James A. Cusimano

James A. Cusimano

April 19, 2024 Shaun Johnson

April 11, 2024, 85, Napa, CA —

James A. Cusimano, 85, who had planned to break a world record for the oldest living man, left this world suddenly and quite unexpectedly on April 11, 2024, at Providence Queen of the Valley Medical Center in Napa, CA.

Born March 18, 1939, in San Jose, CA, Jim was known for his quick wit and sense of humor. He was the life of the party just about everywhere he went, bringing joy and laughter along with him, and anyone who knew him will miss him. He was a lover of good wine, grilled steaks, dancing, and good music. We are fairly certain that when he realized he had passed on, his first thought was, ‘Well, crap! That didn’t go as planned!’

He is survived by his wife, Bobbilee Silva, of the home; daughters Julie Wall (Johnny) of Goldsboro, NC and Karen Cusimano (Doug Bowden) of Raleigh, NC; step-daughters Shayne Silva (Jurgen Diederich) of Lafayette, CA, Diane Randolph (Byron) of Dayton, NV, Kathy Collishaw (Dave) of Springdale, AR; a step-son, Dave Silva of White Salmon, WA; four grandchildren, Christopher Hanna, of Spring Creek, NV, Matthew Santee, of Trenton, OH, Timothy Santee, of Goldsboro, NC, Peri Firestone, of Goldsboro, and six great-grandchildren scattered across the country;  sister, Toni Hansen of Sacramento and five nieces and nephews that all knew him as Uncle Howdy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Angela Cusimano, and a brother, Robert Cusimano.

Funeral services will be announced at a later date.

Carolyn Tate

Carolyn Tate

April 19, 2024 Shaun Johnson

April 15, 2024, 85, Goldsboro —

With Sincere Compassion and understanding, we, the management and staff of Williams & Ashford Funeral Directors, join with the Tate and connected families to announce the earthly departure of Ms. Carolyn Tate, 85, of Goldsboro, NC. Ms. Tate passed away at the Helping Hands Nursing on Monday, April 15, 2024.

A Complete biographical sketch is forthcoming.

Services of Love & Compassionate Care have been entrusted to Williams & Ashford Funeral Directors and Cremations, LLC.

Gerardo Tovar-Flores

Gerardo Tovar-Flores

April 19, 2024 Shaun Johnson

April 16, 2024, 15, Newton Grove —

Gerardo Tovar-Flores, 15, of near Newton Grove, passed away Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at Wake Medical Center in Raleigh as the result of an accident.

He was a sophomore student at Harnett Central High School near Angier.

Gerardo is survived by his parents, Francisco Tovar Tovar and Francisca Flores Campos of Michoacan,  Patzcuaro, Mexico; maternal grandparents, Pedro Flores Mendoza and Maria Esthela Flores Campos of Michaocan, Patzcuaro, Mexico;  paternal grandparents, Gil Tovar Gomez and Cecilia Tovar Turrubiartes of San Luis, Potosi, Mexico; sister, Carolina Salazar Flores of Newton Grove, brother, Daniel Salazar Flores of Mount Olive, sister, Andrea Garcia Flores of Angier, sister, Marisela Salazar Flores of Angier, and brother, Adrian Tovar Flores of Angier; and other relatives and friends.

Funeral details will be posted as soon as they are made available.

Rebecca Rhew Deans

Rebecca Rhew Deans

April 19, 2024 Shaun Johnson

April 16, 2024, 71, Goldsboro —

Rebecca Rhew Deans went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at Kitty Askins Hospice Center surrounded by her family. She was born in Roxboro, NC to the late Edward Thomas Rhew and Della Ferrell Rhew on July 9, 1952. In addition to her parents, Becki was preceded in death by her brother, Danny Rhew.

Becki was dedicated to all she decided to do. Her career began at Strickland Insurance Group and continued for over 17 years. She continued to work hard and persevere for another 22 years with Wayne County Public School’s Maintenance Department. Becki learned from a young age to give her all in the things she sought to do.

