Marie June Lampkin

Marie June Lampkin, age 89, died at Chatuge Nursing Home, following a brief illness. Marie was born in Dandridge, Tennessee, the daughter of Bessie West Lampkin and Rufus Franklin Lampkin. She grew up in North Carolina, attending grade school and Needham-Broughton High School in Raleigh before moving with her family to Knoxville, Tennessee. After graduating from high school, Marie moved to Atlanta, where she was hired as a buyer for Davidson's and Rich's department stores. She enrolled in business courses at Georgia Southern University and enjoyed a long career in inside sales with Continental White Cap (now Silgan Closures). She retired full-time to Hayesville, North Carolina in 1994.

In her younger years, Marie enjoyed entertaining and collecting art by local artists. In her later years she could often be found in her yard, where she grew beautiful roses and dahlias. She enjoyed eating out with friends, reading mysteries, working crossword puzzles, and, most of all, walking her dogs at Chatuge Dam. Often outspoken and opinionated, Marie loved debating politics and discussing her beloved Atlanta Braves. She was of the Baptist faith and sought to treat others graciously and with kindness. She was a devoted dog lover her entire life. In addition, she generously supported the Valley River Humane Society and rescued and fostered many dogs of all breeds during her retirement.

Marie is survived by her brother, Rufus Lampkin, (Linda) of Franklin, NC, and her sister, Nancy Casteel, (Paul) of Knoxville along with several dear friends, cousins, nieces, and nephews. To honor Marie's life, donations may be made to Valley River Humane Society, PO Box 658, Murphy, NC 28906.

Cochran Funeral Home of Murphy in charge of arrangements