Obituary report: James Owen Etheridge, Sherlon Cale Layton, Linwood Chapman Koon, Wilhelm “Willy” Schonenberger, Loretta Ann Hill Smith, Elizabeth Edwards Newberry, Janice Burkett Wagal, W. Robert ‘Bob’ Germain, Anna “Christine” White, Cindy Bateman Sawyer and Lowell Anthony Roberts.
If you have an obituary you would like to add to this week’s obituary report, send it to mileslayton1969@gmail.com
MOYOCK — James Owen Etheridge, a farmer, family man, and one of Currituck County’s most enduring public servants, died of natural causes Thursday, June 25, 2026, at his home in Moyock. He was 74.
Known throughout the county simply as “Owen,” Etheridge had been on a medical leave of absence from the Currituck County Board of Commissioners since October 2025. He died surrounded by loved ones.
Etheridge’s commitment to Currituck County spanned more than two decades of elected service. He was first elected to the Board of Commissioners in 1994, serving through 2002, before being re-elected in 2004 and again in 2018. He represented District 5.
The Currituck County Board of Commissioners remembered him as “a devoted public servant and steadfast advocate for the community he proudly called home,” adding that “his wisdom and genuine care for the community earned the respect of colleagues, county staff, and residents alike.”
As a farmer himself, Etheridge brought firsthand knowledge of the land to his role on the Board. He was widely recognized as a champion for agriculture, working to protect farmland and promote what colleagues described as responsible growth that balanced development with the preservation of Currituck’s rural character. He also represented the county through active involvement with the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners.
Etheridge’s influence extended well beyond the boardroom. He was instrumental in bringing the YMCA to Currituck County, a legacy that Currituck YMCA Executive Director DJ Kophazy called transformative.
“Long before many of the lives we now touch through the Y, Owen believed our community deserved a place where children, families, and seniors could belong, grow, and thrive,” Kophazy said. “His unwavering support was instrumental in bringing the YMCA to Currituck, and because of his dedication, thousands of lives have been forever changed.”
Kophazy described Etheridge as someone with “a genuine servant’s heart” who believed every child deserved an opportunity to succeed. “His legacy is not only found in the decisions he made as a commissioner, but in the smiles of the children who walk through our doors each day,” he said.
The Crawford Township Volunteer Fire Department also mourned his passing, calling Etheridge “a steadfast supporter of volunteer firefighters in Currituck.”
The Board of Commissioners first approved a leave of absence for Etheridge in October 2025, citing health reasons. Chairman Paul O’Neal said at the time, “Owen has served this county for many years and has always had a heart for the county and its people.” The leave was later extended through December 7, 2026, during a special meeting on May 1, 2026. Commissioner Troy Breathwaite was appointed in October 2025 to fill the District 5 seat during Etheridge’s absence.
The Etheridge family has announced the following arrangements:
Visitation will be held Wednesday, July 1, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 965 E. Ridge Road in Shawboro, N.C.
A funeral service will follow Thursday, July 2, at 11 a.m. at the same location, officiated by Mr. Frankie Huggins. A reception for friends and family will immediately follow the service. Interment will be private.
Sherlon Cale Layton
Sherlon Cale Layton, 92, of Edenton, NC entered into eternal rest with his Lord and Savior on June 23, 2026. He was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn Spivey Layton in 2018. Sherlon was the last remaining sibling of John Thomas Layton and Bertha Harrell Layton. He grew up in and loved being a part of a large family of 7 brothers, Elbert, Linwood, Gilbert, Melvin, John Thomas Jr., Raymond, and Fred and 5 sisters Edna Mae, Gladys, Emma, Ima Jean and Carolyn. Family reunions were always special times for him, a tradition that still endures today.
Sherlon was first and foremost a Christian man and to those who knew him, a lifelong Democrat. He practiced his faith by serving as deacon, choir member, RA leader, and other Sunday School positions at Rocky Hock Baptist Church; a church where his grandfather helped construct the original building. By profession, he was a farmer. He took immense pride in growing all crops, but especially peanuts, watermelons and cantaloupes. He believed and practiced that a good grade and quality will sell itself. He cherished the relationships he developed with his customer base through the years. He employed and impacted numerous young men during summers on the farm, many of whom would return to visit years later. Early in his career, in addition to farming, Sherlon was substitute rural mail carrier, Chowan County Tax Supervisor, and Field Tech with ASCS or Farm Service Agency as it is currently known.