Becki had a gift for celebrating. Seasons, holidays, and any special events didn’t pass her by without much fun and festivities. Her decorations were always a joy, just like her feelings about the holidays. She not only decorated and celebrated but she was known for giving the most thoughtful gifts. Her flair for celebration was contagious.

As a member of Bethel Church, this is the place where she worshiped and served the Lord. She enjoyed spending time with her family and taking care of them was one of her greatest joys. She also loved being a mom to her cats, Tink and KK.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Monday, April 29, 2024, at Bethel Church in Goldsboro followed by a service to celebrate Becki’s life at 7:00 p.m. in the sanctuary.

Becki is survived by her children, Carie Reese and husband, Steven of Goldsboro, Dori King and husband, Scott of Princeton, and Andrew Ray McGowan III and wife, Megan of Johnson City, TN; grandchildren, Callahan Reese and fiancée, Reagan Baumgartner, Ben Reese and Henry Ward McGowan; and her sisters, Jennifer Medlin, Pam Bush, Eva Erlich, Terri Chase, and Kim Head; and brother, Vann Rhew.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Becki’s memory to the
Cameron Scrufari Scholarship Fund c/o Bethel Church
2308 N. William Street
Goldsboro, NC 27534.

Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.

James Allen Bolduc

James Allen Bolduc

April 19, 2024 Shaun Johnson

April 14, 2024, 77, Goldsboro —

James Allen Bolduc, 77, passed away on Sunday, April 14, 2024, at ECU Medicine in Greenville. James was born in San Francisco, California to the late Edward and Verne Frances Bolduc on December 21, 1946. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepmother, Bernadette Bolduc; brother, Michael Bolduc, and cousin, Roger.

Serving our country in the United States Air Force, Mr. Bolduc retired with the rank of Tech Sergeant with the 56th Air Command. During his tenure, he received numerous decorations including the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, Longevity Service Ribbon, Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal, Air Force Presidential Unit Citation, Outstanding Unit Award, and the NCO Professional Education.

Upon retirement, Mr. Bolduc owned and operated his lawn care business in the Goldsboro area for many years while also attending Wayne Community College earning a degree in Turf Management. He would go on to help build two of the newer buildings of Wayne Community College. With vast mechanical knowledge, he also worked with the staff of Delmus’ Hardware and in the auto parts industry around Goldsboro.

Mr. Bolduc had a deep love for his family, showing his devotion through spending as much time with them as possible. With a heart of compassion for others, he was always willing to help someone in need. James was formerly a member of Pinewood Presbyterian Church when living in Goldsboro.

A memorial service will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, April 22, 2024, in the sanctuary of First Presbyterian Church, 1400 S. Elm Street, Greenville, NC. The family will greet friends following the service from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. at the church. Inurnment will be at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, in the Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Goldsboro with full military honors.

Mr. Bolduc is survived by his wife, Rebecca Page Bolduc; son, Justin Bolduc (Nikki); daughter, Kimberly Curtis (Craig); grandchildren, Avery Bolduc, Haven Bolduc, Spencer Curtis and Beckham Curtis; sisters, Charlene Young (Tom) and Lori Saltz (Dr. Barry); sister-in-law, Valeria Bolduc; nieces and nephews, Edwin Young, Jason Young, Deanna Young, Dr. Adam Saltz, Mason Saltz, and Shelby Bolduc; and many cousins in California he loved very much.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in his memory to the
Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research
P.O. Box 4777
New York, NY 10163

Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Goldsboro, NC. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com

Marie Brown Sauls

Marie Brown Sauls

April 19, 2024 Shaun Johnson

April 17, 2024, 79, Goldsboro —

Marie Brown Sauls, 79, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at Wayne UNC Health. She was born in Tazewell County, Virginia on January 8, 1945, to the late Roy and Alta Stevenson Brown. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Kenneth Brown, and sister-in-law, Nancy Brown.

