Frank Sims Erwin ’30, 100, of Raleigh, N.C., died Nov. 10. He is survived by his sons, John Crawford Erwin and Thomas S. Erwin, 1305 College Pl., Raleigh, NC 27605. He was preceded in death by his wife, Frances Crawford Erwin.

Joseph C. Houston ’32, of Townsend, Tenn., passed away Jan. 2 at his home. He was the son of the late Rev. Robert L. and Henrietta Muecke Houston, a member of Lake Hills Presbyterian Church, a graduate of Davidson, and a veteran of World War II, having served with the U.S. Navy. He retired from the Oak Ridge Institute of Nuclear Studies and the Social Security Administration. He was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn Davis Rust Houston; brother, Robert Lockhart Houston ’31; and stepson, James U. Rust. Survivors include his stepdaughter, Linda Hale (William Hale), 4300 Stacey Ct., Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250-2115; stepdaughter-in-law, Arleene Rust; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; niece, Ann Houston Fisher; and two great-nephews.

John Hill Fitzgerald, Jr. ’34 died Nov. 27 in Lincolnton, N.C. He was a native of Crewe and a graduate of the University of Virginia School of Medicine and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. He moved to Lincolnton and opened his medical practice in December 1940. He retired from the medical profession in 1998 after 58 years of service. He is survived by five sons, John H. Fitzgerald III, 203 Glover Rd., Zebulon, GA 30295-3245; James G. Fitzgerald, N. Brandt Fitzgerald, C. Montgomery Fitzgerald, and Fred S. Fitzgerald; two daughters, Anne F. Godfrey and Elizabeth F. Stowe; 21 grandchildren; and 32 great-grandchildren.

Edwin Cornelius Womble ’35 of Laurinburg, N.C., died Nov. 29 at Scotia Village after a period of declining health. He was born in Wagram, N.C., on Oct. 8, 1915, the son of Seaton Jehu Womble and Edith Arey Womble. He began school in what is now known as the Temperance Hall just outside of Wagram and later graduated from Spring Hill High School in 1931. After high school he attended Presbyterian Junior College and graduated from Davidson. For the next several years he worked in his father’s hardware business until he decided that medicine was his calling. He attended Wake Forest Medical School and graduated from the Medical College of South Carolina in 1942. He married Lena Thompson of Gastonia, whom he met while she was a student at Flora MacDonald College. During World War II, he served as a captain in the Army Air Corps in Italy. In 1947 he began his private practice in Wagram. Until his retirement in 1985, he served in many capacities in the healthcare community. He was the physician for the department of corrections for 29 years, served as a county medical examiner for 20 years, and was a member of the board of health for 22 years. Ed was active in community and civic activities. He was on the Wagram School Committee and later served for seven years on the Scotland County School Board during the time of desegregation and consolidation of the county schools. He was active in American Legion Post 441 and in the Wagram Activity Association. In later years, the Golden Kiwanis Club occupied much of his time. He was a lifelong member of Montpelier Presbyterian Church, where he served many years as an elder and Sunday school teacher. Ed is survived by his daughter Olivia W. Griffin (Dr. Richard Griffin), 748 Wood Hollow Rd., Taylorsville, NC 28681-7632; and his sons, Andrew Womble (Emily McNeill Womble), Marvin Womble (Cynthia Edge Womble), and Theron Womble (Peggy Jordan Womble). He is also survived by nine grandchildren, Karen Reese (Evan), Sarah Griffin-Green (Zachary), Mary Griffin, Mary Beth Buie (Parks), Graham Womble (Melanie), Sharon Hendrix (John), Seaton Womble, Seth Womble (Katie), Jordan Womble (Amy): two step-grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and a sister, Edith Womble Boland. He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Lena Thompson Womble; and sisters, Mary Womble Boland, Lottie Raynor Womble, and Frances Womble Fulp.

William J. Robinson ’36, formerly of Charlotte, N.C., died from kidney failure in Bozeman, Mont., on Dec. 23, two days short of his 95th birthday. Robbie was born on Dec. 25, 1913, in Matthews, N.C., to Walter Stitt and Mary Jamison Robinson. He attended Davidson, and received his medical degree from the Medical College of Virginia in Richmond. While an intern at Louisville General Hospital, he met the love of his life, Jane Brown, who was a nurse at the time. They married in 1942, three days before Robbie shipped out to the Philippines as an Army medical officer in World War II. After returning from the war, Robbie did his residency in psychiatry at the Menninger Clinic in Topeka, Kans. After a short stint with the VA system, Robbie began a private practice of psychiatry in the Kansas City area. Robbie retired from his medical practice in 1974 and continued to live in the Kansas City area until October when Robbie and Jane moved to Bozeman to be with their son, Bill, and his family. Robbie was an avid sports fan, who cheered and, at times, cursed the Kansas City Chiefs for 45 years. In addition, Robbie was an active member of the senior men’s golf league in Overland Park, Kans., and, at age 94, was proud to have won the trophy as the oldest player in the league. Survivors include his wife, Jane Robinson, Birchwood, 1201 Highland Blvd., Bozeman, MT 59715; his sons, William Robinson (Deborah) and David Robinson ’69 (Jane); grandchildren, Amy Tatum (Trei), Mindy Starc (Cameron), Lee Robinson, and Tyler Kimball; great-grandchildren, John Tatum IV and Madison Tatum; sisters, Barry Hemby and Virginia Steele; his brother, Stitt Robinson ’39; and his nephew, James Paul Houser, Jr. ’67. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Elizabeth Houser and Louise Robinson; and his brother, Tom Robinson.

