Mrs. Lillie Paulette Thorpe

Mrs. Lillie Paulette Thorpe was born in Durham, North Carolina on July 31, 1945 to Johnny and Pauline Toomer who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by Edward Thorpe to whom she was married for thirty years. On the evening of Saturday, July 4, 2020, Paulette transitioned from this earthly life and entered into her eternal rest. Paulette attended Hillside High School and graduated in 1963. Post-graduation, she attended Watts Hospital Nurse's Assistant Program and graduated in 1968. She spent her working career at Watts Hospital and Durham Regional Hospital retiring in February 2006. While employed at Durham Regional she was in charge of the Newborn Nursery for many years. Her knowledge and gentle spirit made it easy for the doctors and fellow nurses to consult with her and they respected her expertise with the infants. At a very early age, Paulette joined New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. L.W. Reid. Later, she moved her membership to The Shepherd's Flock Baptist Church and served on the floral club and kitchen committee. God was first in Paulette's life. She adored her family and cherished her church family. She will be missed by her many friends. Paulette had such a sweet spirit, she was humorous, had an infectious smile and a personality larger than life. Her sense of fashion was always impeccable. Whenever Paulette entered a room, her presence filled the room. She was an avid NCCU Eagles, Duke Blue Devils and Dallas Cowboys fan. Left to cherish her memories are her daughters, Jacqueline Bright Thompson, Anette Thorpe and Priscilla Womack (Freddie); sons, Edward Earl Thorpe, Jr. and Donzell Thorpe; sisters, Marie Toomer, Gloria Tyson (Vernon), Carol Harris and Roziland Toomer; brothers, James Toomer, Cleveland Toomer, Kent Toomer, Derrick Toomer, Danny Toomer, Tracy Toomer and Tyrone Toomer; eleven grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; and a host of extended family members and friends. Viewing for Mrs. Lillie Paulette Thorpe will take place on Friday, July 10, 2020, from 2:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at Scarborough & Hargett Celebration of Life Center, Inc., 309 N Queen Street, Durham, North Carolina 27701. A graveside service of celebration has been scheduled for Saturday, July 11, 2020, at 11:00 a.m. at Beechwood Cemetery, 3300 Fayetteville Street, Durham, NC, 27707, with viewing from 10:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Pastor Wayne Wilhelm will be delivering the eulogy. In every effort to protect our families and their guests, face coverings are required.

Mrs. Lillie Paulette Thorpe

July 31, 1945 - July 4, 2020