Ms. Gloria Jean Arrington

Enfield, North Carolina

Ms. Gloria Jean Arrington, 75, of Enfield, North Carolina.

On Saturday, August 16, 2025, Gloria Jean Arrington, a devoted mother, cherished grandmother, loving sister, lifelong educator, and dedicated servant of the Lord, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, grace, and quiet strength that touched all who knew her.

Gloria was the second oldest of seven children to Henry Orvis Arrington and Mary Ellen McWilliams Arrington on November 9, 1949. Gloria learned early the values of family, humility, and compassion. These values became the foundation of a life lived with purpose and care. She was a woman of few words, but her presence spoke volumes-gentle, soft-spoken, and deeply rooted in faith.

At an early age, Gloria devoted her life to Jesus Christ and became an active member of Wayman A.M.E. Church until illness prevented her from doing so. During her years of Christian mission, Gloria contributed her efforts to a wide range of roles within the church. She served as a Sunday School teacher and secretary. For decades, her radiant soprano voice could be heard lifting hymns that stirred spirits and touched souls. She was known for her excellent cooking skills. Whenever the church had an event, her potato salad was highly requested. Everyone loved her macaroni and cheese, and her blueberries in the snow was a showstopper! Gloria was appointed to Stewardship under many pastors. She served as the Co-director of the Young People's Department for several years. During those years, she often drove long distances with a carload to keep the youth involved in affairs such as the Sunday School Convention and Summer Retreats of the Northern Conference and Second Episcopal District. She was integral in planning Vacation Bible School for years, as well as other youth activities. Gloria was an avid missionary and was very active in the Pattie L. Edwards area. She is leaving a legacy of generosity and giving. Gloria, along with her daughter, Tamara initiated the school backpack and supply giveaway that continued for years and was adopted as an annual church project. They also handed out Easter care baskets for the sick, shut-in, and elderly. Every Christmas Eve, Gloria spearheaded the preparation and delivery of fruit and candy baskets along with caroling with a few family and church members. She was faithful in all of these ministries until her health began to fail her.

Gloria was a proud graduate of the Eastman High School class of 1967. During her years in school, she had a fulfilling time as she was a member of several organizations to include the Crown and Scepter Club, Future Homemakers of America, as well as being class treasurer and part of the Business and Yearbook Staff. Gloria graduated as the Salutatorian of her class. She went on to graduate from North Carolina Central University in 1971. After receiving her degree, Gloria earned a North Carolina teacher's license with certifications in Math, Science, and Business Education. She dedicated 38.5 years of service as an educator in Halifax County Public Schools. She returned to her alma mater, Eastman, where she taught keyboarding, math, science, and had a brief stint in the library. For decades, she was the advisor to the Cheerleading squad. Gloria dedicated herself to education, shaping young minds with patience and wisdom. Her classroom was more than a place of learning-it was a sanctuary of encouragement and hope. She believed in the power of knowledge and the importance of nurturing every child's potential.

Gloria's heart belonged to her family. She shared an especially close bond with her daughter Tamara, a relationship built on unconditional love, laughter, and mutual respect. She opened her arms and had great regard for her son-in-law, Shawn. Her joy multiplied with the arrival of her grandson, Shamar, whom she absolutely adored. He was the light of her life, and she embraced every moment spent with him with warmth and delight.

Gloria is preceded in death by her parents, Henry Orvis and Mary Ellen Arrington.

She leaves to cherish her beautiful memory: a devoted daughter, Tamara Powell (Shawn) of Petersburg, VA; a beloved grandson, Shamar; five brothers, Orvis Arrington Jr. (Edith) of Youngsville, NC, Marvin Arrington (Carolyn) of Rocky Mount, NC, Carl Arrington of Charlotte, NC, DeRamous Arrington Sr. (Debra) of Rocky Mount, NC, and Kenneth M. Arrington of Ruther Glen, VA; one sister, Sharon Arrington of Enfield, NC; one uncle, Winfred McWilliams (Carolyn) of Randallstown, MD; a loving nephew, DeRamous Jr., a host of other nephews, nieces, cousins, family and friends.

Gloria's life was a quiet testament to kindness, dedication, and faith. She gave generously of herself-whether through her work, her worship, or her unwavering love for those around her. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family, her students, and all who were blessed to know her.

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever celebrated.

You are invited to join us for a visitation in honor of Ms. Gloria Jean Arrington on Friday, August 22, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the chapel of H.D. Pope Funeral Home, located at 520 Smith Church Road, Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina. The funeral service will take place on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 12:00 PM at Wayman AME Church, located at 7020 Wayman Church Road, Enfield, North Carolina 27823.

The compassionate team at H D Pope Funeral Home in Roanoke Rapids is handling all professional arrangements.

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