Erma Delores Gurganous Fender, 65, of Sunset Harbor, NC and formerly of Suffolk, VA, passed from her earthly life to her eternal rest on Monday, August 19, 2013 at her home with loving family at her side.

She was born July 16, 1948 in Pender County, the daughter of the late Winston Allen and Vancey Verral Norris Gurganous. She was preceded in death by he beloved husband of 44 years, Walter Lawerence Fender.

Erma is survived by her children, Maria Day (Lorne), Walter Fender, Jr., and Jerred Fender (Maureen); her foster children, Robbie Griswold (Ricky) and Minnie Spivey (Jerry); eleven grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; brothers, Frank and Albert Gurganous; sisters, Vancey Dyson, Ruby Johnson, Hilda Smith, and Nettie Speir; and many nieces, nephews and extended family.

Erma was a Licensed Practical Nurse by education, but her passion and love was being a school bus driver in Suffolk, VA.

Erma was one that loved children and put her family first. She brought cheer and laughter to everybody's heart and was never scared to tell you the truth. She saw the good in everybody and always tried to help even if it seemed impossible. Erma forgot about yesterday and looked forward to tomorrow and all the blessings that came her way. She thanked God for all the wonderful things she saw and experienced in her life. So now Erma is watching over all the ones she loved so dearly and has joined her one true love, Walter, for all eternity. What an honor it is that the lively, caring and loving Erma has lived among us.

Funeral service will be at 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 21, 2013 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home in Burgaw, NC with The Rev. Gardner Eakins officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home following the service.

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Funeral service will be at 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 21, 2013 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home in Burgaw, NC with The Rev. Gardner Eakins officiating.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home following the service.