Elsie Worley

Elsie P. Worley, 86, of Durham, passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, October 21, 2025. She was born in Princeton, North Carolina, to the late William Waverly Pearce, and Molissa Talton Pearce. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, William Waverly Pearce Jr and Billy Hardy Pearce.
Mrs. Worley worked many years and was formerly employed as a medical assistant at McPherson Hospital. She later worked at Beltone before retiring and spent a short time employed with Food Lion. She also dedicated herself to caring for others as a child care provider for many children, including her own grandchildren.
She loved gardening, reading, and most of all, spending time with her family. Mrs. Worley found great joy in caring for her home and sharing her garden's beauty with others. She cherished family gatherings, and she never missed an opportunity to cook a favorite dish or lend a helping hand. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the light of her life, and she delighted in attending their activities, hearing their stories, and watching them grow.
Mrs. Worley was also a beloved neighbor and friend to many. She enjoyed sitting on her porch, visiting with those who passed by, and offering kindness and encouragement to everyone she met. Her warmth, generosity, and genuine care for others created lasting friendships.
Mrs. Worley is survived by her devoted husband, Hardy Leo Worley; daughter, Karen Mangum (Ronnie); sons, Andy Worley (Jane) and Gary Worley (Sharon); sisters, Shelvy Clapp (Bill), Rachel Penny (Johnnie), and Judy Yates. She was the proud grandmother of Christi Hughes (Matt), Josh Mangum (Phyllis), Samantha Powell (Matt), Amanda Worley, Spencer Worley (Hattie), Ryan Worley (Amy), Kasey O'Connor (Chris), and Holt Worley. She is also survived by nine great-grandsons and one great-granddaughter.
The family will receive friends and relatives at Clements Funeral Home in Durham on Thursday, October 23, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m. in the Clements Funeral Chapel, officiated by Dr. Marc Francis. Interment will be held at Oak Grove Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Duke Children's Hospital in honor of Mrs. Worley's love for family and community or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
The family is being assisted by Clements Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc. in Durham. Online condolences may be shared at www.clementsfuneralservice.com.