Tony Ray Auten

Tony Ray Auten Sr., 77, of Belmont passed away August 11, 2019 at Caromont Regional Medical Center.  Tony was born in Gaston County on March 9, 1942 to the late Clyde and Helen Auten.  He is also preceded in death by his wife of 41 years, Ann Belk Auten; daughter, Patricia Ann "Cissy" Polk; brothers, Dickie Auten and Timmy Auten; and stepson, Marty Pagoota.  Tony enjoyed fishing and visiting the beach and mountains.  He also enjoyed watching his grandson, Tyler Helton play baseball.  In his spare time, you could find him spending time at the flea markets and auctions with his son Tony Jr. 

Survivors include his longtime companion, Pauline Lancaster; son, Tony Auten Jr. and wife Rhoda; step-sons, Chuck Pagoota and wife Alma and Andy Pagoota and wife Amy; son in law, Travis Polk; sisters, Susie Cook and husband Gene and Sheila Shuler and husband Joe; brothers, Terry Auten and wife Carolann and James "BoBo" Auten and wife Carolyn; niece, Becky Jordan along with several other nieces and nephews; and multiple special grandchildren. 

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 14, 2019 from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. at Benson Funeral & Cremation Services, Mt. Holly.