Obituary of Edna Mae Ham

Edna Harrell Ham was born in Mitchell County, North Carolina to parents Luther and Arizona Byrd Harrell. She attended Tipton Hill High School and graduated from Appalachian State University with a BS degree in science and home economics. She later completed her MA in reading and elementary education.
She joined Mount Jefferson Presbyterian Church in 1953. Over a number of years she served as an Elder, Moderator of Presbyterian Women, Sunday School Teacher and Youth Leader.
Following her 33 year career in education, Edna volunteered with community organizations. She helped start Hospice of Ashe County and served on the Hospice Foundation for Ashe, Alleghany, and Watauga Counties. She was an active volunteer for Ashe Memorial Hospital for 28 years and for the Ashe County Sharing Center for 25 years.
Edna was predeceased by husband of 25 years, Shirlie E. Ham. She is survived by daughters Kathy Howell and husband Tommy of West Jefferson, NC and Linda Belger and husband Wayne of Jacksonville, FL; sister, Juanita Harbour and husband Earl of Cameron, NC, and nephew Tom Smith and wife Mary of Hurricane, WV. Grandchildren, Travis Howell and wife Leigh, Kristie Brooks and husband Jamie, Matthew Belger and wife Jennifer, and Mitchell Belger and wife Megan, along with 10 greatgrandchildren also survive.
Memorials may be made to Mount Jefferson Presbyterian Church music ministry or Hospice of Ashe.