Heman Robinson Clark ’37 died peacefully at his home in Raleigh, N.C., on Dec. 5. He was born Sept. 12, 1915, in Elizabethtown, N.C., to Jerome Bayard Clark and Helen Purdie Robinson Clark. He will be long remembered for his gentle humor, his compassion, and his special ability to inspire others to serve the greater public good. Clark received his A.B. degree from Davidson. Following in both his father’s and brother’s footsteps, he graduated from the University of North Carolina School of Law in 1940, where he was class president. After passing the bar exam, he married and began raising a family in Fayetteville. His 67-year legal career flourished under the tutorship of his father, J. Bayard Clark, who served for 20 years as a U.S. Congressman from North Carolina. Clark was a World War II veteran, attaining the rank of second lieutenant. He served as post judge advocate, stationed in Camp Blanding, Fla. At war’s end, Clark resumed the practice of law and then was selected as assistant solicitor in Cumberland County Superior Court. In 1958, Governor Luther Hodges appointed him as a superior court judge. After winning election to this position, he served until 1963. He returned to the private practice of law and shortly thereafter began his 20-year service as Cumberland County attorney. He served as chairman of the Cumberland County Democratic Party for 10 years. In 1967, he was named North Carolina Outstanding County Attorney by the North Carolina Association of County Attorneys. He was also the president of the Cumberland County Bar Association and was inducted into the North Carolina Bar Association’s Legal Hall of Fame for General Practice. Clark and his first wife, Mary Read Harris, worked tirelessly for compassionate mental health reform. Highland Presbyterian Church in Fayetteville was Clark’s lifelong foundation. In 1982, after the unexpected death of his first wife, Governor James B. Hunt, Jr. called Clark back to public service as secretary of the Department of Crime Control and Public Safety. In 1984, he joined the law firm of Sanford, Adams, McCullough, and Beard where his primary focus was the government relations group. Clark married Mary Jane Ethridge in 1991 after working with her on a judicial campaign in 1990. In 2005, Governor Michael F. Easley conferred upon him the state’s highest civilian honor, The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, for his “integrity, learning and zeal.” He was preceded in death by his treasured wife of 40 years, Mary Read Harris, and two of his siblings, Martha Holton Clark Hutaff and Jerome Bayard Clark, Jr. Immediate family survivors include his devoted wife of 17 years, Mary Jane Ethridge Clark, 1407 Canterbury Rd., Raleigh, NC 27608-1903; his three children of his first marriage, Mary Laurens Clark, Jerome Bayard Clark II, and Martha Holton Clark; his grandson, William Bayard Bondshu; and his sister, Helen Purdie Clark Jackson.

Frank Swift Poe ’37, of Greenville, S.C., died Oct. 29. He was born in Washington, D.C., the son of the late Harry Tinker Poe, Jr. and Julia May Swift Poe. He graduated from Davidson with a B.A. degree cum laude. He served in the U.S. Army from 1941–1946 in various posts in the U.S., in the 24th division in the Pacific Theatre, and in the occupation of Japan. He retired with the rank of colonel after 30 years of service. He worked for the Travelers Insurance Company in Charlotte, N.C., and the Alester G. Furman Co. He was president of the Furman Agency and senior vice president of Marsh McLennon Co. He was the first in the Carolinas to be awarded the Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriters title in 1951. He was active in the First Presbyterian Church, having served as a deacon, elder, and treasurer. He was a member of the Saint Andrews Society, the English Speaking Union, the Collectors Group of the Greenville Art Museum, the South Carolina Historical Society, the Greenville Historian Society, the Retired Officers Association, the National Trust for Historical Preservation, and the Civil War Preservation Trust. He was preceded in death by his wife, Rosalie Haynes Poe, and is survived by his sons, Frank S. Poe, Jr. and George W. Poe ’74 (Sylviane), 92 Lake Bratton Ln., Sewanee, TN 37375; and four granddaughters, Mary Harper Poe Vergel de Dios, Rosalie Haynes Poe, Caroline Martin Poe, and Lindsay Camille Poe.

Fred William Dennis ’38, of Concord, N.C., died Nov. 13 at The Bob and Carolyn Tucker Hospice House. Born Feb. 4, 1916, he was the son of the late Joe and Stella Corzine Dennis. He graduated from Davidson and served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He owned Dennis Furniture Co. He was a member of Central UMC and the Concord Rotary Club, where he was a Paul Harris Fellow and the North Carolina Rotarian of the Year in 2007. He was preceded in death by his wife, Sue Batte Dennis. Survivors include daughters, Susan Kennerly; Ginger Miyamoto, 6417 Cardinal Ln., Apt. 641, Columbia, MD 21044-4020; and Nancy Jo King; six grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

Lawrence Gibson Reid ’38, of Winston-Salem, N.C., died Dec. 12 at Arbor Acres. Lawrence was born in Winston-Salem to William Lewis Reid and Rillie Garrison Reid on Oct. 14, 1917. He received a B.A. from Davidson, where he was very active in basketball and as manager of the student store. He went to work for Washington Mills, working in Fries, Va., and New York City. In 1941 he was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Naval Reserve. He served throughout World War II as a gunnery officer on destroyers, attaining a rank of commander. He served first on the USS Trippe in the North Atlantic and Mediterranean campaigns. He received a citation from the secretary of the Navy for outstanding service in the Mediterranean and a citation from the commander of the Atlantic Fleet. In 1944 and 1945 he served on the USS Sutherland in the Pacific. The Sutherland was the first Allied ship into Tokyo harbor after the surrender of Japan. He has written a book, Tales of a Tin Can Sailor, about his experience in World War II. Lawrence returned to Winston-Salem to work for Washington Mills becoming vice president and secretary of the company. He was vice president and president of the YMCA and president of the Red Cross Board where he was instrumental in bringing the blood services program to this chapter. He was a lifelong member of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church and served on the vestry many times. He had been a Rotary member for over 50 years. He also served on the boards of Senior Services and the Chamber of Commerce. In 1973, he resigned from Washington Mills, and, with P. Frank Hanes, Richmond Roberts, and Richard Hampton, started a new company, Carolon. Through his leadership, the company developed many unique and patented health care textile products sold throughout the world. The company is located in Rural Hall, N.C. He is survived by his wife, Eleanor Balfour Angas Reid, 1250 Arbor Rd., Winston-Salem, NC 27104. Also surviving are three children, Virginia B. Dossinger (James), Lawrence G. Reid, Jr. (Theresa), and A. William Reid (Jane); nine grandchildren, Laura B. Slawter (Michael), J. Reid Dossinger, Mary C. Dossinger, David L. Reid, Ellen G. Reid, A. Alexander Reid, John A. Reid, Andrew W. Reid, and Virginia E. Reid; two great-grandchildren, James L. Slawter and William R. Slawter. a brother, William L. Reid; two nieces, Betsy Reid Creedon (Gaylord) and Margaret Reid Ogden (Dayton); and several great and great-great nieces and nephews.

