newkirk Auditorium. This year’s theme, “What Dreams Are Made Of,” set the stage for a dazzling evening as students, families, and faculty gathered for an evening filled with grace, talent, and school spirit.
The event concluded with the crowning of five young ladies, each showcasing poise and charm. The 2025 winners are:
• Avery Dew (Tiny Miss)
• Ellie Colville (Little Miss)
• Isla Blanton (Young Miss)
• Anna Williams (Junior Miss and Miss Congeniality)
• Windsor Farrior (Miss Harrells Christian Academy)
Special recognitions were awarded to:
• Claire Barnhill for the Sponsorship Award
• Hailey Smith for Extra Effort, and
• Carter Strickland who earned the title of Sugar and Spice Each crowned queen received a $1,000 scholarship. The pageant also had a philanthropic impact as contestants raised over $8,000 in sponsorships, which will help support future pageants and keep this cherished tradition for years to come.
As the event came to a close, the spirit of “What Dreams Are Made Of” resonated in every smile, tiara, and round of applause.
al application for those interested in accounting as a career. She also indicated that the volunteers were able to navigate and overcome even complex scenarios involving multi-state tax returns with their professor’s guidance, ensuring the best possible outcome for the client.
“It allowed me to interact with clients and solve real issues — something you can’t always replicate in a classroom,” said Carter.
According to Dyllan Cardoza, a junior at UMO, the 2024 tax season brought significant growth to the university’s VITA program, with completed returns nearly doubling the 50 filed by UMO volunteers in 2023. Cardoza recalled a moment when he and other volunteers were almost overwhelmed with clients waiting outside for tax assistance.
from page A1
through significant growth and modernization, emphasizing customer service, employee development, and ethical practices.
• Bob Tillman is Lowe’s Companies’ former president, CEO, and chairman. Starting as an entry-level employee, Tillman rose through the ranks and played a key role in expanding the company’s national presence and solidifying its position in the
“Despite the pressure, every one of my classmates worked efficiently,” said Cardoza. “It was a true team effort.”
Cardoza shared that the experience has aided him in cultivating both his technical and interpersonal skills, inspiring confidence in his abili-
home improvement industry.
Each panelist shared invaluable insights honed from decades of high-level experience, offering students practical and inspirational advice on leadership, navigating challenges and business strategy.
The event bridged the gap between classroom learning and real-world leadership, giving students a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed with integrity in business and presented an opportunity to connect with influen-
ties by requiring him to make complicated tax topics accessible to his clients through clear communication. It also allowed him to make a positive difference in people’s lives, which he explained was “one of the most rewarding aspects” of the VITA program.
tial leaders. Beyond business success, the panelists emphasized the importance of values like service, community involvement, and ethical decision-making.
Macy Parkhurst, a senior business major who moderated the event, expressed that engaging with such impactful leaders was an honor.
“Hearing their stories and advice firsthand has given me a deeper perspective on what it means to be a successful and ethical leader,” said Parkhurst.
Events Center 195 Fairgrounds Dr., Kenansville, N.C. ITEMS NOT TO BRING TO SHRED: Cans, Bottles, Food/Wrappers, Thick Material, Copier/ Printer Cartridges, Corrugated Cardboard, Nonrecyclable Materials, Plastics, Biohazard Materials, Medical Waste, & 3-Ring Notebooks.
at 910-296-2140
Duplin
COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF MOUNT OLIVE
Student VITA volunteers Dyllan Cardoza, an accounting major from Goldsboro, looks over tax documents.
PANEL
COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF MOUNT OLIVE
From left to right are Macy Parkhurst, Drew Covert, Robert “Bob” Tillman and William “Bill” Bryan. Each panelist offered students practical advice on navigating challenges, driving innovation and leading with integrity.
The winners of the annual Miss Harrells Christian Academy Pageant held on April 11 were Avery Dew (Tiny Miss), Ellie Colville (Little Miss), Isla Blanton (Young Miss), Anna Williams (Jr. Miss and Miss Congeniality) and Windsor Farrior (Miss HCA). COURTESY HARRELLS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
DUPLIN SPORTS
PANTHERS’ TURN
East Duplin won a one-run thriller over the Hawks
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
DEEP RUN — Gavin Holmes and Sawyer Marshburn find ways to help East Duplin win games.
Holmes used his legs and a timely hit from Marshburn to score the winning run in the sixth inning during the Panthers 6-5 win road win over South Lenoir last Friday in one of the most difficult places for visitors to win.
Marshburn, a catcher, had three hits and oversaw three pitchers, who limited a powerful Blue Devils lineup to five hits, two of which were homers.
Holmes was the final reliever, hurling 2.2 innings of no-hit ball, as the Panthers swept the season series. East Duplin (11-6, 8-3) gave North Lenoir (12-6, 8-2) its first ECC loss two days earlier in Beulaville.
