Visitation

Feb. 19, 2023
2 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Service

Feb. 19, 2023
3 p.m.

Committal

N/A

Gayle Hardy Gwaltney, 74, of Morganton, NC, went home to be with her heavenly father on Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2023 after a few years of declining health.

Born in Clarendon County, SC on April 7, 1948, she was the daughter of the late Hugh Donald Hardy, Sr. and Jeanette Barnes Hardy.

Gayle was valedictorian of her 1966 high school class in Manning, SC. Gayle worked different jobs throughout her life. She moved to North Carolina and began working in the accounting department of Drexel Furniture. She then worked as a secretary and bookkeeper for a local architect, Folger and Olsen. Finally she went to work at Western Youth Correction Center as the secretary to the superintendent, where she spent 20 years before retiring.

Gayle enjoyed shopping, traveling, boating, camping, and working with Girl Scouts during her earlier years. She was an involved, active member of First Baptist Church in Morganton. She previously taught Sunday school at Zion Baptist Church. She loved spending time with her family and considered her children and grandchildren to be her greatest gift.

Gayle is survived by her husband of 54 years, Eddie Gwaltney; son, Kirk Gwaltney (Tracy); daughter, Adrian Chapman (Michael); grandchildren, Trent, Grace, Katie, and Clayton; sister, Terri Evans (Ricky); and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Gayle was preceded in death by brothers, Eric Bruce Hardy and Hugh Donald Hardy, II; and a sister, Gwen Mahoney.

The family will receive friends from 2 to 3 p.m., Sunday, February 19, 2023 at First Baptist Church. The memorial service will follow at 3 p.m. in the church with Dr. Thomas A. Bland, Jr. officiating.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Tribute Wall

Leave a tribute for Gayle Hardy Gwaltney.

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I’m so sorry for your loss. Prayers for the family.

—Lois Poteat
Burgundy Candle

Eddie, I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Gayle. My thoughts and prayers go out to you during this difficult time in your life. I know you will miss her greatly.

—Roy and Lynn Garrett

Kirk, I am so sad to read about your mom's passing. Prayers for your family.

—michelle

I worked at Western Correctional Center for 20 plus years, and considered Gayle a good friend. Many times we walked together from the facility to the main road during lunch time. We talked and talked and shared many feelings between us. I am sad I didn't keep up with what she was going through. Please accept my sincere sympathy.

—Phyllis Banner, RN,PAC
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I am so sorry to hear of Gayle’s passing. My sincere condolences to all of you! To the whole Gwaltney family, you all are in my prayers.

—Ashley Taylor
Burgundy Candle

Eddie, Kirk, and Adrian, I am so sorry to hear that Gayle passed away. I will always cherish her friendship and having such dear neighbors on Gwaltney Road in my younger days. Praying that God will give you peace and comfort during these difficult days. Much Love! Kathy

—Kathy Burnette Mayhue
Burgundy Candle

To Eddie and all of the Gwaltney family, George and I have all of your family in our prayers. Please know that we are thinking of you. May the sweet memories of Gayle sustain you in the days, weeks, and years to come.

—George and Patsy Ernst

We are so sorry to hear of Gayle's passing, but we know that one day we will see her again. We know she will be missed by her family and friends. Eddie, Kirk, Adrian and their families , you are in our prayers.

—Tommy and Gladys Conley