John Mode

John Eric Mode, 68, of Newton passed away Monday, August 6th, 2018 at his home. Born June 27th, 1950 he was the son of the late John H Mode and Pearl Whisenant Mode. John was a native of Morganton, graduating from Morganton High School class of 1968. He received a Bachelor of Music and Masters of Music Education from Appalachian State University. In 1972, he began his teaching career at Hildebran High School, instructing band and chorus and was also a charter faculty member of East Burke High School where he taught music theory. His teaching career also included Hildebran Middle School, West Iredell High School, Shelby City Schools, and Hickory City Schools, where he influenced the lives of countless students. John served as an active church musician, directing adult choirs and hand bells for over 45 years. John was also very active in his professional music memberships including MENC, NCMEA, American School Band Director's Association and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Music Fraternity.

His wife of 43 years, Mary Latimer Mode; two sons, John Hunter (Ashley Fox Gigante) and Matthew Eric (Emily Horton); grand-daughter Pepper; and sister Cynthia Gail Mode survive him.

He was preceded in death by sister Laura Mode Lail and brother Phillip Elam Mode.

The memorial service will be held Friday, August 10th at 2:00pm in the sanctuary of Hickory First Presbyterian Church, 237 2nd St. NW Hickory, NC 28601, with Rev. Dr. Whit Malone and Rev. Dr. Steven Mowery officiating. Visitation will follow in the fellowship hall.

Memorials may be made to Samaritan's Purse P.O Box 3000 Boone, NC 28607, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital P.O Box 50 Memphis, TN 38101, or the charity of one's choice.

Please sign the online guestbook at www.jenkinsfuneralhome.net. The Mode family has entrusted arrangements to Jenkins Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Newton 828-464-1555.

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