LOUISBURG - Early Cope "E.C." Gupton, Jr., 94, passed away Wednesday morning at his home.

E.C. was a son of the late Cope and Ethel Murphy Gupton, Sr. He was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Margaret P. Gupton; son, Earl Gupton; sisters, Vivian Jennings and Lena Pleasants; brothers, Russell Gupton and Millard Gupton.

A graveside service will be 3 p.m. Friday at Lancaster Memorial Park. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.

E.C. is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Patsy G. and Bob Gardner; four grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Cedar Rock First Baptist Church, 4879 NC Hwy. 56 E., Castalia, NC 27816.