The outcome of the sweep moved South Lenoir (14-2, 9-1) into the top spot in the league.
The two Lenoir schools play in two weeks for the regular season
title and the league’s top seed in the 2A playoffs.
North Lenior whipped ED three times last season, the last of which ended the Panthers’ season in the first round of the postseason.
Cain Graham gave up a hit and a run in 2.2 innings and JP Murphy went 1.2 frames as the Panthers won their fourth in a row on Saturday by nipping Southern Wayne 6-5 in the first of three games in the Kinston Easter Classic at Grainger Stadium.
ED has won five of six since falling 3-2 to Southwest Onslow (12-6, 7-4) in a 12-inning affair in Jacksonville. The two schools play for third place in the league next Tuesday in Beulaville.
Tied at 5-5 in the fifth, Holmes doubled off Hawk ace Garrett Byrd, and two hitters later Marshburn ripped a single to center to give the Panthers a 5-4 lead.
Austin Rouse, Marshburn and Calvin Harper all knocked in a run in the three-run third and Rouse went yard in the fourth as ED led 4-0. It was all erased when the Hawks got homers from
page B4
COLUMN
| MICHAEL JAENICKE ED’s Thigpen humbled and overjoyed following a revenge sweep of Hawks
BRANDON THIGPEN asked for a pause during the postgame interview after East Duplin rallied to beat South Lenoir last Friday in Deep Run.
The Panthers’ ninth-year coach placed his hands above his knees in a third-base coach’s position as he awaited a pitch and concentrated on understanding what his team has accomplished.
Yet Thigpen’s stare and facial expressions said everything.
They spoke about his playing days for the Panthers, how he returned shortly after playing four seasons at Methodist University, wanting to turn the program into a consistent winner and make ED a conference champ and so much more.
Brandon Thigpen is 119-56 as he finishes his ninth season as head coach of East Duplin, where he played and graduated from in 2008.
Yet the glory days of going 23-1 seem light years away, though it was only in 2022.
Yeah, that’s how quickly fans, coaches and players forget. It took just one season — last spring’s a 10-14 campaign — to put doubt and worry into the head of anyone wearing a blue uniform.
Thigpen turned the Panthers into a competitive baseball team that did things the right way — on and off the field. That means players or coaches never disrespecting the game or the opposition. ED’s foes don’t always play by that rule book.
East Duplin had beaten and given powerhouse Midway all it wanted during the first five years of Thigpen’s tenure, which started in 2017.
Yet the new ECC of 2022 didn’t include the Raiders but did have two solid 2A baseball programs at North Lenoir and South Lenior.
ED finished second to South Lenoir in the league in 2023, going 14-9.
But the Panthers went 0-4 against the sister schools last spring, en route to a 10-12 finish.
East Duplin’s name as a baseball school was on the chopping block last week.
The Panthers responded with a 9-8 home win last Tuesday. Friday’s 5-4 victory on the Hawks’ home field, a difficult place for any visiting teams, was a huge statement for East Duplin (11-6, 8-3) and a severe blow to North Lenoir (12-6, 8-2) winning the ECC
See THIGPEN, page B3
While consecutive losses to North Lenoir eliminated the Panthers from league title contention, they recovered with a big win over Rosewood
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
BEULAVILLE — Everything will be OK.
And the hurt nearly stopped for Panthers fans when East Duplin dumped Rosewood 7-2 last Saturday, the second of three games played during a mini-Easter tournament in Beulaville.
Earlier in the week, the Eagles beat North Duplin (6-3).
East Duplin (11-7, 8-3) was recovering from 5-1 and 7-1 losses earlier in the week to South Le-
noir (10-6, 8-1) that left the Panthers dream of a league title in the dumpster. The Blue Devils meanwhile face cross-county rival North Lenoir (12-2, 8-2) on May 1 for the ECC crown.
So, the Panthers are destined to finish in third place with just Southwest Onslow (6-11, 3-8) left to play in the ECC, and will likely be on the road for at least the second round of the 2A playoffs. If East Duplin produces like it did against the Eagles, head coach Greg Jenkins will
like its odds in the postseason.
Five players drove in runs and Morgan Brown limited Rosewood to four hits, while whiffing four and walking two.
Sophie Jones drove in two runs and Emory Raynor, Kinsey Cave, Karsyn Parker and Brown each knocked in a teammate. Callie Mewborn was the only multiple-hit player for either school.
Jones left first base to scatter eight hits and pick up the win an 11-2 win in the circle against White Oak in the first game of the day.
Five players — Brown, Cave, Parker and Mewborn —
See SOFTBALL, page B2
PHOTOS BY EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
JP Murphy and East Duplin beat North Lenoir twice, and he had a hand in both wins, hitting, running the bases and pitching.
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Sophomore Callie Mewborn is hitting .307 and leads East Duplin in RBIs (19) and doubles (seven).
Colton Holmes and East Duplin make the most of their offensive opportunities by beating out ground balls for hits.
