Pamela Wheat Harrold

Pamela Wheat Harrold, 67, of Sunset Beach, NC, passed away on August 27, 2025, with her loving husband, Keith, by her side. Born in Phoenix, AZ, on November 6, 1957, she was the daughter of Virginia Brock and the late Gene Wheat and was raised in Kannapolis, NC.

Pamela began her impactful career in the 1980s by establishing her first child development center in Kannapolis. In 1989, she moved to Sunset Beach, NC, and while raising her children and serving as the offsite administrator and owner of an already successful childcare center, she decided to branch out even further. That decision led to the creation of what would become one of her greatest legacies: For Kids Only Child Development Center.

Through her tireless efforts, dedication to learning, and passionate advocacy for families’ rights to quality early childhood education, For Kids Only flourished under her leadership. Pamela was immensely proud of her team and the unique ways they consistently elevated the experience for both children and parents. Today, the center is one of the largest 5-star inclusive childcare facilities in North Carolina, serving over 250 children each school year.

While building two businesses and raising a family, Pamela also earned a dual degree in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Needs. She remained committed to lifelong learning, earning numerous certifications from various universities throughout her career.

Known for her generosity and charismatic nature, Pamela never met a stranger. If you met her—you remembered her. Her fun-loving spirit, ambition, and bravery made her a beloved figure in both her personal and professional communities.

Pamela loved to travel and experience new adventures. She and Keith took many wonderful, memorable trips during her 11-year battle with cancer. Determined to fight and live life to the fullest, she continually amazed doctors by exceeding expectations. Pamela was a warrior, staying as long as she could for her family and friends. She was a strong believer in Jesus Christ and credited every extra moment to the power of prayer.

When she wasn't off to her favorite tropical escape, Aruba, or enjoying her favorite theme park, Dollywood, she could be found at the barn, loving on and riding her horses. A true cowgirl at heart, Pamela and her daughter Ana spent years traveling across the U.S. for horse shows. The two were inseparable—where you found one, you usually found the other. Pamela devoted her life to being a loving and present mother, and she truly was just that.

She also treasured trail rides with her all-girl barn crew at Peachtree Stables, often riding her loyal companion, Reese. An avid animal lover, her compassion was evident in every part of her life.

As the heart and head of her family, holidays and special events were non-negotiable—they were happening, everyone was coming, and Pamela was telling you what to bring and what the activities would be! At the center of her heart were her precious grandchildren: Anastyn (her mini-me), Elijah, and Teagan. Known lovingly to them as “Nona” (pronounced non-a), this was Pamela’s favorite title and role. The impact she made on her grandchildren in a short time will be felt for a lifetime.

Pamela is survived by her mother, Virginia Brock; her husband, Keith Harrold; her children, Ivanah Cartrette (Stephen), Jesse Harrold (Allison), and Adam Harrold (Colby); her sisters, Candy Karriker (Jeff), Brande Brock-Crowe (Chrissy), and Tonya Krimminger (Brian); her grandchildren, Anastyn and Elijah Cartrette, and Teagan Harrold; and her cousin, Timothy Stewart.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Margaret and Cecil Moore of Kannapolis, NC, and Margaret and Mack Wheat of Santee, SC; her father, Gene Wheat of Little River, SC; her sister, LeeAnn Key of Conway, SC; and many loving aunts and uncles.

At this time, no services are scheduled. A celebration of life for Pamela will be held at a later date.

Lee Funeral Home and Crematory of Little River is serving the family.