WILMINGTON — Jason Thomas Gurganus, 53, of Wilmington passed away on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at UNC Chapel Hill Medical Center as the result of a tragic accident.
He was born on July 27, 1971, in Wilmington, NC to Donald Gurganus and Arlene (Harrison) Gurganus.
Having lived by the coast all of his life, Jason loved being on the water, whether fishing or surfing. When he was not on the water, he loved spending time at his father’s family home place in Cypress Creek, NC, where he enjoyed duck and deer hunting.
Jason’s warm smile and giving heart made him immediate friends with almost everyone he met. His circle of friends was vast- from childhood friends in Long Leaf Acres, to class mates from NHHS ‘89, to the Tuesday night King Neptune’s locals, to the Scott’s Hill Marina friends- Jason never knew a stranger. To know him was to love him.
In addition to his parents, Jason is survived by his fiancé and high school sweetheart, Lee Latham Coleman; his sister, Donna Gurganus; his beloved dogs, Dixie, Bailey, and Maggie; along with many extended family members and friends.
There will be a Celebration of Life, Thursday, July 17, 2025, at First Presbyterian Church in Wilmington, at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Natalie Raygor and Pastor Mike Mattis of Saltbox church officiating.
In addition, a Celebration at Sea will take place Friday, July 25, 2025. The family will depart Bradley Creek Marina at 4pm and any boats wishing to participate are invited to join.
At a later date, there will be a Celebration of Life in Cypress Creek where Jason will be reunited with his family in the Gurganus Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers donations to Paws Place and UNC Burn Center.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” Psalm 34:18. While we are broken hearted and crushed in spirit after losing Jason, we take comfort in knowing he is with our Lord and we will be reunited again one day. We pray you find the same comfort and peace.
Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family here.
