William "Howard" Stockton

William “Howard” Stockton, age 76, of the Turkey Cove Community, passed away on Saturday, December 1, 2018 at the John F, Keever, Jr. Solace Center in Asheville with his loving family at his side. A lifelong resident of McDowell County, he was born September 6, 1942 to the late William Lee and Ruth McKinney Stockton.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one son, William Scott Stockton “Scotty” (February 17, 2017). 

Howard had worked at CE Air Preheater for 18 years; and then for 5 years, he became self-employed, then ultimately, he retired from the McDowell County Schools.  Following retirement, he worked part time at the Woodlawn Convenience Center until his health began to decline.  An avid fox hunter, Howard enjoyed raising foxhound dogs, but most of all, he took great pride in spending time with his family, especially his grandbabies.  He was a faithful member of Coxes Creek Free Will Baptist Church. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Anna Smith Stockton; two sons, Chris Stockton (Amanda) of Parachute, Colorado and Jody Stockton (Janet) of Marion; six grandsons, Tyler Stockton, Casey Stockton, Nathan Stockton, Christopher Stockton, Jr., Bradley Dale and Heath Dale; and six great grandchildren. Howard is also survived by two brothers, George Stockton (Jo) and J.D. Stockton, both of Marion; and three sisters, Edith Grant, Virginia Sigman (Rick) and Gladys Grindstaff (Danny), all of Marion; and a number of nieces and nephews.

A funeral service for Mr. Stockton will be held on Tuesday, December 4, 2018 at 12:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Beam Funeral Service with Pastor Josh Miller and Rev. Roy Whitson officiating.  Interment will follow at Snow Hill Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m., prior to the service, at the funeral home.