Viola Barber Brandon

Viola Barber Brandon, 97, of the Grace Ridge community, Morganton, died Saturday, January 5, 2013. She was born in Burke County on March 4, 1915 and was a daughter of the late C. G. "Bud" and Addie Morrow Barber. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Bruce B. Brandon; brothers, Marvin and Gilford Barber; and by sisters, Rosa Lee Barber, Pearl Ross Mabe, Florence Fine, Lilly Wiles, and Sara Barber.Mrs. Brandon retired from Wachovia Bank after 25 years of service and was a member of First United Methodist Church for over 50 years. Viola was active in her church and community giving graciously of her time and talents. At First United Methodist Church, she was a former member of the choir, the Heilhecker Sunday School class, Circle #1, and the Wesleyan Service group. She was a member of the Pilot Club of Morganton for 50 years and was named Sweetheart of the Year in 2005; was a member of The Order of the Eastern Star for 60 years and served as past Worthy Matron; and was a charter member of the Morganton Lioness Club and was named Lioness of the Year in 1992. In addition to her civic organization, Viola also volunteered with the American Red Cross, Christmas Cheer, CoMMA, and the Burke County Fair. She was an avid bridge player and through the years was a member of numerous bridge clubs.She is survived by her daughter, Judy Lane Davis and husband, Bill, of Morganton; grandson, Brandon Lane and wife, Amy, of Fredericksburg, VA; great-grandsons, Ryan and Jacob Lane; and a number of nieces and nephews. The family would like to extend their appreciation for the loving care given to Viola.The funeral will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 8, 2013 at First United Methodist Church with Rev. Dr. John Fowler and Rev. Francis King officiating. Burial will follow at Burke Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour before the service in the church fellowship hall. Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, 200 N. King St., Morganton, NC 28655 or to Grace Ridge Scholarship Fund, 500 Lenoir Rd., Morganton, NC 28655. Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with arrangements.