Althea A Inghram was born March 25, 1934, in Rockingham County to Mr. Sylvester and Adelaide Smith. She took her eternal rest peacefully on September 4, 2023. Althea married George Inghram on May 12, 1957. In their union they had 2 children: Cynthia Inghram-Starks and George Gary Inghram, she also had 3 Goddaughters who loved calling her mom: Justina O’Neil-Parker, Shirley Jones, and Pam McSwain. Justina was able to care for her in the latter days of her sickness, often staying with her days and nights in the hospital.

Althea was a radiant beacon of love, generosity, and faith. Her spirit resonated with everyone she met; her thoughtful kindness inspired many. Althea's adventurous passion for life made every moment count while her gentle soul comforted those in need. Althea’s mother passed at a young age when Althea was still in high school, but she still helped to raise all her 6 siblings: Elaine, Earliest, Fred, Estelle, William, and Charles (He was just 9 months old when their mother passed). Despite loss early in life, she remained optimistic and strong, raising her siblings with warmth and courage. She leaves two siblings to cherish her memory: Her brother William (Yvonne) S. Smith, sister Estelle Stacy and a special aunt, Dr. Mary Smith, who offered medical advice when needed.

Althea graduated from A&T State University with a degree in Nursing, and later continued Advanced studies at Duke University. She used her intelligence to nurture as an accomplished nurse, fostering healing and hope at Duke University Hospital. While working there, she traveled to lots of nurse’s conventions all over the United States. She retired from Duke University Hospital after serving 35 yrs. of service in the ICU and Neurosurgery depts. After retirement, she traveled to even more places to include the Bahama’s, Bermuda, and MLK’s Ebenezer Baptist Church.

At a young age, she became a member of Bluestone Baptist Church (Ruffin, NC) where she enjoyed singing as a beautiful songstress. Althea and family became members of Peace Missionary Baptist Church in the early years under the founding pastor Rev William E. Daye. She was a faithful member until her illness. During her membership at Peace, she served on the Peace Missionary Baptist Church Senior Choir, Nurses Club, and Pastor’s Aide committee. In the community, she served on the Nurse’s Community Breakfast Club, Friendly 40’s Club, and Durham Eastern Star Chapter.

May her melodious legacy through song linger in our hearts as we remember this extraordinary woman's profound impact on our lives. With hearts full of gratitude for the gracious life lived by Althea, we bid her farewell. She will forever be cherished.

Funeral service will be held at Peace Missionary Baptist Church, 2608 NC Hwy 55, Durham, NC. on Monday, September 11, 2023; family and friends visitation 12:00 to 1:00 pm, funeral service starts at 1:00 pm.
Burial will be held at Glennview Memorial Park.

All acts of kindness are appreciated during this difficult time.