They Left Us Too Soon...
Karen Lynnette Thomas Coleman March 29, 1950 - September 7, 2025 Karen and her twin sister, Sharon were born in St. Louis, MO to Corloyd and Gloria Thomas. Karen was older “by ten minutes.” Soon after birth, the family moved to New York City. She graduated from Andrew Jackson High School and enrolled in Atlantic Union College in South Lancaster, MA. There she met her “Southern Gentleman”, James Coleman, a native of Atlanta, GA. They were married in 1973 after her graduation with a degree in Nursing. The couple moved to Hinsdale, IL where she began practicing as a Registered Nurse. After a brief assignment on a Medical/Surgical Unit, she transferred to the Operating Room where she spent the next forty-two years. During her career, she held licenses in Illinois, Washington, DC, Maryland, Georgia and North Carolina. She developed a reputation for high standards of nursing practice and fierce advocacy for the welfare of her patients. She retired from the OR at UNC Johnston in 2017. Upon retirement, Karen became more active in St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Smithfield. In addition to singing in the choir, she was a member of the Altar Guild, Episcopal Church Women and the local chapter of the King’s Daughters. She developed a love of music at an early age, as both parents were musicians and music teachers. She played piano, sang and often attended the choral music festivals on the North Carolina coast. Karen is survived by her husband James of 52 years, her sister Sharon, their daughter, Donna, several cousins and countless dear friends. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 218 S. Second Street, Smithfield, NC 27577 or SECU Hospice House C/O Johnston health Foundation, P.O. Box 1376, Smithfield, NC 27577. Viewing/Visitation: Tuesday September 16, 2025, at Walter Sanders Funeral & Cremation Services Chapel 302 S. Bright Leaf Blvd., Smithfield, NC 27577 from 1:00 pm until 6:00 pm. Funeral Services: St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 218 S. Second Street, Smithfield, NC 27577 Wednesday September 17, 2025, from 11:00 am until 12:00 pm. Link for the livestream via Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85009050955?pwd=vAWtBLIyPRJ9xKl7jVY9rbfdnr09Zn.1 Starts at 11:00am until 12:30 pm Wednesday September 17, 2025 Meeting ID: 850 0905 0955 Passcode: 851451 Interment: Knollwood Cemetery 4362 US-70 Business Clayton, NC. Click on the Add Comment Line Below to leave a message for the Coleman Family Guest Book Family or Deceased Name: Karen Coleman Your Name: Natchez Triumphant SDA Church Email: delithom6@yahoo.com Message: Elder Coleman we are deeply saddened to hear of your loss. We are sending heartfelt prayers and condolences! You are in our thoughts and prayers. May the memories of Karen bring you strength, comfort and peace! Hang in there! All the best wishes for you and your family. Prayerfully yours! Natchez Triumphant SDA Church Date: 6013921138 Family or Deceased Name: Karen Coleman Your Name: Teresa Chappell Email: chapter083@yahoo.com Message: Mr. Coleman and Donna, I am so sorry to hear of Karen’s passing. I never saw her without a smile on her face or a pleasant word that she shared with you when you were in her presence. She will be truly missed. She was such a wonderful person. Prayers for all of you during this time. Teresa Date: 09102025 Family or Deceased Name: Karen Colemen Your Name: Ralph and Rose Dawkins Email: dawkinsr@comcast.net Message: Our hearts are sad to know that someone who we crossed paths with in this life is now gone. We will remember Karen’s beautiful voice as Ralph sang with her in choirs at Atlantic Union College. We send our deepest sympathies to you James and your family. We pray that God sends peace to your hearts as we wait the Second Coming of our Lord and Savior. Sincerely, with Ralph and Rose Dawkins Date: 978-808-7198 Family or Deceased Name: Mrs. Karen Coleman Your Name: Amy Hamby Email: a83101@gmail.com Message: Sending prayers and love to the family. Mrs. Karen was a caring and kind person, with such a sweet soul. She was a dedicated and excellent Nurse, who truly cared about her patients. She was an inspiration to all of us!!
