Harriet Townsend Storey, 87, of Valdese, passed away on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at Gateway Nursing following a period of declining health.
Harriet was born March 1, 1938 in Watauga County to the late Forrest Townsend and Dorthy Bentley Townsend. She was a member of Bollingers Chapel United Methodist Church and worked in many different industries throughout her lifetime. Harriet was a wonderful seamstress, making wedding dresses; she worked at the library in Valdese and at one point was known for being the oldest CNA in Burke County getting her license in her 70’s. Harriet was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother; always loving and giving to everyone that she met. She had a green thumb and enjoyed gardening and canning.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband Douglas Storey; and brother, Thomas Townsend.
She is survived by her son, Eric Storey and fiancée Donna Leedy; daughter, Cynthia S. Trtala; grandson, Andrew Trtala and wife Jessica; great-grandchildren, Kevin Trtala, and Lilly Trtala; sister, Margaret Perkins; and nephew, Tim Townsend and wife Emma.
A funeral service will be held on Monday, May 19, 2025 at 3:00 PM at Bollingers Chapel United Methodist Church with Pastor Allen Boliek officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.
The family will receive friends prior to the service from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bollingers Chapel United Methodist Church at 1215 Carolina St. SE, Valdese NC 28690.
Heritage Funeral Service in Valdese is assisting the family.
I’m so sorry for your loss. I have many fond memories of her library years. We had an ongoing joke about saving up for that one memorable trip we always dreamed of taking. I suppose she decided to go on ahead and take that trip. I’ll catch up with her later. God bless.
And don’t forget about the kids in the neighborhood that she always kept her eyes on us to make sure we didn’t get hurt, she was a babysitter for the neighborhood for us kids growing up on Milton road, Cindy and Eric sorry for your loss am praying for both of you,