Elbert Ray Barnhill died peacefully at Lower Cape Fear Hospice on Nov. 6, 2015. He was 86.
Elbert was born on Oct. 11, 1929, in Rocky Point, son of the late Robert Powell and Beadie Wilson Barnhill. His loving wife of 49 years, Lila Emily Langley Barnhill preceded him in death as well as his sisters, Lucille Spencer, Helen Ragsdale and Emma Joyce Colvin and brothers, Robert Barnhill and Leroy Barnhill.
Surviving are his sons, Jeffrey R. Barnhill (Mary Claire) and E. Lee Barnhill; grandchildren, Andrew, Katie, Eric and Brianne Barnhill; sisters, Ida Mae Keith, Geraldine Swart Smith, Gail Dixon (Jimmy) and Ann Holt; brothers, Joe Barnhill (Nell) and John David Barnhill (Susan); sisters-in-law, Jane Barnhill and Hilda Langley; brother-in-law, George Langley (Eileen); and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
He graduated from Long Creek-Grady High School and bravely served his country in the Korean War in the U.S. Army. Elbert was employed by Babcock and Wilcox in Wilmington and later worked with Security Forces. He enjoyed working and only retired a few years prior to his passing.
As a longtime member of Wrightsboro Baptist Church, he taught Sunday school and served as deacon and on numerous church committees. For over 30 years, he was a devoted lay minister for the church’s home-bound, hospital and nursing home ministries. Elbert was an avid sports fan, enjoyed working in his garden, taking walks with his friend Jimmy Teachey and spending time with his grandchildren.
The funeral service was held Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2015, at Wrightsboro Baptist Church. Elbert’s grandson, the Rev. Andrew Barnhill, officiated and his nephews served as pallbearers. Burial followed immediately at Greenlawn Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Wrightsboro Baptist Church home ministries or Lower Cape Fear Hospice, 1414 Physicians Dr., Wilmington, NC 28401.
Please leave online condolences for the family at Andrews Mortuary.
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