Bulldogs look for strong finish behind sophomore contingent
Wallace-Rose Hill has won three of its last four matches during its drive to reach the 2A playoffs
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
TEACHEY — Not many soccer fans took notice when the Wallace-Rose Hill soccer team lost 2-0 to East Duplin two weeks ago in Beulaville.
Yet the two-goal difference was significant since the Panthers had won the previous 21 matches in a streak that goes to 2012.
“I thought we played pretty well, though not getting many scoring opportunities,” said head coach Jordan Boser. “I was proud of how well we played defensively.
The Bulldogs entered the match having won their last two matches, which served as a relief after dropping five of six, even though two were one-goal losses over an 11-day period in March.
WRH, 7-7 overall and 4-5 in ECC play, turned its fortunes around by toughing out 1-0 and 2-0 road wins over North Lenoir and South Lenoir, respectively. After the Panthers’ setback they whipped Pender 3-0.
The Bulldogs start nine sophomores, many of which played last spring, and have only one senior, Melanie Maradiaga.
“Our players now know how hard it is to win and someone like Melanie has seen us from a 3-14 team to one that is in the playoffs. When she was younger, she used to tease me—I had two babies and that I got too soft (on our players), and maybe she was right.”
These days, Boser is having fun watching a young team mature.
“We really are getting better and as a team know more about the game and how to manage situations,” said Boser, a line coach during football season. “You have to play strong — and physical — every night.”
WRH had to turn misfortune into opportunity when the Bulldogs lost starting goalie Kaylann Leon, a sophomore, to a season-ending injury early this year.
Enter sophomore Angela Rosales, was a right wing in 2024.
“We started giving her reps in January and she’s made big strides,” Boser said. “Found out she played goalie in a summer league.”
Gabby Debman, a sophomore
THIGPEN from page B1
over South Lenoir (14-2, 9-1). The two schools play on May 5 in the regular season finale. While the Panthers can’t capture the league flag and will face Southwest Onslow (12-6, 7-4) where an ED victory would clinch third place, Thigpen and his club reminded everyone they are a football school with a solid foundation.
A team that won’t beat itself with walks, errors, baserunning and mental miscues. And they will play until the final out.
who led WRH is goals last season, hit two during the 3-0 conquest of the Hawks.
“Her job is to chase everything down,” said Boser seriously and as joke. “No, really, last season as a freshman she would get some 50/50 balls. Now she gets most of them because she has wheels and just takes off for it.”
Bri Maradiaga and Bella Sabillion added assist and leading scorer Bayleen Flores notched a h cage ringer
“One thing I like about this team is how we have played hard every night,” Boser said. “The effort and work has been there, and they’ve improved. This team is a fun group that know how much effort it takes.”
Debman, who had 12 goals a season ago, has seven scores. Close losses are a part of the story for the Bulldogs, which have four one-goal losses.
Bri Maradiaga’s pass to Flores gave WRH a 1-0 revenge win over South Lenoir and kept the Bulldogs alive for a spot for the postseason.
Flores scored two times and Bria Maradiagia once when WRH b eat Pender 3-0 last Thursday. Flores has 14 goals this season.
WRH has ECC games left against South Lenoir next Tuesday, James Kenan on May 1. and a nonconference affair with East Columbus.
Panthers get second shot at Stallions
East Duplin’s RPI rating is No. 13 among all 2A schools in the East Region.
The Panthers (10-7-2, 8-1) will have a second showdown with Southwest Onslow (12-22, 9-0) in Beulaville next Tuesday. The Stallions beat the Panthers 4-0 earlier this season in Jacksonville.
In addition, East Duplin started the season without its best player from 2024, Baines Raynor (.480, 10 doubles, triple, 18 RBIs), who is playing baseball at the Eastern Carolina Academy in Goldsboro.
And in that moment of the sweep of the Hawks, Thigpen was “having a moment” he won’t soon forget.
He knew some of his worry had ended and that his team had returned to the limelight. So did the bulk of Lenoir County.
Yet Thigpen also knew it all could have never happened. In
Wallace-Rose Hill’s leading scorer, Bayleen Flores, works between East Duplin’s Tabor Holley and Kayleigh Chase during a recent game.
The Panthers, who won the ECC last season will have to be up to task to beat the Stallions, who have given up just 13 goals in 16 games.
ED extended its winning streak to five games last week with a pair of wins (4-0, 7-0) over North Lenior.
Tigers pushed aside by SWO
James Kenan was stamped 5-0 by the Stallions on March 18, but played to the next level with a 2-0 setback last Wednesday at the usually-soggy Corral, a day after rain forced teams off the pitch.
The Tigers (7-5, 4-4) had not played in eight days and face the prospect of playing five matches (four ECC affairs) to close the season.
JK whipped North Lenoir twice last week in a pair of 2-1 matches, as Katherine Enamorado scored a pair of goals both times.
