Claude Emory Obituary

WOODLAND, NC - Claude Wesley Emory, affectionately known to many as "Worm," passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025, in Woodland, North Carolina, at the age of 80. Born on August 15, 1944, in George, North Carolina, Wesley lived a life full of love, dedication, and service to his community and church.
After attending Woodland Onley School through the ninth grade, Wesley moved to Gatesville, NC, where he graduated from Gatesville High School in 1962. Soon after, he returned to his roots in Woodland and began a long and fulfilling career at Parker Manufacturing Company in George, NC. Wesley dedicated over 37 years to the company, showcasing his unwavering work ethic and commitment. In 1994, he embarked on a new journey at Odom Correctional Facility in Jackson, NC, where he worked diligently until he retired after 20 years of service.
Wesley's heart was always with his community. As a volunteer fireman with the Woodland Volunteer Fire Department, he demonstrated bravery and selflessness, always ready to lend a helping hand. His love for sports was evident in his younger years when he played baseball, where he obtained the nickname "Worm", and later in life, as he avidly watched UNC Carolina Basketball and Atlanta Braves baseball games. He also found joy and peace in the great outdoors, spending cherished moments hunting and fishing.
A man of faith, Wesley was an active member of Woodland Baptist Church, where he found spiritual fulfillment and camaraderie. He served as deacon, usher, money counter and performed whatever he was asked to do, and he always did so faithfully. It was in Woodland that he met the love of his life, Catherine. They were married on July 1, 1967, and shared nearly 58 beautiful years together. Although most people called her Cathy, to Wesley, she was always affectionately "Catherine," and their love was a testament to enduring partnership and devotion.
Wesley is preceded in death by his mother, Nannie Smith Pendergraft; father, Claude Leroy Emory; brother, Wayne Emory; and sister, Debbie Joyner.
He leaves behind a loving family who will continue to honor his memory: his beloved wife, Catherine Emory; brother, Tim Emory and his wife Sandra of Tyner, North Carolina; and sisters-in-law Margaret Barmer, Maxine Hoggard of Woodland, North Carolina, and Joann Uzzell and husband Steve of Scotland Neck, North Carolina. Margaret, Maxine and Joann say he was the brother they never had. His legacy also lives on through his nieces and nephews, Chris Emory, Ryan Emory, Dallas Joyner, Jeff Emory, Heather Wrenn, Crystal Bazemore, Michelle Spence, Chad Hoggard, Steven Hoggard, Scott Uzzell, and Elizabeth Lilley, as well as numerous great nieces and nephews who adored their "Uncle Worm."
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Wesley's life at a visitation on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm at Garrett-Sykes Rich Square Chapel. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 11:00 A.M., at Woodland Baptist Church, Woodland, North Carolina, with Rev. Dr. J Brabban officiating. Burial will follow at the Woodland Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made directly to the Woodland Baptist Church, P.O. Box 444, Woodland, North Carolina 27897 or online by clicking here; or directly to the Woodland Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 508, Woodland, North Carolina 27897 or online by clicking here.
Wesley's life was a testament to love, hard work, and community spirit. He touched the hearts of many and leaves behind a legacy of kindness and dedication that will inspire all who knew him.
Online condolences can be directed to the family at www.garrettsykesfs.com. Funeral arrangements were trusted to Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service - Rich Square Chapel, 116 Short Street, PO Box 1067, Rich Square, NC 27869, (252) 539-1001. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Claude Wesley "Worm" Emory, please visit our floral store.