Harold Taylor Epley

Harold Taylor Epley, 83, of Glendale St., Morganton died Wednesday, August 11, 2010 following a brief illness. He was born in Burke County on January 6, 1927 and was a son of the late Alfred and Maggie Taylor Epley. Harold’s parents died when he was a child. He went to live with his brother and sister-in-law, the late Red and Lillian Epley. Their children, Joyce, Philip and the late Eddie Epley were like brothers and sisters to Harold.He graduated from Glen Alpine High School and served in the U. S. Navy during World War II. He worked for Burke Construction as a supervisor and contractor for over 40 years. He also built the fire station in Carbon City and then served as its first Fire Chief. He was an avid gardener. Harold was a member of Calvin Heights Baptist Church and attended Hopewell Baptist Church.Harold was a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Jerlene Williams Epley; a son and his wife, Randy and Cindy Epley; a daughter, Debbie Epley all of Morganton; granddaughters, Katie and Paige Epley; his niece and nephew, Joyce Epley Strachan and husband, John, of Morganton and Philip Epley and wife, Barbara of Cary, NC; and a special niece, Maxine Epley.In addition to his parents, Harold was preceded in death by five brothers and four sisters.A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 14, 2010 at Hopewell Baptist Church with Rev. Homer Murdock officiating. The family will receive friends one hour before the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation Western NC Chapter, 31 College Pl. Suite D-320, Asheville, NC 28801 or to Hopewell Baptist Church Building Fund, 1112 Hopewell Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements.