Betty Lou Gurganus

“He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who has given us the spirit as a guarantee. So we are always of good courage. We know that while we are at home in the body, we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith, not by sight. Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 5:5-8

There are no better words to describe this time for our family. Our Betty Lou inspired each member of our family in the way she continued to walk by faith until the end. We are surely in good courage knowing that she is at home with the Lord.

Betty Lou Bowen Gurganus of Bath, North Carolina went to be with our Heavenly Father on August 16th, 2026 peacefully in the home that has raised up our whole family. She is now rejoicing with her mother and father, Mary and Brinkley Bowen. Betty was a loving older sister to George (Loretta) and Lindsey (Sandy). She was a dedicated wife to Kent Gurganus and mother of their children; Rod (Kim), Penny (Brad), and Tim (Susan). Her greatest joy was found in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; Bowen Brooks (Kayla & Ben), Ethan (Caroline, Kentley, Ellie, and Remi), Maci (Colby) and Chloe.

Betty Lou’s spirit was one that longed to be a helping hand. Her heart was worn on her sleeve just as her smile was worn on her face on any given day. The Bath community was made better with her years of dedicated service at Bath High School, as well as in the lives of those within it. She supported her husband, Kent’s ministry surely and faithfully, which led her to be a member of Ladies Aide and Bible Study groups across Eastern North Carolina. She was also a member of the Colonial Book Club, where she made lifelong friendships. On days when she wasn’t at the schoolhouse, a revival, or simply helping a friend, she could be found in the yard caring for her garden and the many birds fluttering around.

As our matriarch, she set the standard for the Gurganus family. Our Betty was strong in her faith, reminding us until the very end that we should continue to seek the Lord and stressed the importance of keeping Jesus in our hearts no matter where we may find ourselves. She remained strong through and through and instilled the same values in each of us. Life’s earliest lessons came from her. We learned to stay composed, find reasons to laugh, and never be afraid of an adventure.

Our family will receive friends and visitors at Everett’s Church of Christ on Sunday, August 23 at 2:00 PM with a short service to follow. Each of us are so thankful for each kind word, call, message and meal brought!

Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the Gurganus family.