Harris Funeral Home Incorporated

12/13/2025

Today we join communities across the nation in honoring our veterans. Each wreath placed is a tribute to the bravery, sacrifice, and legacy of those who served our country.

12/13/2025

Today we celebrate the National Guard and honor the brave men and women who have served with courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment. We remember and appreciate every hero who has protected our communities and our nation.

12/12/2025

DATELINE: BESSEMER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA

James Roy Peach

July 11, 1984 - December 10, 2025

James Roy Peach passed away on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, after a courageous 10-year cancer battle. James fought bravely, often suffering in silence, to spare the feelings of other people. After his third surgery at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in NYC, he donated his rare teratoma tumors to cancer research, hoping to help someone else in the future.

James was a graduate of Ashbrook High School and attended Gaston College. He was employed by Harris Teeter. He loved his job working with the public, friends, and colleagues Gary Farris, Charlie Brown, and Bessie Hopper.

When James could no longer work, he continued to enjoy gaming, music, movies, and whatever sport was in season. His favorite team was the Florida Gators. Go, Gators! He was featured on ESPN twice, wearing full Florida Gators game gear at a USC baseball and a USC basketball game. As their guest, he was captured sitting behind the Florida basketball team and was seen shaking hands with the USC Athletic Director after the Florida victory.

His love for the Boston Red Sox inspired him to set a personal goal to visit every baseball stadium in the US. He visited nearly half, seeing the Sox play in such cities as Boston, Detroit, NYC, Chicago, Denver, San Francisco, Oakland, and Seattle. Likewise, his interest in golf led him to create his own tournament, The JP Invitational. He shared special times with his golf buddies, pledging never to be last.

James was a bright light on this earth. He will be missed for his kindness, gentle spirit, sense of humor, sweet smile, and his courage. He would want everyone to keep their own light shining bright. Special thanks to Levine oncologist Dr. Earle Burgess and Nurse Pamela Tiseo for keeping James' light shining during his 10-year cancer journey.

James is survived by his mother, Jean Goforth Peach; father Charles Arthur Peach (Pamela Pearson); sisters Katherine Peach, Sally Peach (Camilo Guaqueta); uncles George E. Goforth (Jackie), John Goforth (Paula), Mike Peach; aunt Ann Rosi; cousins Gabby Rosi (Kirby), Domino Rosi (Erika), Marty Goforth (Amanda), and Brad Goforth (Rebekah); nephew Blaze Guaqueta Peach; and special friends Gary Farris, Charlie Brown, Terry Corley, Allan Homesley, Steve Homesley, Tommy McNeely, Jerry Morrison, and Ralph Procter.

GRAVESIDE SERVICE: Monday, December 15, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Beulah Stony Point Community Church Cemetery, 1534 Stony Point Road, Shelby, NC 28150, with Reverend Justin Lowe and Becky Greene, Director of Spiritual Formation officiating

INTERMENT: Beulah Stony Point Community Church Cemetery, Shelby NC

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Levine Cancer Research Innovations Fund at https://tinyurl.com/jamespeachdonation or to First United Methodist Church Youth Ministries, PO Box 218, Gastonia, NC 28053.

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM

ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM
ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

12/12/2025

DATELINE: KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

James E. Rhea Jr, known as “Bud Rhea,” 89 of Kings Mountain, NC passed away on December 10, 2025, at Atrium Health Cleveland in Shelby, NC from complications from a fall. He was born January 25, 1936, in Cleveland County, NC, son of the late James E. and Madge Wright Rhea and was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Deloris “Tencie” Eubanks Rhea. Bud was a loving family man and friend to many. After serving his country in the U.S. Coast Guard, he worked in Human Resources, mostly in textiles, for 35 years. He was an avid golfer and dabbled in woodworking, carving, and clockmaking. He and Tencie were deeply rooted at “Hickory Hill,” their land and home for over 60 years. He was a lifelong active member of Central Methodist Church in Kings Mountain.

SURVIVORS: Sons: Scott Rhea of Holden Beach, NC and Monty Rhea of Kings Mountain, NC
Daughters: Stacie Rhea (Glenn Carroll) and Julie Turner (Jeff Turner), all of Kings Mountain, NC
Grandchildren: Dane and Skyler Rhea, Clinton and Wesley Turner, and Tucker Carroll.
Great-Grandchild: Karmin Rhea
Sister-in-law: Beth Eubanks
Nieces: Kelly Jones and Susan Falls

CELEBRATION OF LIFE SERVICE: Saturday, December 20, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Central Methodist Church in Kings Mountain with Pastor Perry Hines officiating.

