Photo courtesy of Paul Funeral Home of Washington
Washington, North Carolina
Sep 16, 1928 – Jul 3, 2025
Reatha Inez Hardy Elks passed away on July 3, 2025 after several years of Dementia at Oakhaven Assisted Living of Greenville.
A graveside service will be held 1:00PM Monday July 7, 2025 at Oakdale Cemetery and will be officiated by Kevin Whaley.
Reatha grew up in the Old Ford/ VOA area of Beaufort County, she attended Old Ford and Washington Schools. She was a member of the First Free Will Baptist Church of Washington.
Reatha is survived by a son, Gentry Earl Elks, Jr. and wife Judy of Greenville/ Simpson area, a sister, Julie Smith and husband Jesse of Washington, two in-laws, Nancy Hardy and Janet Williams of Washington.
Also surviving are grandsons, Tracy Elks of Blackjack, Michael Elks and wife Elizabeth of Jacksonville, a step grandson, Neil Everette and wife Kendra of Austin, TX, 10 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.
She is preceded in death by her husband Gentry Elks, Sr. after 60 years of marriage, her parents, Doc and Inez Hardy, three brothers, Charles Hardy, Philbert Hardy, Jerome Hardy, three sisters, Iola Griffin, Mavis Manning and Melba Hardy.
Paul Funeral Home & Crematory of Washington is honored to serve the Elks family.
Read MoreEarl, thinking of you and your family as you honor your lovely Mother today. Always one of our favorite family members, she was a beautiful, elegant Southern lady full of charm and personality. As time softens grief, I know you will embrace all the memories you have of this precious lady.
Kathryn Vick
July 07, 2025 | Kinston, NC
Deepest sympathy.
Julian and Debbie Cutler
July 05, 2025 | Washington, NC | Friend
Earl, Aunt Reatha was always a beacon of life, ever cheerful and talkative - she will be missed! Ever spry and witty,
she was gifted with a quick, ready smile and a statement that would captivate :) Prayers for you and family as you mourn her passing, and may God bestow peace and comfort. HIS every Blessing !
Jerry Boyd
July 04, 2025 | Raleigh, NC | Family
Mrs. Elks was always so kind and a bright spot in the grocery store. Earl, you and your family are in my heart and thoughts. Susan Smith Basnight
Susan Basnight
July 03, 2025 | Greenville, NC | Acquaintance
Earl, you have my deepest condolences in the loss of your MOM. She was one of my favorite aunts, a truly classy lady!
Elbert (Peter) Boyd. —. Nephew
July 03, 2025 | Raleigh, NC
Earl and Judy, so sorry for your loss. Looks like your Mom had a blessed life. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family during this time.
Gaye Paul
July 03, 2025 | New Bern, NC | Friend
Earl and Judy
Keeping you and your family in our prayers.
Bill and Tyresia French
July 03, 2025 | Greenville, NC | Coworker
Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers.
Tina & Alan Jordan
July 03, 2025 | Wilmar/Washington, NC