Arthur Houston King
Senior Chief Boatswain's Mate, U. S. Navy
World War II, Korea, Vietnam

Arthur Houston King was born on 28 February 1925 in Burrville, TN, to the late William Finis and Rhoda Belle (York) King. He grew up in Banner Springs, TN, the place he dearly loved and fondly remembered until his passing.

Military Service

Arthur served his country for 26 years and retired from the U. S. Navy as a Senior Chief Boatswain's Mate. During his Navy career, Senior Chief King saw action in the Pacific Theatre in World War II, during which his ship, the destroyer USS Mahan (DD-364), was sunk by attacking enemy aircraft. He was rescued by a nearby ship and continued to see action in the war. He also saw action during the Korean War and the Vietnam War, and his ship was part of the blockade of Cuba during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Post- Military Life

After retirement from active duty, Mr. King worked at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard for several years, before finally retiring so he could spend full-time in his gardening and with his eight grandchildren.

Death and Burial

Arthur Houston King died on 28 August 2002, at home with family in South Mills. He is buried at Memory Gardens in Elizabeth City, Pasquotank County, NC, in Lot 43, Grave B.

He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, the former Marjorie Bernice Stinson of South Mills; son Arthur Dale King and wife Terry of Portsmouth, VA; son Richard Darrel King and wife Chris of Rising Sun, MD; daughter Phyllis Ann King of Hammond, LA; and son David Scott King and wife Judy of South Mills.