Over 57 years ago, Marie married the love of her life, Don Sauls. Marrying Don meant she fulfilled a calling the Lord had placed on her life as a pastor’s wife. Marie found her place and lived into that calling with everything she did. She supported her husband in all of his work for the Lord. Her support enabled Don to truly serve and love others in their time of greatest need. She cared for her family and was the glue that held them all together. As a mother, Marie was always there for them. As a Christian, Marie loved the Lord with all of her heart, soul, and strength. As a servant, Marie was gifted with the ministry of hospitality.

Marie had the most welcoming spirit and magnetic personality. People wanted to be around her and she wanted to take care of others through hospitality. Food was her vessel for showing the love of Jesus. Her compassion for those who struggled drew people closer to her, where her love would always be found. Being mild-mannered meant she could exhibit self-control and kindness when it was needed the most. One of her favorite places was White Lake. It was another opportunity for Marie to sit with others, serve them, and simply be content. She truly had a gift for making others feel loved, accepted, and welcomed. Her presence at the table is already missed. But we can only imagine the heavenly banquet she is experiencing.

Marie is survived by her husband of 57 years, Don Sauls; daughter, Donna Marie Sauls Mooring and husband, Mark; son, Dale Michael Sauls and wife, Melissa; grandchildren, Micah Mooring, Mical Mooring, Josiah Sauls, Abigail Sauls; great-grandson, Elliott Sauls; and sister, Phyllis Bartley, and husband, Troy.

The family will receive friends from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at Pikeville Church in Pikeville followed by a service to celebrate Marie’s life at 11:00 a.m. in the sanctuary. Interment will be in the Stantonsburg Cemetery.  The service for Marie will be live-streamed and can be viewed by visiting the church website at www.pikevillechurch.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to
Crusader Youth Camp with the Pentecostal Free Will Baptist, Inc.
1200 Bud Hawkins Road
Dunn, NC 28334

Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.

Charles Raymond Hooten

Charles Raymond Hooten

April 19, 2024 Shaun Johnson

April 17, 2024, 84, Tarboro —

March 20, 1940 – April 17, 2024

Charles Raymond Hooten, 84, finished his course of faith and stepped into life eternal with his Savior on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. Charles was born in Lenoir County to the late Jesse Pettigrew and Faye Dawson Hooten on March 20, 1940. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Alice Summerlin Hooten; his second wife, Louise Eason Hooten; his siblings, J.P. Hooten, Doris Hooten Anderson, and Chester Hooten; and his nieces, Karen Hooten Fulcher, Jean Hooten Davis, and Jane Hooten Khalilian-Reese.

Charles began his career with Burlington Mills in 1963 and was faithfully employed with the same company for the duration of his career, retiring in 2001. Marrying Alice Summerlin in December 1982, the two enjoyed a happy life of love and devotion for over 28 years until her death in January 2003. After her death, Charles was truly blessed to find and marry Louise Eason in April 2005. Though their life together was short, they enjoyed six happy years.

Getting together with family was a highlight for Charles, especially when food was involved. He often spent the weekend with his late niece, Jean Davis, where she would prepare wonderful meals much to his enjoyment. In later years, he enjoyed his weekly visit with his niece, Sandra, where a trip to Wilbur’s Barbecue was always in order. He loved a good meal, but nothing made it better than a little dessert to top it off.

Grateful for the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ, Charles lived his faith openly, was readily able to quote scripture, and always wanted to be involved in church. When he moved away from Tarboro to live in Goldsboro, he attended Faith Free Will Baptist Church as often as he could. While Charles’s life wasn’t always easy and he, like us all, often fell short of the glory of God, he was keenly aware of God’s mercy and grace and lived a life of testimony to Romans 8:38-39: “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

A service to remember Charles’s life will be held by the graveside at Evergreen Memorial Gardens, Wilson, at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 24, 2024.

Charles is survived by his nieces and nephews, Sandra Cromer, Jay Hooten (Andrea), Billy Hooten (Julie), Donna Dickens (John), Phyllis Phillips (Charles), and Bryan Hooten (Amy).

Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.