Mrs. Edna McCullers Walker, age 93, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at SECU Hospice House in Smithfield, NC. She was born on May 20, 1932, in Cleveland Township, Johnston County, NC, to Essex and Cynthia McCullers. Edna attended Short Journey School and worked for many years as a sewing operator at the Old Mill Sewing Factory in Clayton. She loved cooking and spending time with her grandchildren. She was a dedicated member of St. Amanda Baptist Church in Garner, NC. Edna was married to the late George Luther Walker. She is survived by her five children: Pamela Sheryl Walker, Brenda Priscilla Walker, Kenneth Lewis Walker, Mary Belle Walker, and Gwendolyn Gail Adams; nine grandchildren; two sisters, Kittrell McCullers and Geraldine McCullers Bryant; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. Viewing: Friday September 12, 2025, at the Walter Sanders Funeral & Cremations Chapel 302 S. Bright Leaf Blvd., Smithfield, NC 27577 from 1:00 pm until 6:00 pm. Funeral Services: Sunday September 14, 2025, at St. Amanda Baptist Church 457 Old Drug Store Rd., Garner, NC 27529 starting at 2:00 pm with viewing from 1:30 pm until 2:00 pm. Click on the Add Comments Line below to leave a message for the family. Guest Book Family or Deceased Name: Edna Walker Your Name: Crystal S Walker Email: Cwalker1461@gmail.com Message: To my grandma you played your role too the T you loved all of us and saved us a lot when we were in trouble you loved us so much and we could do no wrong in your eyes I’m really going to miss you sitting in that rocking chair from sun up to sun down and you always asking for gum I love you run had a good run and im thankful I got to see it through now you take you are with your momma and papa and granddad whom you spoke on a lot now your at peace I love you and will miss you my love it’s not goodbye it’s until we meet again! Crystal Walker Date: 090925 Family or Deceased Name: Edna Walker Your Name: Crystal S Walker Email: Cwalker1461@gmail.com Message: We’re gonna miss you My heart! Date: 09092025 Family or Deceased Name: Edna Walker Your Name: James and Phyllis Eason Email: eason534327@bellsouth.net Message: Ms Edna was a very dear friend and loved by all. She will be missed. Know that she is now in heaven with God and is enjoying herself rocking in her rocking chair by Gods side. To all her children we are so sorry for you loss. James and Phyllis Eason Date: 09092025
Donna Mae Marano (Olson), 84, of Smithfield, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at home on August 19, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones after a short battle with cancer. Born on May 2, 1941, Donna was a loving mother, stepmother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She attended Wausau Senior High School and was a devoted Lutheran who enjoyed being a Bible School Teacher. For many years, she worked as an optician and eventually owned her own business. She loved working with people and always greeted everyone with a smile. Donna had a passion for writing poetry, and was proud to have some of her work published in poetry books. She also had a soft spot for cats, caring for several feral ones and enjoying her own kitties. Donna is preceded in death by her parents, Gilman Olson and Dorothy Boardman; two brothers, Leroy and Edward Olson; her longtime friend and the father of her daughters, Dale Kurth; and nephews Jason Pischke, Jerry Olson, and Kenny Olson. She is survived by her two daughters, Coleen Morse and Christine (Daniel) Revoir; a sister, Mary Olson-Sinz; and two stepchildren, Kari Marano and Brian (Erika) Marano. She also leaves behind two grandson’s, Derek (Casey) Kurth and Brandon Au-yong; three granddaughter’s Sarah and Jessica Morse, and Stephanie (Jason) Rosenow; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family members from Wisconsin whom she loved dearly. A celebration of life will be held at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 2920 Veterans Parkway, Clayton, NC on October 25, 2025, at 2 p.m. Refreshments will be served following the inurnment. A live feed will be available for those who are out of state at http://holycrossclayton.com/ or https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFWp14weSisxJFzEf7lGG UQ. A separate service will be held in Wisconsin at a later date in the spring of 2026. In lieu of flowers, Donna requested that donations be made to a local animal rescue. Click on the Add Comments Line below to leave a message for the family. Guest Book Family or Deceased Name: Donna M. Marano Your Name: Tony Zamora Email: Captzam@gmail.com Message: The angels are always near to those who are grieving, to whisper to them that their loved ones are safe in the hand of God Date: 9-10-25 Family or Deceased Name: Donna M. Marano Your Name: Tanya Woods Email: markwoodswife@yahoo.com Message: I had the pleasure knowing Donna but a short time, but I am friends with her Sister Mary and her Daughter Chris ,My Heart goes out to Donna's Family at this time ,all my Blessings and Prayers 🙏 Date: 9-9-2025
