Highlands - Mrs. Gloria Bass Padgett, wife of James R. (Bob) Padgett, of Horse Cove, Highlands, North Carolina passed away peacefully at the age of 95 years, on Sunday, September 6, 2026, at the home of David and Deanna Padgett in Holly Ridge, NC. Graveside services will be held at a later date.

Mrs. Padgett, daughter of Mitchell William Bass and Willa Wall Bass was born in Fitzgerald, GA, graduated as a Registered Nurse from St. Luke’s Hospital School of Nursing living in Highlands from 1964-1967 and then again from 1981 until 2024.

Mrs. Padgett is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, David and Deanna Padgett and Michael and Sheila Padgett. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Robert Padgett, Rebecca Jayne, Dawn Padgett, David Padgett, Ann Marie Marranca, and Melissa Mercado and 15 great grandchildren.

Mrs. Padgett was a long-term member of the Highlands Methodist Church. Mrs. Padgett loved the natural environment of her beloved Highlands Mountain’s. The Padgett Poplar in Horse Cove is named after her husband, Bob Padgett, a former USFS Ranger for the Highlands District. She was a beloved matriarch and life example setter for the entire Padgett extended family.