Essie F. Barrier

Essie F. Barrier, 88, of Valdese, NC died Sunday, October 9, 2011 at High Point Regional Hospital following a period of declining health. Born March 27, 1923 in Yancey County, she was a daughter of the late Martin Amos Robinson and Hattie Simmons Robinson. Essie was a member of the Drexel First Baptist Church where she taught Sunday school. She retired after 35 years of service from Drexel Knitting Mills.Left to cherish her memory are her step-children, Edward Barrier of Gardenia, CA. and Faye Pearson of Casar, NC; grandson, Wesley Sharpe of High Point; three step-grandchildren and six step-great grandchildren; nephews, Robert Donald Black and wife, Shirley, and Paul James Black and wife, Nadine all of Hickory, and George Dewey Black and wife, Mila of Burnsville; a special niece, Ruby and other nieces and cousins.In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Donna Barrier Sharpe; four brothers; and four sisters.Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, October 14, 2011 at Drexel First Baptist Church with Rev. Tito Madrazo officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Friday from 12:30 until 2:00 pm at the church. At other times, the family will be at the residence, 2629 US 70 East, Valdese. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 4-A Oak Branch Drive, Greensboro, NC 27407, or to Drexel First Baptist Church, 200 South Main Street, Drexel, NC 28619. Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.