Elmer Jarvis Bunch, 97, formerly of NC 37 South, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 31, 2018, in Accordius Health & Rehabilitation, Gatesville.

Mr. Bunch was born in Chowan County on Aug. 3, 1921, and was the son of the late Hurley C. and Darlie Spivey Bunch. A retired warehouse clerk with Lipton Tea in Suffolk, he was a member of Zion United Methodist Church, Gatesville Masonic Lodge No. 126, the York Rites Bodies, the Sudan Temple of the Shrine, The Order of the Eastern Star, The American Legion, and the Gatesville Senior Citizens Club. A veteran of World War II, he served in the Army Air Corps.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Frances Blanchard Bunch, and by his brother, J. Russell Bunch.

Surviving are nieces, nephews, cousins, other extended family members, many friends and his church family.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday in Warwick Baptist Church Cemetery and will be conducted by his pastor, the Rev. Steve Hall. Friends may visit with the family at the graveside immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Zion U.M.C., in care of Linda Hudgins, Treasurer, 1872 NC 37 South, Hobbsville, NC 27946, or to the Gates County Rescue Squad, 16 Hwy 158 East, Gatesville, NC 27938.

Miller Funeral Home, 304 Main St., Gatesville, is handling arrangements, and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.