Visitation
Lydia Starnes Browning of Drexel passed away on September 17, 2026, to meet her Lord and Savior. This is something that she had looked forward to for many years. In the last months of her life on this earth, she often mentioned her desire to see her mother and sisters.
Lydia was born in Alexander County, North Carolina, July 27, 1926 to the late Carl Starnes and Ethel Richie Starnes. She was the fifth of eight children.
Lydia was employed by the Pilot Hosiery Mill of Valdese for 10 years and retired from Shadowline of Morganton after 23 years of service.
In addition to her parents, Lydia was preceded in death by her husband of 38 years, Jack Browning Other family members who proceeded her in death included her sisters, Claressie Stamey, Willie Leona Baker, Eda Mae Brittain, Daisy Starnes, and Rosanna Starnes, and brothers Eugene Starnes, and Norris Starnes. After her retirement she took on the role of caretaker for her sister, Rosanna and for many years she happily saw to it that Rosanna wanted for nothing.
Those left to cherish her memory are her nephews Charles Ray Brittain, Mike Starnes, niece Denise Denton; stepdaughter, Dusty Pressley (Johnny); sister-in-law, Helen Starnes; as well as many friends.
Lydia’s life was dedicated to loving her church and caring for her husband Jack and her sister Rosanna.
A celebration of Lydia’s life will be held at 11 a.m., Tuesday, September 22, 2026 at First Assembly Ministries (FAM Church, 1955 US 70 E, Morganton, NC) with Rev. John White and Rev. J.D. Mallory officiating. The graveside service will follow Burke Memorial Park.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Tribute Wall
Leave a tribute for Lydia Starnes Browning.
We are saddened to read about Lydia’s passing. We know she is in the arms of Christ. Always a 2nd mother to many and a strong prayer warrior. We loved her deeply. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. Love, Don and Kathy Alexander
I had the honor of caring for Jack while he was with Hospice. Lydia and I became close during this time and I admired her for her dedication to Jack and her sister. She was an amazing, Godly woman. The world was better because of her. God Bless her family during this time.
We both loved Miss Lydia dearly. She was always such an inspiration! I loved it when she quoted Psalm 91 and ensured me that God could do anything! Ronnie loved going by there to do little things for her and she always tried to feed us ! Such a kind and gracious woman of God. We will miss her so much and look forward to seeing her again. I pray the peace of the Holy Spirit over her entire family. May God bless you!
Lydia was such a sweet lady. Her love for Jesus was so evident to anyone who knew her. I'm blessed to have known her. She helped me so much showing me the love of Jesus. Prayers for her family and friends. Amy Harris
Lydia and I had a friendship that goes back to 1973. She was like a second Mom to me and always told me how much she loved me. She was a great influence on my life all these years. I know she’s celebrating with Jesus and I think she has seen my husband Mike. He went into the arms of Jesus on 9/9/2026. My heart aches but I know both are made whole. Doralene Black
Hers was a life well lived. Now in the arms of her Savior.
She was such a dear sweet lady.
Dick and I have known Lydia ( & Jack) for 48 years, when we moved to Morganton and joined First Assembly along with our 2young sons. Lydia has always been a joy to know and a wonderful witness for our JESUS!! She will be greatly missed by many folks!! Lydia, we look forward to joining by you when we leave this side of Eternity!! What a Mighty God we are privileged to serve!! Prudy Greene
Lydia was amazing. She always had a home made loaf of bread for us when we visited her with little warning on the way to our daughter’s house. Wayman loved Lydia and all her family and is undoubtedly delighted to see her again. Peace to all of you.
We moved to Morganton 48 years ago and met Lydia & Jack Browning at First Assembly of God church! What an amazing and loving couple !! Lydia was always involved with ministry. She cared about all we ladies and always took an interest in our lives! She knew our 2 sons, Rance & Josh, and would ask what their interests were! Lydia encouraged us in scripture and always put JESUS first! One more saint has gone on before us!! May all of Lydia’s family & friends be comforted ! Very sorry we are unable to attend the service for this dear lady and friend. Prudy & Dick Greene