Hiram Wilson Baucom

Hiram Wilson Baucom, Jr., 77, of Gastonia, passed away Saturday, June 25, 2016, at Peak Resources in Cherryville.

He was born April 16, 1939, in Gaston County, son of the late Hiram Baucom, Sr. and Ardena Tippit Baucom.

Junior was an avid Atlanta Braves fan. He had a love for baseball and played for Lenoir Rhyne and the American Legion. Also, Junior was a member of Macedonia Baptist Church in Gastonia. He worked as a teacher, coach, and principal in the Gaston County School System for 30 years. He graduated from Frank L Ashley High School (1957). He received his Bachelor's Degree at Lenoir Rhyne (1961). At UNC Charlotte, he received the Master of Education (1974). At Appalachian State University, he received the Education Specialist (1977).

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 50 years, Nella Dean Baucom; and siblings, Theador Baucom, Rachel Smith, Sarah Stroupe, Betty McCurry, Jim Baucom, Bruce Baucom, and Shelia Baucom.

Left to cherish her memories are her sister, Nancy Carpenter and husband, Joe; and numerous nieces and nephews that he dearly loved.

A funeral service will be held 3pm on Wednesday at the West Chapel of Greene Funeral Service, 216 Archie Whitesides Rd., Gastonia. Pastor Jerry Millwood will be officiating.

The family will receive friends 6-8pm on Tuesday at the funeral home, and other times at the residence of Nancy Carpenter.

Interment will be held at Westview Gardens Cemetery in Bessemer City.

Arrangements are with the West Chapel of Greene Funeral Service and Crematorium, Gastonia.

Condolences may be made online at greenefuneral.com.