Duplin Journal Vol. 10, Issue 26

Duplin Journal

8 arrested during saturation patrols

Duplin County Eight people were arrested during a targeted saturation patrol operation in Duplin County on Aug. 14. In a continued e ort to improve public safety, the Duplin County Sheri ’s O ce, with support from the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (NCSBI), carried out targeted saturation patrols in Beulaville, Chinquapin, Lyman and Pin Hook. In total, o cers stopped over 60 vehicles, issuing eight citations, one written warning, and more than 42 verbal warnings. The patrols aimed to increase law enforcement visibility and target issues such as impaired driving, drug activity and tra c violations. Sheri Stratton Stokes credited the success of the operation to strong interagency cooperation, emphasizing that collaborative e orts are key to keeping even the most remote corners of Duplin County safe.

Unemployment rates rise

Duplin County Unemployment in Duplin County rose slightly for the month ending June 30, with the rate increasing to 3.6%, up from 3.2% in May and nearly half a percentage point higher than in April. The county’s labor force stands at 22,412, with 21,608 employed and 804 unemployed. While the rise is modest, it marks a continued upward trend over the past two months and may be in uenced by several local factors like departmental consolidations and the dissolution of the Tourism Development Authority, which resulted in sta layo s. Seasonal shifts in agricultural employment may also play a role in the uptick. Updated gures for July are expected on Aug. 27.

Cabin Lake County Park unveils new logo

Pink Hill Cabin Lake County Park is turning heads with a new logo that re ects the fresh energy and outdoor spirit of the local gem. The park’s updated look adds a modern touch to a longtime favorite. According to county o cials, new merchandise featuring the logo will soon be available.

$2.00

Back in session: HCA leads the way into the school year

Students at Harrells Christian Academy returned to school last week, marking the uno cial end of summer break. Across Duplin County and surrounding areas, students are gearing up for the start of a new academic year lled with fresh opportunities, challenges and the promise of growth. With excitement in the air and backpacks in hand, many are preparing to reconnect with classmates, meet new teachers and dive into learning. Duplin County Schools are set to welcome students back Monday, o cially kicking o the 2025-26 school year.

As Wallace grows, so do educational needs

By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal

WALLACE — The Wallace area is experiencing signicant growth, evidenced by hundreds of permits issued for new homes and the arrival of numerous businesses. This growth has raised important questions about educational facili-

ties, particularly where incoming children will attend school.

Wallace Mayor Jason Wells has noted an increasing concern regarding school capacity at recent community meetings, including a session with the Wallace Rotary Club.

“People were asking about the schools,” Wells said in an interview with Duplin Journal.

“Wallace Elementary is already kind of maxed out as far as what they can handle. You also have Wallace Christian, which is growing by leaps and bounds.”

In the past, there were e orts to establish a charter school in the Wallace area; however, progress on this initiative appears to have stalled, according to Wells.

“That doesn’t mean it won’t happen at some point,” Wells said.

He said the upcoming devel-

opment could reignite interest in charter school options.

Wells points out that the development in the surrounding area will not only impact local schools but could also affect schools in Pender County, such as Penderlea School, which may receive students from new developments.

While work on creating a charter school seems to have subsided, Wells believes the

Rose Hill eyes possible rail stop in land use plan

The board approved increases for water, sewer and zoning applications

By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal

ROSE HILL — The Rose Hill Board of Commissioners and the town’s planning board held a joint meeting Aug. 12 to hear a presentation on a proposed Comprehensive Land Use Plan for the town.

North Carolina statutes require municipalities to adopt a land use plan to enforce zoning regulations and guide future growth. Currently, Rose Hill does not have this required plan in place, so it has engaged Insight Consulting Group to assist in creating one. During the meeting, the board listened to an almost hourlong presentation by Ashli Barefoot.

According to Barefoot, several

Magnolia warns: Illegal burning could cost violators $25K daily

Police cite rising violations and public health risks in ramping up enforcement e orts

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

MAGNOLIA — The Mag-

nolia Police Department is cracking down on illegal burning, warning residents that violations of North Carolina’s open burning law could result in nes of up to $25,000 per day. Police Chief Jerry Wood announced stepped-up enforcement in response to a rise in local violations and repeated failure by some to comply with the law, stating, “It has to stop now.” Open burning of anything other than natural

yard debris — like trash, plastic, or treated wood — not only violates N.C. Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) regulations but could also put the health of neighbors at risk.

“We have tried to give folks every opportunity to comply,” Wood said. “But due to increased frequency and failure to heed previous warnings, we will be checking closely to ensure any open burning is in compliance.”

He added that the burning of nonvegetative materials is especially harmful to those with respiratory issues or allergies.

“If it doesn’t grow naturally, don’t burn it,” he said.

The DEQ’s open burning rule allows only the burning

“If it’s anything other than natural yard debris, it’s going to be a nuisance to the violator too — to the tune of $25,000 per violation, per day.”

Police Chief Jerry Wood

Carey

O ce Phone: 910 463-1240

To place a legal ad: 919 663-3232; Fax: 919 663-4042

LOCAL BRIEF

Duplin County secures conviction in major sex o ense case

Kenansville A major criminal case has come to a close in Duplin County, as Joseph Sanderson, 37, plead guilty to crimes committed in 2023 and was sentenced to 20 to 29 years in the North Carolina Department of Corrections. Sanderson was convicted of First Degree Rape and First Degree Statutory Sex O ense. Following his release, he will be required to register as a sex o ender for life and will be placed on permanent GPS monitoring. The Duplin County Sheri ’s O ce Criminal Investigation Division led the case, with Sheri Stratton Stokes commending District Attorney Ernie Lee and the Fifth Prosecutorial District for their commitment to justice and the protection of the community. THURSDAY

Greenevers moves forward with infrastructure projects

The board approved an $839,000 waterline contract and is eyeing more grant opportunities

By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal

GREENEVERS — The Greenevers Town Board approved a nearly $840,000vcontract with TA Loving at its Aug. 11 meeting, moving forward with a long-anticipated waterline extension project after successfully negotiating the original $1.4 million bid down by nearly half. The board also discussed grant opportunities for home rehabilitation projects, concerns over high septic system rates and a potential application for a state Municipal Recovery Fund (MRF) grant to improve the town’s sewer system. Josh Outlaw with the Adams Company recommended that the town’s attorney get involved in doing the title research on properties of consideration. According to Outlaw, grant funding can be used to revitalize owned or occupied brick-and-mortar homes. The deadline to apply is in October and will require public hearings in September and October.

Next, Cole Williams with McDavid Associates, gave updates on the town’s well water projects.

“The fourth advertisement is going out in September newspapers and will hopefully get bids,” Williams said.

High sewer rates and options for a Municipal Recovery Fund grant were discussed.

“One of the highest complaints we get from our constituents is that their septic bills are too high, so we’ve got to do something about this,” Mayor Diane Brown said.

The board voted to have Williams put together documentation for an MRF grant to pursue options to improve the town’s sewer.

Next, Antonio Williams of Rose Hill o ered his services to maintain the side roads throughout the town. At an hourly rate of $120, the board asked him to look at the areas around town and provide an estimated cost for services.

Town Clerk Emma Brinson announced that the Planning Board will be meeting with the East Carolina Council at 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 29. The Planning Board will meet with the town board Aug. 25 to discuss subdivision ordinances.

The Department of Transportation is sponsoring a

Community Clean Up Day on Sept. 27. Two large dumpsters will be on site behind town hall for the collection of metal and trash. Trash bags and mittens will be available for people to pick up their trash. Constituents are asked to drop o trash anytime on Sept. 27 and are asked to make sure items are placed inside the receptacles, not on the sides or elsewhere.

The board discussed the sale of the town truck. They agreed to consider bids starting at $300. If no interested party contacts the town soon, a junk dealer may be called.

The board reviewed an Internal Control Policy for Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds. Brown and the commissioners asked questions concerning the database used by Brinson in the policy. The board then approved the policy. An opening for a new maintenance person has been posted to the town’s website. Concerns about lling the position led the board to discuss whether or not sta ng agencies should get involved or if a part-time person should be hired. Community Day, scheduled for Oct. 24, has been rescheduled to Oct. 18.

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WALLACE from page A1

coming growth makes the area ripe for the idea.

“I think it’s always been a possibility,” he said. “People want choice when it comes to education. I truly believe the more options you have, the better. I think we’ve got good, decent public schools, but people want options.” Wells advocates for educational choices, noting that potential residents seek variety in school options, as well as in housing and community amenities.

“When they’re looking into an area to move to, they want choices,” said Wells. “They want choices when it comes to nice parks and housing, but

“People want choice when it comes to education. I truly believe the more options you have, the better.”

Wallace Mayor Jason Wells

they also want choices when it comes to their kids’ education.”

As Wallace continues to grow, so will the town’s needs for educational facilities to accommodate the rising number of children headed to the area. According to Wells, it is essential to take measures to address this expansion e ectively.

“As we continue to expand and grow as a community, you’re going to want to have more availability when it comes to schools, whether

that’s the county schools deciding we need a bigger school, or whether that means more private school choice, or whether that means charter school choices,” Wells said. “There’s no such thing, I believe, as one size ts all in anything, especially when it comes to education. I’m a rm believer that the more options you have to o er, the more likely somebody will look at your community and say that’s a place I want to call home.”

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Duplin County:

Aug. 23

Warsaw Day Back-to-School Giveaway

Noon to 3 p.m.

Jsmoove and Brave Entertainment presents its annual Warsaw Day Back-to-School Giveaway at Warsaw Parks and Recreation. Come out for free school supplies, live music, fun activities and food trucks. For more information, call 910-271-5052.

309 Memorial Drive, Warsaw

Aug. 29

Bill Lord Memorial Knights of Columbus Charity Golf

Tee up for a great cause at the 17th Annual Bill Lord Memorial Knights of Columbus Charity Golf Tournament at River Landing. This four-person scramble welcomes men and women of all skill levels with unlimited range balls, golf carts, refreshments, prizes and a luncheon on the terrace. Proceeds support Duplin County Schools’ Exceptional Children’s Program, funding grants that make a real di erence in students’ lives. Hosted by the L.A.M.B. Foundation, which has raised more than $23 million for special needs children. For more information, call Mike Vandiver at 910-271-4444. River Landing, Wallace

Aug. 30

The Black Male Expo

11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Black Male Expo 2025 will be at the KEMBA Center in Warsaw. The one-day event is designed for men ages 16 to 25, o ering tools for personal growth, career readiness and community leadership. Hear from keynote speaker Girard Newkirk, CEO of Genesis Block, and engage in roundtable talks, breakout sessions on fatherhood and leadership, mental health resources, networking, music, food and more. 124 Water Tank Road, Warsaw

Got a local event? Let us know and we’ll share it with the community here. Email our newsroom at community@ duplinjournal.com. Weekly deadline is Monday at noon.