In recent years, Sherlon was a resident of Landings of the Albemarle independent living facility in Hertford, where he met and enjoyed the friendship of many of the residents who got the opportunity to listen to his many stories.
Surviving are his daughter, Charlotte Ann Layton of Front Royal, VA; son, Johnny McCoy Layton (Lynne) of Edenton; granddaughter Emily Layton Nobles (John) of Morehead City, NC; grandson, John Thomas Layton (Liza) of Edenton; and his great grandchildren, John Everett Nobles, IV, Nora Bond Nobles, and Henry McCoy (Hank) Layton.
The funeral service will be held Saturday, June 27th, at Rocky Hock Baptist Church at 3pm officiated by senior pastor, Trey Rogers. There will be a reception immediately following the service to visit with the family. Friends and family are welcome to visit in the days ahead at the home of his son, Johnny, 546 Rocky Hock Creek Rd.
Flowers are welcome, or contributions in Sherlon’s memory may be made to Perquimans County Emergency Services PO Box 563, Hertford, NC 27944 or Chowan County EMS, 208 W Hicks St., Edenton, NC 27932 or Rocky Hock Baptist Church 113 Rocky Hock Church Rd., Edenton, NC 27932.
Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 735 Virginia Road, Edenton, NC is assisting the Layton family with arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting http://www.millerfhc.com
Linwood Chapman Koon
Linwood Chapman Koon, 89, passed from this life into his eternal life on June 23, 2026, in Edenton, NC.
He was the youngest and last surviving child born to George D. Koon and Harriett A. Chapman Koon. Link, as he was known to his family , was born and raised in Norfolk County, VA. He retired from Norfolk Naval Shipyard after 20 years. He loved his job and all the people he met through his many years in Shop 64. He was an avid fisherman and in his earlier days, hunting with his brothers.
He was preceded in death by his brothers, Elmer, Jimmy, infant George, Bernard, Frank, and Huey; sisters, Ellen Askew, Patty King, and infant, Julia; and a granddaughter, Erika.
Surviving are his daughters, Judith Bunch and husband, Merle, and Lou Ann Genaux of Virginia Beach, VA; grandchildren, Patricia, Aaron, Paul, Christopher, Timothy, Matthew, Shane, and Daniel; and six Great grandchildren.
Services by the family will be private.
Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 735 Virginia Road, Edenton, NC is assisting the Koon family with arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com
Wilhelm “Willy” Schonenberger
Wilhelm “Willy” Schonenberger, 90, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, June 22, 2026.
Willy was born in Switzerland on May 28, 1936. He immigrated to the United States in 1958 to work as a professional embroidery designer. He proudly served in the US Army National Guard. With his wife, Rosmarie, he later started his own successful embroidery company in West New York, NJ. In 2001, Willy and Rosmarie retired to Edenton, NC where he enjoyed the beauty of the Albemarle Sound. He was an avid gardener and loved art, nature, traveling the world, and spending time with his family.
Willy is survived by his wife Rosmarie, daughters Sheila Harlow (Greg) and Simone Schonenberger (Tony), and grandchildren Zachary and Megan.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Willy’s memory may be made to The Nature Conservancy preserve.nature.org
Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 735 Virginia Road, Edenton, NC is assisting the Schonenberger family with arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com
Loretta Ann Hill Smith
Loretta Ann Hill Smith, 87, of Gatesville, NC, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Friday, June 19, 2026 at Gates House Assisted Living.
Mrs. Smith was born in Washington County on September 20, 1938, and was the wife of the late Frederick Parker “Freddie” Smith, Jr. and daughter of the late Thomas M. and Elizabeth Langston Hill. Loretta last worked as an Eligibility Specialist for Gates County Department of Social Services, and was a member of Gatesville United Methodist Church, and the Gatesville Chapter Order of the Eastern Star. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great grandmother.
