Warner Carlton Cale

COLERAIN, NC - Warner Carlton Cale, fondly known as Carlton, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on March 20, 2026, at ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville, North Carolina, at the age of 82. Born on June 12, 1943, in Hertford County, North Carolina, Carlton lived a life enriched by family, hard work, and simple pleasures.

Carlton spent his career dedicated to farming, finding joy and purpose in tending to the land. His love for farming was rivaled only by his other interests, which included fishing and dancing. In his younger years, he enjoyed coon hunting, a pastime that connected him deeply to the countryside he called home. Known for having a knack for repairing lawn mowers, Carlton also had an eye for antiques and enjoyed antiquing during his leisure time. Carlton's spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, and his memory will endure in the fields he tended, the stories shared amongst his family, and the laughter that echoes through the generations he has touched.

Above all, Carlton cherished his family, who were the center of his world. He is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Dorothy Pinelle Ward Cale and Warner Gloucester Cale. He is survived by a loving family, including his children, Sherry Natoli, Carlette Jones and husband Johnny, Daniel Cale and wife Pam, and Jennifer Thomas and husband Wesley, all residing in Aulander. His legacy is carried forth by his grandchildren: Stephanie Worley of Raleigh, Nicholas Williford of New York, Thomas Spruill (Jessica) of Powellsville, Victoria Northcott (Jeffery) of Ahoskie, Christopher Spruill (Kayla) of Bear Grass, Amber Cale (Nate) of Greenville, Parker Cale of Aulander, Michelle Johnson of Roanoke Rapids, Timmy Johnson (April) of Aulander, Justin Johnson of Aulander, and Caleb Jones of Goldsboro. Carlton's family tree continues to grow with his great-grandchildren: Olivia Worley, Maggie, Clara, and Raleigh Northcott, Everly and Sadie McIntire, Alyssa and Kolby Johnson.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at a visitation on Monday, March 23, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service in Ahoskie, NC, and also at other times at the home of his son Daniel. A celebration of Carlton's life and legacy will be held on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service, Ahoskie Chapel, with Pastor Gary Saffell and Pastor Joshua Prosser officiating. Interment will follow at Highland Memorial Gardens.

In remembrance of Carlton Cale, contributions can be made to American Heart Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692 or online by clicking here.

Online condolences can be shared at www.garrettsykesfs.com. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements to Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service, Ahoskie, NC.