Thomas Sherman Auton

Thomas Sherman Auton, 57 of Valdese, NC passed away Tuesday, April 25, 2017. He was born in Burke County, NC on December 21, 1959 and was the son of the late Ben Sherman Auton and Margie Jeanette Mooney Auton. Thomas was a member of High Peak Baptist Church where he sang in the choir, was on the social committee, helped changed wording on the church sign. He was also in charge of the Cemetery at the church. Thomas was on the nominating committee for a number of years. He helped with bible school, and in the church kitchen. Thomas loved to tell people about Jesus.
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by brother, Keith Auton.
Thomas is survived by wife, Judy Whisnant Auton of the home; son, Scotty Allen Franklin and wife, Tonya of Valdese; brothers, Billy Ray Auton and wife, Debra of Topeka, Kansas, Steve Auton and wife, Debbie of Hudson, NC; sisters, Reba Jackson and husband, Robert of Lenoir, NC, Margaret Rankin of Lenoir, NC, Barbara Staley and husband, Cook of Greensboro, NC; grandchild, Tyler Franklin of Valdese, NC; father-in-law, Melvin Whisnant and Annie Mae Whisnant both of Valdese; and nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m., Saturday, April 29, 2017 at High Peak Baptist Church. The funeral will follow at the church at 2:00 p.m. with Dr. Kevin Purcell officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Burke Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690 or to High Peak Baptist Church, 3073 High Peak Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.