Lillian Gaddy Durham

Lillian’s family moved to Raleigh when she was young. She was a lifelong resident. She graduated from Myrtle Underwood Elementary, Raleigh Broughton High School and Meredith College. At Meredith College, Lillian was president of the off-campus student body, a member of the May Court and was badminton champion!

Lillian spent her younger years on Scales Street in the Five Points area of Raleigh. She spent many summer days at the Hayes Barton pool where she met the love of her life, Jim Durham. They were married in 1948. She was a lifelong member of Hayes Barton Baptist Church. She served in the nursery, taught Sunday school, served on the bereavement committee and was an “angel” as well as a “wiseman” in the Christmas live nativity scene.

Lillian was a mother and homemaker. She was involved in her children’s education and took joy in supporting them in their many activities. Her family and church were the centers of her life.

Lillian had many wonderful friends to shop, dine, walk, visit, travel and play bridge with. She enjoyed her extended family and took great pleasure in family beach trips with her children and grandchildren at Sunset Beach.

Lillian was preceded in death by her handsome and athletic husband of 49 years, James R. Durham. She was also preceded in death by her gregarious and colorful sister, Elaine Gaddy.

Lillian is survived by her brother, Dr. Robert E. Gaddy Jr.; her daughter, Lillian Carol Ferrell, and her son, James R. Durham, Jr. (Jim) and his wife, Carla. She is also survived by her grandchildren, James R. Durham III, Lauren Lawrence (Kevin), Caroline Durham and Zach Durham. She has many beautiful and gracious nephews and nieces.

There will be a celebration of Lillian’s life on Monday, November 20th at 11:00 at Hayes Barton Baptist Church, in the sanctuary. The family will greet friends and neighbors in the parlor of the church after the service. A private graveside service will be held at Raleigh Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Hayes Barton Baptist Church, 1800 Glenwood Ave. Raleigh, NC 27608.

Arrangements provided by Brown-Wynne, 300 Saint Mary's St., Raleigh, NC.