Mrs. Elnora Hasting Mozelle, age 77 of Goldsboro, NC passed away Monday August 25, 2025, while a resident at Somerset Nursing Home. Elnora was born on September 20, 1948, in Wilson County, NC and was the daughter of Willie Robert and Chellie Hasting. She attended Springfield High School. Elnora was a cook for 25 years and a housekeeper for 15 years. She was a dedicated member and usher at Rocky Branch United Church in Kenly, NC for many years. Elnora is survived by her son Kim Mozelle, one granddaughter Shakeria Mozelle, two sisters, Geraldine Tucker and Wendy Hunter along with a host of other relatives and friends. Funeral Arrangements: Viewing: Friday September 5, 2025, 11:00 am Rocky Branch United Church 5968 NC 581, Kenly, NC. Funeral Services: Friday September 5, 2025, 12:00 noon at Rocky Branch United Church 5968 NC 581, Kenly, NC. Click on The Add Comments Line Below to leave a message for the family of Mrs. Elnora Mozelle. Guest Book Family or Deceased Name: Elnora Hasting Mozelle Your Name: Helene Price Email: hprice143@embarqmail.com Message: My prayers and condolences for the Elnora Hasting Mozelle family during this most difficult time. Date: 9192842392 Family or Deceased Name: Hasting Your Name: Reginald P Shaw-Richardson Email: rs.richardson1967@gmail.com Message: My Sincere Condolences to the Family Date: 2025901103
Mr. Alonzo "AJ" Williams Jr., age 94 was born November 7, 1930, in Johnston County NC. AJ was the son of Alonzo Williams Sr., and Vera Grantham Williams. AJ passed away quietly Wednesday August 20, 2025, at the SECU Hospice House in Smithfield, NC. AJ was a 1950 graduate of Cooper High School in Clayton, NC. Following high school, he served in the U.S. Army. Where he served honorably until he separated from service. His post military career involved a career as a statistician with the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC until retirement. Mr. Williams leaves to honor and cherish his memories one son, Lyndon Williams of Washington, DC, one brother Otis Williams of Selma, NC, and one sister Mrs. Dorothy Williams of Selma, NC., along with a host of other r elatives and friends. Viewing: Saturday August 30, 2025, at the Walter Sanders Funeral & Cremation Services Chapel 302 S. Bright Leaf Blvd., Smithfield, NC from 3:00 pm until 6:00 pm. Funeral: Sunday August 31, 2025, starting at 1:00 pm with viewing from 12:30 pm until 1:00 pm., First Missionary Baptist Church 403 Caswell St., Smithfield, NC. Interment following at Selma Memorial Park Selma, NC. Click on The Add Comments Line below to leave a message for the Williams Family. Guest Book Family or Deceased Name: Alonzo Williams Your Name: Emma Jean Sanders Davis Email: dmel8155a@gmail.com Message: Our prayers and condolences to the family. In Christ, Emma Jean Sanders Davis/Wake Forest, NC and family Family or Deceased Name: Alonzo Williams Your Name: Betty Jean Lassiter Email: bettyJ@gmsil.net Message: A.J. was a good classmate! We enjoyed attending school together back in the days. The last 2 years we shared stories about us growing up. I’ll remember our talks and laughter. Until we meet again. Enjoy your new home with Jesus A.J. Date: 83025 Family or Deceased Name: Mr. AJ Williams Your Name: Bruce McKay Email: mckay1108@aol.com Message: Mr. AJ Williams was a very thoughtful and caring man. He was a very good friend of our family and a man devoted to God. He had a great spirit about him and is definitely missed. Date: 910-987-9374 Family or Deceased Name: Alonso Williams Jr. AJ Your Name: Marilyn Frazier Rice Email: mrice3@roadrunner.com Message: During this time of loss, I want you to know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Your mother/father's spirit will forever shine through you, and her/his love will continue to guide your path.During this time of loss, I want you to know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Your father's spirit will forever shine through you, and his love will continue to guide your path. Date: 9192843926 Family or Deceased Name: Alonzo Williams Jr Your Name: Thomas Eatmon Email: teatmon4@att.net Message: Aj is my brother in law but was so much more to my family and I. Always a God Loving man whom will be missed dearly. So many good memories thru the good times with my sister and nephew. As his health fell he stayed positive and was very appreciative as we visited him and was very talkative during our visits. Take your rest brother. Love you Date: 08252025 Family or Deceased Name: Alonzo Williams Jr Your Name: B. Eatmon Email: eatmon.bk@gmail.com Message: Rest In Heaven AJ 🙏 Date: 8-23-25
