Gloria Faye Hassell Tarkenton

Gloria Hassell Tarkenton, 83, of Wilson, NC passed away peacefully, in her home, surrounded by her family, on December 31, 2023. She was born October 2, 1940, in Roper, North Carolina. Gloria was the daughter of the late Nathan and Ruby Hassell.

Gloria grew up in Roper and was a 1958 graduate of Roper High School. She participated in Glee Club, Athletic Association, Basketball team, and was class Secretary and Treasurer.

Gloria’s employment included: Banker’s Security Life Insurance Company in Washington, DC, Secretary at Miller’s Creek Elementary School and Woodward Middle School in Wilkesboro, NC, and the Department of Corrections of North Carolina in Raleigh, NC.

Gloria was affectionately called “Nana” by all who loved her. Her pride and joy were her family. She loved to spend time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She cherished her much loved Hassell family reunions with her brothers and sisters.

Gloria had a love of reading, crafting, and traveling to visit friends and family. Those who loved her would describe her as kind, selfless, generous, loving, and compassionate.

Gloria is survived by her sons, Rob Tarkenton and wife, Kim, Scott Tarkenton and wife, Emily Johnson, and Mark Tarkenton and wife, Melissa; grandsons, Carter Tarkenton and wife, Leah, Tanner Tarkenton, and Hunter Cockrell; granddaughters, Rebekah Anthony and husband, Charlie, Emylee Tarkenton, Makayla Tarkenton, Maggie Tarkenton, and Hailee Cockrell; great-granddaughters, Piper Rae Phillips and Eloise Anthony; sisters, Laquita Peed, Sarah Reynolds, and Carolyn Cayton; and brother, James Hassell.

Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, Nathan and Ruby Hassell; and brothers, Jack Hassell, Ronnie Hassell, Wayne Hassell, Glenn Hassell, and Harold Phelps.

A visitation will be held Saturday, January 6, 2024, at 11:00 am followed by a Celebration of Life service at Joyner’s Funeral Home, 4100 Raleigh Road Parkway, Wilson. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to American Cancer Society or Samaritan’s Purse.

Gloria’s family would like to extend special appreciation to her granddaughter, Makayla Tarkenton and to Gentiva Hospice of Wilson, for their love, care, and support.

Condolences directed to Joyner’s Funeral Home at www.joyners.net.