Merle Virginia White Curlings, age 91 of Elizabeth City, North Carolina went to be with her Lord and Savior on April 28, 2020.
Born in Tyrrell County, she was the daughter of Maryland Van White and Flossie Hufton White. Merle was preceded in death by her husbands; Thomas G. Curlings, Sr. and Wilson Seldon (Peter) Sawyer.
She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, great-great grandmother, sister, aunt, neighbor and friend. She is survived by one daughter and her husband, LaWanda & Steve Williams; four sons and their wives, Roger and Debbie Sawyer, Seldon & Mindy Sawyer, Wilson & Maggie Sawyer, Thomas & Eva Curlings; a loving daughter- in -law, Donna Curlings; 18 grandchildren; 38 great grandchildren; 7 great- great grandchildren and many special nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a son; Thomas G Curlings, Jr, two sisters; Ethel W. Matthews & Yvonne W. Davis; and a brother, James Marshall White.
Her life was a living example of her favorite Bible verse, Ephesians 4:32 — “And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ.” Her motto; “There but for the grace of God go I” is what fueled her compassion for others.
For many years Merle worked at Winslow’s Nursing Home in Elizabeth City. It suited her servant heart. She had a vivacious personality and was well known for “telling it like it is”. She made friends everywhere she went and her customers at Orange Bowl loved her infectious smile and kindness.
Her interests included family, reading, and serving others. She devoted much of her time and energy as a caregiver to family members and nurturing others through volunteerism. And, in her younger years, she served with the Pasquotank County Rescue Squad and REACT.
Merle was a dedicated wife and mother first and foremost. She treasured her children, grandchildren and extended family and embraced every moment with them. She especially loved her role as matriarch of the family. The last of four siblings, she earned the trust and love of family and friends. She was a treasured friend and confidant to many. Known as the family historian with a keen memory, she was a credible source of stories of years gone by and many tall tales.
Until her health condition made it impossible, she was active in the First Pentecostal Holiness Church which later became Fountain of Life, working with many ministry efforts including leading the Rainbow Girls Ministry and coordinating many fundraisers. She had a beautiful voice and loved singing in the choir.
Family will celebrate her life with a private graveside service. Arrangements are by Sossamon Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at www.sossamonfuneralhome.com.
Online memorial condolences may be sent to the family at www.TwifordFH.com.