Celia Lynne Pardue
1971 - 2026
Celia Lynne Pardue, age 54, was a unique soul in a world of ordinary; one whose life was defined by compassion, curiosity, and an unwavering commitment to caring for others.
After graduating from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Celia devoted her professional life to serving as a Registered Nurse in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, where she cared for the most delicate and vulnerable among us. Her love for children knew no bounds, and her respect for the nursing profession was profound. For Celia, nursing was not simply a job, but a heartfelt vocation. Her gentle touch, skillful care, and instinctive ability to comfort brought hope and healing to countless families during their most challenging times.
Complementing her devotion to caring for others, Celia had a deep appreciation for therapeutic massage and the healing arts. She found both peace and self-discovery through yoga and often encouraged others to explore these practices for their own well-being. Time spent outdoors, whether enjoying the stillness of nature or observing its rhythms, nourished her spirit and reflected on her belief that healing could be found in simplicity and presence. She found deep meaning in life’s quiet moments, often drawn to the healing beauty of the natural world, where she felt most at peace and connected to something greater than herself. Her commitment to holistic health echoed her conviction that body, mind, and spirit are deeply interconnected. Celia cherished the fellowship and wisdom she gained through Bible study, finding comfort, guidance, and inspiration within its teachings and the community it fostered.
Celia’s compassionate heart extended beyond people to all living beings. She shared a special bond with her rescued feline companion, Cinderella, whom she cared for with devotion and tenderness. Cinderella was a constant source of comfort, companionship, and joy, embodying Celia’s lifelong instinct to nurture, protect, and love unconditionally.
Celia was fiercely loyal to those she loved. She was a caring daughter, sister, cousin, and friend, holding close the bonds of her immediate and extended family. Her presence was steadfast, her loyalty unquestioned, and her love enduring. Those who knew her felt her support and devotion woven through every aspect of their lives.
During her final journey, Celia was surrounded by the same compassion she had so freely given throughout her life. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Trellis Supportive Care and their dedicated nurses, along with Shawn Wilson, for the compassionate, attentive, and loving care provided for Celia during her time in hospice. Their kindness and support brought comfort and peace to Celia and her family during an incredibly tender season.
Celia is survived by her father, Ellis Edward Pardue; her mother, Kay Frances Byrd; her brother, Michael Edward Pardue; and her sister, Vanessa (Matt) Pardue Cooke, along with many extended family members who loved her dearly.
A service celebrating Celia’s life will be held on March 12, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. in the Chapel at First Presbyterian Church, Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Celia’s honor to the following organizations, which reflect her compassion and commitment to healing:
- Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation – https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org
- American Liver Foundation – https://liverfoundation.org
Celia has gracefully released her earthly bounds and embarked on a journey to a brighter, peaceful place. Her spirit remains unbound, her love eternal, and her presence felt in quiet moments—in rustling leaves, gentle sunlight, and cherished memories. Though no longer seen, she continues to walk beside all those who love her, offering comfort and inspiration from beyond.
“Energy is neither created nor destroyed; it only changes form. Love, therefore, continues.”
— Ursula K. Le Guin
I was glad to get to know Celia better over the past few years. She had a real true bright light in her spirit. We had a lot of good long talks and shared prayers together which meant the world to her. She will definitely be missed.
Cynthia Canipe
My family and I remember Celia so fondly from our time at CHOP. Her kindness and support when we were dealing with my daughter’s open heart surgery will never be forgotten. She was an angel on earth for us.