Rebels win three of four vs CC foes
North Duplin took care of business two weeks ago in the Carolina 1A Conference, with wins over Lakewood (9-0) and Union (3-0).
The triumphs were welcome as the Rebels were coming off consecutive setbacks to Hobbton (4-1) and Neuse Charter (3-0).
Leading scorer Tristen Stemmler scored four times against the Leopards. Sasha Arguijo had two goals and Jazmine Manzanares and Carrly Strickland each popped in their fourth score of the season.
The Rebels (8-5, 7-3) slipped by Rosewood 2-0 last Thursday in Calypso and were handled by Hobbton, 5-1, the following day in Calypso.
fact, he and his team have been learning that since pitching ace Nick Cavanaugh left in 2022.
The other thing that awakened Thipgen was the never-give-up spirit of his team. For as many times as the Panthers got knocked down, they stood up and continued to fight.
The last six games became about finding a way to win.
The Panthers did the proper amount of celebrating along the foul line in left field following the game. Thipgen arrived and pumped his fist as he jumped into a victory leap with players.
Karsyn Parker
East Duplin, softball
Karsyn Parker has been a sparkplug for the East Duplin softball team.
The sophomore leads the Panthers in hits (27), average (.443), runs (27), on-base-percentage (.528) and fewest strikeouts (three) while ranking second in RBIs (18), walks (eight) and extra-base hits (eight) and fewest strikeouts (three). She is also tied for tops in extra-base hits (eight).
The shortstop/third baseman has made just two errors in 64 chances at arguably the most difficult field position.
Parker hit .435 last spring and was one of two freshmen on the Duplin Journal’s All-Duplin County first team.
What she — and the Panthers — missed the most this season was her classmate and shortstop Ava Noble (.538), who was also a first-team player. Noble had knee injury in basketball and was unable to play the sport she wants to play in college.
Parker has certainly rivaled her on the field, though no one is comparing the duo. Fans want them both on the diamond.
That one moment in time said so much about Thigpen and his team. To a player they knew only a “next-man up” approach would be enough to beat the best teams around.
“They’re resilient,” Thigpen said. “I’m super proud of them. They beat the No. 1 team in ECC twice. No one else has done that. We just ran out of games.”
Thigpen, who crystalized the concept that East Duplin brings a lunch box to battles that are hard and possibly long.
“We had four or five one-run losses so it’s incredible that our
players did what we did against a program like North Lenoir. It says everything about our players.”
And while the Panthers aren’t expected to make a long run in the 2A playoffs, any team that draws their number will be in for a dogfight. Thigpen is 119-56 during his tenure and his game face is a mental image the Panthers have engraved on the baseball hearts.
East Duplin has one demon to exorcise: Southwest Onslow, the team that beat the Panthers 3-2 in 12 innings on March 28 in Jacksonville.
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Rebels run headfirst into tough 2A competition
ND takes a break from 1A conference play at the Kinston Easter event
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
KINSTON — First-year coach Cody Langston gave his team a reward during spring break: An opportunity to play games at a minor league baseball park.
But it came with one cavate: North Duplin, a 1A school, would be playing three 2A schools that have baseball roots deep into their diamonds.
It’s a time when most schools are knee-deep into conference battles, so playing teams in a higher class could result in bad losses, depleted pitching staffs and a loss in team and player confidence.
North Duplin likely accepted the invitation to the Kinston Easter Tournament at Grainger Stadium not knowing it and fellow Carolina 1A Conference member Rosewood would be the lone 1A schools, though both have solid programs and the hardware from the past to prove it.
North Duplin’s pitching staff has led the way, yet not in the traditional way.
“Everyone is surprised by it, but it’s like this, we have a lot of kids who can pitch, yet not one arm we go to in a big game,” Langston said. “To me, we have multiple arms on the mound and whoever I put there has got backup, a backup that he can sense will help him out if he’s in trouble.”
Yet the biggest factor going in favor of the Rebels, who are in second place in the CC to Rosewood and will likely have a rematch in the conference tournament finals in two weeks, is the different levels of players in the program.
It starts at the top with senior outfielder Wesley Holmes junior pitcher\third baseman Garris Warren (.333, tops among teammates with seven doubles, 16 RBIs and 14 stolen bases) and junior second baseman Hunt Pate (.300), a four-year starter.
Holmes is hitting 348 with a team-high 17 RBIs.
TAKE NOTICE
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY FILE#25E001058-300 The undersigned, WILMA L. COLE, having qualified on the 14TH DAY of FEBRUARY, 2025, as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of WILMA FAYE LANIER, deceased, of DUPLIN County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 10TH Day of JULY 2025, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 10th Day of APRIL 2025 WILMA L. COLE, ADMINISTRATOR 184 WILLIE HATCHER RD. CHINQUAPIN, NC 28521 Run dates: A10,17,24,M1p
“He’s the staple and backbone of the team,” Langston said. “From his leadership to his ability to communicate.”
