Arthur L. Duckworth

Arthur L. Duckworth, 82, of Morganton Long Term Care in Morganton went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, October 29, 2009 at the nursing home following an extended illness. He was born February 10, 1927 in Burke County, and was a son of the late Joseph Duckworth and Vassie Casuby Duckworth. Arthur was a very active member of St. Matthews United Methodist Church. He was a US Navy Veteran (the Seabee Division) of World War II, and served during both the Okinawa and Iwo Jima campaigns. Arthur was a retired employee of both Broughton Hospital and Henredon Furniture, and also worked for Stephens Construction.Lovingly known as "Pa-Paw", he is survived by his wife of 60 years, Lavenia Barrier Duckworth of the home; a son, Terry Ryan Duckworth and wife, Janice, of Asheville; twin grandsons, Cameron and Casey Duckworth whom he adored; and a sister, Ailene Russ of Morganton.In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Clyde and Windfred Duckworth; and a sister, Marqueen Orders.Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, November 1, 2009 at St. Matthews United Methodist Church with the Reverends Allen Bolick, Bill Haire, and Terry Duckworth officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park with military graveside rites conducted by the Valdese American Legion Post #234. The family will receive friends Saturday from 6:00 until 8:00 pm at Sossoman Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690 or St. Matthews United Methodist Church, 201 Shady Rest Rd., Morganton, NC 28655.