8th-graders mark milestone at promotion ceremony

May 27, 2026 at 07:55 pm by N_BLayton


Tommy Lee Cherry Sr.

Tommy Lee Cherry, Sr., 70, of Plymouth, NC., passed away May 16, 2026, at home.

Funeral services will be 2:00PM Sunday May 24, 2026, at Long Ridge Missionary Baptist Church, with Reverend Dr. General James, pastor, officiating.

Burial will follow in Moore Family Cemetery.

Viewing will be 6:00PM to 8:00PM Saturday May 23, 2026, at Toodle's Funeral Home.

Yvonne Brabble Stephens

Yvonne Brabble Stephens, 70, of Waxhaw, NC, passed away Saturday, May 16, 2026, at her residence.

Born February 6, 1956, in Washington County, she was the daughter of the late William Cary Brabble Jr. and Gloria Harris Brabble. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Billie Carter Stephens; sister, Laura L. Krantz; and brothers, Charlton M. Brabble and Gary A. Brabble.

Yvonne attended Roanoke Bible College and the Morganton School for the Deaf. She was a devoted homemaker who took great pride in caring for her family and home. For a short time, she also worked at the post office and at a retirement home. Yvonne enjoyed watching Harry Potter movies, playing solitaire, and spending time crafting, sewing, and making beautiful flower arrangements. Her family was her pride and joy, especially her grandchildren, whom she loved dearly.

Her family includes her daughter, Robin Stephens Smith (Adam) of Waxhaw; brother, William Cary Brabble III (Sharon) of Roper; and grandchildren, Grey Kevin Smith and Hazel Jo Smith. F

uneral services were held Friday, May 22, 2026, at 1 p.m. at Zion’s Chapel Church of Christ in Roper, officiated by Tony Krantz. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family received friends at Zion’s Chapel Church of Christ on Thursday, May 21, 2026, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Arrangements are by Maitland Funeral Home, Plymouth.

Randolph “June” Woods Jr.

Mr. Randolph “June” Woods, Jr. 79, of Roper, North Carolina, peacefully transitioned from this earthly life into eternal rest on Tuesday, May 20, 2026. Surrounded by the legacy of a life well-lived, Mr. Woods leaves behind cherished memories that will forever remain in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Celebration of Life service honoring his life and legacy will be held on Monday, May 25, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at the Eastern North Carolina & Virginia Assembly, located at 101 June St., Roper, NC 27970. A walk-through viewing took place on Sunday, May 24, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Mr. Woods was laid to rest at Shiloh Memorial Gardens located in Roper, NC immediately following the Celebration of Life.

Professional services have been entrusted to Paradise House of Funerals, Inc.

Michael David Clifton Sr.

Michael David Clifton Sr., 70, of Roper, passed away Friday, May 22, 2026, at Sentara Albemarle Medical Center.

Born February 10, 1956, in Tyrrell County, he was the son of the late William Ambrose Clifton and Mary Rae Burns.

Michael was a hardworking man with a remarkable work ethic that he proudly instilled in his son and daughters throughout their lives. As a self-employed contractor, he took pride in providing for his family and believed in the value of dedication and perseverance. Michael was never focused on the finish line; instead, he found joy in the process and in the simple moments life offered.

One of his greatest pleasures was spending time hunting and fishing with his father, son, and grandsons. Those memories outdoors with family were among his most treasured. Michael also loved music and enjoyed singing and dancing whenever he had the chance, especially showing off his moves while doing “The Twist.” His fun-loving personality and ability to make others smile will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Michael will be remembered for his strong spirit, love for his family, and the example he set for those who knew him.

He is survived by Marianne Creef of Elizabeth City, NC; son, Michael David Clifton Jr. (Amy)  of Creswell; daughters, Natalie Jennette Clifton of Moyock, Heidi Faye Clifton of Creswell, and Mandy Smith (Josh) of Elizabeth City, NC; grandchildren, Austin Clifton, Nate Santry, Wyatt Clifton (Allie), Jayden Santry, Waylon Clifton, Lily Bleu Mervine, and Oliver Smith.

A memorial service was held Monday, May 25, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Cape Colony Church of Christ, 831 Soundside Rd, Edenton, NC, officiated by Greg Biggs. The family received friends prior to the service from 1 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. at the church and other times at the residence.

Arrangements are by Maitland Funeral Home.

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