Surviving are her two daughters, Kim S. Dilday and her husband Robert Earl of Gatesville, and Deborah S. Powell and her husband Ronnie of Corapeake; two brothers, Thomas M. “Tommy” Hill (Nancy) of Smithfield, VA and Dana W. Hill of Gates; five grandsons, Brian Riddick (Ashley), Andy Riddick (Morgan), Dustin Dilday (Lita), Scott Powell (Divya), and Josh Powell (Nicole); eleven great grandchildren, Brandon, Logan, Ashley, Lyric, Bristyl, Addison, Emma, Raylen, Riley, Brinley, and Surya; four great-great grandchildren, Sailor, Easton, Baker, Carter, and arriving soon: Colton; and an uncle, Douglas Hill (Jacqueline) of Knoxville, TN.
A graveside service will be held Saturday, June 27th at 11:00 a.m. at Somerton United Methodist Church Cemetery, 8610 Whaleyville Boulevard, Suffolk, and will be officiated by Pastor Cody Brinkley. The family will receive friends on Friday from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 304 Main Street, Gatesville.
Flowers are welcomed, or contributions in her memory may be directed to Gatesville United Methodist Church, c/o Barbara Crawford, P.O. Box 134, Gatesville, NC 27938 or one’s favorite charity.
Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 304 Main Street, Gatesville, NC is assisting the Smith family with arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com
Elizabeth Edwards Newberry
Elizabeth Edwards Newberry, of Hertford, NC, passed away peacefully after a long battle of dementia on Monday, June 22, 2026.
Born on February 27, 1940, Elizabeth was the daughter of Samuel Bruce Edwards, Sr. and Hazel Mae Mumford Edwards, both deceased.
Those left to cherish her memory include her loving husband of 68 years, YZ Newberry; her daughters, Catherine N. Davis and Lori N. Moss; two grandchildren, Shannon Davis and Seth Davis; three great grandchildren; and her brother, Bruce Edwards , Jr. and wife, Jackie.
Elizabeth was born in New Bern, NC and was raised in Beaufort, NC, where she graduated High School in 1958 and later married the love of her life, YZ Newberry on June 7, 1958. YZ went on active duty with the U.S. Coast Guard in July of 1958. After his military service, he went into law enforcement, eventually retiring from the NC Highway Patrol in 1989. Elizabeth was a bookkeeper for Cyrus Aydlet Realty for many years. She also loved crafts and embroidery, making lots of items around the house. She loved cats and always took good care of them. Elizabeth and YZ liked to travel to Cancun, Mexico where they made several trips.
A memorial service celebrating Elizabeth’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, June 26, 2026 at Woodland Pathway Community Church, 453 Woodland Church Road, Hertford, NC 27944.
Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 1125 Harvey Point Road, Hertford, NC is assisting the Newberry family with arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com
Janice Burkett Wagal
Janice Burkett Wagal, 77, of Ahoskie, passed away Sunday, June 21, 2026 in Ahoskie House. She was born in Hertford County on Saturday, May 14, 1949, and was the daughter of the late Merrick Singleton Burkett and Bessie Marie Tillery Burkett.
Growing up on a farm, Janice enjoyed working with her hands, and was known as, “Nannie Mae.” She kept a vegetable garden and was especially known for her love of tomatoes as well as her cooking skills. She enjoyed listening to Elton John’s music. Janice also loved dancing, family gatherings, and giving to others.
She is survived by her daughter, Deborah Cordrey Bolam and her husband, Joey of Ahoskie; four sons, Victor N. Overton and his wife, Lori of Apex, Richard Ashley Overton and his wife, Missy of Selma, Francis E. “Frankie” Cordrey and his wife, Suzanne of Millennium, and C. Andrew Wagal of Whiteville; two sisters, Virgia Nichols of Ahoskie, and Brenda Guill and her husband, Carlton of Surprise, AZ; three brothers, Wayne Burkett and his wife, Julia of St. John, Richard Burkett and his wife, Jean of Colrain, and Ray Burkett and his wife, Gail of Menola; nine grandchildren, Allen, Alex, Kayla, and Ashlyn Overton, Alexis and Gage Bolam, Kaitlyn and Cole Cordrey, and Michael Wagal; several great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Janice was also survived by her life-long friend, Ruth “Ruthie” Earley. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Marie Hembree; and a brother, J.C. Burkett.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, June 25, 2026 from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 304 Main Street, Gatesville and throughout the week at Deborah Bolam’s residence. A Memorial Service will be held Thursday at 4:00 pm in the funeral home conducted by Pastor Greg Hurdle. Interment will be private.
Please share a memory with the family via the Online Guestbook.