William Riley Roberson, Jr. ’39, of Washington, N.C., died Jan. 3. He was born June 6, 1918, in Washington, N.C., son of the late Rosa Watson Roberson and W.R. Roberson, Sr. He attended Davidson and graduated from Strayer-Bryant-Stratton College in Baltimore in 1938. In 1940, he married Frances Dillard Morgan of Washington, N.C., who preceded him in death Nov. 3, 1999. Surviving are daughter, Robin (Charles Zoph Potts); son, William Riley Roberson III (Olivia Grimes Roberson), 164 Riverwalk Dr., Washington, NC 27889; six grandchildren, Riley Frances Simpson, Charles Zophar Potts, Jr. (Christie Lewis Potts), Reed Mills Potts (Casey Hockaday Potts), Morgan Patterson Potts (Joy Law Potts), William “Will” Riley Roberson IV (Tabitha Domian Roberson), and Lilly Grimes Roberson Jones (Dr. Marcus Hardee Jones); and six great-grandchildren, Raven Cassandra Simpson, Morgan Alexandra Potts, Latham Gray Potts, Skylar Elizabeth Potts, Davis Roberson Jones, and Olivia Stanfield Jones. He had one sister, Hannah (Mrs. James Bagwell); and one brother, Joseph Phil Roberson, now deceased. Bill had homes in Washington and Atlantic Beach. From 1986 to 1998 they also resided in Bath. Also surviving is a very special friend, Ms. Peggy Jordan. He was a member and former elder and deacon at the First Presbyterian Church in Washington. He was chairman and chief executive officer of Roberson’s Beverages, Inc., a family-owned business operating several bottling plants in Eastern North Carolina from 1946 until 1982. He was past president of both the North Carolina Soft Drink Association and the National Soft Drink Association. He served 12 years as a member of the board of directors of the Dr. Pepper Company, Dallas, Tex. In 1989, he received the first award for distinguished and meritorious service given by the North Carolina Soft Drink Association. In 1989, he was elected to the Beverage World Hall of Fame. he had a long and varied career in broadcasting starting as a founder of WRRF Radio in Washington and WRRZ Radio in Clinton. A companion FM station in Washington followed in the 50s. He was a founder and 30-year chairman and chief executive officer of WITN-TV, an NBC affiliate. He was a past president of the North Carolina Association of Broadcasters and recipient of the North Carolina Broadcasters’ Hall of Fame Award. He served as a member of the NBC-TV Board of Delegates representing over 200 NBC-TV affiliates with the network. He was a former member of Broadcast Pioneers and the International Radio and Television Society. He served as a member of the Board of Directors of the Bank of Washington and its successors for 33 years. He served as a charter member of the advisory board of Duke Hospital and as director of ECU Medical Foundation. He was a former member of the Davidson College Board of Visitors and was a former trustee of Atlantic Christian College. He was a former member of the board and president of the North Carolina Art Society and a trustee emeritus of the North Carolina Museum of Art, where, in 1997, he created a fund to establish and perpetuate the “William R. Roberson, Jr. and Frances M. Roberson Endowment for North Carolina Art.” He was also a member of the Governor’s Business Council on the Arts and Humanities. Bill was a member and past master of Washington Masonic Lodge #675, a member of Sudan Temple, past president of the Washington Lion’s Club, and a charter member of the Washington Jaycees. He served as a representative in North Carolina General Assembly from 1966 until 1974. He introduced or co-introduced legislation which created Goose Creek State Park, the Swan Quarter-Ocracoke Ferry, Beaufort County Community College—which at that time was a branch of Pitt County Technical Institute, and the Coastal Area Management Act. He was active in passing legislation that made possible East Carolina University and the ECU School of Medicine. He was appointed secretary of the North Carolina Department of Transportation by Governor James B. Hunt, Jr. in 1981 and served until Governor Hunt left office in January 1985.

William Feimster Withers ’39, a lifelong resident of Davidson, N.C., died Dec. 5 at Gordon Hospice House in Statesville, N.C. Born March 2, 1918, in Mecklenburg County, he was a son of the late Dr. James J. Withers and Lottie Feimster Withers. He attended Davidson, was a life member of the Lions Club and Woodmen of the World, and was a member of Davidson College Presbyterian Church and the men’s Sunday school class. Bill was employed with Blythe Brothers in his early years, and, with his wife, was owner and operator of Withers Electric Company of Davidson. He enjoyed traveling, whether it was the yearly family outings to Crescent Beach or his trips abroad. Survivors include his sons, William F. Withers, Jr., Richard S. Withers (June), and David I. Withers ’86 (Kathryne), 605 Skyview Dr., Nashville, TN 37206-1841; daughters, Elizabeth Estes (Dayton), Nancy Dishman, and Mary Sanders (Joseph); 15 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Johnsie Howard Withers; brothers, James Jr., Thomas ’42 and Robert ’48 Withers; and sisters, Mary Withers, Alice W. Sharpe, and Martha W. Allen. Memorials may be made to Davidson College Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 337, Davidson, NC 28036.

Isaac Edward “Ed” Whisnant ’41, of Snead Island in Palmetto, Fla., passed away Oct. 13 at Tidewell Hospice. He was a local attorney with offices in Bradenton where he practiced law for over 35 years. He lived in Manatee County with his family since 1964, moving there as a trust officer and vice president with First National Bank of Bradenton. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, clients and colleagues who remember his “one of a kind” personality that combined a strict code of honor and ethics with a great sense of humor and spirit of fun. He loved cheering for his beloved University of Florida fighting Gators. He also enjoyed supporting the Manatee High School wrestling team, The Tampa Bay Rays, the Pittsburgh Pirates, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Ed was born on July 22, 1920, in Clover, S.C., and was raised in North Carolina. He attended Davidson for one year, where he was an outstanding and undefeated freshman wrestler. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in Washington, D.C., in 1939 and served on active duty for 23 years, including 10 years overseas. He was stationed for four years in Africa during World War II and later served in Japan and Korea during the Korean Conflict, receiving the Bronze Star. He retired as a lieutenant colonel in 1962. He was a graduate of the University of Maryland and received his juris doctorate law degree from the University of Florida after retiring from the Army. He established a private law practice in Bradenton in 1972 and continued to practice law until his demise. Ed was a past commodore of the Bradenton Yacht Club, where he was an avid and competitive sailor. He was a member of the Kiwanis Club of Bradenton where he served on the board of directors and received the perfect attendance award for 30 years. He was a past president and past general chairman of the Hernando Desoto Historical Society, an officer in the American Cancer Society, and most recently served as treasurer of the Fogartyville Cemetery Association. He was a member of the American Bar Association, the Florida Bar Association, and the Manatee County Bar Association where he was honored, along with 11 of his contemporaries, as a “Legend of the Bar” in 2004. He served as head elder, elder, and deacon at Palma Sola Presbyterian Church during his membership there and was chairman of the building committee which raised funds to build the sanctuary. He also was a 32nd degree Mason. He was preceded in death by his sister, Evelyn Eley Reel. Survivors include his wife, Fae R. Whisnant, 4707 Snead Island Rd., Palmetto, FL 34221-5704; two children, William R. Whisnant and Sarah Whisnant; a grandson, James Edward Deans; and nephews, Kent Eley and Kirk Eley.