Karen Lynnette Thomas Coleman March 29, 1950 - September 7, 2025 Karen and her twin sister, Sharon were born in St. Louis, MO to Corloyd and Gloria Thomas. Karen was older “by ten minutes.” Soon after birth, the family moved to New York City. She graduated from Andrew Jackson High School and enrolled in Atlantic Union College in South Lancaster, MA. There she met her “Southern Gentleman”, James Coleman, a native of Atlanta, GA. They were married in 1973 after her graduation with a degree in Nursing. The couple moved to Hinsdale, IL where she began practicing as a Registered Nurse. After a brief assignment on a Medical/Surgical Unit, she transferred to the Operating Room where she spent the next forty-two years. During her career, she held licenses in Illinois, Washington, DC, Maryland, Georgia and North Carolina. She developed a reputation for high standards of nursing practice and fierce advocacy for the welfare of her patients. She retired from the OR at UNC Johnston in 2017. Upon retirement, Karen became more active in St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Smithfield. In addition to singing in the choir, she was a member of the Altar Guild, Episcopal Church Women and the local chapter of the King’s Daughters. She developed a love of music at an early age, as both parents were musicians and music teachers. She played piano, sang and often attended the choral music festivals on the North Carolina coast. Karen is survived by her husband James of 52 years, her sister Sharon, their daughter, Donna, several cousins and countless dear friends. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 218 S. Second Street, Smithfield, NC 27577 or SECU Hospice House C/O Johnston health Foundation, P.O. Box 1376, Smithfield, NC 27577. Viewing/Visitation: Tuesday September 16, 2025, at Walter Sanders Funeral & Cremation Services Chapel 302 S. Bright Leaf Blvd., Smithfield, NC 27577 from 1:00 pm until 6:00 pm. Funeral Services: St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 218 S. Second Street, Smithfield, NC 27577 Wednesday September 17, 2025, from 11:00 am until 12:00 pm. Link for the livestream via Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85009050955?pwd=vAWtBLIyPRJ9xKl7jVY9rbfdnr09Zn.1 Starts at 11:00am until 12:30 pm Wednesday September 17, 2025 Meeting ID: 850 0905 0955 Passcode: 851451 Interment: Knollwood Cemetery 4362 US-70 Business Clayton, NC. Click on the Add Comment Line Below to leave a message for the Coleman Family Guest Book Family or Deceased Name: Karen Coleman Your Name: Natchez Triumphant SDA Church Email: delithom6@yahoo.com Message: Elder Coleman we are deeply saddened to hear of your loss. We are sending heartfelt prayers and condolences! You are in our thoughts and prayers. May the memories of Karen bring you strength, comfort and peace! Hang in there! All the best wishes for you and your family. Prayerfully yours! Natchez Triumphant SDA Church Date: 6013921138 Family or Deceased Name: Karen Coleman Your Name: Teresa Chappell Email: chapter083@yahoo.com Message: Mr. Coleman and Donna, I am so sorry to hear of Karen’s passing. I never saw her without a smile on her face or a pleasant word that she shared with you when you were in her presence. She will be truly missed. She was such a wonderful person. Prayers for all of you during this time. Teresa Date: 09102025 Family or Deceased Name: Karen Colemen Your Name: Ralph and Rose Dawkins Email: dawkinsr@comcast.net Message: Our hearts are sad to know that someone who we crossed paths with in this life is now gone. We will remember Karen’s beautiful voice as Ralph sang with her in choirs at Atlantic Union College. We send our deepest sympathies to you James and your family. We pray that God sends peace to your hearts as we wait the Second Coming of our Lord and Savior. Sincerely, with Ralph and Rose Dawkins Date: 978-808-7198 Family or Deceased Name: Mrs. Karen Coleman Your Name: Amy Hamby Email: a83101@gmail.com Message: Sending prayers and love to the family. Mrs. Karen was a caring and kind person, with such a sweet soul. She was a dedicated and excellent Nurse, who truly cared about her patients. She was an inspiration to all of us!!