Deteriorated railroad crossing prompts safety concerns

Mounting frustration over the downtown tracks has residents wondering when, or if, CSX will act

By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal

ROSE HILL — As part of his health routine, Timothy Edmonson of Rose Hill rides his bicycle around town. He found out the hard way that not all routes are safe when he crossed the railroad tracks at the corner of Railroad and Church streets. Edmonson said the crossing is in such bad shape that he almost damaged his bicycle and could have injured himself.

Concerned over the safety of the crossing, Edmonson called the toll-free CSX Railroad number posted on poles beside the tracks for reporting problems. He made multiple reports over a period of time. That was about two years ago.

Rotted ties at the Railroad and Church Streets crossing in downtown Rose Hill remain unrepaired despite years of complaints to CSX Railroad.

“Those ties are about 8-by-8 (inches), so when you’ve got a section that’s rotted, that’s a big cavity to ride over on a bicycle.”

Timothy Edmonson

Duplin Journal tested the crossing in a sedan, driving at a slow speed of approximately 5 mph. The experience felt similar to driving over a curb, suggesting that traveling at a higher speed could seriously damage a car’s suspension system. Edmonson took his concern over the crossing to the

“Those ties are about 8-by-8 (inches), so when you’ve got a section that’s rotted, that’s a big cavity to ride over on a bicycle,” Edmonson said in an interview with Duplin Journal. “It’s beyond splintered — it’s deteriorated. It’s almost like having a big pothole in the asphalt.”

Rose Hill Board of Commissioners meeting last Monday during public comment period. He quickly discovered he was not alone in trying to get CSX Railroad to repair the crossing.

Mayor Davy Buckner responded to Edmonson’s remarks saying he and at least two town commissioners have contacted CSX about the problem but have had no success.

During the interview with Duplin Journal, Edmonson said he personally spoke with a rail worker on-site and explained the situation, mentioning that he had already reported the issue. Edmonson said the worker responded, “Yeah, you have to keep on them.”

Duplin Journal reached out to Austin Staton, CSX director of media relations, by phone. He

later responded with an email. “I wanted to let you know that we have alerted our engineering team to the concerns and someone from our team will go out and review the crossings in the area to determine what can be done in the near term,” Staton wrote in the email. “I also wanted to let you know that CSX works hard to address crossing concerns in a timely manner. Many factors a ect the pace and scheduling of crossing repairs, such as weather, equipment and resource availability. CSX invests heavily in infrastructure maintenance to (ensure) the safe, reliable movement of trains, and the safety of our employees and the communities where we operate.”

Kenansville church joins forces with local schools for cleanup

With power tools, pine straw and prayer, Kenansville Baptist prepares the school grounds for a new year

By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal

KENANSVILLE — Members of Kenansville Baptist Church joined the Tiger family Saturday morning for a cleanup day at both James Kenan High School and Kenansville Elementary. Principal Michael Holton and his assistant Brian Jones donned power tools to cut back overgrowth and blow debris from parking lots at James Kenan. Teachers, parents, students and employees trimmed bushes and gathered debris for disposal. At Kenansville Elementary, members of Kenansville Baptist Church helped put down pine straw.

Partnerships like this between schools and the community are needed more now than ever.

Amid unprecedented cutbacks to government programs that a ect education and low-income families, rural schools require additional support to meet the needs of the families they serve.

“The heartbeat of any community is in its schools; if you want to have an impact in the community, you have to have an impact in the schools,” KBC senior pastor Aaron Smith said. Smith, who grew up in Beulaville, became the pastor of KBC ve years ago. His vision to help the community through its schools started small.

“When Principal Holton started attending church with us, that opened doors for us to do things at James Kenan, and things just grew from there to help Kenansville Elementary too,” Smith said.

“At rst, they just let us buy food for the teachers, and that was an easy thing we could do.”

Then the church gave grocery bags of food to kids in need at Kenansville Elementary and James Kenan.

“We discovered that no matter how many backpacks we gave away, no matter how much food we gave away, it was never enough,” Smith said.

The backpack program re-

vealed a real hunger problem in the area. Ladies at a Women’s Conference gave funds to start a food pantry in one of the schools. It served 30 families in its rst year of service. Now the church continues its Backpack Buddies program with supplemental food for needy children in both Kenansville Elementary and James Kenan.

Additionally, they launched the Tiger Adoption program, which allows church members to serve as secret prayer partners and gift-givers to teachers at the schools.

“The most important thing we do is pray over our schools,” Smith said. “All summer long, we have been praying that the Lord goes before us and our teachers in the schools and that

the Holy Spirit will already be there and working.”

Looking for additional ways to serve, Smith became the coach for the James Kenan’s girls’ basketball team. In this role, he heard more rsthand stories of kids working to support their households and struggling.

“So often we have our heads in the sand about what is going on around us, but coaching gives me the opportunity to know and make a di erence,” Smith said. “There is a weightiness that kids at James Kenan have that I never had to deal with growing up. I just want to help them be successful and leave the world a better place by being a positive role model for them now.”

“The heartbeat of any community is in its schools; if you want to have an impact in the community, you have to have an impact in the schools.”

Aaron Smith, KBC senior pastor

He encourages his church to check the pulse of their e ectiveness by how much impact they have in their community.

“If we closed our doors, would our community know if we weren’t here?” Smith said. “I’d like to think that our community would miss us if KBC ceased to exist.”

Access to schools in Duplin County has improved due to cooperative principals and school boards. Smith noted that such opportunities arise through leadership that fosters community involvement. He credited principals like Holton, Hargrove and the late Austin Obasohan, who actively encouraged local churches to be involved in the school system.

“Opportunities like this don’t happen without leadership at the highest level opening doors and making it happen,” Smith said.

Despite its modest size of around 100 members, KBC has made a notable impact, demonstrating a strong commitment to its community outreach.

“One of the most important aspects of any ministry is consistency,” Smith said. “Spiritual impact is di cult to measure. We may never see the fruit of all this in our lifetime, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t important. Showing long-term faithfulness in the same direction is what we are after.”

THE CONVERSATION

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

| PHILIP GLADDEN

Praying and feeding

“We pray for the hungry, then we feed them.”

IN A JULY 21, 2013, homily in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis said, “In our Christian life, may prayer and action always be deeply united.” This thought re ects James 2:15-17, “If a brother or sister is naked and lacks daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and eat your ll,’ and yet you do not supply their bodily needs, what is the good of that? So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead.” This is what Jesus taught, “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink. ... Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.” (Matthew 25:35, 40) Pope Francis is often quoted, “You pray for the hungry. Then you feed them. This is how prayer works.”

That is the approach of Duplin Christian Outreach Ministries (DCOM), a crisis assistance center in Wallace, that recently celebrated its 20th anniversary. Over the years, DCOM has expanded its outreach in Duplin County. One of the most important ministries is the partnership between DCOM and seven food pantries across the county. This food ministry is carried out by Beyond These Walls (Beulaville), Community Food Bank (Snow Hill), Community Mobile Pantry (Warsaw), Grace by Faith (Rose Hill), Helping Hands Food Pantry (Wallace), Kingdom Partnership Food Pantry (Beulaville) and Rose Hill Methodist Church Food Pantry. In the rst seven months of 2025, these pantries have served approximately 4,700 households and 13,100 individuals in Duplin County.

COLUMN | VICTOR JOECKS

As those numbers testify, the need is great, and those numbers don’t re ect the entire need in Duplin County. According to 2024 data, our county has a food insecurity rate of 19.8%, which equals 13,300 fellow citizens. Thirty-four percent of children under 18 face food insecurity. Recent federal legislation cutting funding to the SNAP (food stamps) program is expected to a ect more than 1 million North Carolinians, including 1 in 6 children. One of the many expected e ects of these cuts is a greater reliance on food banks, most of which are already struggling to meet the needs of so many people.

I share this information to call attention to the increasing need for food assistance and the e orts already being made across the county. I am sure there are many other food banks operating in Duplin County other than the seven listed in this article. I also provide this information to try to cut through the heated and divisive rhetoric and remind us of the faith imperative to feed hungry people.

Christians regularly pray, “Give us this day our daily bread.” To pray that is to confess we are dependent on God as our Creator and Sustainer. To pray that while some of us enjoy an abundance of daily bread is to assume a responsibility for sharing that bread with others. We pray for the hungry, then we feed them.

Philip Gladden is a retired minister who lives in Wallace.

Trump’s biggest immigration win yet

For decades, many Democrats and some Republicans have presented amnesty as the only way to solve the country’s broken immigration system.

SOLVING AMERICA’S illegal immigration crisis didn’t require amnesty — just better leadership.

Last week, the Center for Immigration Studies released a study showing America’s foreign-born population dropped by 2.2 million from January to July. While the number of naturalized U.S. citizens increased, there was a staggering 1.6 million-person drop among illegal immigrants. CIS estimated that this represented a 10% decline in the country’s illegal immigrant population.

While determining the number of illegal immigrants always requires estimation, this drop is supported by anecdotal evidence.

“Nurse in US for 40 years self-deports,” a recent Newsweek headline reads.

“Lansing man self deporting to Kenya after 16 years in America,” WILX, a Michigan TV station, recently reported.

In April, the LA Times wrote, “More immigrants opt to self-deport rather than risk being marched out like criminals.”

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said some foreign leaders have also told her this is happening.

“Over and over again, I’m hearing that hundreds of thousands of their citizens are coming home, voluntarily,” she said.

For decades, many Democrats and some Republicans have presented amnesty as the only way to solve the country’s broken immigration system. The Trump administration has taken a lot of ak for trying a di erent approach. It’s o ering $1,000 to illegal immigrants who leave voluntarily. It’s ning illegal immigrants who stay, ramping up arrests and sending some illegals to third countries or Alligator Alcatraz. Like everyone else, illegal immigrants respond to incentives. This mix of carrots and sticks is working. The Trump administration has also closed the southern border.

A decrease in illegal immigration is great news for most Americans. It will increase wages for low-skill Americans. It will put downward pressure on housing prices. It will reduce crime. It will lower the amount of money Americans spend supporting illegal immigrants.

