EPPERSON

WINSTON-SALEM — Harry Arnold Epperson Jr., 86, went home to be with his Lord and Saviour on Saturday, Feb. 27, 2010. Born on April 29, 1923, in Ararat, Va., as the second son of Harry Arnold Epperson Sr. and his wife Lula Watson Epperson, Mr. Epperson spent his childhood helping on their farm and attending the local one-room schoolhouse. He graduated from Blue Ridge High School and began his college education. Mr. Epperson volunteered and served as an Army medic during World War II, earning a Purple Heart during the Battle of the Bulge. Upon returning from the Army, he earned a degree in education from John Brown University, graduating in 1948. He went on to study engineering, acquired his FCC license and pursued a career in radio. Mr. Epperson was instrumental in starting WKBX radio station in Winston-Salem, and over the course of his lifetime, owned stations in Petersburg, Va., Wilson and Luray, Va. He also enjoyed basketball and skiing and was an avid tennis player. Mr. Epperson loved to travel and take trips across the United States. He enjoyed being with his family and attending Salem Baptist Church. Mr. Epperson is survived by his wife of 58 years, Olive Poore Epperson; and their children, Ruth (Steve) Mathis, Jan (Mandel) Owens and Arnie (T.C.) Epperson. He leaves seven grandchildren, Sarah and David Mathis, Samuel and Benjamin Owens and Christiana, Harrison and Tyndale Epperson. In addition, he is survived by three siblings, Roy, Mary Lee and Stuart; several aunts; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Mr. Epperson was preceded in death by his parents; his older brother, Ralph Epperson; and his sister, Lucy Bowman. The family will receive friends at Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, March 4, 2010. A service celebrating the life of Mr. Epperson will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, March 5, 2010, at Salem Baptist Church with Pastor Howard Wilburn officiating. The body will be placed in Unity Presbyterian Church in Ararat, Va., from 2 to 2:45 p.m. Friday March 5, 2010, followed by a graveside service at 3 p.m. in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Salem Baptist Church or Salem Baptist Christian School, 429 S. Broad St., Winston-Salem, NC 27101, would be appreciated. Online condolences may be made at www.hayworth-miller.com.