Mrs. Retha Ann Somers Durham, aged 87, peacefully passed away on Sunday, October 27, 2024. Born on July 31, 1937, in Wilkes County, she was the daughter of the late John Somers and Ollie Williams Somers. Retha was predeceased by her beloved husband, Noah Durham; her son, Bradley Durham; brothers Dean Somers and Rev. Dwight Somers; sisters Alene Somers Johnson and Sybil Somers Thomason; and her great-grandchild, Breonna Bushey.
Retha dedicated 30 years of her career to Advance Auto before retiring and embracing the role of a homemaker. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she cherished her church family at Union Baptist Church. She eagerly anticipated church trips, especially those shared with her granddaughter Carrie, and found joy in serving the Lord in any capacity she could. Retha also found pleasure in simple hobbies like sewing, cooking, and birdwatching. Above all, spending quality time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her immense happiness.
She is lovingly remembered by her son, Marty Durham; granddaughters Kasey Gentry, Kristin (Justin) Bushey, and Carrie (Garrett) Durham Robinette; great-grandchildren Ian Gentry, Bentley Bushey, Bella Bushey, Bronx Bushey, Balyze Bushey, Boaz Bushey, Brightlyn Bushey, and Hayden Durham; and numerous special nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends at Union Baptist Church in Hamptonville on Saturday, November 2, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM. A funeral service celebrating Retha’s life will commence at 2:00 PM, officiated by Rev. Kenny Pardue and Rev. Justin Bushey. Following the service, she will be laid to rest in the church cemetery.
The family expresses their deepest gratitude to the compassionate staff of Iredell Hospice, particularly social worker Joann, nurse Katrina, and CNA Cassie, for their exceptional care and support. Memorial contributions in Retha’s name may be directed to Iredell County Hospice.
Gentry Family Funeral Service in Yadkinville is honored to be serving the Durham family during this time. They are committed to providing compassionate and professional funeral arrangements, ensuring a respectful and meaningful service to honor the life of Mrs. Retha Ann Somers Durham. For those seeking gentry family funeral service information or directions, please contact them directly.