Frank N. Mebane, Jr. ’43, of Maitland, Fla., died Aug. 29 at Winter Park Hospital with his family by his side. Frank was born in Bradenton, Fla., on Feb. 17, 1921, the son of Frank and Ruth Mebane. He was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth Dyson Mebane, in 1985. Frank served in the U.S. Army and was a member and lay reader at Holy Cross Episcopal Church in Sanford. Frank managed the Mayfield Inn in Sanford and also worked with his father at the Mebane Oil Company in Orlando. He was a member of the Screen Actors Guild. Frank is survived by three children, Shelley M. Register (Tom), 427 Citrus Ln., Maitland, FL 32751-5973; Gay M. Kone (Bill); and Frank N. Mebane III (Betsy); and grandchildren, Scott, Caitlyn, Mindi, Frank IV, Matthew, Michael, and William. Frank was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who lived a very full 87 years and enjoyed playing golf and bridge every day and watching his kids and grandkids grow up. His acting career was his passion; he loved being in front of the camera, and his great smile and wit were not lost there. Even in death Frank helped others by donating his organs. He loved God and is now in peace with Him and reunited with love of his life and wife of 40 years, Elizabeth.

Henry Deane McIntosh ’43, of Lakeland, Fla., died on Dec. 26. Born July 19, 1921, in Gainesville, Fla., and raised in West Palm Beach, Henry was a distinguished cardiologist and teacher. He served as chief of cardiology at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, N.C., and chief of medicine at the Methodist Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Tex. He later practiced at the Watson Clinic in Lakeland and St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa. He was past president of the American College of Cardiology and founder of Heartbeat International, an international pacemaker distribution network, which received a Presidential Citation from President Reagan in 1986. During WW II, he served in the U.S. Parachute Infantry Office of Strategic Services and earned the Silver Star and Croix de Guerre. He was a graduate of Davidson and the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. In Lakeland, he was an active member of First Presbyterian Church and Rotary International. Henry is survived by his wife of 63 years, Harriet Owens McIntosh, 6 Lake Hunter Dr., Apt. J5, Lakeland, FL 33803-1298; two sons, Thomas Irvine McIntosh and James Owens McIntosh; daughter, Betsy McIntosh McCrary; seven grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter.

John Minor Richeson ’44, of Martinsville, Va., died Jan. 15 in Martinsville. He was born in Waynesville, N.C., on April 23, 1922, to Lancelot Minor Richeson and Ethel Louise Evans Richeson. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth C. Richeson. Jack received a B.S. degree in chemistry from Davidson and attended two semesters at Duke University as part of the Marine Corps Officer Training program. He was a captain in the Marine Corps during World War II, serving in the Pacific, Hawaii, and Japan. He also served during the Korean War and was stationed at Camp Lejeune for a time. He was an engineer and supervisor at DuPont in Martinsville for 38 years and was a member of the Service Corps of Retired Executives. He was a member and elder at First Presbyterian Church of Martinsville. Surviving are a daughter, Elizabeth Ann Owens, 1007 Valient Ln., Martinsville, VA 24112-5636; a son, Robert Lutz Richeson; a sister, Dorothy Virginia Stringfield; three grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

George Belk Peters, Sr. ’47, a native and lifelong resident of Kingsport, Tenn., passed away Nov. 4 after a brief illness. He was the son of the late Robert Lynn Peters, Sr. and Mary Belk Peters. George graduated from Davidson where he was president of the senior class. He was an outstanding athlete in both high school and college and was inducted into the Athletics Hall of Fame at Davidson in 1994. He served in the 69th infantry division as lieutenant and met the Russians at the Elbe River. George was a very active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Kingsport for 80 years and served as a deacon. He worked in the printing and binding business for the Kingsport Press and Southeastern Color Graphics. George had a love of family, sports, and singing and performed with a local band, The Has Beens, for many years. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his two brothers, Robert Lynn Peters, Jr., and his twin brother, Thomas Landon Peters, who was killed in action during World War II. George is survived by his wife of 62 years, Emily Loftis Peters, 1935 Manor Ct., Kingsport, TN 37660; three sons, George Belk Peters, Jr. (Ann), Thomas Loftis Peters (Mindy), James Barton Peters ’80 (Donna); and three granddaughters, Amanda, Jessica, and Katie.

Gurney “Geep” Pritchett Whiteley ’47, of Rockbridge Baths, Va., died Aug. 17 at Augusta Medical Center. Born Jan. 16, 1923, in Whitset, N.C., he was a son of the late Gurney Leslie Whiteley and Lece Pritchett Whiteley. Surviving are his wife, Nancy Sowers Whiteley, 31 Hide-Away Ln., Rockbridge Baths, VA 24473; two sons, David Whiteley and Jonathan Whiteley; one daughter, Patricia Whiteley; a stepson, Todd Cook; a stepdaughter, Betsy Cook; grandchildren, Jonathan and Stephanie Whiteley, and Nicholas and Nolan Cook; and great-grandson, Tyler Whiteley. He was always proud to be an alumnus of Davidson. Following Davidson, he received a bachelor of divinity degree in 1950 from Union Theological Seminary. He also received a master of theology degree from Austin Seminary in 1958, and a doctor of ministry degree from McCormick Seminary in 1975.

A. David Walker, Jr. ’48, of Wilmington and formerly of Chadbourn, N.C., died Oct. 15. Dave was a Navy veteran. He is survived by his daughter, Nancy Black; sons, Rick and John; seven grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his nephew, Ben Ormond III, 9520 Deerfield Cir., Laurinburg, NC 28352-7869.