But it’s terrible news for the Democratic Party — especially if this drop continues. If the country didn’t have any illegal immigrants, Democrats would have less political power.

That’s not a claim about illegal immigrants voting in elections, although that does happen. It’s about the census. Every 10 years, the federal government counts how many people are living in the country. Congressional seats are divvied out to states based on those population numbers, which includes both legal and illegal immigrants.

In other words, states with large numbers of illegal immigrants receive extra Congressional seats — and Electoral College votes. That list includes blue states like California and New York, but also red states like Florida and Texas. Evidence suggests blue states bene t more from this than red states.

Another advantage comes in the making of congressional and legislative districts, which are supposed to have a similar number of people. Note: That’s a similar number of residents, not citizens. Illegal immigrants tend to congregate in blue cities. This allows the creation of more districts in deep blue areas. This is one reason that Republican districts in Nevada tend to have more registered voters.

It’s unlikely that President Donald Trump’s new census excluding illegals will happen anytime soon, but if it did, Democrats would be in signi cant trouble.

Democrats’ desperate ght against Trump’s deportation e orts has a downside. The New York Times recently interviewed swing voters, including Desmond Smith, a young black man from Mississippi. He backed former President Joe Biden in 2020 and Trump in 2024. Asked how Democrats could appeal to him, he said, “Fight for Americans instead of ghting for everybody else.”

That should be a no-brainer, but for the reasons described above, it’s a tough option for Democrats.

Trump keeps winning on immigration policy and immigration politics.

Victor Joecks is a columnist for the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL

Rita’s Place gets new life

“We are honored to continue the legacy of Rita’s Country Cooking, a true cornerstone of the Mount Olive community.”

Karson

McCullen, Farm House owner

By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal

MOUNT OLIVE — Shortly after Labor Day weekend, Rita’s Restaurant will become the second location of The Farm House Restaurant.

“This expansion is more than a business opportunity — it is a divine appointment,” Farm House owner Karson McCullen said. “We are honored to continue the legacy of Rita’s Country Cooking, a true cornerstone of the Mount Olive community. For years, Rita’s has been a gathering place for families and friends, and we are committed to honoring that tradition while introducing The Farm House’s signature warmth, hospitality, and homestyle Southern cooking.”

Rita Diane (Sullivan) Long died of cancer in 2022 when she was 58 years old. Friends and family still honor her legacy in Mount Olive with both the restaurant and a cat rescue named in her honor because she loved cats. Rita’s Place will remain open through Aug. 29.

“We encourage everyone to come by, enjoy their favorite meals, and share memories during these nal weeks,” McCullen said.

McCullen, who is an active member of Mount Olive First Pentecostal Holiness Church, grounds every decision of his business in his faith.

“The Farm House was

founded with a simple mission: to serve with love, excellence, and integrity — values grounded in our faith,” McMullen said.

“Every decision is prayed over, and we seek to glorify God in every aspect of our work — from the way we greet our guests, to the way we prepare each plate, to the way we lead our team From the moment we met Mr. Billy Long, Rita’s current steward, we knew this was a God-orchestrated encounter. Every conversation, every detail and every open door has been a clear reminder that this expansion is not a coincidence, but part of God’s perfect plan.”

The Farm House serves breakfast, lunch and dinner along with full catering services from its agship location in Newton Grove. All of these services will continue there, while the new Mount Olive location opens and expands to include the same o erings.

“We remain fully committed to our Newton Grove location, where The Farm House began,” McMullen said. “That restaurant will continue to thrive under the leadership of the same talented and devoted team who have been with us through every season.”

In Mount Olive, The Farm House leadership has emphasized their strong commitment to the longtime sta of Rita’s. McCullen said they view these

Local #12921

Wallace NC

Since the inception of the Bill Lord Golf Tournament, we have provided over $92,000 in aid for our teachers! The programs we provide are not supported by the school budget.

Local #12921 • Wallace NC

Since the inception of the Bill Lord Golf Tournament, we have provided over $92,000 in aid for our teachers! The programs we provide are not supported by the school budget.

Last year the teachers of exceptional children from 12 different Duplin County schools applied for and received over $13,000 to purchase technology, multi sensory equipment, materials for hands-on STEM learning to meet each child’s needs.

Local #12921

Wallace NC

team members as essential to the restaurant’s future.

“Their knowledge, relationships, and heart for the community are invaluable,” he said.

“They are not being replaced — they are being embraced as part of The Farm House family. Our goal is to build upon their strong foundation, adding new team members as we grow so that both locations ourish.”

McCullen told Duplin Journal is currently hiring individuals who have a heart for service and hospitality.

“This is more than a job — it’s an opportunity to serve, grow, and make a di erence in a Christ-centered, uplifting environment,” he said.

McCullen also sees this expansion as far more than a business decision; he considers it a calling. He expressed deep gratitude to both God and the community for the chance to serve Mount Olive, describing the opening as “the unfolding of a calling, nurtured in prayer, rooted in faith and strengthened by community.”

McCullen extended heartfelt thanks to loyal customers, dedicated sta and new neighbors in Mount Olive, adding that he looks forward to welcoming everyone into the restaurant and into their hearts.

NC updates more than 20,000 voter records, seeks more ID numbers

Some voters have been asked to help complete their records

By Gary D. Robertson The Associated Press

RALEIGH — Voter registration records for more than 20,000 people in North Carolina have been successfully amended thus far in an e ort by election o cials to add missing identi cation numbers.

In mid-July, the State Board of Elections began formally an e ort that seeks to resolve a lawsuit led by President Donald Trump’s Justice Department that focused on voter registration records that lacked either a voter’s driver’s license number or the last four digits of their Social Security number. Federal and state laws have directed that election o cials must request this ID information since 2004 of new registrants, but for about a decade the state’s registration form failed to make clear that voters were supposed to provide it if they had it.

A “Registration Repair Project” supported by the now Republican-controlled state board — ipped from a Democratic majority in the spring — created a public online database with the names of 103,270 registrants the lacking the numerical identi ers. They were asked to provide an ID number through the Division of Motor Vehicles website or by visiting their county election board ofces. County election o cials also have conducted research to update records.

As of Monday, the registrants on the list had fallen 20% to 82,540, an election board news release said.

As planned, the board is now sending letters to those who haven’t already acted and o ered a numerical ID, or have yet to indicate that they have neither a driver’s license nor

MAGNOLIA from page A1

of natural vegetation like leaves and limbs, and only under speci c conditions. Burns must occur between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., and never on Code Orange or worse air quality days. Additionally, yard debris must originate from and be burned on the same property, and only if public yard debris pickup is not available.

The 17th Annual Bill Lord Golf Tournament August 29, 2025

“To God be the glory — great things He has done, and greater things are yet to come,” he said.

Commercial land-clearing burns have additional restrictions. Fires must be at least

River Landing Golf Course

The 17th Annual Bill Lord Golf Tournament August 29, 2025

River Landing Golf Course

a Social Security number. The letter recipients are being told they can mail in their ID number with postage-paid return envelopes provided, in addition to the DMV and in-person options.

“It’s quick. It’s easy. It’s free,” board Executive Director Sam Hayes said, adding that taking action now will “avoid any issues the next time they show up to vote.”

People on the list who don’t provide the information will have to vote provisionally the next time they cast a ballot — meaning their ballots may not count in some state and local races without correct ID information. Municipal elections will be held starting next month. The board release said that paper and electronic voter rolls will ag these voters so they vote with a provisional ballot and provide missing information for their ballot to count.

The missing numerical IDs led to other complaints and litigation leading to the 2024 elections and played a prominent part in a state Supreme Court race. U.S. attorneys have contended that accurate registration rolls help ensure fair and reliable election results. Many Democrats said these voters are already being scrutinized because they already have to show a photo ID to vote like everyone else.

North Carolina has 7.57 million registered voters and is considered a perpetual battleground state. Close elections could be a ected if registrants cast ballots that ultimately aren’t counted.

Another mailing will go out at a later date to close to 100,000 additional voters whose records also lack the identi ers but will be allowed to continue casting regular ballots because there’s evidence, for example, that they supplied a number or an alternate ID as allowed under the law.

500 feet from homes and 250 feet from public roads when the wind is blowing toward them, and may only be ignited with approved fuels like kerosene or diesel.

While exceptions exist for camp res, outdoor cooking and re ghter training, o cials urge all residents to think twice before lighting a re.

“If it’s anything other than natural yard debris, it’s going to be a nuisance to the violator too — to the tune of $25,000 per violation, per day,” Wood said.

Local #12921

Wallace NC

Since the inception of the Bill Lord Golf Tournament, we have provided over $92,000 in aid for our teachers! The programs we provide are not supported by the school budget.

Last year the teachers of exceptional children from 12 different Duplin County schools applied for and received over $13,000 to purchase technology, multi sensory equipment, materials for hands-on STEM learning to meet each child’s needs.

Bill Lord Golf Tournament

River Landing Golf Course

Last year the teachers of exceptional children from 12 different Duplin County schools applied for and received over $13,000 to purchase technology, multi sensory equipment, materials for hands-on STEM learning to meet each child’s needs.

Since the inception of the Bill Lord Golf Tournament, we have $13,000 to purchase technology, multi sensory equipment, materials for hands-on STEM learning to meet each child’s needs.

UMO recruiter honored for pioneering work in ag education

Curtis Rains won the 2025 Visionary Impact Award for advancing agricultural teaching careers

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

CURTIS R. RAINS, serving as the agricultural recruiting liaison at the University of Mount Olive (UMO), has been recognized with the 2025 Visionary Impact Award by the South Carolina Association of Agricultural Educators. The award acknowledges his signi cant contributions to enhancing agricultural education in the region, particularly in linking North and South Carolina and facilitating pathways for students to pursue careers as agricultural educators.

Rains focuses on not just recruitment but also collabora-

factors went into creating the proposed plan, including the town’s demographics, its housing situation, the local economy,\ and feedback collected from an online survey, as well as in-person surveys conducted during the 2024 North Carolina Poultry Jubilee.

In the proposed future land use plan, areas are targeted as either commercial, industrial, o ce institutional, low-density agriculture, medium high density (primarily housing) and recreation.

During the presentation, a few members of the public attending the meeting questioned a small area of land that had been targeted for recreational use in the plan. Since the specific area that borders West Ridge Street for a few blocks is privately owned land, the concern is

tion. He has established partnerships with organizations such as South Carolina FFA and Piedmont Technical College to create a sustainable pathway aimed at addressing the shortage of agricultural educators and enhancing access to quality agricultural education.

