Pauline Keller

Pauline Edith Carter Keller, 82 of Hickory died Friday March 20, 2009 at her residence. Born August 4, 1926, she was the daughter of the late Clifton Clarence and Zula Octavia Pruitt Carter. She was a homemaker whom in 1982 became an adult graduate of St Stephens High School graduating with her daughter, Anita and her granddaughter, Tina. She was previously employed by Sweetwater Elementary School cafeteria, Stanford Furniture and Mack’s Store and enjoyed sewing and alterations from her home. One of her joys was spreading cheer to thousands of people whom she visited while portraying holiday characters. Her skill in sewing led her to create many costumes such as Mrs. Santa, Mrs. Independence, Mrs. St. Patrick, the Easter Bunny and being a clown at church festivals. Four daughters, Elaine and Bobby Lail of Conover, Darlene and Herbert (Butch) Sigmon of Claremont, Paulette and Johnny Brittain of Sherrills Ford and Anita and Dean London of Hanahan, SC; a son, Larry and Judy Keller of Conover; a sister, Ethel Carter Hartman of Long View; an aunt, Mozelle Pruett of Mountain View; 15 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren survive her. Her first husband, Walter Glenn Keller and her second husband, Richard Glenn Canipe, a son, Emmanuel Hewitt Keller; a brother, Manily Carter; two sisters, Hazel Carter and Eula Mae Carter preceded her in death. Pauline’s life will be celebrated at a worship service 3:00 pm Tuesday March 24, 2009 at St. Paul’s Reformed Church in Newton with The Rev. Dr. Stephen Disher officiating. Burial will follow at Catawba Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 7-8:30 pm Monday at the church. Pallbearers will be Kevin Watts, Daniel Hill, Randall Brittain, Adam Starnes, Wiley Sigmon and Tyler Apple. Memorials may be made to Palliative CareCenter and Hospice of Catawba Valley, 3975 Robinson Rd. Newton, NC 28658. Condolence messages may be made to www.jenkinsfuneralhome.net. The Keller family has entrusted arrangements to Jenkins Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Newton.