Longtime North Carolina Resident Linda Ann Morgan Dies at 83

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Linda Ann Morgan, a longtime resident of Eden, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at her home on February 17, 2026, at the age of 83 after several years of declining health. Morgan was born in Virginia in 1943 and was later adopted by Richard and Irma Gilley, who raised her as their own. She married Melvin 'Bud' Morgan in 1962 and dedicated much of her life to being a homemaker, a role she embraced wholeheartedly.

Why it matters

Morgan's passing marks the end of an era for a devoted member of the Eden community, where she had lived for decades. Her life story reflects the changing family dynamics and social trends of the mid-20th century, as she was both biologically born and later adopted. Her commitment to her family and faith also highlights the importance of community ties in small-town North Carolina.

The details

Linda Ann Morgan worked at Karastan Mills in her early twenties before becoming a full-time homemaker. She was a longtime and faithful member of Trinity Wesleyan Church in Eden. Morgan found great joy in cooking and spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Melvin 'Bud' Morgan, her biological parents, and her adoptive brother. She is survived by her brother, son, daughter, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

• Linda Ann Morgan was born on February 1, 1943.
• She graduated from Morehead High School in 1961.
• Linda married Melvin 'Bud' Morgan on May 19, 1962.
• Linda passed away peacefully at her home on February 17, 2026.

What’s next

There will be no formal service, but the family will receive friends at Trinity Wesleyan Church in Eden on February 26th at 6pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Boone & Cooke Funeral Home in Eden to assist with family expenses.