VISITATION: Saturday, December 20, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 10:50 AM prior to the service at Central Methodist Church CAC.

INTERMENT: Private family Interment at Mountain Rest Cemetery

MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Central Methodist Church of Kings Mountain, NC, or Hospice of Cleveland County.

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM

ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

12/11/2025

DATELINE: KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA
Julie McGinnis Taylor

Julie McGinnis Taylor, 56, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on December 9, 2025 at Testa Family Hospice House in Kings Mountain, NC. She was born December 13, 1968 in Gaston County, NC, daughter of Doris Suther McGinnis and the late James Brooks McGinnis and was preceded in death by a sister, Elizabeth Anne McGinnis. Julie earned her Bachelors degree from Lenoir Rhyne University and later received her Master of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of Phoenix. Julie enjoyed educating the minds of children and worked at several elementary schools throughout her teaching career. She grew up as an active member of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church and later attended Eastside Baptist Church. Julie was an avid animal lover and enjoyed long walks with her beloved canine companions, Tater and Oreo. She enjoyed music, staying active and spending every moment she could with her family and friends. Julie possessed a sweet spirit that was evident to all those around her. A loyal friend and dedicated confidant, Julie had a giving heart and enjoyed the simple things in life. She loved holidays and enjoyed decorating her home, especially during the Halloween and Christmas seasons. Julie created countless memories with her loved ones that will continue to be cherished throughout the rest of their lives.

SURVIVORS: Husband of 22 years: Danny Taylor, Kings Mountain, NC
Son: Ethan "Bell" Simmons, Kings Mountain, NC
Mother: Doris Suther McGinnis, Kings Mountain, NC
Sister: Laura McGinnis Titshaw and husband David, Marietta, GA
Niece and Nephews: Brooks McGinnis (Morgan), Kings Mountain, NC and Jordan Titshaw (Stephanie) and Rachel Titshaw, both of Atlanta, GA

MEMORIAL SERVICE: Wednesday, December 17, 2025 at 2:00 PM at St. Matthew's Lutheran Church with Minister Miriam Schmidle officiating

VISITATION: Wednesday, December 17, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 1:50 PM prior to the service in the fellowship hall of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church

INTERMENT: Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, NC

MEMORIALS: Donations in Julie's memory may be made to Samirtan's Purse at P.O. Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607 or online at www.samaritanspurse.org or to
St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, stjude.org or to
ST Matthew’s Lutheran Church, 201 North Piedmont Ave., King Mountain, NA 29086

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM
ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

12/11/2025

DATELINE: Shelbyville, Tennessee
Lori Michelle Belt Moss "Shelly"

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we announce the passing of Lori Michelle Belt Moss of Shelbyville, TN who passed away peacefully on December 9, 2025 at Wendover Hospice, Shelby, NC She was born May 16, 1968 in Cleveland, NC. She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Dorse and Gladys Burton; paternal grandparents, Bill and Christine Belt; father-in-law, Gary Michael Moss, Sr.; step-father Nolan Scism; grandmother, Stella Cotman; sister, Ashley Phillips Broome; grandson, Caleb Renee Hernandez, great-niece Mia Grace Carter.

SURVIVORS: Husband, Garry Michael Moss, II Shelbyville, TN
Daughters: Brittany Poole and husband Jeremy, Gastonia, NC
Haley Parker, East Glacier, MT
Mother: Gail Burton Scism, Gastonia, NC
Father: Bill Belt and wife Linda, Dallas, NC
Mother- in-law: Mary Janice Deputy, Dallas, NC
Brothers: Scott Belt and wife Regina, Gastonia, NC
Tony Phillips, Dallas, NC
Grandchildren: Brody, Carly, and Logan Poole, all of Gastonia, NC
Nieces: Lauren Belt, Belmont, NC; Kristen Carter and husband Kyle, Lincolnton, NC
Nephews: Seth Belt, Gastonia, NC; Jake Phillips, Dallas NC
Great-niece: Marlee Blake Carter, great-nephew: Thomas Wyatt Carter, both of Lincolnton, NC
Host of beloved Uncles, Aunts and Cousins

FUNERAL SERVICE: Destiny Church, 3723 York Hwy, Gastonia, NC
Monday, December 15, 2025 11:30am Rev. Bishop David Tucker

VISITATION: 10:00 am - 11:20 am prior to the service in the sanctuary of the church.

