SOUTHPORT — Gayla Jane Scott, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2026, in Southport, North Carolina.
Born on August 22, 1947, in Madden, Mississippi, she lived a life defined by deep faith, enduring love, and quiet devotion to those around her. She was preceded in death by her father, James Peoples, and her mother, Hazel Wright.
Gayla’s greatest joy was her family. She and her husband, Sam, shared nearly 60 years of marriage rooted in love, partnership, and unwavering commitment. Together, they raised their two daughters in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, creating a warm and nurturing home. Gayla thoughtfully shaped her career around her family—running her own business while her daughters were young, then working in the Durham County school system to remain closely connected to their daily lives.
Her professional path also included roles as office manager for a commercial design firm in Research Triangle Park and as a valued staff member at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she served for 10 years and received multiple commendations. After retiring and relocating to West Jefferson, she continued her work at Appalachian State University.
Gayla found joy in life’s simple moments—cooking, gardening, and creating a welcoming home. Her warmth, kindness, and quiet strength touched all who knew her. A woman of deep Christian faith, she and Sam renewed their vows in 2003 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Southport.
She is survived by her husband, Sam; her daughters, Amanda Leigh Hodgins and Angela Kay Anderson; sons-in-law, Glen Hodgins and Howard Anderson; three grandchildren; and her half-siblings, Suzette Wright and Robert Wright.
A memorial service will be held on April 25, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church in Southport.
Online condolences are encouraged and may be sent to the family here.