Torrence Eli Hemby, Jr. ’50, of Charlotte, N.C., died peacefully on Dec. 6 at his home surrounded by his loving family. Born in Charlotte, N.C., on Sept. 2, 1925, Torrey was the son of the late Torrence Eli Hemby, Sr. and May Beverly Hemby. He is also preceded in death by his beloved wife, Hilda Wiseman Hemby, his brother, Alex Dawson Hemby, and his granddaughter, Ashlan Hemby Burnett. Torrey loved his family with all his heart. He taught his loved ones the importance of taking care of each other and staying in touch with one another on a daily basis. He strongly believed in supporting civic, religious, and charitable organizations. He had a kind heart and a generous spirit, especially when he knew his philanthropic efforts would benefit the children of his community and state. He attended Davidson and proudly served in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Wisconsin during World War II. He joined Standard Trucking Company, a family business, in 1950 and later served as president and chairman of the board until he sold the company in 1980. He formed Hemby Investments and Beverly Crest Corporation, serving as president of both until his retirement. Torrey was a member of the board of directors of American Bank and Trust of Monroe, First Union National Bank of Charlotte, and the YMCA of Charlotte. Additionally, he served on the Presbyterian Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees. He was a lifelong member of Myers Park Presbyterian Church, where he served as a deacon, an elder, and a member of the endowment committee. In his younger years, Torrey loved fishing aboard his boat, The Windsong, and he was a proud member of the United States Tuna Team. He also enjoyed many years of bird and duck hunting with good friends. Some of his fondest memories included the dove shoots that he hosted on his farm. Torrey was an avid golfer for most of his life. He is survived by his sister, Beverly Hemby Leahy; daughter, Sandy Burnett, 1135 Milton Hall Pl., Charlotte, NC 28270-9522; daughters, Bevie Hemby and Alexa Amick (Steve); and six beloved grandchildren and great-granddaughter, Molly Burnett, Alan Burnett, Missy Sheaff, Alec Sheaff, Suzie Amick, Torrey Tennant (Emily), and Dawson Amick.

Joseph Beverly Shumate, Jr. ’50, of Pulaski, Va., died Oct. 22 at this residence. He was born June 6, 1929, in Martinsville, and was the son of the late Margaret Poteet Shumate and Joseph Beverly Shumate, Sr. Joe was a veteran of the U.S. Army having served in Korea, was a retired CEO of Coleman Furniture Company, a graduate of Riverside Military Academy, a graduate of Davidson, and a graduate of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Jerry Shumate. He is survived by his beloved companion, Janice U. Craig; a daughter, Susan Abee (John), 3672 Fleetwood Dr., Portage, MI 49024-5507; one son, Joseph Beverly Shumate III; two granddaughters, Clara and Elaine Abee; along with several nieces and nephews.

George Allen Mebane IV ’52, of Mocksville, N.C., died Nov. 14 after an extended illness. He was preceded in death by his wife of 36 years, Pat Pannill Mebane. He is survived by his wife of 21 years, Marianne Cheek Mebane, Route 6, Box 49, Mocksville, NC 27028; his sons, George Allen Mebane V and William Michael Mebane; his daughter, Lucy Mebane Webster; his brother, Thomas A. Mebane; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a host of valued relatives, faithful friends, and business associates. Allen was born Sept. 28, 1929, in Greensboro, N.C. After attending Davidson and Philadelphia University, he served in the U.S. Army for two years. Early in his career, he worked in sales in the textile industry and became familiar with all aspects of the business. At the age of 35, he assumed his first executive position as president and CEO of Throwing Corporation of America. In 1967 he cofounded Universal Textured Yarns where he was president and CEO. Four years later, the company was sold, and he and others started Unifi, Inc. Over the next 30 years, the company grew to sales in excess of $1.5 billion, becoming the largest producer and processor of textured yarns in the world with plants in the United States, England, Brazil, and Ireland. In 2000, Allen retired from Unifi, Inc. and directed his efforts toward the Mebane Charitable Foundation, Inc., with a significant focus on education in public schools. The Foundation has been responsible for providing technology and educational programs to thousands of children in Davie County. Allen was a member of the board of visitors of Columbia University Medical Center of New York, a former member of the advisory board of Duke Eye Center in Durham, N.C., and trustee emeritus of Christ School in Arden, N.C. Allen possessed an ever-curious and forward-thinking mind and was a relentless seeker of information. He pursued his passions for golf, art, hunting, and friends with a great deal of enthusiasm and enjoyed life to its fullest measure.

John Lyman Kiser ’54, of Cary, N.C., died Jan. 25. He was born on Feb. 20, 1932, to the late Lyman Kiser and Elizabeth Cochrane Kiser. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Elizabeth “Lib” Holland. He graduated from Davidson, where he was a member of Kappa Sigma, Scabbard and Blade, ODK and was president of the Student Government Association. He was well-known for his friendliness, his phenomenal ability to remember the names and faces of the people he met, his loyalty to the causes he believed in, and his leadership abilities. His nickname was “Mr. President” because he was so often chosen as a leader. He served two years as a first lieutenant in the U.S. Army. He became an agent for Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company and was a life member of the Million Dollar Roundtable for 17 years. He was a stockbroker and financial consultant with an M.S. in financial services. He was an Eagle Scout and later worked as a volunteer with local cub packs. He was an active member of the Rotary Club for 50 years and was elected Rotarian of the Year in 2000 by the Crabtree Rotary Club. In January 2007, he was recognized by the City of Raleigh for his service to the city. He was a charter member of White Memorial Presbyterian Church. Lyman is survived by his wife, Maria Hunter Kiser, 400 Dartmouth Rd., Raleigh, NC 27609-5850; and his children, Allison Nebel (Arthur Nebel), Loy Chipley (Ron Parks), Judy-Lynn Kiser Barrow (Jim Barrow), and John Lyman Kiser, Jr. (Molly McNeill). He is also survived by three stepchildren, Sally Mackie (Rob Mackie), Kathryn McDonald, and Hunter McDonald. He has six grandchildren and eight step-grandchildren. In addition, he is survived by his favorite nieces, Libby and Laura Holland, and his brother-in-law, Leon Holland.

John T. MacQueen ’54, of Chapel Hill, N.C., passed away Feb. 10, 2007.

