Obituaries

Cara Melissa Souder

Cara Melissa Souder March 23, 1973 – October 6, 2023 Cara is the beloved daughter of Jim and Judi Souder of Bracey, VA. Cara was born in Michigan, but spent most of her teen years in Raleigh, NC with her family,
where she made many friends along the way. Upon graduation from Sanderson High
School, she attended Warren Wilson College where she received her BS in Social Work.
After a very successful internship at the VA Hospital in Asheville, NC, she was the first
social worker ever accepted by the VA without a masters degree. There she brightened the
lives of many patients; however, due to Gitelman’s Syndrome, a rare genetic kidney
disorder, she retired after 5 years of service. Her remaining years were spent battling this very painful disease, but never complaining, and always putting her best face forward with a smile on her face.
Cara had a deep connection with the Lord, and when the opportunity arose, she would give
her last dime to someone in need. She overflowed with compassion and love for those less
fortunate. Either human, or a lost puppy or kitten, Cara was always to the rescue. Her last
mission on earth was to pray with a young girl in need while dining at a nearby restaurant
with her parents. She truly understood the command to "You shall love the Lord your
God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind." This is the
greatest and first commandment. And the second is like it: "You shall love your neighbor as
yourself." Her last 5 years were spent with the love of her life, Shaun Pierce, whom she had known
from high school. They reconnected and shared a home in Raleigh with their rescued
puppy,” Whiskey”. She leaves behind her parents; her partner, Shaun Pierce, her brother Steven Souder; her
sister-in-law, Susan Souder , two nephews.; numerous cousins. Cara was focused on relieving the suffering of our Veterans, many of whom were wounded of mind and body. Her special focus was on those troubled from PTSD. Memorials can be sent to: VFW 8986, 1316 Hibbs Road, Newport, NC 28570. Services will be private. Crowder-Hite-Crews Funeral Home is serving the Souder family.