“It’s a privilege to encourage teachers to continue promoting agriculture and to help improve the educational opportunities for young people,” Rains said. “These partnerships ensure we have skilled, passionate educators to meet the needs of our communities.”

Since taking on his role at UMO in 2005, Rains has engaged with hundreds of schools, fostering relationships that are crucial in addressing the agricultural educator shortage in the region. His e orts have notably opened doors for stu-

how that could a ect the landowners should they wish to sell or develop the property in the future. Barefoot said the area had been mistakenly selected and the plan would be corrected. Barefoot added the land use plan does not restrict any specific use for the land but is designed to be consulted in future growth and zoning plans.

Notable in Barefoot’s presentation were what the consultants considered Rose Hill’s strengths and weaknesses.

She said the strengths included the tourist opportunities thanks to Duplin Winery and the World’s Largest Frying Pan, efcient emergency services, the geographic advantage of being close to I-40 and U.S. Highway 117, diversity, nearby large employers, a friendly community and a relatively low crime rate.

Barefoot advised the town to stay informed on the North Car-

dents from rural communities, providing them opportunities for higher education and careers in agriculture.

Tim Woodard, UMO vice president for enrollment, marketing, and communications, highlighted Rains’ in uence, stating that his e orts have motivated many students to consider careers in agriculture.

Rains noted the growth of the School of Agriculture at UMO, expanding from a few students to approximately 300 currently enrolled. He emphasized the importance of new programs, technology, and practical experiences in maintaining engagement and energy in his mission to support future agricultural students. As the demand for agricultural educators increases, Rains remains committed to ensuring a strong pipeline of quali ed professionals in the eld.

olina Department of Transportation’s rail feasibility study, which could reactivate passenger rail service between Raleigh and Wilmington. The right-of-way for that route would include the existing tracks that run through the Rose Hill downtown area. The report recommends that the town advocate for a train stop in Rose Hill should the rail project proceed due to the potential economic development bene ts. While Rose Hill does not have a train depot, it could be an important investment for the town.

Listed as town weaknesses were limited businesses, a visual aesthetic that needs improving, a lack of a ordable housing, limited entertainment and challenges in disseminating information in the community.

In addition, the presentation targeted what were referred to as threats to the area, including air quality, environmental con-

cerns, a lack of visible growth, substandard housing and concerns with education.

Barefoot said the weaknesses and threats targeted should be considered as opportunities to improve the town by using the land use plan to nd ways to attract businesses and o ces to currently vacant buildings and marketing recreational opportunities and tourism.

In order to make corrections to the plan regarding areas targeted as recreational, plus provide additional time for additional public input, the planning board and board of commissioners both voted to table a nal vote on the plan until the Oct. 14 board meeting.

In other business, the board of commissioners voted to increase water and sewer tap fees to be more in line with the actual cost of installing the taps after hearing the recommendation

from Town Administrator Angela Smith.

Smith said current tap fees for the most common ¾-inch water tap and four-inch sewer tap are $700 for each.

“We did a cost estimate as to what it actually cost for a ¾-inch tap, and it was over $1,100,” Smith said. “For a four-inch sewer tap, it was $860. That does not include any asphalt patch.”

The board voted to raise the current tap fees by $500 across the board.

Smith also recommended that the board begin charging a new fee for all zoning applications submitted for review.

“We contacted the other towns, and the minimum application fee is $50,” Smith told the board, recommending a $25 fee to cover administrative costs in processing the applications.

The board voted to approve the fee.

DUPLIN SPORTS

2025 FOOTBALL PREVIEW

HIGH STANDARDS

to starting positions for the

WALLACE ROSE HILL: The Bulldogs haven’t had a losing season in 17 years, but are they are about to fall from grace?

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

TEACHEY — Say it isn’t so.

The football program started by Thell Overman, crafted with the signature of Jack Holley, reaped its biggest trophies during the Joey Price/Kevin Motsinger era.

But have the mighty ‘Dawgs’ winning ways run its course?

Motsinger, who is the winningest active coach in Duplin County (174-85), says, “Everyone is expecting us to be bad.”

The veteran coach isn’t making the statement without at least a little cause from the naysayers, even if they do their bashing quietly.

Wallace-Rose Hill’s last losing season was in 2008, when the Bulldogs went 2-10 under head coach Glenn Sellers.

The next two seasons Price and company won state titles.

James Kenan’s last sub-.500 season was in 2019 (5-6). East Duplin went 3-4 the following season. The next fall North Duplin was 3-7. Additionally, WRH has more wins than its three Duplin schools.

According to longtime sportswriter

Bill Rollins, WRH is 608-257-8 in the past 69 years, while JK is 491-269-5 in 68 years, ND 460-318-5 in 70 years and ED 398-216-4 in 63 years.

The totals start after they were considered fully consolidated (ND in 1956, WRH in 1957, JK in 1958 and ED in 1962).

And yet the Bulldogs have been a victim of their own success. Until this season, Motsinger has been forced to play bigger schools in the nonconference schedule since schools the size of WRH don’t want anything to do with the Bulldogs.

That’s as compelling a statement as any that can be made for WRH, especially if you look at the nonconference foes of the other three schools.

2025 Schedule

Aug. 22 vs. East Duplin

Aug. 29 at Kinston

Sept. 5 at Clinton

Sept. 12 vs. Pender

Sept. 19 OPEN

Sept. 26 vs. Goldsboro*

Oct. 3 at Princeton*

Oct. 10 at Midway*

Oct. 17 vs. Spring Creek*

Oct. 24 vs. Rosewood**

Oct. 31 at James Kenan*

*Swine Valley 3A/2A game

**Swine Valley’s lone 2A school

Motsinger, who appears to have the deck stacked against him and the ’Dawgs this fall, could once again be the last Duplin team left in the playo s in late November, even while JK enjoys a revival and ED is itching to show its 6-6 mark last season was nothing more than an odd hiccup on the road to success.

Motsinger passed both Ken Avent Sr. and Ken Avent Jr. in career wins last season, though an overtime loss to the Tigers broke WRH’s 13-game streak against its rival.

Lamb could be WRH’s fth Division I running back since 2017

WRH, like the other three Duplin schools, is looking to shore up its offensive line while projecting Jamarae Lamb as the fth running back to play Division I football since 2017, joining a group that includes Javonte Williams, Cameren Dalrymple, Kanye Roberts and Irving Brown.

The senior has nine Division I o ers, though he could play at one of many Division II schools.

Motsinger will shift to the o ensive coordinator spot after Adam Scronce took the head coaching job at Hobbton.

Scronce’s top o ensive coach, Graham Walker, left to coach at ED.

Yet there’s something about the un-

See WRH, page B6

JAMES KENAN: Contending is not enough as the Tigers seek to be the last 3A team standing

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

WARSAW — Tim Grady says his Tigers are a hungry football team and that a core of returnees are leading the charge.

He initially spoke about senior leaders and before breaking it down to a threesome.

“Last November, they came to me during the bus drive back from Northeastern said to me, ‘We’ll be back. We want to win a state championship’” Grady said.

The 2024 gang was three wins from toting home the rst title for James Kenan since 2013.

“I think that game was a wakeup call, and I think now know about what it takes,” Grady said.

James Kenan lost 46-28 in a game that got out away from the Tigers in the third quarter.

Many key players return, though, the defense took a huge hit.

And that last JK title was coached by Ken Avent Jr.

His two nephews — running back Eli and his twin brother fullback/defensive end Cal — and running back Jeremiah Hall were the leaders atop Grady’s list.

“First o , nobody in this program can say they work harder than Eli,” Grady said.

“First one there every day. He’s that kind of leader. Organized and engaged. And the commitment of Cal and Jeremiah is o the charts. These three guys are second to none. They set the tone for all we do, and they’re also held to the same standard, and our program respect is earned.”

They will run the ball in Grady’s smashmouth o ense that will also be tooled with the explosive David Zeleya and speedy Zamarion Smith. Yet wide receiver Christopher Hill also returns and newcomer Keyshawn Murray (FB, QB, LB) is there to amplify the noise.

“Obviously, I think the depth of our skill position players is a strength,” said Grady, who is 33-15 since taking over in 2021. “We only have two o ensive linemen back.

2025 Schedule

Aug. 22 at Southern Wayne

Aug. 29 OPEN

Sept. 5 at Southern Nash

Sept. 12 vs. East Duplin

Sept. 19 vs. Spring Creek*

Sept. 26 at Rosewood**

Oct. 3 vs. Midway*

Oct. 10 at Goldsboro*

Oct. 17 vs. C.B. Aycock

Oct. 24 at Princeton*

Oct. 31 vs Wallace-RH*

*Swine Valley 3A/2A games

** Swine Valley’s only 2A school

A few of those guys can play on the outside as well. I like our o ensive potential, and especially since all them were there last year and have the experience.” Hall led the team in running with 1,150 yards and 13 touchdowns.

Zeleya went for 483 yards and 10 touchdowns and 250 in receptions and four more scores.

Eli Avent was a danger to pass (62-105 for 1,022 yards, 11 TDs) or run (30-156, 6 TDs) in either short-yardage situations or via a designed play.

While the athletic talent of SE/WB Tyquise Wilson (31-450, 4 TDs) will be missed, Hill (7-216, 2 TDs) — who missed several games in 2004 because of an injury — will pick up his production.

As will wideout Smith and Cal Avent, though his stats are less important.

“Cal’s our adjustable wrench, and sometimes it’s a game-day decision as to where he plays,” Grady said. “Keyshawn (Murray) is a lot like that. Can play anywhere in the back eld and can play to a great level at the corner and a ’backer. We’ve also got a couple of young receivers we can put out on the ank.”

Defense needs time and reps

Matching the intensity and dominance of the Tigers’ defense in 2024 is almost an impossible objective as JK

See JK, page B2

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

SPONSORED BY BILL CARONE

Jansley Page

WHR, volleyball

Jansley Page started the season where she left o .

The WRH senior had 54 kills last week during wins over Pender, Clinton and East Duplin. Page, a three-time all-Duplin volleyball player was key in last season’s 21-win campaign.

She had a kill percentage of 43.8% while accounting for 260 spikes as the Bulldogs won the East Central 2A Conference title and advance to the third round of the playo s.

gave up 10.5 points per game. Hassan Kornegay, the state’s leading tackler (203) and Mr. Football in Duplin County, has graduated. And JK is also without 100-plus tacklers Ty Morrisey and Josh Mitchell, and stud lineman Dakota Henderson (86 tackles).