William R. Wiley Jr. ’55, of Chester, S.C., went to be with his Lord on Dec. 28 at Providence Heart Center in Columbia, S.C. He ran Wiley Brothers Marble and Granite Works, Inc., for over 50 years. He had a passion for the monument industry, which is evidenced by his work in both North and South Carolinas. He was a longtime member of The American Institute of Commemorative Art, the Monument Builders of North America, and the Monument Builders of the Carolinas, where he held many offices. He was a longtime member of First Baptist Church in York, where he taught Sunday school, sang in the choir, and was involved in many other church activities. As an active member of the board of the Museum of York County and the board of the Rock Hill Arts Council, he expressed his love for the arts and culture. He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia B. Wiley, 14 Cemetery St., York, SC 29745; his three children, Susie Wiley Hinson (Ronnie), Billy Wiley (Janice), and Valerie Watson (Rob); his stepchildren, Mary Beth Grumblis (Dave) and Will Blanks (Lindy); his grandchildren, Rose Connelly, Josie LaBarbera, Patrick Wiley, Brandon Wiley, Nathan Wiley, Rob Allan Watson, Will Watson, and Ariel Blanks; one great-grandchild, Kendall Wiley; and his former wife, Doris M. Baker.

Ralph Watson Williams, Jr. ’55 died on Dec. 5 after a battle with kidney cancer. He is survived by his wife, Almonese “Nesie” Brown Clifton Williams, 3504 Dumbarton Rd. NW, Atlanta, GA 30327-2614; his three children, Lt. Col. Ralph W. Williams III USAF (Ret) (Mary), Nancy Jane Williams Morizio (Michael) and their sons, Michael and Matthew, and John Martin Hicks Williams II (Susan) and their daughter, Nancy Morga; his three stepchildren, Deborah Clifton Van der Lande and her children, Heather, Bernard, and Ashley, Nancy Clifton Kinzer (Mark) and their children, Emily and Ben, and Brad Clifton (Carolyn) and their children, Grace and Thomas Watson; and his sister, Judy Williams Ellis. A native of Atlanta, and an original “Buckhead Boy,” Ralph was born July 2, 1933. He was the son of Ralph Watson Williams, Sr. and Minnie Hicks Williams. He was the brother of the late Charner Williams Creecy and John Martin Hicks Williams I. He graduated from Sewanee Military Academy, attended Davidson, and graduated from the University of Georgia in 1955, where he was a member of Phi Delta Theta fraternity. He married Nancy Jo Morgan in March 1955. Nancy died Dec. 12, 1989. He began his career in the investment business in 1955, joining the municipal bond department of Courts & Co. He then moved to First Southeastern Co., which was purchased by Francis I. DuPont & Co. in 1960. Ralph served as the branch manager of the Atlanta office of Francis I. DuPont & Co. and became a general partner in 1970. He was subsequently appointed to the board of directors and was a member of the executive committee, continuing on in that capacity with the successor company, DuPont, Glore, Forgan & Co. He moved to E. F. Hutton & Co. and served as executive vice president and a member of the board of directors. In 1987, the company was bought by Shearson Lehman Bros., where he continued on as executive vice president. He retired in December 1988. He was an allied member of the NYSE, a member of the Chicago Board of Trade, a member of the board of directors of the GA Security Dealers Association, the chairman and a member of the district committee of the National Association of Security Dealers, and an arbitrator for the NYSE and the Association of Security Dealers. He served on the board of trustees of Saint Andrew’s-Sewanee School, as well as being the chairman of the finance committee, treasurer, and an executive committee member. He also shared a loving bond with LaGrange College. He served on the board of trustees, and was a member of the executive committee of the joint fund for the University of Georgia and the Georgia Institute of Technology. He served as a member of the board of stewards at Peachtree Road Methodist Church and on the finance committee at Northside Methodist Church. He was also a member of Trinity Presbyterian Church.

Arthur Simonton Lynn, Jr. ’58, of Granite Falls, N.C., passed away Nov. 5 at Frye Regional Medical Center. Born March 5, 1936, in Henderson, he was the son of the late Arthur Simonton Lynn, Sr. and Mary Alice Boyd Lynn. Arthur earned a bachelor of science degree from Davidson, where he was a member of Kappa Sigma fraternity. Subsequent to receiving his undergraduate degree, he attended the University of North Carolina School of Medicine in Chapel Hill, where he graduated with highest honors in 1962 and completed a postgraduate internship. Following medical school, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served at Eglin Air Force Base, Fort Walton Beach, Fla., with the rank of captain. Following military service, he completed two years of an internal medicine residency at Shands Teaching Hospital, University of Florida, Gainesville, Fla., followed by a fellowship in cardiology at the University of North Carolina. In 1968, Arthur began private practice in internal medicine with Dr. James Comer Gaither in Catawba County. He also joined the staff of Catawba Valley Medical Center, formerly Catawba Memorial Hospital, where he served until a cardiac arrhythmia caused his untimely death. Arthur was a senior partner with Catawba Valley Internal Medicine. His professional offices include the department of medicine chairman at Catawba Memorial Hospital, chief of staff at Catawba Memorial, and president of the North Carolina Medical Association. He was an elder at First Presbyterian Church of Newton, where he served on several church committees and was instrumental in the church’s growth. Most recently, he attended First Methodist Church of Granite Falls. Survivors include his wife, Paula Phillips Lynn, 10 Meandering Way, Granite Falls, NC 28630, and her daughter, Amanda Robin Smith; his former wife and loyal friend, Elizabeth “Libbie” Whitley Lynn; daughter, Margaret Lynn Campbell (Dr. Paul Campbell); sons, Arthur Simonton Lynn III (girlfriend, Tamara Fauzy), and Jefferies David Lynn (Alicia Cohen Lynn); grandchildren, Elizabeth Lynn Campbell, Thomas James Campbell, Mary Margaret Campbell, Phillip David Lynn, and Griffin Joseph Lynn; and sister, Judith Christian Lynn.

Henry Merritt Escue, Jr. ’60, noted physician and highly decorated Vietnam veteran of Atlanta, died July 10. He was an anesthesiologist, starting his career in the Army and ultimately overseeing a MASH unit. After being discharged, he continued his career with Highpoint Memorial in North Carolina, then at Metropolitan Hospital in Atlanta, and The Center for Plastic Surgery in Atlanta. He is survived by his wife, Gail Austin Escue, 1504 Jade Cove Dr., Powder Springs, GA 30127; daughter, Kathryn Nicole Escue; stepson, Steve McClure; stepdaughter, Kimberly Hill; and three grandchildren.

