Geraldine Johnson Ghorley

Geraldine Johnson Ghorley, a beloved matriarch and cherished member of her community, passed away on April 14, 2025, at her residence, surrounded by the warmth and love of her family. Born on November 3, 1929, in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, Geraldine's life was a tapestry woven with threads of love, devotion, and resilience. She retired from Parkdale Mill with over 50 years of dedicated years of service. She was a past member of Beech Avenue Baptist Church for over 45 years. She was a faithful member of Bible Baptist Church and she loved her Church family dearly, where she dearly loved her Pastor

She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, nurturing her family with care and compassion. Geraldine's legacy is deeply rooted in the hearts of her children, Charles Ghorley, Sidney Ghorley, Sylvia Ann Gibbie, Patsy Lewis and Libby Hilton, daughters-in-law, Robin Johnson, Susan Ghorley, 23 grandchildren, 50 great-grandchildren, and 30 great-great-grandchildren, she created a vibrant family tree that continues to grow, reflecting her nurturing spirit and unwavering love, special friend, Brenda Wiggins that she love and special nieces and a nephew, Jimmy Lanier, Angela “Sissy” Skidmore and Elaine Johnson, and many other wonderful nieces and nephews. Her special care giver her son Charles, who was also the apple of her eyes and he loved his momma dearly.

Geraldine's journey through life was not without its sorrows. She was preceded in death by her parents, Fonzie Johnson and Vergie Benfield Johnson, as well as her loving husband of over 28 years, Luther Dennis Ghorley. The loss of her children, Kenneth, Billy Joe, Luther “Rudy Ray” Dennis, Jr., Kay Frances Watkins, weighed heavily on her heart, but her strength shone brightly through those adversities. She was also preceded by her sisters, Betty Wooten and Lorraine Whitner, and a brother, Narvin Johnson who were precious to her.

The memories of her laughter, her gentle words of wisdom, and her unconditional love will forever resonate in the hearts of those she leaves behind. Geraldine was a beacon of light, guiding her family through their journeys with grace and patience. Each family gathering was a testament to her bond with them, filled with stories, laughter, and the warmth of her embrace.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. at Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home. Her Celebration of Life service will be 2:00 p.m., Thursday April 17th at Bible Baptist Church, 2404 Fairview Drive, Gastonia with Pastors Eddie Johnson and Forest Henessee officiating. . Burial will follow at Hollywood Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Greg Wooten, Loin Ghorley, Rusty Wallace, Mike Hammick, Mike Shepard, Danny Arrowood. Honorary Pallbearers will be the Youth Group Boys from Bible Baptist

As we celebrate the remarkable life of Geraldine Johnson Ghorley, we remember her not just for the years she lived, but for the many lives she touched along the way. Her spirit will forever be present in the stories shared, the traditions carried on, and the countless lives that were enriched by her love. May she rest in peace, surrounded by her treasured family, now together in the embrace of eternity.

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family.

Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com