John Bert Avent, father of the Avent twins, is the defensive coordinator, and he admits the Tigers won’t start out as defensive monsters.

“We’re trying to nd our identity, nd out exactly who we are and where we can put players,” he said. “A lot of our backs will be included, but that will change from game to game. I can’t see us putting Jeremiah (Hall) on defense after he runs for a 50 -yard touchdown. And we play the hot runner, so it could be Cito (Zeleya) or another guy who will need rest.”

JK will operate out of a 3-5 defensive scheme that features Cal Avent, Alex Vazquez as defensive ends, Jaylon Smith as nose guard and Miguel Osorio, and Hunter Whitman as tackles.

Hall, Smith, Murray and Steadman McIver will be inside linebackers, with Taulil Pearsall, Terell Allen and Jacquez Smith on the outside.

Zeleya had six interceptions last season, Smith three and Murray two. Wilson netted ve, but many of the picks came because of both talent at every position and because of the pressure JK put on quarterbacks.

Teams couldn’t run against Kornegay and company.

“We’re not very big, but they are strong,” Avent said of the game plan. “We need to capitalize on our speed and learn to read and break down plays. Playing the sport makes you smart, and I’m excited to see how we learn.”

Early matchups against Firebirds, Panthers are key

JK will nd out exactly where it stands after back-to -back games against Southern Nash and East Duplin, a 4A school that is not in the Swine Valley Conference with the Tigers and Wallace-Rose Hill.

Two Locations Pink Hill / Mount Olive 252.568.3911 / 919.658.6027 www.kornegayinsurance.com

But the Tigers will warm up for that heat by facing South-

ern Wayne in their opener and then have a bye in Week 2.

If all goes as planned JK will burn past Spring Creek, Rosewood, Midway, Goldsboro and Princeton to set up a Halloween matchup with WRH in Warsaw.

The Tigers broke a 13-game skid against the Tigers in the playo s.

Don’t expect their biggest rival to back down easily. In fact, WRH head coach Kevin Motsinger, who rebuilt the Tigers before Ken Avent Jr. arrived, passed both Ken Avent Sr. and Ken Avent Jr. in career wins.

So that mountain remains each season, even as talent levels on the eld come and go.

JK also manhandled ED last season and likewise slipped past powerhouse Whiteville.

The Panthers won’t go 6-6 and have to contend with an ED offense that has given JK problems in the past decade under Battle Holley.

Yet another good test is a trip to the Firebirds’ eld. South-

James Kenan Football 2025 2024 record: 12-2, tied WRH in ECC, advanced to fourth round of 2A playo s Coach: Tim Grady Career record: JK (32-14 from 2021-24) Coaching sta : DC John Bert Avent, Ken Avent III, Lee Sutton, John Thomas Avent, Juan Hooper, Dontaveus Smith

State titles: 1960, 2007, 2013

ern Nash, a 5A school, went 9-3 last fall, which included a 41-40 OT loss to Rocky Mount (10-1) and a 42-13 loss to rival Northern Nash (10-1) on the Knights’ eld.

It will be a good test for a Duplin County team, which generally whip Nash County schools, as both live and die by the running game and defense.

Southern Wayne, which won one game in 2024 and only seven in the past four seasons, is the opening night cupcake, though in a higher classi cation.

A clash with Princeton looks like a challenge, and Grady is wary of all Swine Valley foes.

“It’s not a sleeper conference,” he said. “Someone can hurt your feelings on Friday nights. We don’t overlook anyone. The pure athletes at Goldsboro can kill you.

“The number of players that are committed to the process is more than I’ve ever seen. The leadership is phenomenal. They believe in the grind and the process, and they are capable of winning a state championship.”

Key returnees: Sr. QB Eli Avent (62-105 for 1,022 yards, 11 TDs, 85-311, 5 TDs running) Sr. RB/DB David Zeleya (87-483, 10 TDs; 15-150 3 TDs receiving, 115 tackles), Jeremiah Hall (133-1,150, 13 TDs), FB/DL Cal Avent (311 rushing, 6.6 tackles, 3.5 sacks), Sr. DB Zamarion Smith (4.5 tackles), Sr. WR/DB Chris Hill (7-215, 3 TDs), Sr. Alex Vasquez (3.5 tackles, 2 sacks), Key losses: LB Hasaan Kornegay (203 tackles per game, 3.5 sacks), RB Tyquise Wilson (31-450, 2.5 sacks, 5 interceptions), LB Ty Morrisey (9.6 tackles), DL Jr. Jacquez Smith (5.9), DB/RB Josh Mitchell (84-651, 6 TDs, 110 tackles) The skinny: Every team dreams of advancing beyond “last season,” and JK is no di erent. Giving the defense a break might be having the o ense score early and often. All the players are there for the Tigers to run over teams en route to mercy-rule routs. They play ve solid teams and ve that the Tigers can dominate or at least beat. JK returned to its glory years-form in 2024. Grady was Duplin’s top coach, Kornegay Mr. Football and Zeleya a player that was the unstoppable in the win over WRH. It’s going to be a good year. How well the newcomers jell with veterans is the key.

Carolina dreaming: Rebels seek another CC title run

North Duplin returns the bulk of a team that won its rst 10 games in 2024

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

CALYPSO — North Duplin head football coach Hugh Martin is building the frontlines of his gridiron team by shu ing a mixture of newcomers and high-risers alongside a handful of proven warriors.

Martin, who returns a cast of skill position players, is seeking combinations that will make the Rebels strong on offense and defense.

Graduation didn’t appear to take away much from the Rebels, though upon further examination, it left ND minus some black-and-blue heavyweights in the trenches — Ricky Castro, Rahmear Gates, Gavin McClenny — and even a few not in three-point positions — Donovan Armwood, Luke Kelly, Brian Zambrano.

“We’re a work in progress on both sides of the ball,” Martin said. “We’ve moved kids around to play positions they didn’t play last year and put together di erent combinations. We’ve shu ed and reshu ed and are nding things out.

“We did some good things during a scrimmage, but right now we don’t have the depth to need.”

And while most people looked only at what the Rebels were returning — and it’s a strong bunch — ND’s style since Ken Avent Sr. was its coach was to win the wars in the trenches.

If a team can’t stop ND, the Rebels will march over ve or six rst-down yardsticks and chew up eight minutes of the clock before their plunge into the end zone.

Martin and his sta , which includes Brad Rhodes, Daniel Cates, Grant Lee, Wilfredo Puac and Colton Chrisman, are putting together muscle players for ND’s groundwork at two points of attack.

The defensive line has one of the best anchors in the state in 6-foot, 310-pound UNC recruit Trashawn Ru n.

Classmates Carson Barwick (5-5, 189) and Braylon Lee (5 -10, 185), juniors Dylan Aguliar (5-9, 208) and Jayden Clemmons (6-3, 165), and

sophomore Noah Bennett (6 -1, 170) will hope to give ND its line power.

“It all starts with consistency in practice and preparation,” said Martin, who is 130 -100 at ND and 148-123 overall. “We need to nd consistency in drills and everything we do to put us on a path to be the best we can be.”

The Rebels maxed out on that until Game 11 following a 26-20 loss to league foe Lakewood in the third round of the playo s.

ND was 10-0 and untouchable before the setback even though it had two hard-earned wins during the regular season (Lakewood and Hobbton).

“We’ve went over how last year isn’t going to help us,” said Martin, who also felt his Rebels would progress into becoming one of the best 2A teams in the East. “We have a very competitive conference.”

Yet no one is selling the Rebels short of winning the Carolina Conference or making a deep run in the playo s, even though if ND would have had 10 less students it would have been a 1A school.

The electricity starts with running back Carell Phillips (6-0, 160), who 1,913 yards and 31 touchdowns last fall.

Duplin County’s top rusher averaged 174 yards per game.

Classmate and back eld mate Vance Carter (5-10, 165) also returns after pushing for

North Duplin Football 2025

2024 record: 10-1, won Carolina Conference title after going 9-3 in 2023. Lost to Lakewood in third round of 1A playo s

Coach: Hugh Martin:

Entering his 20th season at ND

Career record: 148-123

(130-100 from 200624 at ND, 18-23 from 1990-93 at East Duplin) ND state titles: 1972

Notable: Went to 1A title games under Martin in 2007 and 2017. Martin was assistant coach at 2023 Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas. He is 24th in

573 yards and six touchdowns

a season ago. Look for fullback Ethan Turnage (6-0, 220) and running backs Noa Quintanilla (6 - 0, 210) and Holden Williams (5 -9, 165) to block and tote the ball in the Wing-T o ense.

Blocking fullback Quan Stevens (5-10, 170) and tight ends Ru n and Lucas Dail will be active in between-the-hashmarks work. Garris Warren (5-10, 168) will be the backup quarterback.

Junior Keiz Brock (5-10, 135) will replace three-year signal-caller Kelly.

“Both of them worked hard to develop, and both have a great work ethic,” Martin said. “Garris was a running back last year, so he understands the o ense, while Keiz was the JV quarterback.

ND’s defense will be solid in the middle and in the secondary as linebackers Turnage, Dail, Quintanilla and Austin Wolfe (5-7, 160), and defensive backs Williams, Phillips and Carter bring more experience as both units try to work in conjunction with the line.

Rebels should be in the hunt

ND will be on the road for four of its rst ve games, with the fth being trip to Lakewood, which starts play in the new Carolina Conference, which has gone

2025 Schedule

Aug. 22 at Southside

Aug. 28 at Rosewood

Sept. 5 vs. Spring Creek

Sept. 12 at Jones

Sept. 19 at Lakewood*

Sept. 26 OPEN

Oct. 3 vs. East Bladen*

Oct. 10 vs. W. Columbus**

Oct. 17 at Union

Oct. 24 vs. E. Columbus*

Oct. 31 Hobbton*

*Carolina Conference 2A/1A games **CC lone 1A school

from ve 1A schools to six 2A schools (Hobbton, Lakewood, Union, ND, West Columbus, East Bladen) and 1A East Columbus as the NCHSAA increased from four to eight classi cations.

