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.
Shirley M Jones sent Pink Tribute Spray for Althea Smith Inghram - September 09, 2023
We are here for you and your family. Shirley and Ronald, your friends forever.
Darlena Areas sent Red and White Floor Basket for Althea Smith Inghram - September 09, 2023
Deepest condolences to you and your family. Lena Areas and the Johnson family
Peace be unto the Family of George, Gary and Cynthia. My condolences to you all in the passing of mom Al as I have always called. She will be greatly missed. I will I could be there unfortunately I could not. Our prayers are with you all May God give peace and comfort❤️🙏🏿Rev Harold and Dr Katina D. Harris and Family 🙏🏿🙏🏿
Cynthia, I am thinking of you and sending love, thoughts, and prayers to you and your family during this difficult time. May the love of family and friends help you find the strength to face each day. May the Lord give you comfort and peace in your time of sorrow. Ethel Jones
I will always remember Mrs. Inghram as a member of the Senior Choir at Peace Missionary Baptist Church. We had many conversations about the gospel songs and how those songs brought joy to our hearts. Rest in Peace. With love, Dr. Dorothy M. Singleton
Cynthia Sending my condolences with much empathy and sympathy to you and the family. Mrs. Althea was my mommy too. She will be greatly missed. May the love of God embrace you and may enduring memories keep her alive in your heart.
My condolences to the Inghram family.
This is George, the son of Mrs. Althea Smith Inghram. I will really miss my mom very much. So sorry I wasn't there physically, but I was there spiritually and with her mentally. I love you mom.
Sending love and light to this family. Especially George Ingram.
May you all be comforted by your loving memories of Althea. Her lively laughter filled many rooms and hearts.
Alice Drake, neice
I'm going to miss you Mrs.Inghram. My condolences to your family.
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