INTERMENT: Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, North Carolina

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM

ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

12/10/2025

DATELINE: KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA
Virginia Louella Causby

Virginia Louella Causby, 91, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on December 09, 2025 at Belaire Health Care Center in Gastonia, NC. She was born December 23, 1933 in York County, SC, the only child of the late Woody and Sallie Mae Hardin Hamilton and was preceded in death by her husband, Noah Causby Jr and her son, Michael Causby. Virginia worked with her husband for many years in the family business at Causby's Texaco in Kings Mountain. She was a former member of Temple Baptist Church and had attended First Baptist Church in Kings Mountain for several years. Virginia enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and loved visiting Las Vegas with her husband. In her spare time, Virginia enjoyed sewing and watching movies on television. She was a wonderful mother and homemaker for her family. Virginia will be missed dearly by all those who knew and loved her.

SURVIVORS: Daughter: Jacque Causby, Kings Mountain, NC

GRAVESIDE SERVICE: Friday, December 12, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Mountain Rest Cemetery with Reverend Jack Buchanan officiating

INTERMENT: Mountain Rest Cemetery, Kings Mountain, NC

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM
ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

12/10/2025

DATELINE: KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA
Ralph E. McDonald

Ralph E. McDonald, 73, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on December 8, 2025 at his home. Born April 6, 1952 in Gaston County, NC, he was the son of the late Charles McDonald and Rittie Gilreath McDonald and was also preceded in death by his infant daughter April McDonald. Ralph served his country honorably in the US Army with the 101st Airborne during the Vietnam War, then returned home to a fulfilling career including time spent working at Heiligh-Meyers Furniture in Kings Mountain and at Aaron's until his retirement. Ralph was a man of many hobbies. He was a skilled wood-worker, a model car enthusiast, and enjoyed the Blue Angels air show. Ralph also enjoyed sports, a lifelong NASCAR fan with seats at Charlotte Motor Speedway, and was a longtime season ticket holder for the Gastonia Grizzlies. He loved traveling with his family, including trips to the beach, Cherokee, NC, to Florida, and taking cruises. Most of all, Ralph embraced his role in life as a loving father, devoted husband, and dedicated "PawPaw Ralph" to his grandchildren and great-granddaughters. He leaves his loved ones with a lifetime of laughter, joy, and unforgettable memories.

SURVIVORS: Wife of 8 years, Sharon Ross Vassey, of the home
Children: Amy Knight (Adam) of Gastonia, NC, Ashley Crump of Gastonia, Joshua "Josh" Vassey (Rebecca) of Kings Mountain, and Jennifer Proctor (Jonathon "Jon"), also of Kings Mountain
Siblings: Sandy McDonald of Gastonia, David McDonald (Amy) of Kings Mountain, and Ricky McDonald (Crystal) of Forest City, NC
Grandchildren: Jared (Bailee), Machaela (Dale), Tyler, Mackenzie, Parker, and Paisley
Great-granddaughters: Ashlynn, Lilly, and Delilah
Ralph is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, special family friend Juanita Kirk, and his beloved canine companion Jade.

MEMORIAL SERVICE: Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. in the Ollie Harris Memorial Chapel with Pastor Scott Whitener officiating

VISITATION: Tuesday, December 16, 2025, prior to the service from 1:00 to 1:50 P.M. in the parlor at Harris Funeral Home

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM

ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

12/09/2025

DATELINE: KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA
Kenneth Eugene Queen

Kenneth Eugene Queen, 71, of Kings Mountain, NC, passed away on December 7, 2025 at Atrium Health in Shelby, NC. Ken was born on March 9, 1954 in Kings Mountain, to the late Robert Eugene Queen and Delora Mae Biddix Queen. He was also preceded in death by his sister Patrica Ann Queen. Ken worked in manufacturing and a few other industries throughout his life. He was cherished by everyone who knew him and was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. He often referred to himself as "mean as a rattlesnake," but those who knew him knew better. Ken deeply loved his family including his wife Kathy, sons Kenny and Timothy, and his two granddaughters Easton and Emma Grace, along with his beloved siblings, nieces, nephews, and in-laws. He was a very active member of Allen Memorial Baptist Church where he served as a deacon and in any other capacity he was needed. He was a proud veteran of the US Navy and served his country honorably during the Vietnam War. Ken was an excellent cook and his dishes were requested and devoured by everyone from his admirals to his friends alike. Everything he prepared tasted wonderful. He was an avid golfer and loved spending time on the links. Most of all, Ken loved his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Kathy Bowen Queen, sons Kenny and Timothy Queen, both of Kings Mountain, NC, two beloved granddaughters, Easton and Emma Grace Queen, siblings Gloria Bryson of Gastonia, NC, Elaine Tracey (Mike) of Bessemer City, NC, Tommy Queen (Paula) of Kings Mountain, NC, special in-laws Doug and Margie Moss of Kings Mountain, NC, and Wayne and Nanette Turner of Grover, NC. Ken is additionally survived by many beloved nieces and nephews, whom he loved like his own children, and his beloved canine companion Ginger.