Warren is at .333 with 16 RBIs and tops among his teammates with seven doubles and 14 stolen bases.
Pate, a four-year starter at second base, is at .300 with many hits in critical situations.
While those performances were expected, catcher Noa Quintanilla (.341, five doubles, triple, three HRs, 14 RBIs) has proven his skills.
“Nothing much gets by him defensively and he’s going to throw you out so run fast,” Langston said. “I’d like to see him cut back on his swing to not go so hard for home runs.”
Juniors Kayden Bowden (.314), James Graham (.444) and Vance Carter (.281) and sophomore Keiz Brock (.300) have each stepped up to be consistent contributors.
Langston coaxed Carter to the field, has played Graham, a Southern Wayne transfer, more of late and he’s producing, while smiling from ear-to-ear at both Brok and Bowden as players that are only getting better with each game.
“You need a lot of players to contribute and that’s what that group has done,” Langston said.
BASEBALL from page B1
That’s another level, yet one in which freshman shortstop/ pitcher Noah Price has passed.
Price is hitting .292, with six doubles and is an ace-in-training for the pitching staff.
“He’s one of the best shortstops I’ve seen in a long time,” Langston said. “He definitely has Division 1 capabilities. It doesn’t get any better than having him in the two hole because he’s going to get a hit or walk or find his way on base however he can.”
North Duplin was beaten for the third time by South Lenoir in the opening day at Grainger Stadium.
The setback came after a 3-2 conquest of Rosewood last Wednesday and a 3-2 trimming of Hobbton the next day.
Pate and Warren had big RBI swings against the Eagles (15-7, 9-2) during a 3-2 loss in Goldsboro. Warren had a pair of walks, single and scored. Holmes, Bowden, and Quintanilla each stroked a hit as the Rebels out-hit the Eagles 6-4.
The next day, Holmes belted a three-RBI triple and Waren and Pate each had two hits and scored twice during a 4-1 push past Hobbton.
Price scattered six hits, two walks for a complete game win in which he threw 99 pitches. While North Duplin can
Byrd and Jayden Miller in the four-run home-half of the inning.
Marshburn was the most consistent hitter, going 3 for 3 with singles and a double.
“We had to do our best to keep them off the bases,” said Holmes, who was running sprints in the outfield following the game with Graham. “They’re one of the best teams in the state.”
“They disrespected us when we beat them at our place,” Graham added.
“The plan was to keep our three pitchers under 40-45 pitches. And give our offense credit for beating their best pitcher.
Marshburn drove in three and Rouse
tie Rosewood for the league title, the Eagles would be the No. 1 seed from the conference for the postseason via a higher RPI number.
CC tournament, revenge and the state playoffs
Langston bunch had won five of six before falling 13-2 to South Lenoir in the first day of games in Kinston. The Rebels will play either Lakewood (7-11, 4-6) or Hobbton (12-7, 4-4) in the first round of the conference tournament in two weeks. If it’s the Leopards, revenge could provide inspiration.
ND was beaten 2-1 by Lakewood, a loss that cost it a chance at its third league crown in four years. It was a road game the Rebels were not prepared to take on April 9. Rosewood entered the week at No. 7 in RPI among all 2A East schools. ND is 14th.
Wildcats snap six-game skid
Marcus Branthoover and Maron Machado each went 1 for 3 when the Wildcats fell to Jacksonville 5-1 last Monday in the first round of the Touchstone Energy Classic in Richlands. That’s all the Wildcats (6-11)
and Graham two apiece 9-8 two days previous.
Panthers rallied for four runs in the seventh after trailing 8-5 entering the frame.
Kyle Kern whiffed nine, walked three and gave up five earned runs in 6.2 innings.
Graham got the final out. Carter Chadwick homered against both pitchers.
Dugout chatter
Murphy and Graham each went three frames on Saturday against Southern Wayne, with Holmes finishing it up. ED got all six of its runs in the fourth after the Saints went up 5-0.
NOTICE
could muster against hurlers Carter Moore and Cannon Smith, who each drove in a run for the Cardinals. Vasco Sutton added a pair of RBIs for Jacksonville (10-9). Tanner Brinson had three hits and three RBIs and Ashton Courdle and Machado chipped in run-scoring hits in a 6-4 loss to White Oak, which scored three times in the bottom of the fifth. Neither team scored the rest of the way.
Jacob Flemming and Jaden Goins each had a pair of hits. The Wildcats broke a sixgame skid with an 11-2 push through Northside-Jacksonville.
Blue Devils sock Tigers twice
Jake Howard and Noah Rouse each drove in three runs last Wednesday to lead South Lenoir to a 14-1 win over James Kenan in Warsaw.
JK (4-9, 2-8) lost its third in a row and eighth of 10 since starting 2-1.
