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W. Bernard Christenbury, 90, passed away on Friday, October 23, after a brief period of declining health. Born in Mooresville on February 18, 1925 to Leroy and Sallie Brown Christenbury, Bernard was a Navy veteran of World War II. He retired as a weaving instructor from Burlington Industries in 1987 after 40 years of dedicated service. He often said being happy in his job was crucial to his success. Bernard was always smiling and willing to help friends and family alike. He said the best advice he received was from his parents. Respect others and they will respect you. Don't judge by others’ opinions; judge by your knowledge. Those who knew him saw him apply this advice daily. He freely gave unconditional love and support to all who knew him. Anyone who met him never forgot him. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by the love of his life, Erleen Mills Christenbury, after 65 years of marriage in 2013 and by granddaughter Catherine in 2005. The oldest of seven, also preceding him in death were sisters, Pauline (Benny) Sinclair, Sara (Wayne) Hedrick, Nancy (JC) West, Drucella (Willis) Pharr, and brother, Delano (Joyce). Surviving him to try to carry on his kind, helpful and giving spirit are sons, Eric and David (Beth); grandchildren, Erica and Jason, and their mother Joye. Also surviving is brother, Leroy, Jr (Ruth); sister-in-law, Betty B. Mills; and special neighbor, Glenda Waugh. The family would like to extend special thanks to the following team members of Novant Presbyterian-Charlotte ICU and Harris Hospice: Dr. Geller, nurses Courtney, Melinda, Rob, and Amanda, CNA Sabrina, Bev, Adele, Jean, and Chaplain John. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, October 26 at Glenwood Memorial Park, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 AM at Cavin-Cook Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Lib McGregor Simmons officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Norman Mills, Tom Mills, Ned Mills, Chris Christenbury, Patrick Christenbury, Justin Barnes, and Honorary Pallbearers, WB Curtis, David Miller, and Arthur "Slug" Helms. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice & Palliative Care of Iredell County, 2347 Simonton Rd, Statesville, NC 28625, Davidson College Presbyterian Church, PO Box 337, Davidson, NC 28036, Broad Street United Methodist Church, 355 S. Broad St, Mooresville, NC 28115 or to a favorite charity.

Tributes

W. Bernard Christenbury

February 18, 1925 - October 23, 2015