Gertrude Clara Thompson Rich

Gertrude Thompson Rich, 85, of Durham, North Carolina passed away comfortably at her home on Tuesday, May 14, 2024.  She was born on May 3, 1939 in Durham, NC to the late Grover and Daisy Thompson.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sons, Jimmy “Buck” Rich and Ricky W. Rich and sisters, Marjorie T. Gibbs and Margaret T. McKellar.

Mrs. Rich was a lifetime Baptist. She held one of the most important jobs as a homemaker to her wonderful family.  Gertrude loved to cook and have the family gather at her house.  Her favorite color was red and always made sure that any puzzle she did had a lot of red in it.  Gertrude enjoyed music especially Elvis.  She was known as the “Banner Rooster” because she always got her way.  She is going to be deeply missed by everyone blessed to have known her.

Gertrude is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, Jimmy Douglas Rich; daughters, Joyce Beasley (James), Gail Rich-Smith (Don) and Linda Rich Lazenby (Bill); grandchildren, James Beasley, Jr., Cody D. Rich (Eddy Marie), Brandi L. Beasley and Steven W. Rich (Melanie); 8 great grandchildren and other loving family members.

A Private Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

Flowers are acceptable.