The biggest change might bene t conference favorites Lakewood or ND. Should one win the CC and the other nish second and be other -

all-time wins among current N.C. coaches. Coaching Sta : Brad Rhodes, Grant Lee, Daniel Cates, Wilfredo Puac, Grant Lee, Colton Chrisman

Key Losses: QB/DB Luke Kelly, RB Brian Zambrano (68-344, 3 TDs), LB Issac Davis (54 tackles), DB Donavan Armwood (4.6 tackles), OL Ricky Castro, OL/DL Gavin McClenny, OL/DL Rahmear Gates, DB Anthony Kornegay, DB Wesley Holmes

Key Returnees: Sr. RB Carrell Phillips (200-1,913, 31 TDs), Sr. DL/OL Trashawn Ru n (3.8 tackles), LB Austin Wolfe (4.8 tackles), Sr. RB Vance Carter (121-573, 6 TDs), Sr. MLB Ethan Turnage (5.7 tackles) Sr. LB Wesley Holmes (72 tackles), Sr. DB Branson Martin (4.2 tackles), Sr. DB Garris Warren (2.8 tackles, 6 interceptions), Sr. Holden Williams (2.3 tackles), Jr. LB Noah Quintanilla

Newcomers: Sr. OL/DL Carson Barwick, So. Noah Bennett, Jr. OL/DB Jayden Clemmons, So. K/LB Rimi Villian, Jr. OL/DL Dylan Aguliar, Sr. OL/DL Carson Barwick, Jr. QB/DB Keiz Brock,

wise unbeaten in the league.

Max Prep’s RPI rankings determine playo seeds. Last season, league runners-up could not be seeded higher than any school that won its conference title.

And while taking bus rides early, ND will host the three schools (East Bladen, West Columbus, East Columbus) furthest away from its campus. It’s a do-it-now season for the Rebels as 14 seniors will end their prep careers and ND will rebuild in 2026.

Based on last fall, Phillips has a chance to run for more than 2,000 yards if he stays healthy. Yet should he su er an injury, the entire scenario changes and ND is regrouping and making plans on the run.

That’s how fragile football can be at a small school.

The team has a lot of potential to be a top-16 seed and earn a rst-round playo bye. Yet everyone from Calypso to Cherokee is addressing the 2A title to 2024 champ Tarboro, which already has nine state title trophies.

Sr. TE/LB Kaniel Guo, Jr. OL/DL Dylan Aguliar

The Skinny: North Duplin is riding the crest of a 19-4 string the past two seasons, its best back-to-back run since going 19-7 from 20017-18 and 25-4 during head coach Hugh Martin’s rst two season in Calypso (2007-07). The Rebels have an all-state caliber DE in Trashawn Ru n and solid players around him — Ethan Turnage, Noa Quintanilla, Garris Warren, Austin Wolfe. RB Carell Phillips was Duplin County’s O ensive Player of the Year last fall. The Rebels have 14 seniors, with more than half being key contributors in the past. Here’s a prediction: ND will win 12 games and have its best three-year run since since Avent Jr. went 31-8 from 2000-02. The 12 victories would give the Rebels 32 wins and one win more than both Avent Jr. and three more than Avent Sr. had when ND was 29-8 from 1977-79. Counting his three seasons at ED, Martin had been a head coach 23 years. Avent Sr. (173-105) coached the Rebels for 25 seasons. ND’s Ricard Kaleel (113-77-5) was in charge for 19 seasons.

Panthers return as contender in new 4A classi cation

East Duplin opens 2025 as favorites to win the ECC

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

BEULAVILLE — Football

fans were forced to take notice last season when the East Duplin football team became a pretender and not a contender.

Panthers loyalists felt the pain and players the tough injuries that led to a 6-6 season.

Losses to James Kenan, Wallace-Rose Hill, Richlands and Kinston put a damper on the Panthers’ postseason hopes that were only slightly relieved with an upset of No. 8 St. Pauls in the rst round.

There’s far too much talent and pride to keep the Panthers down this fall.

East Duplin will spar against three of the teams that it lost to in 2024, and while they won’t be conference a airs, they will prepare the Panthers for anything they will see in the new ECC, which includes Clinton and less powerful programs at Trask, Pender, South Lenoir and Southwest Onslow.

And the most intense gridiron test of all could come against 5A Jacksonville.

“It’s a tough nonconference schedule that will de nitely get us battle-tested going into the conference games,” said East Duplin head coach Battle Holley, who has a career mark of 155-62 and is entering his 14th season in Beulaville after two years at Kinston and one at WRH.

“We have some good skill kids, but we’ve got to hold onto the football and really come out of the scrimmages as injury-free as possible,” said the son of Jack Holley, the second-winningest coach in state history.

“The kids got a lot of work and a lot of reps. I also see special teams will be big now in the live games.”

Yet Holley isn’t committing to

MICHAEL JAENICKE / DUPLIN JOURNAL

2025 Schedule

Aug. 22 at Wallace-RH

Aug. 29 vs. Princeton

Sept. 5 at Richlands

Sept. 12 at James Kenan

Sept. 19 vs. Jacksonville

Sept. 26 OPEN

Oct. 3 vs. Southwest Onslow**

Oct. 10 vs. Trask*

Oct. 17 at Clinton**

Oct. 24 at Pender*

Oct. 31 vs. South Lenoir*

*East Central 3A/4A Conference games **ECC 4A foes

throwing out early accolades or promises.

“It’s early, and for me seeing our kids eagerly come to practice at 7:30 in the morning meant something,” he said.

Holley’s Wing-T o ense returns its top runners and the Panthers quarterback as the backeld starts the season healthy.

Quarterback Branson Norris was hurt before the opening game in 2024 and fullback Shawn Davis and running back Keeshon Mckinnie begin anew after injuries forced them to play hurt while also missing snaps and games.

Senior Davis (169-1,464 yard, 19 TDs) is the lead destroyer of would-be tacklers.

Classmate Aaron Hall (132-799, 9 TDs) came to the forefront while Mckinnie (54 -485, 6 TDs and 7-98, TD re-

East Duplin Football 2025

2024 record: 6-6 overall, 3-3

ECC, after going 10-2 in 2023

Coach: Battle Holley Career record: 155-62. WRH (9-4 in 2007), Kinston (22-6 from 2008-09), ED (124-52 from 2011-24). He is in the top 20 for career wins among current N.C. coaches. Led ED to its rst state nal in 2017 and its rst state title in 2022. Has coached in ve East Region nals.

Assistant coaches: Brian Aldridge, Seth Sandlin (DC), Graham Walker, Slade Brown, Scott Kennedy, Cameron Cottle, Scott Kennedy, Chris

NFL

“End Racism,” “Choose Love” returning to NFL end zones

The NFL is continuing its on- eld social justice messaging for a sixth straight season. The Associated Press learned that all 32 teams will feature an end zone message at each home game throughout the season. They will select from four options, including “End Racism,” “Stop Hate,” “Choose Love” or “Inspire Change.” Once again, “It Takes All of Us” will be stenciled in the opposite end zone for all games. The only change from 2024 is that “Inspire Change” replaces “Vote.”

Seniors Shawn Davis, from left, Tavarius Dawson, Branson Norris, Zack Ball and Luke Hall will be leaders for ED this fall.

ceiving) worked through a injury.

Allen Stukes (46-250, 3 TDs) and Dewayne Davis (12-183, 3 TDs) and wide receiver Zachary Ball (6-165, 3 TDs) were also contributing players who should be stronger and better.

Garrett Sholar and Bryson Brown will play at tight end.

O-line returnees Luke Hall and Jack Tuck will be joined by newcomers Brody Blizzard, Luke Caraway, Everett Miller and Anderson Puac.

ED used four quarterbacks before Norris (26-71 for 404 yards and 3 TDs), returned to the eld after his injury. He had ve interceptions in eight games and will need to keep his picks to a reasonable amount or Holley won’t call his number because the o ense has been proven and is a staple of the program at all levels.

“We’ve got some depth in the back eld and will be working to get that on the line,” Holley said. “We’re running our stu and getting better, making a few things di erent.”

Tavarius Dawson, Jacauri Hill, White and Tucker Coston bring the most experience to the defensive line as Semaj Scott, Stukes and Jeremiah Davis look to nd roles.

The linebacking crew of Davis, Esiah Bennerman, Ayden Lane and Bryson Brown are all new to their positions.

The secondary will be anchored by free safety JP Murphy, corner Dewayne Brown, strong safety Hall, safety Ball and Mck-

2025 East Duplin Roster

inne, with help from Gavin Jarman and Nickolas Davis. Jarman will handle the placekicking and punting duties.

Holley’s lineup will likely change as coaches continue to evaluate players based on snaps.

ED’s biggest loss from 2024 were linebackers Jordan Hall (10.4 tackles per game) and Luke Hughes (10.9) While the Panthers might not be favored in two or three of its rst ve games, it wouldn’t matter if ED goes 2-3 or 3-2 since

Jarman, Jeremy Joyner, Landen Kennedy, Jade Brinkley, Gage Jackson, Robin Crumpler, Waylon Sloan Key returnees: Sr. RB Shawn Davis (169-1,464 yards, 2 TDs), Sr. RB Aaron Hall (132-799, 9 TDs), Jr. RB/DB Keeshon Mckinnie (54-584, 3.8 tackles per game), Branson Norris (26-74 for 3 TDs), Sr. WR/DB Zack Ball (6-165, 3 TDs, 2.2 tackles), So. DB/RB Dewayne Davis (2.9 tackles), Sr. RB Alan Stukes (46-250, 3 TDs), Sr. OL/DL Jack Tuck, Jr. T Jacouri Hill, Sr. FS JP Murphy Sr.

Key losses: LB Jordan Hall (10.4 tackles per game), QB/SS Landon Bond, G/DL (6.4 tackles), DL Calvin Harper (8.7 tackles), LB Luke Hughes (10.9 tackles), SS Coary Smith (4.5 tackles).

The skinny: Last season, the Panthers su ered their worst mark since going 3-4 in the limited-play

Los Angeles The Los Angeles Lakers will unveil a statue of former coach Pat Riley on Feb. 22. Riley joins Lakers greats like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson and Kobe Bryant in bronze outside their home arena. The Lakers will honor Riley during a game against their longtime rival, the Boston Celtics. Riley coached the Lakers from 1981 to 1990, leading them to four NBA championships. He had a .733 winning percentage in the regular season and a 102-47 mark in the playo s. SIDELINE REPORT

NBA

Lakers to honor Hall of Fame coach Riley with statue unveiling against Celtics

none are ECC schools. They could actually be 1-5 and still roll to ve league wins and be champs.

Then the postseason starts and it’s a crap shoot. If they improve dramatically, it won’t matter if the Panthers are favored or even a heavy underdog on the road.

The top 16 teams in 4A get rst-round byes.