FUNERAL SERVICE: Friday, December, 12, 2025 at 3:00 P.M. at Allen Memorial Baptist Church with Pastor Reese English officiating

VISITATION: Friday, December, 12, 2025, prior to the service from 2:00 to 2:50 P.M. at Allen Memorial Baptist Church

INTERMENT: Allen Memorial Baptist Church Cemetery, Grover, North Carolina

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM

ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

12/09/2025

DATELINE: KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA
Faith Clymina Patrick Austin

A branch of our family tree has broken. Faith "Faye" Austin, 90, of Kings Mountain, NC, went to be with her heavenly Father after complications following knee replacement surgery on December 08, 2025 at Caromont Regional Medical Center in Gastonia, NC. Faith, affectionately known to everyone as "Faye", was the daughter of the late George and Clymina "Mini" Westcott Patrick and was preceded in death by 7 brothers and sisters and 3 grandchildren, Brian McWhorter, Abagail Soyak, and Matthew Eckardt. She grew up in North Brunswick. NJ, and graduated from New Brunswick High School where she displayed her musical talents by singing in the All-State Choir. Faye was a member of Georges Road Baptist Church where she shared her beautiful singing voice in the choir and playing in their bell choir. Faye loved all types of crafting and owned and operated her own craft store for many years and enjoyed participating in many craft bazaars throughout the years. After her retirement from Church and Dwight Pharmaceuticals, she relocated to Kings Mountain. Faye was an active member of Patterson Grove Baptist Church where she participated in many church activities. Faye also enjoyed singing with the Patrick Senior Center Chorus. She was an avid bird watcher and loved feeding the bird around her home. Faye was a wonderful mother and a loving grandmother to 3 generations of grandchildren who will cherish the memories she leaves behind. The family would like to extend a special thanks to her church family and the many friends Faye leaves behind.

SURVIVORS: Children: Joyce McWhorter (Nelson), Kings Mountain, NC, Cynthia Heitzenroder, Shelby, NC, Barbara Prindle (Charles) Millsboro, DE, and Stewart Austin (Susie) Cocoa, FL
Grandchildren: William Heitzenroder and Victoria Robinson, Springville, PA, and Keri Rafaniello, Anderson, SC
7 Great Grandchildren and 1 Great-Great Grandchild

FUNERAL SERVICE: No services are planned at this time

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM
ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

12/08/2025

Today we honor the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. May her grace, purity, and steadfast love inspire peace and comfort in all who are remembering someone dear this season.

12/04/2025

DATELINE: KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA
John Ellsworth Slopey

John Ellsworth Slopey, 89, of Kings Mountain, North Carolina, peacefully departed this life on December 2, 2025, at Summit Place in Kings Mountain. Born on May 6, 1936, in Salem, New Jersey, he was the cherished only child of the late Elmer and Lillian Hill Slopey. John graduated from Salem High School where he excelled as a member of the football team. John earned his Bachelor's degree from Guilford College in Greensboro, North Carolina, where he attended after earning a football scholarship, followed by a Master’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He dedicated 34 years of his professional life to teaching science at Woodstown High School in New Jersey, where he also served as the Head of the Science Department. In addition to his teaching career, John was a committed volunteer firefighter for over 30 years with the Reliance Fire Company in Woodstown, New Jersey, achieving the rank of Chief. He was also passionate about coaching high school football and baseball, leaving an indelible impact on the lives of many young athletes. John attended First Baptist Church in Woodstown, NJ, until relocating to Kings Mountain, where he joined First Presbyterian Church. Throughout his time there, he devoted himself to worship and service, including roles as an elder in the church. John enjoyed showing his humorous side, whether telling unique stories or sharing funny anecdotes, he loved making people happy. Above all, John was a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather. He is remembered fondly by his family and friends, whose lives were enriched by his kindness and dedication. His legacy will continue to be cherished in the hearts of all who knew him.

SURVIVORS: Wife of 67 Years: Dorcas Epperson Slopey, Kings Mountain, NC
Children: Kathryn Bowman, La Mesa, CA and William Slopey and wife Briseida, Katy, TX
Grandchildren: Daniel (Sora), David (Kandi), Sarah, James, and Maria
Great Grandchildren: Heidi, Ben, Lewis, Owen, Norah, and Ezra

MEMORIAL SERVICE: Will be held at a later date.

GUEST REGISTER AVAILABLE AT WWW.HARRISFUNERALS.COM
ARRANGEMENTS: HARRIS FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, KINGS MOUNTAIN, NORTH CAROLINA

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