Well-known Landis man riding mobility scooter hit, killed by vehicle

LANDIS, N.C. — For the past 65 years, Fred Talbert has been well-known and involved in the Landis community; as a family man, businessman, church member and town historian. His daughter, Rhonda Harrington, said he was friends with entire families with people of all ages.

"Dad was a valued and respected member of the community," Harrington said.

Wednesday afternoon, 89-year old Talbert was on his motorized scooter on South Zion Street; when he was hit from behind by a car and killed. Police said the driver may not have seen him because of the sun.

Talbert's family visited his business of 65 years in downtown Landis, where he made, sold and repaired watches.

Another one of his other favorite hobbies was telling stories.

"He could tell stories from 40, 50, 60 years ago that you and I probably would have never remembered," Rhonda said of her father.

Talbert was also a strong supporter of his church, where his family plans to have his funeral.

The Rev. David Franks, of First Reformed Church, said, "Fred had been involved for many decades; not just years, but decades. Probably a pillar of this church."

Talbert's family says he had specific ways he wanted to be remembered, and they know what he would want of them.

"We will continue to be the people he wanted us to be and carry on as well as we can under the circumstances, but we'll miss him," Harrington said.

Family members say Talbert's funeral will likely be Saturday at First Reformed Church, in Landis. Franks is expecting a packed church.

Police say they will let the district attorney decide on any possible charges against the driver once they finish their investigation into the accident.

A man in his 90s riding a mobility scooter Wednesday afternoon was struck and killed by a vehicle in Landis, officials said.

The accident happened on South Zion Street. The female driver may not have seen Fred Talbert because of the glare from the sun, officials said.

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Talbert owned Talbert's Jewelry in uptown Landis.

“He was a friend to everyone who dealt with over the decades and was an unofficial historian for the Town of Landis,” town alderman Dorland Abernathy said. “He is a resource, a merchant, a fixture, and a friend who will be sorely missed.”

No charges are pending at this point.

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