W. Robert ‘Bob’ Germain
W. Robert ‘Bob’ Germain, of Edenton, NC, passed peacefully surrounded by family at home on June 17, 2026. Born in Detroit, MI to the late G.C. Ronald and Mabel (Vincent) Germain, Bob approached life with enthusiasm and unwavering optimism.
Growing up in Michigan, Bob developed a lifelong passion for boats and trains. After graduating from the University of Michigan in 1964, he pursued a career in Naval Architecture in the Maritime Shipping and Transport Industry, spending the majority of his career at Mormac Marine Group as Vice President of Operations. In his spare time, Bob built model train layouts and boats in his workshop, took family and friends sailing, volunteered with many local groups such as the Edenton Lions Club and Edenton Historical Commission, and sang in the Church Choir and the Albemarle Sounds Barbershop Chorus as a talented tenor.
Bob was known for his great love of family. He met his beloved wife Jan (Wilson) at the age of 16 and they enjoyed many adventures together during their 62 years of marriage. Bob took great joy in spending time with his children and grandchildren, and his creative gingerbread houses became a legendary family tradition. During his 85 years, Bob touched many lives with his playful sense of humor, integrity, and warm, caring spirit. He loved to fix things and always tried to do the right thing. If you needed help, Bob would offer a hand, and likely make you laugh along the way. His legacy of curiosity, humor, honesty, and love will forever be an inspiration.
Bob leaves behind his beloved wife, Janice; his children, Debbie (Steve) Dotson, Cindy Germain and Rob Germain; his grandchildren, Matt (Megan), Will, Kat, and Bridgette Dotson; his brother, Ronald (Nancy) Germain and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister Carol (Rudy) Hill and his nephew Nathan Schroeder.
A memorial service will be held on July 18, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Edenton United Methodist Church.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Bob’s memory may be made to the Edenton Lions Club or The BrightFocus Foundation Macular Degeneration Research Program.
Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 735 Virginia Road, Edenton, NC is assisting the Germain family with arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting http://www.millerfhc.com
Anna “Christine” White
Anna “Christine” White, of 552 Gliden Road, Hobbsville, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at her home on June 17, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and faithful servant of the Lord, Christine lived a life marked by kindness, compassion, and unwavering dedication to her family, church, and community.
Christine retired as an office manager with Edenton Office Supply, where she was known for her strong work ethic and warm spirit. A graduate of Chowan High School, she remained deeply connected to the community she loved throughout her life.
A lifelong member of Warwick Baptist Church, Christine faithfully served in numerous leadership roles over the years. Her passion for sharing God’s love with others was evident through her service as leader of the children’s choir, the “Good News Singers,” Girls in Action (GAs), Acteens, Women’s Missionary Union (WMU), the church nursery, social committee, choir, and flower committee. Her dedication to her church family and her selfless service touched countless lives across generations.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Junius White and Leona Parks White, and her daughter-in-law, Gail Umphlett White.
Left to cherish her memory is her devoted husband of more than 60 years, Joseph W. White, Jr.; her daughter, Cynthia “Cindy” Phthisic and husband, Tim; her son, Junius “Warren” White; her grandchildren, Ryan Phthisic and wife, Katie, Weston Phthisic and wife, Ali, and Riddick White and wife, Faelynn.
Christine found her greatest joy in her family, especially her beloved great-grandchildren, Harper, Ivy, and Waylon Phthisic, who lovingly knew her as “Tine Tine.”
The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to Linda Abbott, NP, for her years of compassionate care, friendship, and support.
A visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Friday, June 19, 2026, at Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, Hertford Chapel, 1125 Harvey Point Road, Hertford, North Carolina.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Warwick Baptist Church, 4314 Virginia Road, Hobbsville, North Carolina, with the Rev. Russell Blanchard officiating. Burial will follow in Warwick Baptist Church Cemetery.
Flowers are welcome, or memorial contributions may be made to Warwick Baptist Church General Fund, 4314 Virginia Road, Hobbsville, NC 27946, or to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 840692, Dallas, TX, 75284-0692
Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home, 1125 Harvey Point Road, Hertford, NC, is assisting the White family. Online condolences may be shared with the family at http://www.millerfhc.com.
