Okal Paul Umbarger, 90, of Harmony, N.C., went to be with Jesus on Friday, July 5, 2024, from his earthly home surrounded by family. Born in Ceres, Va., on July 19, 1933, he was a son of the late Hubert Paul and Cleo Umbarger. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Thorton Umbarger; a son, Samuel Paul Umbarger; and a daughter, Yvonne Kaye Umbarger.
He was a land developer, was in tool sales, seed sales and operated Summers Drapery Company with his wife Mary. He was a member of Harmony Methodist Church. Paul enjoyed farming and loved his grandchildren dearly. He had a heart for helping people.
Survivors include his wife of 71 years, Mary Jane Summers Umbarger, and two sons, David Emory Umbarger and James Patrick Umbarger (Michelle). Also surviving are one brother, Woodson Umbarger; and two sisters, Geraldine Fields and Betty Helton; and six grandchildren, Chrys Umbarger, Mindy Brown (Jason), Matt Umbarger, Ali Umbarger, Courtney Edmiston (Evan) and Colby Umbarger; along with five great-grandchildren, Preston and Cohen Brown, Noah and Christian Wilkins, and Adeline Edmiston. He is also survived by two daughters-in-law, Diane Umbarger and Carol Umbarger.
Family will begin receiving friends at 11 a.m. with Celebration of Life following on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at Harmony Methodist Church with Pastor Chris Lakey officiating. Burial will take place in the Harmony Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Evan Edmiston, Jason Brown, Eddie Crater, Brent Good, Joey Cline, and Michael Frye. Honorary pallbearers are Tommy Nance, Ed Troutman, and John Ray Campbell.
Condolences may be sent online to the family to www.nicholsonfunerals.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Hospice & Palliative Care of Iredell County, 2347 Simonton Road, Statesville, NC 28625 or Harmony Methodist Church, P.O. Box 450, Harmony, NC 28634.
Nicholson Funeral Home is serving the Umbarger family.