E. Gray Carswell

E. Gray Carswell, 85, of Morganton went to his Heavenly Home on Monday, February 1, 2021.  Born in Burke County, NC on September 4, 1935, he was the son of the late Charlie Andrew Carswell and Mary Rotis Poteet Carswell.  Gray was a member of Grassy Creek Baptist Church, a veteran of the US Air Force, and a member of Derita Masonic Lodge #715.  Mr. Carswell retired from Overnite Transportation with 24 years of service, retired from Buck Stove, and owned and operated Burke County Stone.  He enjoyed playing golf, billiards, and competing in long gun competitions. Gray was a hard-working man.  He was very generous to anyone in need.  He loved his family and friends, being outside, and working on his many projects.

Gray is survived by his wife of 62 years, Betty Jean Bailey Carswell; daughters, Pam Vick (Stan) and Tammy Broadbent (Kyle); grandchildren, Tyler Vick, Kaitlyn Baker, Demetri Broadbent, Henry Broadbent Jr., and Xander Broadbent; great-grandchildren, Larson, Braylen, Bella, and Olivia; brother, Pee Wee Carswell; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Gray was preceded in death by four brothers, Charles Carswell, Jr., Leonard Carswell, Nunn Carswell, and J.D. Carswell; and four sisters, Azalie Brittain, Mary Etta Pittillo, Elva Digh, and Bertina “Bo” Seagle.

Mr. Carswell will be available for visitation from 4 to 6 p.m., Friday, February 5, 2021 at Sossoman Funeral Home.  The graveside service will be held at 1 p.m., Saturday, February 6, 2021 at Grassy Creek Baptist Church Memorial Gardens in Spruce Pine.  Military honors will be provided by the US Air Force.  Due to the ongoing pandemic, please wear a mask and practice social distancing.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Masonic Home for Children, 600 College Street, Oxford, NC 27565 or to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, 1721 Enon Road, Valdese, NC 28690.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.