William L. Britt

William L. Britt

April 19, 2024 Shaun Johnson

April 17, 2024, 84, La Grange —

April 26, 1939 – April 17, 2024

William L. Britt, 84, was welcomed at the gates of Heaven on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. W.L. was born in Wayne County to the late Theodore Britt and Ludi Jernigan Britt on April 26, 1939. In addition to his parents, W.L. was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Edith Thornton Britt; and his brother and sisters.

Beginning his career at the Piggly Wiggly on Lionel Street in Goldsboro, W.L. learned the skills of butchery and started a career that lasted 62 years. Working for various companies throughout his tenure, W.L. retired from the Food Lion in La Grange.

Hardworking as the day is long, W.L. had a work ethic that few could achieve. His family looked forward to every Tuesday, as this was his day off. While there are many things that could have occupied his free time, W.L. always chose family. Wanting to raise his children in a Christian home with principled lives, he believed in church, discipline, and hard work for everyone.

Always up for a ride, W.L. would drop everything when given the opportunity to travel. Whether taking a long trip or riding down the road, sights would remind W.L. of times gone by. A master storyteller, he’d captivate you instantly in his recollections and make you feel as if you were right there with him in his memory.

A highlight for W.L.’s week was Wednesday when the Weekly Gazette came in the mail. Reading Glen Penuel’s “In and Out of La Grange” column and looking for the joke of the week brought great delight. He’d add that joke to his collection, as he always had something funny to say.

No matter where W.L. was, he was sure to run into somebody he knew. Deeply involved in his community, he was a longtime member of the La Grange Volunteer Fire Department and a charter member of the La Grange Rescue Squad. He also served as president of the local Woodmen of the World.

A soldier in the army of God, W.L. was promoting the cause of Christ everywhere he went, in thought, word, and deed. Whether discussing the scripture with friends or walking around singing “Amazing Grace,” you knew W.L.’s heart by his actions and demeanor.

When retirement came for W.L., time with his family always to precedence. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren lit up his world, and his most prized title was PaPa Britt. While this was the name given to him by his grandkids and greats, many in the area thought of him with equal affection. Gathering with the men at Ken’s grill, heading out on a fishing trip, or enjoying breakfast with his son and grandson were simple pleasures that made life complete.

If you’ve never had W.L.’s barbecue chicken, you’ve never had the best. His sauce couldn’t be beat and he was a master griller. He assisted with many fundraisers at church while attending La Grange Church of God. In recent years, W.L. faithfully worshiped his Lord at Tabernacle Pentecostal Holiness Church in Goldsboro.

A service of love and remembrance will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at Rouse Funeral Home with Pastor Ronnie Heath officiating. Committal will follow at Fairview Cemetery.

W.L. is survived by his children, Tony Britt (Darlene), Lisa McLeod (Rocky), and Jeff Britt (Amy); grandchildren, Matt Cartwright, Ashley Bradley (Tony), Kaylen McLeod, Brandon Bizzell, Hunter Britt (Hannah), Jack Britt, Jacob Robbins (Olivia), and Brandon Robbins (Nicolle); great-grandchildren, Brayden Chavis, Makenna Chavis, Kinsley Robbins, Grayson Cartwright, and Peyton Bradley; as well as Tracy Bissette, and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family.

The family will receive friends for a time of visitation from 6:00 p.m. – to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, April 22, 2024, at Rouse Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to

NC State Veterans Home of Kinston
2150 Hull Road
Kinston, NC 28504

Tabernacle Pentecostal Holiness Church
1000 East Ash Street
Goldsboro, NC 27530

Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.

Timmy “Tim” Rick Colie

Timmy “Tim” Rick Colie

April 19, 2024 Shaun Johnson

April 16, 2024, 66, La Grange —

March 14, 1958 – April 16, 2024

Timmy “Tim” Rick Colie, 66, quietly departed this life for life eternal on Tuesday evening, April 16, 2024. Tim was born in Lenoir County to the late Eugene “Gene” Thomas Colie and Peggy Bryan Colie on March 14, 1958.