Two days earlier, the Blue Devils (14-2, 9-1) rocked the Tigers 16-0 in Deep Run. The Tigers host Wallace-Rose Hill in their regular season finale next Thursday. WRH won the first encounter 7-0 on March 7. JK has been outscored 131-57 this spring.
Stallings, Smith homers lift HCA
Dawson Smith and Jaden Stallings hit home runs last Thursday to send Harrells Christian to its third win of the spring following a 7-2 triumph over Kerr -Vance Academy. Smith had three RBIs, Stallings scored three times, and Luke Weeks had a pair of hits. Weeks got two more against Wake Christian earlier in the week when the Crusaders fell 8-2. Jesse Smith had a run-scoring single.
HCA (3-9, 2-3) played in the Clinton Easter Tournament early this week and return to league play by traveling to Henderson to complete the loop series against the Spartans.
Graham and Jack Tuck each punched a pair of RBIs. Holmes walked twice, drove in a run and scored. Murphy also walked and scored. Jesus Mojica reached on an error and crossed the plate two hitters later.
The Panthers played 1A Rosewood (15-7) on Monday and 3A Charles B. Aycock (8-11) on Tuesday. Rouse leads ED in RBIs with 18. Tuck (.340) Holmes (.375) each have 12. Marshburn has 10 and raised his average to .300. Holmes’ nine doubles are three more than Rouse has punched. Graham, Harper and Murphy each have three two-baggers. Kern entered this week three strikeouts shy of 100. He’s 4-1 with a 1.52 ERA in 50 innings.
Notice is hereby given that the Duplin County Board of Equalization and Review will hold its first meeting on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 2:00 pm in the Commissioner’s Room, Duplin County Administrative Building, 224 Seminary Street, Kenansville, NC. This meeting is held for the purpose of review and hearing appeals of listings and valuations. The following is a schedule for all meetings of the Board of Equalization and Review to be held at the above stated location: 2nd meeting – Thursday, May 29, 2025 at 2:00 pm. The Board expects to adjourn on May 29, 2025. In the event of earlier or later adjournment, notice to that effect will be published in this newspaper.
Gary M. Rose, Clerk to the Board of E&R
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
North Duplin let loose after beating conference rival Rosewood.
Betty (Teachey) Kelley
Nov. 24, 1945 — April 14, 2025
Betty Teachey Kelley, 79, of Wallace passed away on Monday, April 14 surrounded by her loving family.
She was born on November 24, 1945, in Duplin County and was the daughter of the late Hill C. Teachey Sr. and Sarah Mobley Teachey. Betty was also preceded in death by her husband Larry Thomas Kelley; their sons, Maurice Kelley and Richard “Ricky” Kelley; and her siblings, Mary Pearl Price, Esta Mason, Sarah Rivenbark, Hill Teachey Jr. and Geraldine Franz.
She was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and follower of Jesus Christ.
Surviving to cherish her memory is her daughter, Susan Kelley Rivenbark and husband Scottie of Wallace; grandchildren, Reverend Brandon Kelley and wife Sarah, Matthew Rivenbark and wife Kaitlyn, Courtney Kelley Hollingsworth and husband Justin, Dylan Rivenbark and wife Sydney, Briley Kelley and wife Haley, Maggianna Rivenbark, Brianna Kelley and Brailan Kelley; great grandchildren, Isaac Kelley, Lydia Kelley, Hayes Rivenbark, Rowan Rivenbark, Scotland Rivenbark, Sarah Holland Rivenbark and Everleigh Hollingsworth; daughter in laws, Carol Kelley and Teresa Kelley, both of Wallace; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends that loved Betty dearly.
Betty married her husband Larry on April 17, 1965. Shortly after, they had their son Ricky in 1966, their daughter Susan in 1968, and their second son Maurice in 1972. She was a stay at home mom until she began her working career at A&P of Wallace. After working there for 8 years, she left and pursued her education at James Sprunt Community College. After graduation, she became a certified nursing assistant working with Duplin Home Health and Hospice. Betty was a loyal preacher’s wife. She followed her husband for years as the Lord called them to different churches until they ultimately moved to Raleigh to pastor Emmanuel Pentecostal Holiness Church in 2001. After much prayer, Betty and Larry decided to retire and move back to be able to spend time with their family. She devoted the majority of her life to raising her children and making memories with her grandchildren. She enjoyed traveling the U.S. with family and friends. She was loved tremendously by her family and will be dearly missed.
Funeral services were held on Friday, April 18, 2025, at Quinn McGowen Funeral Home Wallace Chapel with Reverend Buster Price and Betty’s grandson, Reverend Brandon Kelley officiating.
The family received friends on Friday, one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial followed in Little Pin Hook Cemetery, Teachey.
Casketbearers will be Matthew Rivenbark, Dylan Rivenbark, Briley Kelley, Brailan Kelley, Trey Maready and Justin Hollingsworth.
Memorial gifts may be given to The Bluefields Memory Care, Leland.