Mrs. Edna McCullers Walker, age 93, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at SECU Hospice House in Smithfield, NC. She was born on May 20, 1932, in Cleveland Township, Johnston County, NC, to Essex and Cynthia McCullers. Edna attended Short Journey School and worked for many years as a sewing operator at the Old Mill Sewing Factory in Clayton. She loved cooking and spending time with her grandchildren. She was a dedicated member of St. Amanda Baptist Church in Garner, NC. Edna was married to the late George Luther Walker. She is survived by her five children: Pamela Sheryl Walker, Brenda Priscilla Walker, Kenneth Lewis Walker, Mary Belle Walker, and Gwendolyn Gail Adams; nine grandchildren; two sisters, Kittrell McCullers and Geraldine McCullers Bryant; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. Viewing: Friday September 12, 2025, at the Walter Sanders Funeral & Cremations Chapel 302 S. Bright Leaf Blvd., Smithfield, NC 27577 from 1:00 pm until 6:00 pm. Funeral Services: Sunday September 14, 2025, at St. Amanda Baptist Church 457 Old Drug Store Rd., Garner, NC 27529 starting at 2:00 pm with viewing from 1:30 pm until 2:00 pm. Click on the Add Comments Line below to leave a message for the family. Guest Book Family or Deceased Name: Edna Walker Your Name: Crystal S Walker Email: Cwalker1461@gmail.com Message: To my grandma you played your role too the T you loved all of us and saved us a lot when we were in trouble you loved us so much and we could do no wrong in your eyes I’m really going to miss you sitting in that rocking chair from sun up to sun down and you always asking for gum I love you run had a good run and im thankful I got to see it through now you take you are with your momma and papa and granddad whom you spoke on a lot now your at peace I love you and will miss you my love it’s not goodbye it’s until we meet again! Crystal Walker Date: 090925 Family or Deceased Name: Edna Walker Your Name: Crystal S Walker Email: Cwalker1461@gmail.com Message: We’re gonna miss you My heart! Date: 09092025 Family or Deceased Name: Edna Walker Your Name: James and Phyllis Eason Email: eason534327@bellsouth.net Message: Ms Edna was a very dear friend and loved by all. She will be missed. Know that she is now in heaven with God and is enjoying herself rocking in her rocking chair by Gods side. To all her children we are so sorry for you loss. James and Phyllis Eason Date: 09092025
Donna Mae Marano (Olson), 84, of Smithfield, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at home on August 19, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones after a short battle with cancer. Born on May 2, 1941, Donna was a loving mother, stepmother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She attended Wausau Senior High School and was a devoted Lutheran who enjoyed being a Bible School Teacher. For many years, she worked as an optician and eventually owned her own business. She loved working with people and always greeted everyone with a smile. Donna had a passion for writing poetry, and was proud to have some of her work published in poetry books. She also had a soft spot for cats, caring for several feral ones and enjoying her own kitties. Donna is preceded in death by her parents, Gilman Olson and Dorothy Boardman; two brothers, Leroy and Edward Olson; her longtime friend and the father of her daughters, Dale Kurth; and nephews Jason Pischke, Jerry Olson, and Kenny Olson. She is survived by her two daughters, Coleen Morse and Christine (Daniel) Revoir; a sister, Mary Olson-Sinz; and two stepchildren, Kari Marano and Brian (Erika) Marano. She also leaves behind two grandson’s, Derek (Casey) Kurth and Brandon Au-yong; three granddaughter’s Sarah and Jessica Morse, and Stephanie (Jason) Rosenow; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family members from Wisconsin whom she loved dearly. A celebration of life will be held at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 2920 Veterans Parkway, Clayton, NC on October 25, 2025, at 2 p.m. Refreshments will be served following the inurnment. A live feed will be available for those who are out of state at http://holycrossclayton.com/ or https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFWp14weSisxJFzEf7lGG UQ. A separate service will be held in Wisconsin at a later date in the spring of 2026. In lieu of flowers, Donna requested that donations be made to a local animal rescue. Click on the Add Comments Line below to leave a message for the family. Guest Book Family or Deceased Name: Donna M. Marano Your Name: Tony Zamora Email: Captzam@gmail.com Message: The angels are always near to those who are grieving, to whisper to them that their loved ones are safe in the hand of God Date: 9-10-25 Family or Deceased Name: Donna M. Marano Your Name: Tanya Woods Email: markwoodswife@yahoo.com Message: I had the pleasure knowing Donna but a short time, but I am friends with her Sister Mary and her Daughter Chris ,My Heart goes out to Donna's Family at this time ,all my Blessings and Prayers 🙏 Date: 9-9-2025
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