Orville Neil Mabe Obituary (1930 - 2020)

Orville Neil Mabe, 90, of Madison, NC, died Tuesday, November 17th, 2020, at UNC Rockingham Health Care in Eden. Orville was born September 8th, 1930, in Lawsonville, NC. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lelah and Bertie Mabe; and his brothers, Millard, Dennis, and Wayne Mabe. Orville is survived by his wife, Gracie Ann Mabe; son, Tim Mabe; son, Mike Mabe and wife, Janet; grandson, David Mabe; granddaughter, Rachel Mabe; niece, Dr. Cheryl Mabe Turner, and husband, John Turner; and niece, Ann Mabe Carter. Orville and Gracie had a wonderful life together and celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary just this year. Orville is remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather, and he will be missed by his family. Orville was known to his family as "Papa." Papa will always hold a special place in the hearts of his "favorite" grandson and "favorite" granddaughter, David and Rachel. Orville also served his country as a veteran of the Korean War. He served in the US Army from 1951 to 1953. He participated on the front lines in many battles, including Heartbreak Ridge, Pork Chop Hill, and White Horse Mountain. Orville was a longtime member of Woodbine Baptist Church. Orville had been retired from the textile industry for 26 years. A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM Friday, November 20th at the Mayodan Municipal Cemetery. The Reverend Danny L. Chatham will officiate. Social distancing guidelines will be observed and face coverings are encouraged. Military rites will be conducted by the Rockingham County Honor Guard and the North Carolina National Guard. If you wish to celebrate his life with a remembrance, you may make a memorial to the Rockingham County Honor Guard, c/o Johnny White, 4655 Price Road, Stoneville, NC 27048. Orville will lie in state from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, November 19, 2020, at Colonial Funeral Home. Colonial Funeral Home in Madison is serving the family. Condolences may be offered at www.colonialfh.net