Barbara Heath

GARNER, NC--Barbara "Gail" Heath, 62, of Garner, died peacefully on Monday, January 6, at UNC Rex Hospital.

Gail was born on November 19, 1962 in Craven County and grew up in Stonewall in Pamlico County. She was the daughter of the late Charlie Franklin Heath and Barbara Carey Lupton. She was the granddaughter of the late Dorothy Virginia Gatlin Heath and Charlie Franklin Heath, Sr., J. B. Carey and Doris Carey Puhalla.

Gail grew up in Stonewall and attended Pamlico County Schools. She was a member of Stonewall United Methodist Church and was active in MYF on the district and conference level. She benefited from being a part of a close- knit family and community. Gail graduated from Pamlico County High School in 1981 . Gail participated in band, Annual Staff, Student Government Association, Beta Club, FHA (President), FFA, Social Studies and Science Club. Gail was named " Most Musical" which was no surprise knowing how much music was a big part of her life. Gail was in the band and played brass, percussion, string, piano and woodwinds. Gail received the John Phillip Sousa Award for outstanding musicianship and leadership when she graduated. Gail was a bus driver for the school system.

Gail went on to attend East Carolina University where she was a dormitory RA and was active in the Marching Band. She completed her degree by taking online courses and received a Bachelor's Degree.

Gail worked in the textile industry for Michelle Palmer and Panama Jack while in Greenville. She moved to Cary and worked for TC2 a research institute in the garment industry in the early 90's. Gail worked at UNC Rex Hospital as a Diagnostic Scheduler for almost 27 years.

Gail had a great smile and sense of humor that was like a light that lit up the room wherever she went. She knew no strangers and loved being with her family, friends and fur- babies. Cooking and especially grilling-out were one of her many favorite things. She loved her Weber grill. She loved baking and cooking for get togethers and was known for making a tray full of treats at Christmas every year to deliver to her favorite family, framily and friends. She had a love for music and enjoyed playing her guitar and participating in the more recent three person band on Wednesday nights.

Gail was a three time cancer survivor. She overcame many health issues with great strength and grace and was an inspiration to many.

Left to cherish her memory are her partner of 30 years, Vicky Vurnakes Overby of Garner; daughters Cristen Munford, Mary Whitecross and husband Brandon of Raleigh and son, Braxton Overby, lll of Youngsville; grandchildren, Alexandra Munford, Parker Pearce, Braxton Overby lV, Laikyn Whitecross of Raleigh; and great grandchildren, Ka'Jai Munford and Xyla Stephenson of Lenoir County; her parents, Barbara Carey Lupton and Owen of Florence, Aunt Ruth Powers of Texas, step-brothers, Owen Lupton III of Grifton, John Cullember and Kenny Cullember Heath of Pamlico County. She leaves many cousins as well. Gail loved her many pets and leaves behind her 21 year old Pomeranian, Chloie and her Yorkie Lille Belle.

Gail's wishes were for a celebration of her life which will be at a later date when the weather is warm. In lieu of flowers please donate to The Dabba Life/ Owner Willie Blue to help with animals that have physical disabilities and need physical therapy. https://dabbacares.betterworld.org/