Yet the biggest di erence could be the teams they may face in the 4A East playo s.

COVID-19 season of 2020. ED won 10 or more from 2015 to 2017 and again in 2021 to 2023. Landing o ensive-minded Graham Walker is a blessing for ED, which has the biggest sta among Duplin schools. It’s hard to see the Panthers losing to the likes of ECC foes such as Trask, South Lenoir and even Southwest Onslow, and whipping Clinton is also not a stretch. Shawn Davis has the potential to be the biggest o ensive threat in the league, and it’s do-or-die for the senior, whose injuries forced him to miss games the previous two seasons. Holley’s O-line, which was subpar last season compared to past teams, will develop before the defense. No one would be terribly shocked if ED went 3-0 heading into its matchup with JK. Beating 5A Jacksonville on Sept. 9 would be a jackpot bonus for the Panthers.

Daniel Thomas Wilkins

July 1, 1981 – Aug.12, 2025

It is with sad hearts that we announce the passing of our dear Daniel Thomas Wilkins, 44, of Willard and formerly of Baltimore, MD, on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at his home.

He was born July 1, 1981, in Baltimore, MD. Daniel is survived by his mother, Sharon McNeil and stepfather, Walter Williams; his father, Daniel Timothy Wilkins; son, Daniel T. Wilkins Jr.; stepson, Aaron Wilkins; grandparents, Jerome and Vivian Wilkins; brother, Cedric Wilkins; sister, Tanya L. Wilkins; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Daniel, with his jovial, outgoing personality, was a joy to be around. Friends loved Daniel as if he was their family. He enjoyed playing video games and reading. Being respectful and super kind were two things that de ned Daniel. Most of all, Daniel loved his family. He was loved and will truly be missed.

Celebration of Life for Daniel will be Saturday, August 23, 2025, in Baltimore, MD, with place and time to be announced. A service of Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel.

Jan. 7, 1936 – Aug. 14, 2025

Albert John Ferry Jr., age 89, died Thursday, August 14, 2025, in ECU Health Duplin Hospital in Kenansville, NC. He is survived by his daughter, Mary Louise Jones Velk of Pink Hill; three sons, William “Bill” Robert Ferry of Pink Hill, James Lee Ferry of New Bern, Katsuhiro Miyara of CA; fteen grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

Vivian Linda Whaley

Feb. 16, 1942 – Aug. 16, 2025

Vivian Linda Whaley, age 83, died on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at home. She is preceded in death by her husband Maxful Buster Whaley, sister Elizabeth Ann Stevens, and brother Albert Gene Lee.

Mrs. Whaley is survived by her three sons, Kevin Maxful Whaley of Richlands, Joseph Russell Whaley and wife Janice of Richlands, Tracey Lynn Whaley of Richlands; two grandchildren, Casey Whaley, Blake Surcey and wife Kim; and three great grandchildren, Aiden Gillispie, Jaxon Surcy, and Pipper Surcey.

In lieu of owers, donations can be made to Serenity Funeral Home, PO Box 780, Beulaville, NC 28518 or to Tracey Whaley, 503 Greenwood Rd., Richlands, NC 28574.

Yvonne Johnson Tillman

May 12, 1940 – Aug. 4, 2025

Yvonne Johnson Tillman, 85, died Monday, Aug. 4, 2025. Yvonne is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Lisa Tillman Weeks and Bill Weeks of Raleigh; a son, Gary (Buster) Tillman of Hampstead; grandchildren Casey Tillman Kelly, Gary Mark Tillman, Ryan Tillman and Heather, April Tillman Goodson and Josh, Michael Weeks, and Whitney Behrend and Mike; and ve greatgrandchildren Rhylea Kelly, Clay Tillman, Marley Tillman and Corbin and Carson Goodson.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Gary Tillman; her son, Mark Tillman; her parents, Hazel and A.D. Johnson and an infant sibling. Graveside rites were held August 7, at the Calypso Cemetery. O ciating was the Rev. Andy Beard. A Tyndall Service

derdog, counted-out sentiment that inspires Motsinger, and really his team since arriving before the 2017 season.

The Bulldogs won their fourth state title in a row that year and sixth championship in 10 years. That much winning brings a lot of jealousy, and every team playing the Bulldogs could beat a signature power program in Eastern North Carolina.

Motsinger won’t be winging it on his own but will have more responsibilities and, possibly, pressure than ever.

Lamb (5-foot-11, 164 pounds), who ran for 1,362 yards and scored eight touchdowns last fall, could be charting to even more impressive heights in 2025.

Joining him in the back eld are running backs Jamari Carr (67-521, 7 TDs), Darrius McCrimmon (5-11, 152) and Devon Sloan (5-11, 153), fullbacks Montavious Hall (5-8, 226), Khay’jre Murphy (5-11, 237) and Logan Marks (5-8. 166), and SE/WB Adrian Glover (5-10, 154).

Finding blockers has been more di cult. WRH went through three centers — David Sanchez, Shane Miller and Brady Blanton — before Jacoby Dixon (6-0, 237) took over a week ago, though all that could change.

Jonathan Robinson (5-9, 220) and (Tashii Hu n (6-3, 311) are in line for snaps as guards.

Yet senior Christian Scarlett (6-4, 351) is a load that will have to be double-teamed on the offensive line.

The biggest preseason loss came last week when senior Jeremiah Baker (6-1, 167) su ered an ACL injury that will force him to miss the season.

Matthew Wells (6-0, 182) returns to quarterback and could be more involved in the o ense with his arm and legs.

Defensive front is a strength

Tyler Pugh, who coached at James Kenan last season, will take Motsinger place as the defensive coordinator.

He will have a loaded front line that includes nose guard Trent Williams (5-8, 204), Adrian Allen 5-11, 307) at tackle and

WRH Football 2025

Murphy (5-11, 237) and Hall (58, 226) as his ends. Aspen Brown (6-2, 216), Will Brooks (5-11, 161), Sloan and McCrimmon will be linebackers.

The ’Dawgs secondary includes Lamb, Carr, Wells, Glover, Kaleb Carr (5-9, 149), Chase Bland (6-2, 173) and DaShawn Fennell (5-7, 135).

Steven Acosta, who plays for the WRH soccer team, is the placekicker. QB/DB Kayden Keith (6-1, 185) looks like the signal caller of the future as the lone freshman on the roster.

Playing the bigger schools after same-sized schools duck scheduling calls

WRH opens by hosting ED this weekend.

Coach: Kevin Motsinger Career record: 181-85. WRH (77-28 from 2017-24), New Hanover (71-43 from 2006-14), James Kenan (24-14 from 2003-05)

Coaching sta : DC Tyler Pugh, Bubba James, Cory Lovelace, Doug Skipper, William Je ers, Jordan Boser, Kevin Johnson, Scott Imwalle, Johnny Carr 2024 record: 9-4, tied JK for ECC title after winning league in 2023. Notable: Motsinger led WRH to 2A title in 2017 and took New Hanover to a 4A nal berth in 2009 and WRH to the 2A nal in 2021. Revived programs at JK and New Hanover. He is in the near the 10 in career wins among current N.C. coaches. WRH state titles: (7) 2014-17, 2008-09, 1994. Top returnees: Jr. RB Jamarae Lamb (more than 2,000 yard running and receiving in ’24), Sr. RB/DB Jamari Carr (521 rushing, 7 TDs), QB Matthew Wells (27-51 for 435 yards, 5.8 tackles per game), DL Kha’jyre Murphy (2.1 tackles per game), Sr. DB Jeremiah

They then travel to Kinston and Clinton on consecutive Fridays. Pender follows to make the nonconference schedule as light as it has been in ve or six seasons. Some of WRH’s games against top-notch foes in the past include Rolesville, New Hanover, Leesville Road, Havelock and Hoggard, as same-sized schools refused to answer phone calls to schedule the Bulldogs.

That’s the pressure cooker known as Bulldogs football, which almost always lives up to its reputation even in seasons in which fans have greater expectations than might be warranted.

One day, WRH will have a losing record.

Don’t expect it in 2025.

Baker (3.8 tackles), Sr. DL Aspen Brown, TE Jr. Adrian Glover, Sr. RB/DB JC Carr, Sr. LB Will Brooks (70 tackles), Sr. RB/DB/LB Darrius McCrimmon, Sr. LB/RB Devon Sloan, Jr. DL Kha’jyre Murphy (2.1 tackles), Sr. OL Christian Scarlett, Key losses: Adam Scronce (OC) and his booth assistant Graham Walker have left for Hobbton and ED, respectively. RB Irving Brown (4,545 yards and 65 TDs in three seasons), DB Kam Thomas, DL Jerard Smith (2.2 tackles), TE Dane Turner, DB Jamari Shaw (54 tackles), DL Tyvaun Williams

The skinny: WRH lost its entire OL and all but four starters before starting the 2024 season and went 9-4 with a di cult schedule. The loss of Brown hurts. So does losing two coaches, though picking up Tyler Pugh from JK was a win. WRH will be tested, but the Bulldogs are scrutinized, idolized and provide some of the best bulletin board inspiration for foes because of its winning. Look for a runner or two to emerge alongside Jamarae Lamb. WRH remains the standard in Duplin until it is beaten by ED and JK in the same season. That’s a possibility this season, though it’s also history that the ’Dawgs win games and lead the all-time series against both rivals by a signi cant margin, though ED has caught up in the past 15 years.

Gregory Leon Sutton

Oct. 7, 1963 – Aug.12, 2025

Mr. Gregory Leon Sutton, age 61, of Clayton, NC, passed away on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at Durham VA Health Care in Durham, NC.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. at the Rose Hill Funeral Home Chapel in Rose Hill, NC. Burial will follow at Duplin Memorial Gardens in Teachey, NC.

Left to cherish his precious memories are two sons: Shuan Coston of Durham, NC and Christian Paige (Kamesha) of Su olk, VA; two daughters: Monica Dobson of Baltimore, MD and Tempestt Sutton of Clayton, NC; two brothers: Danny M. Sutton of Rose Hill, NC and Oliver W. Sutton (Alita) of Winston-Salem, NC; one sister, Hattie Sutton of Rose Hill, NC; eleven grandchildren, ve aunts, two uncles; one sister-in-law, Pamela Sutton of Rose Hill, NC; numerous nephews, nieces, cousins and friends that will miss him dearly.

David Earl Vernon Jr.

May 13, 1954 – Aug. 13, 2025

David Earl Vernon Jr., 71, went to his home in Glory to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, August 13, 2025. He was surrounded by lots of love and family.

