William "Junior" Secrest

William “Junior” Secrest, 95, of Drexel, NC went Home to be with Lord on Friday, April 24, 2026. He was born on November 14, 1930 in Burke County to the late Eva Secrest. He was a lifetime charter member of Drexel Memorial Baptist which he helped build and start up. Junior was a veteran of the US Army serving in Germany during the Korean War. He was one who loved to talk and never met a stranger. Junior was active in the Drexel Fire Department obtaining the rank of Chief. He loved the town of Drexel and was always volunteering on various projects.

In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by his wife, Durlene Secrest; brother, Wayne Secrest.

He is survived by his children, Mike Secrest (Mary) and Deborah Ann Collins (Jerry); grandson, Michael Secrest; brother, Jimmy Cheek and family; and a number of extended family.

There will be a graveside service at 2pm, Monday, April 27, 2026 at Burke Memorial Park. Military honors will be provided by the NC National Guard and Caldwell County Veterans Honor Guard.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.