Frances Gurley Carpenter

Frances Gurley Carpenter (Janie Frances Gurley), born August 23, 1936, in Kannapolis, NC, to the late Janie Nerine Carter and Ernest Howard Gurley, entered peacefully into the arms of her Savior on January 26, 2026, at the age of 89.

She is survived by her daughters, Shirley Cress Dudley and Tina Cress Kurylak (Steve); her grandchildren, Rebecca Dudley Jones (Austin), Michael Dudley, and Lana Kurylak; her sister, Faye Reynolds; and brother, Earnest Gurley. She was preceded in death by her siblings Jim Gurley and Linda Gurley.

Frances was a devoted lifelong educator.  After earning her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Coker College and her Master of Arts in Education from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, she taught at Roland Grise Junior High School in Wilmington, NC, and later Smith Junior High School in Charlotte, NC. After taking several years away from teaching to care for her young children, she returned to teaching for 18 years at Harding High School in Charlotte, where she served as Department Head of Business Education and developed the innovative “Occupational Mix” program.

In retirement, Frances moved to Port Charlotte, Florida, with her former husband, Kyles, where she embraced a full life of cooking, hosting family and friends, gardening, and especially fishing. She so frequently placed first in local tournaments that she was eventually invited to serve as a judge.

Frances was given the nickname “Smiley,” and was known for her bright smile, warm hugs and loving personality.

Frances returned to the Carolinas in 2008, where she was closer to her family. As her health declined, she was lovingly cared for in the home of her daughter Tina and her family, where she remained until her passing.

Frances’ faith guided her, comforted her, and brought her peace. She faced her final moments with gratitude and joy, knowing she was going home to be with her Lord. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is now whole, healed, and celebrating in the presence of her Savior.

A memorial service and celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in the main sanctuary of First Baptist Church Elkin, located at 110 Gwyn Avenue, Elkin, NC 28621. A reception will follow in the fellowship hall.

Tributes