Mark Damon Middleton

Mark Middleton, 53, of Smithfield, NC. passed away on Tuesday, December 31, 2013 at Kitty Askins in Goldsboro, NC

Mark Damon Middleton was born to Etta Joyce Middleton and the late Arthur Middleton in Manhattan, New York, September 19, 1960. He had one sibling, his older sister Beverly, who as a child took great pleasure in hiding her baby brother in closets and under the bed. Contrary to popular belief, and sibling rivalry put aside, Beverly and Mark grew to love each other dearly.
As was the common practice in that era, both Beverly and Mark were sent south at a young age, away from the Harlem streets to be raised by family. While Beverly liked life in the south, Mark preferred the city and ultimately returned to New York, before settling back in NC with his grandmother.
Mark's early education was split between the New York City Public School System and the Smithfield Public School System. At an early age, Mark discovered he possessed an artistic flair. He enjoyed drawing, sketching and painting and could often be found with pencil and pad in hand. He also developed a fascination for all forms of history and immensely enjoyed movies. Mark maintained these fascinations and passions throughout his entire life.
Mark attended Smithfield-Selma High School and completed his public education in 1978. After high school, he enrolled at Johnston Community College. He elected to take various courses including instruction in computer science and the culinary arts. During this period, he also briefly enrolled in an Art Training Institute in Florida. He utilized his learned cooking skills and developed a profession as a chef. He worked at a variety of establishments but finalized his working years at Bob Evans Family Restaurant and Golden Corral of Smithfield.
In his forties, Mark met and became enamored with Tammy Hampton. They were married February 16, 2008. Although the marriage was short lived, Mark and Tammy remained amicable.
For most of his life, Mark attended and ultimately became a member of First Missionary Baptist Church of Smithfield, North Carolina. Mark was always a very soft spoken and humble individual. However as a member of FMBC, Mark joined the Male Chorus and developed many firm friendships. Among those who bonded with Mark was the choir's musician, Mrs. Georgianna McLean, who referred to Mark as "her baby boy." Their bond was so great that on occasion, she even convinced him to periodically sing solos.
As Mark's illness began to take toll on his body and spirit, he found love, comfort, support, friendship and reassurance from Ms. Chaneta White. Ms. White became Mark's girlfriend and constant companion.
Mark was called home to His Father's heavenly realm on December 31, 2013. Although overcome with grief, Mark's family and friends are thankful his suffering has ended. Mark is immediately survived by his mother, Mrs. Etta Joyce English of Smithfield, North Carolina and his sister, Ms. Beverly Murphy of Durham, North Carolina. He also leaves behind numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and other relatives.
On behalf of the family: We will forever remember Mark's smile, his quiet nature, and his love of movies and artwork.


Viewing :
Friday, January 03
2:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Sanders Funeral Home Chapel
806 E Market St
Smithfield, NC 27577
(919) 934-8416

Funeral Service:
Saturday, January 04
1:00 PM
First Missionary Baptist Church
403 Caswell St.
Smithfield, NC 27577
A Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.