JACKSONVILLE  -  Eleanor Pearl Gurganus, of Jacksonville, N.C., passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at the age of 102.

A funeral service to celebrate Eleanor's life will be held on Wednesday June 11th at Jones Funeral Home with Pastor Drew Parker officiating. The family will receive visitors at 10:00 followed by the service at 11:00.  Burial service will follow at the Coastal Carolina Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville at 12:00. Eleanor was born on December 3, 1922, in Duplin County to Hill and Mattie Lanier Edwards. In 1929, her family made their home in the Southwest community of Onslow County.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 67 years, Adrian Earl Gurganus; her four brothers, Thurman, Durwood, Elbert, and Tony Edwards; and her sister, Mavis Cannon.

She is survived by her daughter, Peggy (Terry) Shepard of Jacksonville, N.C.; her son, Gary Gurganus of Holden Beach, N.C.; her grandson, Brad (Melinda) Shepard of Wilmington, N.C.; two great-grandchildren, Aidan and Cate Shepard, also of Wilmington; and other loving family members, including her sister-in-laws, Carolyn and Markey Edwards and many nieces and nephews.

A switchboard operator during World War II, Eleanor married Adrian, her high school classmate in 1946 upon his return from service. In the Southwest area, they built a home and small farm, raised their children, and were active members in their community. Eleanor and Adrian, a deacon, were long time members of Harris Creek Baptist Church and founding members of the Southwest Community Center.

Eleanor will be lovingly remembered for her warm conversations and her eagerness to hear a story, share a laugh, or offer kind advice. Her positive determination carried her through life's challenges with grace and she set a lasting example through her faith, strong work ethic, and deep devotion to family. Eleanor was known for her love of flowers, her oyster fritters on Christmas morning, and her enduring sense of humor. Even in her final days, she insisted on having her hair fixed, her nails painted, and her clothes well-matched.

Her family would like to especially thank the staff at Woodbury Wellness Center where she resided for 11 years and were like family to her, and Novant Health New Hanover Medical Center for their incredible support and kindness.