The family would like to extend a sincere thank you to Laurie Romand and the entire staff of The Bluefields Memory Care facility as well as Gentiva Home Health and Hospice for their kindness and compassionate care they gave to Betty and her family.
Peggy Watts Dickerson
July 18, 1949 — April 14, 2025
Peggy Watts Dickerson, at the age of 75, passed away peacefully late Monday afternoon, April 14, while being loved and cared for at Kitty Askins Hospice Center.
Peggy was a native of Mount Olive and had lived in the Pleasant Grove area near Mount Olive for many years. She had a long tenure of employment with the Boling Company, and an even longer association with Taylor’s Nursery and Plant Farm where she assisted the Marvin Taylor family with farming, plant nursery, and care giving duties. Peggy worshiped at the Cricket Ridge Church.
She is survived by her husband of 20 years, Glen H. Dickerson, of the home; a step son, Glen Patrick Dickerson and wife Annette of Goldsboro; a brother, Walter H. Watts Jr. and companion Linda of Greenville; two sisters, Rebecca W. Outlaw of Mount Olive and Patsy W. Gonzalez of Grantham; four grandchildren; a great grandchild; and several nieces and nephews. Peggy was preceded in death by her parents, Walter W. Watts and Mildred Strickland Watts; brothers, George Thomas Watts and James Earl Watts; and sisters, Norma Carol Watts and Mollie Watts. A service of remembrance for Peggy was held Good Friday, April 18 at Tyndall Funeral Home, followed by a period of visitation with the family.
David Lee Cole
Dec. 26, 1957 — April 18, 2025
David Lee Cole passed away on Friday, April 18at his home. He is preceded in death by his parents, Troy Waxell Cole and Fonnie Mae Cole; brothers, James Cole and Johnnie Cole; and sisters, Carrie Lou Thompson, Bertnice Colley and Fay Lanier. Surviving are his brothers, Harold Jarman, Henry Jarman (Betty) and Eugene Cole (Nancy); sister, Clara Mae Whaley (Carl); and multiple nieces and nephews. All services are private.
Jonathan Carl “Buddy” Worrell
Nov. 18, 1944 — April 15, 2025
Jonathan Carl “Buddy” Worrell passed from this life into the presence of his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, April 15 at Wayne UNC Health Care. A resident of Goldsboro, Buddy leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and quiet strength.
He spent his career as a truck driver for both Chas. F. Cates & Son Pickle Company and Allen Canning Company. Known for his reliability and friendly spirit, Buddy earned the respect and admiration of his coworkers and all who crossed his path.
A man of deep faith, Buddy was a longtime and faithful member of Mount Olive First Pentecostal Holiness Church, where he found great comfort and joy in worship and fellowship.
Born to the late Jonathan Carl Worrell and Florence Perry Worrell Tucker, Buddy was also preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley Jean Worrell and his brother, Henry J. Worrell. He is survived by his children, John Allan Worrell, Don Williams, and Tina Patrick; his grandchildren, Crystal Williford and husband Scott, Kasey Casbarro and husband Jack, Ivey Woodard and husband Tre, and Phillip Williams; as well as six great grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy. He is also survived by his beloved fiancée, Linda Kaye Herring.
A funeral service to honor Buddy’s life was held on Friday, April 18 at Tyndall Funeral Home, with Pastor Jeff Dail officiating. Visitation was held prior to the service. Burial followed in Maplewood Cemetery.
Lillian Gertrude Hall Bowen
Jan. 19, 1932 — April 17, 2025
Lillian Gertrude Bowen, age 93, of Beulaville passed away on Thursday, April 17 at home.
A viewing will be on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Church of God and True Holiness Church in Beulaville, followed immediately by the funeral service at 12:00 noon. Burial will follow at Hall Cemetery in Beulaville.
Left to cherish her precious memories, three sons: James Bowen (Deborah) of Beulaville, Harold Bowen (Sheila) of Pink Hill, and Kelvin Bowen (Cindy) of Beulaville; four daughters: Lillian Whitfield of Beulaville, Paula Crawford of High Point, Beatrice Savage (Lynn) of Beulaville and Marian Fort (Dexter) of Kenansville; five brothers: Paul Hall (Marie) and Benjamin Hall (Mattie) both of Beulaville, Milton Hall (Barbara) of Durham, Dennis Hall (Teresa) of Dudley, and Richard Farland (Eva) of Philadelphia, NC; Three sisters: Mamie Williams of Beulaville, Zoye Marie Dobson of Virginia, Debra Batts(Richard) of Henderson; twenty six grandchildren, thirty eight great grandchildren, seven great great grandchildren; son in law, Tony Hall; sisters in law: Eleanor Hall and Donna Hall; brothers in law: Elder Lynn Beanum and Maxwell Williams; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends that will miss her dearly. House Set up will be at 339 S. Blizzardtown Road in Beulaville.
Roger Calhoun Parker Sr.