Russell C. “Jack” Taylor ’60 passed away Dec. 14 at his home after a long illness. He was born in Dobson, N.C., on April 23, 1937. His family moved to Mount Airy, N.C., when he was five years old. Jack worked for one year for a patent medicine company as a traveling salesman along with his father. He graduated from Lees McRae College and then graduated from Davidson. After graduating from the University of North Carolina Medical School at Chapel Hill in the top 10 percent of his class, he did an internship and residency at the University of Colorado Medical Center in Denver, Colo. He moved back to North Carolina and was chief resident of internal medicine at Charlotte Memorial Hospital. He then moved to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and completed a two-year fellowship in nephrology. He began practice in internal medicine at Cannon Memorial Hospital in Banner Elk for three years, and then moved to Boone where he practiced until July 2007, when his illness forced him to retire. He was the first medical director of the Kidney Dialysis Center, which was established in 1989 due, in large part, to his dedication and drive to provide such clinical services to the region. Survivors include his wife, Terry Taylor, 146 Mallard Ln., Boone, NC 28607; and his sister, Ann Taylor. He is also survived by his beloved nieces and nephews, Mark A. Taylor (Lou Ann) and son, Stephen; Mary T. Transou (Hal) and children, Haley and Tyler; J. Bryan Taylor (Lynn) and children, Lauren, James, and Tate; Robert M. Taylor (Luisa) and daughters, Manuela, Melanie, Melissa, and Mia; Nancy C. Taylor; and Theresa T. Gray (Brian) and children, Austin and Abbey. He is also survived by his beloved stepsons, Andrew Harkey and Edward Dill and his daughter Sullivan; sister-in-law, Tonda Taylor (partner, Janice Coulter); and brother-in-law, Andrew Taylor (Dr. Susan Lupo) and their children, Dustin Taylor (Jennifer) and their child, Kate; and Robin Belk (Jake). He is preceded in death by his parents, Everette L. Taylor, Sr. and Malissa Hill Taylor; and by three brothers, E.L. Taylor, Jr., Robert E. Lee Taylor, and Larry Don Taylor.

Livingston Newton Burns ’62, of Heath, Tex., passed away Dec. 25. He was born March 6, 1940, in Knoxville, Tenn., to David Brantley and Lollie Newton Burns. Newt proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, was an alumnus of Davidson, and a graduate of Woodrow Wilson School of Law and Dallas Theological Seminary. He was a financial consultant and the minister of Emmanuel Fellowship Bible Church in Heath, Tex. Newt is survived by his daughter, Esther Burns Hail (Brian), 3209 42nd St., Lubbock, TX 79413-3110; sons, Eben Burns (Natalie) and Brantley Burns; mother, Lollie Burns; brothers, David Burns ’54 (Margaret) and Dr. J. Lanier Burns ’65 (Katherine); sister, Suzella Newsome (Dr. James Newsome); and grandchildren, Emma Elizabeth Hail, Kamryn Burns, and Zane Burns.

J. Patrick Ward ’63, passed away in Flagstaff, Ariz., on Oct. 12. Pat was born in Thomasville, Ga., on Jan. 29, 1941, to the late Preston Ward and Nellie Elkins Ward. During his senior year in high school, Pat was all-state debater, high school football all-American, and valedictorian of the Class of 1959. He attended Davidson, where he was on the freshman council. While attending Emory, Pat was president of the Barkley Forum, vice-president of the student body, the first national vice-president of the National Forensic Society, and a member of the Emory Debate Team. He received his L.L.B. in law in 1964 and his J.D. in 1966. He worked with the Georgia attorney general’s office in Atlanta, Ga., after graduation from Emory Law School. He then was in law practice with Sims and Lewis Attorneys in LaGrange, Ga. Pat returned to Cairo in 1970 to open a private law practice that continued until 2003. He served as the Grady County State Court Judge and the municipal court judge. Pat participated in the National Judicial College Programs for Sentencing Misdemeanants, Mediation, and Domestic Violence. Since his retirement from private practice in 2003, he has served as a senior state court judge, and has conducted seminars for JAG Probation Inc. He also served on the board of the Thomas County CASA, Inc. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Cairo. Pat was a man of many talents and hobbies. His greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends. He was an avid reader, a serious photographer, a historian, and had a keen interest in the beauty of nature. Pat loved the farm where he and his brother were reared in Pine Park. Pat was also widely traveled, having visited Europe, Asia, and 49 of the 50 states. At the time of his death, he and his wife, Cathy, were on vacation in Arizona enjoying the rugged beauty of rock formations and native flora. Survivors include his wife, Cathy L. Ward, P.O. Box 618, Cairo, GA 39828; sons, Patrick Ward (Kayo), James Christopher Ward, Martin Greenlee (Nancy), and Derrick K. Wise; grandchildren, Kotono Jane Ward, Mollie Ann Greenlee, Matthew Allen Greenlee, Samuel Martin, Ryan Robb, Daniel Robb, and Cora Robb; brother, Bob Ward; and special friends, Teresa Hester, Hattie Mae Johnson, and Willie “Sam” McIntyre. Pat was preceded in death by his parents, Preston Ward and Nellie Elkins Ward.

Bill Maurice Pridgen ’64 passed away peacefully at home with his family in Charleston, Sept. 28 after a battle with brain cancer. Bill was born Dec. 21, 1941, in Myrtle Beach, the son of Carl Columbus Pridgen and Annelle Garr Pridgen. Bill was a graduate of Davidson, where he was on the wrestling team. He graduated from Yale Law School in 1967. Bill then spent two years in the U.S. Army and served in the Vietnam War. He worked at White & Case in New York, Sea Pines Company in Hilton Head, and Brown Malman in Miami. He then joined with Fred Newby to found the law firm Newby and Pridgen in Myrtle Beach. Bill was a member of the Carolina Yacht Club and the Library Society of Charleston. He was a faithful member of the Friday morning men’s Bible study at St. Philip’s Church. Bill had a passionate love of his family. He was an American history buff and was well-known for his incredible memory and his ability to recite poetry. His hobbies included snow skiing and hiking in the mountains of Colorado, where he ascended several 14,000-foot peaks. Bill enjoyed jogging barefoot on the beach, walking the golf course, and playing tennis. His love for the water kept him close to the coast his entire life. Bill was a very devoted father: He coached both of his sons’ soccer teams and also volunteered as a scoutmaster. Bill and both of his sons achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. He is survived by his wife, Delia Hipp Pridgen, 308 70th Ave. N., Apt. C, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572-3659; two sons, William Maurice Pridgen and Matthew Lock Pridgen; a younger brother, Roy Pridgen; four sisters-in-law, Paula Pridgen, Evelyn Pridgen, Jan Hipp, and Laura Wichmann Hipp; two brothers-in-law, Charley Hipp and Preston Hipp; and many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and grandnephews. He was preceded in death by his older brother, Carl Pridgen.