A devoted Christian, Tim’s primary goal in life was to maintain a close relationship with his Lord. He lived his faith openly and worshiped regularly at the Institute United Methodist Church. Serving in the church where he was raised and where he was married, Tim gave back to his church family and offered his ministry to the Lord through service in leadership. Most recently, he chaired the Church Council. On Men’s Sunday, he joined the ranks of the choir, and he utilized his new skill of piano playing numerous times during worship services.

Proud of his family, Tim poured his time into the things that made them happy. When you saw Tim, Diane was usually right by his side. His children took precedence in his life, and he was always invested in the activities of his grandkids. If a field trip was coming up, Tim would make sure to be a part of the crew. Surf fishing with his brother-in-law, John, was always a fun getaway, and any time spent with his twin sister and baby sister was valued. In whatever sport his nieces and nephews were involved in, he’d show up for the game to cheer them on. Wherever they lived, Tim easily made friends and considered them a special part of his family as well.

A deep love for our country was engrained into Tim’s being. After serving with the United States Navy for thirty years, Tim retired with the rank of Master Chief. Serving in three wars and traveling all over the world, his devotion to his country was strong and fierce. Following his distinguished career, he continued for ten years as the second-in-command with Honor Bridge.

Known for his kind and gentle nature, Tim was mild-mannered and calm since he was in his mother’s womb. Never one to be in the midst of conflict, he’d simply walk away if anything became heated. He loved with his whole heart and genuinely cared about everyone he knew. He looked for the good in all and only spoke when he had something positive to say.

While Tim battled cancer, he took each day as a gift and lived life to the fullest. Never complaining about his condition, he simply walked by faith and found joy in everything. Wanting to learn to play piano, he began weekly lessons and practiced daily. He was a regular golfer with the Senior group at Falling Creek Country Club, and he pulled for his beloved Carolina Tarheels every time they played.

Tim’s return to North Carolina was mainly to take care of his mother in her final years, but it was as much of a blessing to him as it was to others. He rekindled many old friendships, fell in love with home all over again, and often said, “This is right where I need to be.”

A service of love and remembrance will be held at 3:00 p.m. at Rouse Funeral Home on Sunday, April 21, 2024, with Pastor Linda Grider officiating. Committal with military honors will follow at Westview Cemetery. The family will receive friends for a time of visitation from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Rouse Funeral Home on Saturday, April 20, 2024.

Tim is survived by his wife, Diane; sons, Dustin Colie and wife, Ashley, and Nickolas Colie; grandchildren, Christian and Chloe; twin sister, Kim C. Hallow and husband, John; baby sister, Gina Colie; his faithful canine companions, Eli and Abby; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in Tim’s memory to one of the causes that were dear to his heart:

Institute United Methodist Church Building Fund
3075 Byrd Road
La Grange, NC 28551

Tunnels to Towers Foundation
2361 Hylan Boulevard
Staten Island, NY 10306

Lenoir County SPCA
PO Box 1481
Kinston NC 28503

Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.

Carolina “Carol” Patricia Andrews

Carolina “Carol” Patricia Andrews

April 19, 2024 Shaun Johnson

April 13, 2024, 66, Goldsboro —

August 16, 1957 – April 13, 2024

Carolina “Carol” Patricia Andrews, 66, passed away on Saturday, April 13, 2024. Carol was born in Norfolk, Virginia to the late Oliver R. Andrews, Sr. and Peggie Ann Langston Andrews on August 16, 1957. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Oliver R. “Junior” Andrews; and a brother-in-law, Douglas McArthur Carter.

With a zest for life and a carefree spirit, Carol enjoyed any time spent with family and friends. If you were with Carol, you were sure to be laughing and having a great time. With concern for others that knew no bounds, Carol would give anything she had to help someone in need. Possessing a deep love for her Lord, Carol made a public confession through baptism just a month ago.

Carol is survived by her sisters, Katherine “Kathy” Carter and Tamara “Tammy” Carter and husband, Donald; nephews, Kevin Andrews and Eric Scott Carter and wife, Megan; niece, Megan Leigh Carter; great-niece, Anna Grace; and great-nephew, Roxson.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.

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