Dec. 18, 1944 — April 13, 2025
Roger Calhoun Parker Sr. passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 13 surrounded by his loving family. Born to Jacob Franklin Parker Sr. and Lucy Elizabeth Brooks Parker in the town of Rose Hill, Roger grew up with the values of hard work, faith, and love. Roger was preceded in death by his siblings: Fred Milton Parker, Durwood Lee Parker, Margaret Louise Farrior, Mildred Alene Schineller, Mary Frances Nitschke, Jacob Franklin Parker Jr., Mae Ernestine Hoffmann, Ruth Gray Parker, Joseph Charles Parker, Jeniva Dee Albrycht, Judy Brooks Parker, and Forest Gene Parker. He cherished their memories and the family heritage they shared.
Roger is survived by his devoted wife of 43 years, Joan Teachey Parker. Together, they built a loving family. He leaves behind his children: Katie Knowles (Stephen), Roger “Cal” Parker Jr. (Kirstin), Jake Parker (Emma), and Jarrod Powell (Juliana). Roger’s greatest joy was being “Pa” to his grandchildren: Dylan Powell, Rebecca Powell, Kristina Halamuzdava, Connor Powell, Parker Knowles, Carson Parker, Bella Powell, Wyatt Knowles, Kinsley Parker, Raylon Parker, Levi Parker, Reese Parker, and Payton Knowles. He is also survived by his sister, Ruby Parker Merritt of South Carolina; along with many nieces and nephews.
Roger was a lifelong member of Rose Hill Baptist Church, where his deep faith in Jesus Christ guided his life. He made sure his children grew up knowing and loving Jesus, which he considered his most important legacy. His faith filled heart touched everyone he met.
Roger dedicated his career to the poultry industry, earning accolades for his many achievements. But above all, he was a devoted husband, inspiring and caring father, and nurturing grandfather. His kindness, strength, and commitment to his family and faith made him irreplaceable.
A Celebration of Life was held at Rose Hill Baptist Church on Friday, April 18. Visitation preceded the funeral service., and burial followed at the Parker Family Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.
Though he will be deeply missed, Roger’s spirit will continue to guide and inspire his loved ones for generations to come. May he rest in eternal peace, embraced by the everlasting love of his Savior.
Joe Nathan Rhodie
March 21, 1958 — April 9, 2025
Joe Nathan Rhodie, 67, of Rose Hill entered eternal rest April 9. A joint memorial service will be held with his brother, Dannie Rhodie, at 1:00pm April 26 in the chapel at Hawes Funeral Home in Warsaw.
Mary Frances (Woodcock) Futrell
June 20, 1949 — April 13, 2025
Mary Frances (Woodcock) Futrell entered her forever home in Heaven early Palm Sunday morning, April 13. Frances, as she was affectionately called by friends and family, was born on June 20th, 1949 in Atkinson. She grew up and spent her childhood years in that same area. At a young age, Frances learned what hard work and servitude were and all throughout her life she instilled these qualities in those she has now left behind. As she rejoices in the presence of her Savior, Frances’ family and friends mourn their loss, but have the eternal hope they will be reunited with her in due time.
Frances was preceded in death by her parents Viola King and Cecil Woodcock and 2 of her 4 siblings, Helen Pridgen and NA Woodcock. She is survived by her husband, John Douglas Sr.; two siblings, Rachel Boone and Mackey Woodcock; son, John Douglas Futrell Jr.(Michelle) and his family; daughter, Mary Esther (James) and her family; and daughter Mildred (Joseph) Lanier and her family. Frances also is survived by her 7 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Family was her passion and each of them were deeply cherished, loved and prayed for by Frances.
Frances and JD, as he is lovingly known, met through family connections and married on December 17th,1968. They lived in Rose Hill and Burgaw where they raised their children. In recent years the couple lived in Wallace. Over her life, Frances dedicated her time to the service of others and honored the Lord through her talents. She would often be seen crocheting blankets, hats, or scarfs which she lovingly gave not only her grandchildren, but also to the homeless and those in need. Both Frances and JD faithfully served in various capacities at Wallace Church of God. Frances’ passion and service centered around children as she taught Sunday school, VBS and served in nursery over the years. She also actively volunteered in the church’s food bank and was willing to do whatever was needed of her. Frances served her comminity by visiting those who were home bound and in nursing homes. Her love for Lord and a heart for others will be remembered for generations to come.
The Futrell family received friends on Friday, April 18 for a public viewing, followed by a Celebration of Life service at Quinn McGowen Funeral Home in Wallace. Burial followed the service at Duplin Memorial Gardens in Teachey.
Volunteers, music and joy fill Magnolia’s
Magnolia’s
PHOTOS BY KD BEARD / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Left, proud Magnolia cooks admired their work as they prepared free plates for event-goers at Saturday’s celebration. Right, Greenville-based band Hope in Christ with the Potters House Church gave powerful performances at Saturday’s event.