Gerald Deen Lunsford, 97, of Hampstead, passed away on Thursday, January 5, 2023, at Lower Cape Fear LifeCare in Wilmington.

He was born on October 11, 1925, in Covington County, Alabama to the late James and Lessie (Cross) Lunsford.

Gerald is survived by his loving wife, Minnie (Maultsby) Lunsford, of Hampstead, NC; daughter, Jan A. Lunsford of Andalusia, AL; step-son, Rick Roethlinger and wife, Ericka, of Wilmington, NC; step-daughters, Susan Riggs and husband, Glenn, of Wilmington, NC, Nancy Campbell and husband, Ray, of Wilmington; eight grandchildren; and five great grandchildren.

After graduating high school, Gerald followed in his brother's footsteps and joined the U.S. Navy. Later he went on to working at Peniscola Christian School. He was known for being born as a salesman. For the majority of his life, Gerald settled in Wilmington, NC and worked with Schaffer Buick BMW for 15 years, then moved over to work with Bob King. He was known by many as Poppa; he was everyone's Poppa.

In addition to his parents, Gerald was also preceded in death by his son, Jerry A. Lunsford; brothers, James Lunsford, J.C. Lunsford, Ray Lunsford; sister, Lonie Lee.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to SECU Family House at www.nhrmc.org/locations/secu-family-house/secu-family-house-online-giving or Lower Cape Fear LifeCare at www.lifecare.org.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, January 12 at 11:00am at Fellowship Baptist Church, 5709 Murrayville Rd, Wilmington, NC 28405 with Pastor Arnold Griffin officiating.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting Tribute Wall above.

Quinn McGowen Funeral Home – Wilmington

910-794-7171