Merle Hurley Harris

Merle Hurley Harris, of Troy, departed this life Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at FirstHealth Hospice of West End, completing her journey in this life of 92 years.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, February 4, 2 p.m., at First Wesleyan Church in Troy. Visitation will be Tuesday, February 3, 6-8 p.m., Bumgarner Funeral Home in Troy.

Merle was born August 2, 1933. She was preceded in death by her husband Paige Harris, mother Bessie Lee Hurley, son Floyd Hicks, brother Wallace Hurley and sister Barbara Morris.

Merle leaves behind to cherish her memory her daughter, Dana Harris of Greensboro; her granddaughter, Wendy Hicks (Tom Cook) of Wake Forest; her grandson, Brian Hicks (Christy Hicks) and children, Clara, Carver and Cash, of Wilmington; her grandson, Jason Harris (Jenni Harris) and children Jake and Andy Harris of Wilmington; and dear friend, Patsy Smith; also, a host of family and friends.

Merle touched many lives from her job at Gilead Manufacturing until cosmetology. She was strong, independent, self-made and definitely a Southern Belle. She worked many tireless hours at her shop. Dana mentioned a few fun family memories. She and her daddy would stand patiently waiting and watching “Hee-Haw” while her daddy would be clicking his heels and looking out the window to see if Merle was almost finished. Jays Seafood was calling their name.

Other fun times involved Dana and Wendy going out with them to eat, and the pair would walk to another nearby restaurant, change their names and make up a big story about their lives for people sitting nearby to hear.

Vacations were short but fun, (Myrtle Beach, Tweetsie) with Merle’s knowing that she had to get back to her beauty shop and the clients she loved of 63 years. During those 63 years she stood for 39 of those years side by side with her best friend, Patsy Smith, mother of grandchildren Wendy and Brian.

Merle looked forward to her Friday evenings eating supper with her friends at Hometown. She also had fun with Jean and their secret hot dog outings. She loved Kathy’s coming by and helping her around the house. There was always a big smile on her face when Kathy’s grandson, Bentley, would send her ice cream.

Her endless generosity and impact will always be loved, remembered and cherished. Her work on earth is done. Heaven has gained an angel.

Memorials may be made to FirstHealth Hospice and Palliative Care, 251 Campground Road, West End, NC 27376 and The Humane Society of the Uwharries, PO Box 231, Troy, NC 27371.

Bumgarner Family Funeral Service is assisting the Harris family.

Online condolences can be made at www.bumgarnerfunerals.com.