Cindy Bateman Sawyer
Cindy Bateman Sawyer, age 71, of Elizabeth City, NC, died on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. She was born in Jarvisburg, NC, on February 21, 1955, to the late William Luther Bateman and Betty Beasley Bateman, and was the widow of David Alvin Sawyer.
She was a dedicated self-employed cosmetologist who brought beauty and joy to many through her cherished shop, Hair Images. After retiring from her business, she continued her commitment to serving others by volunteering at Hopeline, where her compassion and dedication eventually led to a fulfilling role as an employee. Cindy’s caring nature also extended to her work at the Battered Women’s Shelter and Thrift Store, where she offered support and comfort to those in need.
She is survived by her daughter, Anna Sadler (Billy); her sister, Michelle Bateman; her brother, Jerry Bateman (Tena); three grandchildren, Raven Wynn, Justin Sadler, and Jared Sadler; and her special friend, Brett. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her sister, Rosa Johnston, and her brother, Buddy Bateman.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Cindy’s generous spirit and unwavering dedication to helping others will be cherished in the hearts of all who knew her.
Twiford Funeral Homes, 405 E. Church Street, Elizabeth City, NC, is honored to assist the Sawyer family. Condolences and memories may be shared on Cindy’s obituary page at www.TwifordFH.com.
Helen Fay Winslow
Helen Fay Winslow, age 82, of Elizabeth City, NC, passed away on Thursday, June 25, 2026. She was born in Elizabeth City, NC, on October 7, 1943, to the late Ackiss Love Gregory and Geneva Ownley Gregory, and was the wife of Arland Ulysses Winslow.
Helen was a woman of many passions, finding joy in cooking delicious meals for her loved ones and losing herself in the pages of a good book. She had a deep admiration for Elvis, and his music often filled her home. Helen was also an avid fan of NASCAR, cheering on her favorite drivers. Baseball was another of her favorite pastimes.
In addition to her spouse of 63 years, she is survived by two daughters, Denise W. Stallings (Ricky) of Belvidere, NC, and Andrea W. Buford (Alan) of Catlett, VA; three grandchildren, Amber Pawlowski (Tom), Matthew Buford, and Macy Buford; and two great-grandchildren, Brooks Pawlowski and Teagan Pawlowski. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Margaret Ann Bright, her brother, Curtis Gregory, her grandson, Rusty Stallings, and her sister-in-law, Patricia Berry Gregory.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at Twiford Memorial Chapel, with Chaplain Kevin Reiver officiating. Inurnment will be at Up River Cemetery. Helen’s service will be live streamed on her obituary page at www.TwifordFH.com.
Helen’s gentle spirit and kind heart touched all who knew her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to share in her life’s journey.
Twiford Funeral Homes, 405 E. Church Street, Elizabeth City, NC, is honored to serve the Winslow family. Condolences and memories may be shared on Helen’s obituary page at www.TwifordFH.com.
Lowell Anthony Roberts
Lowell Anthony Roberts, age 87, of Powells Point, NC, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 26, 2026, at his home. He was born in Sea Isle City, NJ, on September 29, 1938, to the late Rufus Dunbar Roberts and Ann Caroon Roberts, and was the husband of Marion O’Neal Roberts.
Lowell proudly served his country as a member of the U.S. Coast Guard, dedicating years to protecting and serving with honor. Following his military service, he continued his commitment to public service as an enforcement investigator with the State Corporation Commission of Virginia, from which he retired after a distinguished career.
A man of deep faith, Lowell was a cherished member of the Currituck Bible Baptist Church in Grandy, where he found community and spiritual fulfillment. His love for gospel music was well known, and he often expressed his joy through playing the guitar and mandolin, bringing comfort and happiness to those around him.
In addition to his wife, Marion, he is survived by a daughter, Lynn Roberts Fisher, and her husband, Alfred; four grandchildren, Timothy, Andrew, Meagan (and her husband, Nehemias), and Kaylyn. Lowell’s legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Lorelai, Cassidy, Cameron, Josias, and Sofia. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Alethia Roberts Sawyer; and a brother, Morrison Roberts.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date at Currituck Bible Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Currituck Bible Baptist Church, 6339 Caratoke Highway, Grandy, NC 27939, in recognition of his enduring faith and dedication to his church community.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks, 500 Budleigh Street, Manteo, NC, is honored to assist the Roberts family. Condolences and memories may be shared on Lowell’s obituary page at www.TwifordFH.com
