Sherley Benson Tarlton

Sherley Benson Tarlton, age 79, departed his earthly home on January 27, 2013 to meet his precious Heavenly Father. Sherley, a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, great-grandfather, loyal friend, and, most importantly - faithful servant, bravely fought the ravages of cancer for the last several years. Never giving up, but staying strong in his beliefs and love of the Lord, Sherley remained an inspiration to all.

Born January 28, 1933, in Matthews, North Carolina, Sherley was the only son of Zenas Lee and Clara Baucom Tarlton. He attended Matthews School. As a young man, Sherley learned the trade of cabinet building from his grandfather, Elias Baucom, after which, he opened, owned, and operated T & T Cabinet Shop for 46 years.

Using his God-given gifts, Sherley designed and built numerous homes for his family, all within Matthews, Lake Norman, and Holden Beach, NC. Taking simple plans and enhancing them to fit various needs was a unique ability he possessed. During that time, he established many life-long friends who shared his enthusiasm for construction. Once the business of building was done, Sherley filled his time collecting, restoring, and showing vintage cars. He had an eye for detail and appreciated the intricacies involved in their design, the progression and improvements of them, and the times they represented. With this passion, he developed and maintained multiple fellow collector friends.

A faithful member of Bible Baptist Church, Sherley established even more friendships. Once again, sharing his gifts and abilities, he was instrumental in the building and expansion of the church facility. He was actively involved in the church, serving on the bus ministry, participating in the choir, serving as a deacon, and being readily available whenever needed. During the last months of his illness, Sherley missed being a part of his church and fellowshipping with his fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.

Survivors include Jerrie Hagler Tarlton, wife and ‘best friend’ of 60 years. Daughters & husbands: Sharon & Mark Bond, Melissa & Marshall Price, Carmen & Quentin Best – all of the Matthews area. Grandchildren: Jennifer Bond Anderson & husband, Edward, of Holden Beach, Elizabeth Ann Bond of Charlotte, Ellison Quinn Best, and William Tarlton Best of Matthews. Great-grandchildren: Wyatt Gaines Anderson of Holden Beach. Sisters: Ethel Patterson, Fair Sharp, Jorene Gardner, Delories McQuay, Bettina Osgood, and Patricia Howell. Sherley was predeceased by his parents and baby sister, Clara Donahue.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, January 29, 2013 from 6:00 to 8:00pm at McEwen Mint Hill Chapel 7428 Matthews Mint Hill Rd. Charlotte, NC 28227.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, January 30, 2013 at 11:00am at Bible Baptist Church 2724 Margaret Wallace Rd. Matthews, NC 28105.

Memorials and/or donations may be made to: “The Sherley Benson Tarlton Scholarship Fund” – established in 2012 – In recognition of his love for the church, his leadership in the church, his faithfulness to the church, and to the cause of Jesus Christ… at:

 Northland International University

W10085 Pike Plains Road

Dunbar, Wisconsin 54119

Attention Cary Smith

- OR -

 Hospice of Charlotte 1420 East 7th St. Charlotte, NC 28204– for their guidance, assistance and loving support during this time.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 – In everything, give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you – Sherley’s ‘blue print’ and life verse.

Please visit Sherley’s online memorial at www.mcewenminthillchapel.com