Thursday, May 25, 2017 8:56 am

Howard Yelton age 89 of Forest City went home to be with The Lord on Saturday May 20, 2017.

A native of Rutherford County he was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, a member and Past Master of The Spindale Masonic Lodge, a member of the York Rite and was a Shriner. Howard retired from the Rutherford County Department of Health where he spent his career as a local health inspector.

Howard is survived by his loving wife Lilia Uy Yelton of the home, two children: Donnie Yelton and Lucille Mauck; one brother Blaine Yelton, one sister Betty Clark, seven grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren and a number of other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents Edgar & Effie Yelton, one son Eddie Yelton and one daughter Louise Yelton Price.

Funeral services were held at Crowe's Funeral Chapel. Concluding services were held with Masonic Rites at Eternal Hills Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Rutherford County Hospice PO Box 336 Forest City, NC 28043.

Crowes Mortuary is assisting the family.