Evelyn Blanton Latham, 65, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on Sat., Aug. 11, 2012 at Carolinas Medical Center, after a short illness.  Born in Shelby on Oct. 18th, 1946, she was the daughter of the late C.J. and Maggie Blanton.  Evelyn dedicated many years to teaching cosmetology, which she enjoyed sharing the art of cosmetology to may students.  She enjoyed the opportunity to work as a switchboard operator at Cleveland Regional Medical Center where she retired in 2006.  She was a graduate of Shelby High School and Cosmetology School.  Evelyn was very artistic in creating crafts and especially enjoyed being a part of the prayer shaw ministry at Landmark Baptist Church in Shelby.  She was dedicated to serving the Lord, and was a proud member of Landmark.  She was most proud of her family, the accomplishments of her two sons, and her friends and enjoyed spending time with family and friends, including her dear friends Carol and Wayne Lovelace and Jo and Jack McNeily.

SURVIVED: She is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, Floyd Latham; two sons, Macky Latham and wife April, Mark Latham and wife Amber; sister, Patsy Ball and husband Wilber; brother, Ronnie Dixon; grandchildren, Katelyn, Kylie, Madison, and Matthew  Latham.

 Much gratitude is expressed and treasured to Landmark Baptist Church and Pastor Allen Davis, Cleveland Regional Medical Center ICU physicians and staff, and Carolinas Medical Center Medical ICU physicians and staff. Evelyn leaves behind many memories for her family and friends to cherish.  She was a dedicated wife, mother, sister, family member and friend.  Evelyn was outgoing, cheerful and caring for other people and especially her family.

SERVICES:  Wednesday, 6pm, at Landmark Baptist Church, 1724 E. Dixon Blvd., Shelby

VISITATION: Following the service, at the church.

CLERGY: Rev. Allen Davis

MEMORIALS: In lieu of flowers, Landmark Baptist Church

FUNERAL HOME:    Clay-Barnette Funeral Home of Shelby