He was born May 13, 1954, in Wilmington, the son of David Earl Vernon Sr., and Martha Blanton Vernon. In addition to his parents, David Earl was preceded in death by his brother, Dwight Wade Veron, and sisters, Zadie Mae Hall and Martha Ann Robinson.

David Earl is survived by his loving wife of 19 years, Rose Vernon; daughter, Marcia Woodcock (Je ); son, David Perry Vernon (Shannon); stepchildren, Earl Moore (Melanie), Karen Smith (Eric), Tara Strickland (Robert), and Joshua Myers; 15 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; brother, Jesse R. Vernon (Karen); special friend, Jimmy Meeks; many nieces, nephews, and friends, all who loved David Earl. Not to be forgotten are David Earl’s fur babies, Duke, Lily, Little Bit, and Clara, all who were his constant companions.

David Earl was a faithful member and trustee at Currie Community Baptist Church, where he also often took care of lawn maintenance as well as other church duties. His strong Christian faith was a beacon and a ray of sunshine to others.

David Earl enjoyed family gatherings with lots of good food to eat, sitting on his front porch facing the church, and listening to country music. Family was everything to David Earl, and he was a loving husband, Grandpa Earl, and Papa to grandkids, a helpful brother, and a loyal friend. His presence in our lives will surely be missed and forever remembered.

Memorial service will be at 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Currie Community Church, 28396 NC Hwy. 210, Currie, NC, with Pastor Eric Hutchins conducting the service. The family will receive friends following the service.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family at quinnmcgowen.com

A service of Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel.

Roger Lee Shephard

Aug. 17, 1950 – Aug. 13, 2025

Roger Lee Shepard, 74, of Bolivia and formerly of Wallace left this earthly life for his eternal home to be with Jesus on Wednesday, August 13, 2025.

He was born on August 17, 1950, in Duplin County, the son of the late Ernest Marvin Shepard Sr. and Edna Gray Shepard. He was also preceded in death by his sister Shirley Faye Shepard and daughter-in-law Dana Shepard.

Roger proudly served his country in the United States Army National Guard until retiring with twenty years of service. He also retired with Thirty-one years of service with the NC Department of Corrections. Being a servant of the community, Roger served forty years with Wallace Fire Department, more than thirty years with EMS and over thirty years with Wallace Police Department.

Surviving to cherish his memory is his best friend and devoted wife of fty years, Pamela Smith Shepard; sons Sammy Shepard and wife Donna of Willard and Rodney Shepard and wife April of Burgaw; daughter Rhonda Michelle Northcott of Bolivia; grandchildren Parker Sandlin and wife Taylor, Molly Jayne, Kaylee Peterson, Nicholas Shepard, Carson Shepard, Keagan Northcott, Kensley Northcott, Lacy Furr, Brandon Teachey, Kolton Teachey and C.J. Couch; great grandchildren, Hayden Sandlin, Layla Sandlin, Conan Furr and Randyn Swinson; brother Ernest Marvin Shepard and wife Brenda of Ernul, NC; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends that loved Roger dearly. Roger was a loving husband and caring father, grandfather and brother. He was a simple man who enjoyed the simple things in life, but his greatest joy was family. Roger loved people and was loved in return. He never met a stranger and was always willing to help anyone who needed help. He was an active member of Sunset Harbor First Baptist Church where he served as Deacon. Being a good neighbor and friend, Roger was loved and respected by all who knew him. He leaves behind many in his community - family, friends, neighbors, colleagues and a loving church family that were blessed to have known him and been a part of his life. Roger will surely be missed but he will never be forgotten. Memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 16, 2025 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Wallace Chapel with his Pastor Brian Holland o ciating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the funeral home. In lieu of owers, the family requests that memorial gifts be given in memory of Roger Shepard to SECU Foundation, PO Box 25966, Raleigh, NC 276117665 (earmark for SECU Hospice House of Brunswick) or the charity of your choice.

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home of Wallace, NC 910-2854005

Jacqueline Marie Theiss-Carr

Feb. 11, 1983 – Aug. 13, 2025

Jacqueline Marie Theiss-Carr, 42, of Wilmington, passed away @ “607” on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at Lower Cape Fear Lifecare surrounded by the love of her family and friends. She was born on February 11, 1983, in Westwood, NJ, to Bruce Kenneth Theiss and Suzanne Hilla Theiss.

Jacqueline was a loving mother who enjoyed watching her children at sporting events, especially cheering from the sidelines with the other football moms, who have become part of the family. She also liked reading books in her spare time. She dedicated her whole heart to her family and anyone in need.

In addition to her parents, Jacqueline is survived by her husband, Da’Shawn Lamont Carr; her sons, Brant Tyler Theiss (Marlee Byers), Kilby Grant Theiss-Dixon; her daughters, Harmony Marie Nicole TheissDixon, Kayden Rose Carr; her brothers, Brian Paul Theiss (Alison Theiss), Daniel John Theiss; her grandson, Warren Parker Theiss; her nieces, Keira Theiss, Emily Theiss.

A Celebration of Life and a Mass at St Mark will be forthcoming at a later date.

Quinn McGowen Funeral Home of Wilmington is serving the family.

Ricky Charles Beasley

March 21, 1959 – Aug. 5, 2025

Ricky Charles Beasley, at the age of 66, a resident of the Oak Ridge community near Mount Olive, died August 5, 2025.

Ricky was a member of the Bear Marsh Baptist Church, where a service of remembrance was held on Friday, August 8, with the Rev. Paul Rose o ciating, followed by a visitation.

He was an accomplished guitarist and singer.

Ricky leaves behind his beloved wife, Rose Garris Beasley, to whom he was married for 42 years; their three children and spouses, Ricky Lee Beasley and Lindsey Taylor Beasley of Mount Olive, Brandon Charles Beasley and Holly Taylor Beasley of Richlands, and Kelly Beasley Cole and Brandon Cole of Mount Olive; grandchildren, Mya, Trysten, Maddie, Laney, and Lexi Beasley, and Brynlee and Canaan Cole; a brother and sister-in-law, Willis Earl Beasley and Loretta Shivar Beasley of the Greensboro area; two sisters and brothers-inlaw, Eleanor Beasley Jones and William Jones of Mount Olive, and Janet Beasley Holland and Bill Holland of Goldsborond Faye Gurganus Beasley; infant twin sisters. A Tyndall service.

James “Freddy” Simpson V

Jan. 1, 1976 – Aug.10, 2025

James “Freddy” Fredrick Simpson V, 49, of Wilmington, NC, passed away on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at Novant New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington.

James Fredrick Simpson V, a ectionately known as “Freddy,” was born to Emily C. Simpson and James Fredrick Simpson IV in Wilmington, North Carolina, on January 1, 1976. Raised in Pender County, he spent his early years along the banks of the Black River with his younger, beloved brother, Jeremy, where his love for the outdoors began to take root. A proud graduate of Pender High School, Freddy went on to earn his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, later completing his master’s in nursing from Liberty University. He then went on to be a CRRN, Manager of Rehabilitation Nursing, and worked at the New Hanover Hospital for over 20 years!

Freddy’s passion for the water never waned. He ran a shing charter out of Wrightsville Beach, sharing his expertise and love for the ocean with others, and he was an avid sherman and surfer throughout his life.

In time, Freddy met and married the love of his life, Jennifer Anne Krieger. Together they built a family and a life lled with adventure, raising their two children, Emma and Davis. Whether at home or on the road, Freddy’s greatest joy was being with them, especially as they traveled the country competing on national dirt bike racing circuits.

Freddy will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his deep love for family, and his ability to inspire those around him to embrace life with passion and courage. His contagious smile would literally light up a room.

The family will be receiving friends and family on Sunday, August 17, 2025, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Quinn McGowen Funeral Home in Wilmington. A Celebration of Life will take place at Quinn McGowen Funeral Home in Wilmington at 11 a.m. on Monday, August 18, 2025.

The Celebration of Life and a gathering of friends will continue at Dockside Restaurant following the service.

At 3 p.m., the family will set sail to honor Freddy’s nal wishes to be released at sea. Anyone with a boat is invited to follow.

A private family ceremony will be held at Simpson Family Cemetery.

Gifts in memory of Freddy can be designated to Novant Health New Hanover Rehabilitation Hospital at give.nhrmc.org.

David Williams Rouse

Jr.

June 7, 1953 – Aug. 1, 2025

David Williams Rouse Jr., lovingly known as “Pops” by his family, passed away peacefully surrounded by his close family on August 1, 2025, at the age of 72. A lifelong resident of Rose Hill, North Carolina, he was born there on June 7, 1953, to the late David and Winifred Rouse.

Pops grew up on the family farm where they raised chickens, tobacco, and corn - a place that shaped his quiet strength and tireless work ethic. His career began working for his father as an electrician. After, he worked for many years in a factory plant as an electrical technician and later became the owner of his own business, constructing and wiring houses. Always handy and resourceful, he could build or x just about anything. He took pride in working with his hands and spent countless hours tinkering in his shop.

Some of his favorite days were spent shing on a river bank or oundering on the sound. Pops loved animals and in his later years you would see him just driving around with his pup companion. He was a big fan of westerns: James Bond, Star Trek, the Beetles and the oldies. David was a man of few words, often keeping to himself, but his strong will and determined spirit left a lasting impression on those who knew and loved him. When he set his mind to something, he made it happen. When YouTube became popular it also became his best friend. His grandchildren are all to familiar with visiting him and watching him go through an instructional repair video of some sort.

Although his last years on this earth were medically complex, Pops maintained an incredible will to live. If there was even a glimmer of hope or positivity, he would nd it. He fought with strength and determination until the very end. His unwavering spirit and optimistic outlook in his later years will forever be remembered by his family and those who cared for him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, David and Winifred Rouse. Left to cherish his memory are his son, Will Rouse and his sisters, Patricia McGarty and Treva Simmonsand his brother, Hugh Rouse. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Jessica Herrmann (husband, Nick), Olivia Rouse (husband, Errol), and Marisa Rouse (partner, Michael). He also leaves four great-grandchildren: Odin Rouse, Preston Herrmann, Connor Herrmann, and Zoey Manley. David “Pops” Rouse will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of owers, a contribution may be made to the ASPCA, American Cancer Society, or a non-pro t organization of your choice.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at Rock sh Presbyterian Church Cemetery.

Family and friends are welcome to visit David’s home on Thursday, August 7, to pay their respects.

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home and Cremation service of Wallace, NC.