Ernest W. Middleton

HICKORY - Ernest Wayne Middleton, 62, of Sixth Street, SW, Catawba, died Thursday, July 13, 2006, at Palliative CareCenter and Hospice of Catawba Valley, after two years of declining health. Born May 11, 1944, in Catawba County, he was a son of the late Ernest A. and Pauline Travis Middleton. A member of Walnut Grove Baptist Church in Moravian Falls, he retired from Hancock Moore and was a veteran of the Vietnam Conflict. Wayne was a remarkable person in so many ways. His humor, smile and boisterous laugh were his trademarks. Even through his long battle with lung cancer, his positive attitude remained, and he was an inspiration to all who knew him. He was a loving son, caring father, dedicated brother, devoted nephew and cousin, exceptional uncle and incredible friend. He made an indelible mark on our hearts and we are forever thankful to have had him in our lives. He will be missed and loved always. Survivors include a daughter, Shannon Nye and husband, Dwayne, of Catawba; a son, Jason Middleton of Dudley Shoals; two granddaughters, Mallory Nye and Lana Nye of Catawba; a sister, Becky Parker and husband, Robert, of Claremont; a brother, Kevin Middleton and wife, Jan, of Hickory; two nieces, Amy Bradshaw and Leslie Middleton of Claremont; three nephews, Brian Parker, Andrew Middleton and Kevin Middleton of Claremont; and former wives, Linda Middleton and Donna Barlow. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Hickory Funeral Home Chapel, with the Rev. Jeff Hammons officiating. Memorials may be made to Palliative CareCenter and Hospice of Catawba Valley, Inc., 3975 Robinson Road, Newton, N.C. 28658. Hickory Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.