William Rodney Knowles ’68, of North Topsail Beach, N.C., passed away on Oct. 25. He was born on Feb. 27, 1946, in Washington, N.C. Rodney attended Davidson from 1964 until 1968, where he played basketball for the Wildcats. He was inducted into the Davidson Athletics Hall of Fame in February 2008. In 1990, Rodney was appointed by the state legislature to the North Topsail Beach incorporation committee, served as the first appointed mayor, and was later elected the first mayor of the newly incorporated township. He served as mayor for North Topsail Beach from 1990–1993 and 2003–2008. Rodney is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Knowles, 3592 Island Dr., North Topsail Beach, NC 28460-8202; his mother, Dorothy McGowan; his father, Russell Knowles (Jaxie); his daughter, Charlotte Kile Stewart (Brent Stewart); his grandchildren, Charlotte and Max Stewart; and his brother, Russell Knowles (Jackie).

William Thomas “Tom” Vernon ’71, of Columbia, S.C., went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Jan. 18. Born in Aiken, S.C., Tom was the son of the late William Edward Vernon. He was a graduate of Davidson and obtained a juris doctor degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law in 1975. Tom was licensed to practice law in the states of South Carolina and Georgia and was admitted to practice before the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals and the United States Supreme Court. A tenacious litigator and tireless advocate for his clients, Tom was highly respected by both the bench and bar. Tom was a devout Christian and a faithful member of Trinity Cathedral for more than 25 years, where he served as the canon for administration on the staff of Trinity Cathedral and provided key leadership in the building of the Trinity Center for Mission and Ministry. During his early years at Trinity, Tom served as a youth ministry leader and within the cathedral’s outreach ministries. Most recently, he served as a Eucharistic minister to the sick and homebound, as well as within the Sunday morning worship services. Tom is survived by his former spouse, Vickie Cox Vernon; his stepsons, William Matthew Schrimpf and Robert Brian Schrimpf ’03, 731 S. Ott Rd., Columbia, SC 29205-4565; his aunt, Louise Hamby; and an uncle, Paul Vernon.

William Stevenson Bennett ’74 died Nov. 10. A graduate of General Theological Seminary, William would have celebrated his 25th anniversary as a priest on Dec. 13. In addition to serving as rector of St. Mary’s in Asheville and various other parishes in New York, he was a monk for five years in the Order of the Holy Cross. He also spent 14 years in banking and finance, working for a variety of telecommunications and media companies in New York City. William graduated from Davidson and earned a master’s degree from Stanford University. Survivors include a sister, Emmy S. Bennett, 1766 Boyd Rd., Blackstock, SC 29014; a niece, Tara Freeman (Shannon); a nephew, Josh Bennett; a grandniece, Kylie Freeman; and an aunt living in Mississippi. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Roy and Ruby Frances McKeown Bennett.

George Carruthers Covington ’75, of Charlotte, N.C., died suddenly Dec. 9. George was born on Sept. 13, 1953, the youngest of four children of the late Howard ’37 and Barbara Covington. He attended Davidson and the University of North Carolina School of Law. After graduating from law school, George clerked for Chief Judge Clement Haynesworth of the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals. He joined the law firm of Kennedy, Covington, Lobdell, & Hickman in 1985, where he was a partner for 16 years. He subsequently joined the firm King & Spalding as a partner in 2007 to help establish the Charlotte office. George was a member of the American Law Institute, the Judicial Conference of the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the Securities Industries Association. He was recognized as an outstanding lawyer by a number of peer and professional review organizations, particularly in the areas of securities and commercial litigation. George loved the First Presbyterian Church where he was a member and a former deacon. He was a member and past chairman of the board of directors of the McColl Center for Visual Arts, past chairman of WDAV, member of the board of directors of the Uptown Homeless Shelter, and a member of the board of directors of the United Way de Tocqueville Society. George was exuberant and had a brilliance of mind and soul. In addition to friends, he is survived by his wife, Claudia C. Covington, 801 Edgehill Rd. S., Charlotte, NC 28207, who knew and loved him like no other; his sons, Tyler ’05 and Alec; his daughter, Abigail; his brother, Howard Covington, Jr. ’66 (Gene); his sister, Eleanor (Robert Devens); his sister, Ross Fischer (John); and his many loving nieces, nephews, and in-laws. Memorials may be made to the Davidson Trust, Office of Donor Relations, Davidson College, Box 7174 Davidson, NC 28035-7174.

Joshua Thomas Harris ’94, Petty Officer First Class SEAL of Virginia Beach, Va., died Aug. 30 in a combat operation in Afghanistan. Described in a U.S. Navy press release as a “highly decorated combat veteran,” he is the second Davidson alumnus killed in the war in Iraq and Afghanistan. He was born in Chapel Hill on Apr. 19, 1972, to Dr. Sam R. Harris and Evelyn Long Harris, 6182 E. U.S. Highway 64, Lexington, NC 27292. He graduated from Davidson with a degree in studio art. He went on to pursue a master’s degree in architecture from UNC Charlotte and enlisted in the Navy in August 2000. Near the maximum age for eligibility at 28, he aimed to become an elite Navy SEAL, and he succeeded. He deployed several times to Iraq and Afghanistan, where he was serving with the Naval Special Warfare Command Development Group (NSWDG) when he died. His numerous medals include the Bronze Star. Surviving are his parents; his twin sister, Kiki Harris; brother, S. Ranchor Harris III (Serine); two nephews, Dylan and Chase; and uncles and aunts, Thomas Veach and Sveta Long, Randy and Penny Overby, and Tom and Marci Harris.