Clarence Luder Upchurch, Jr.

Coats, NC: Mr. Clarence L. Upchurch, Jr., age 82, of Ethel Cooper Lane passed away on Thursday, October 16, 2025 at Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital in Dunn. Graveside Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 AM Monday, October 20, 2025 in The Upchurch Family Cemetery at the home. Officiating will be Rev. Kim Strickland. The family will receive friends from 9:30AM to 10:30AM Monday, October 20, 2025 at the Rose & Graham Funeral Home in Benson prior to the graveside service.

Mr. Upchurch was born on March 27, 1943 in Harnett County to the late Clarence L. and Era Alta Johnson Upchurch. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Eloise Naylor. Born and raised in Coats, he was the son of the late Clarence and Era Johnson Upchurch. Clarence spent his life working hard and caring deeply for those around him. He was a farmer for many years and worked as a sewing machine mechanic at Terry Hill Sewing Factory in Coats. He retired after a dedicated career as a prison guard at Harnett Correctional Institution in Lillington.

Clarence loved the simple joys of life — riding horses, hunting, and fishing. The outdoors was his favorite place to be, and he shared that love with those closest to him.

He is preceded in death by his sister Eloise Naylor and survived by his significant other, Nora Lou; his sisters, Ruby Stephenson, and Jo Ann Denton; his children, Travis Upchurch (Donna) and Debbie Lucas (Dale); and his grandchildren, DeAnna Willis, Justin Lucas, Allison Upchurch, and Brian Upchurch (Elizabeth). He was also blessed with one great-granddaughter, Gracie Willis, who brought him great joy.

Clarence will be remembered for his steady strength, kind heart, and deep love for family. His legacy of hard work and quiet devotion will live on in all who knew and loved him.

Flowers are welcomed.

Arrangements by Rose & Graham Funeral Home in Benson, NC.