Committal
Mary Frances “Kitty” Young, 92, of Morganton, NC passed away unexpectedly on Monday, April 27, 2026.
Born in Burke County, NC on October 21, 1933, she is the daughter of the late Charles Peyton Crawley and Wilhelmina Powell Crawley.
She was educated in the Burke County Schools and graduated from Woman's College of the University of North Carolina (now UNC-G). Mary Frances was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, where she served in many capacities and was honored with the Presbyterian's Women's Life Membership. She taught in the Burke County Public Schools for over 30 years. Mary Frances enjoyed line dancing, playing bridge and spending time with family. One of her favorite things to do was write rhymes for friends and family on special occasions.
The family found the following words which Mary Frances had obviously written recently: My life is now complete. Don't mourn my life, rejoice and enjoy the fun memories. I'm a lucky woman who has lived a wonderful life. I was born into a loving family, and I grew up with a big sister to show me "the way". I married Clyde and we were blessed with two great sons, four greater grandchildren and the greatest great grandchildren. That alone is enough for anyone. God has had many blessings in store for me during my life. He has kept me on my "home turf" where I have taught many children and have met many people that I am privileged to call friends.
Mrs. Young is survived by her sons, Robin Young (Ginny) and Charles Young (Jean); grandchildren, Callie Young, Sarah Frances Young Newton (AJ), Clay Young (Hallie), and Bowen Young (Ramsey); great grandchildren, Wylde Ladd, Deacon Newton, Annie Newton, Price Newton, and Wells Young; nephew, Mark Brittain; nieces, Cindi Brittain and Jennifer “Missy” Breland; brother-in-law, Mike Young (Libby); cousin, Mary Jane Edwards; and cherished friend and college roommate, Delaina Buehler.
In addition to her parents, Mary Frances was preceded in death by her husband, Clyde Young, Jr.; sister, Anne Gamble; and brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Kermit and Peggy Brittain.
A celebration of Mary Frances’ life will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, May 1, 2026 at First Presbyterian Church with Rev. Beth Ann Miller officiating. The family will greet friends in the fellowship hall following the service.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions to the Clyde N. Young, Jr, Endowed Scholarship with the Community Foundation of Burke County.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Tribute Wall
Leave a tribute for Mary Frances “Kitty” Young.
Mary Frances was a treasure to call friend. She always made birthdays and holidays extra special with her poems. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Prayers and condolences to the family
Robin, Buddy, Ginny and Jean, I am sad to hear Aunt Kitty has passed and am thinking about you and your children at this time. She was always so sweet and had a magical way of doing things that was so creative and fun. May your memories bring you joy and comfort. She was a special lady. She is with Uncle Clyde who she missed much. Much Love and condolences to you all. - Anna Maria
I played bridge and did line dancing with Mary Frances for several years. She was very good at both. I loved her sense of humor and her willingness to be “risky” when bidding in the bridge games. She always had a smile on her face when dancing. I enjoyed her Christmas “rhymes.” She was a special lady in so many ways. Truly a life well-lived.
Mary Francis was beautiful inside and out and a wonderful educator. She will be missed. Love and prayers to her family.
Kitty was such a lovely and kind person. I have childhood memories of visiting her and my cousin Clyde Jr. Loved being at their house. My loving condolences to Buddy, Robin and all the extended family. Doris
It is a pleasure to have known Mary Francis. She was warm and gracious in hosting us in her home. She was remarkable in her ability to spread friendship across distances.
Rest well Mary Francis, you finally get to be with Anne again ❤️
Dear. Kitty, You have been my best friend and”sister”for 72 years. I have been so blessed to have had you in my life. Our families have shared so many wonderful experiences. You have always been there for me and my family and I hope I have always been there for you and yours. Please save me a special place in Heaven. If I were as clever as you I would have written this in rhyme. I shall miss you and I shall always love you. Delaina
Mrs.Young was my first grade teacher and I loved her SO!!!!!!!!I would see her out and about and she would always ask,"How are you Lonna Marie"?And what a treasure it was to receive Christmas poems mailed to me for many years!!!!She was a Blessing from the Lord to me that impacted my entire life!Prayers for the sweet family!Lonna Wilson