Frieda Virginia Harrington Stamper

Frieda Harrington Stamper, 94, died August 15, 2024, at her new home, The Landings of Rocky Mount Mills where she received truly compassionate care. Frieda was born on September 28, 1929 in Sugar Grove, VA to Annis W. Harrington. She never knew her father, Harvey F. Harrington, who died in a coal mining accident before she was born.

Frieda was an exceptionally beautiful and talented young lady. While at Sugar Grove High School she played Pamela in "Aunt Tillie Goes to Town." At the Lincoln Theater in Marion, VA, she was crowned Miss Smyth County. It is no surprise that a handsome WWII Naval Air Cadet, Roy Leston Stamper, sought her hand in marriage. They were married 69 years at time of his death.

During those years they enjoyed traveling to Canada and 49 states in their Winnebago. However, it was to Holden Beach they returned with family and friends year after year. When not traveling, Frieda took an active role in her Baptist church homes: in Roanoke, VA, Cave Spring, and in Raleigh, Forest Hills and Ephesus. From Bible school, to Sunday School teacher, to Church Camp cook, she took on many roles. Her favorite was doing floral arrangements for church events which showcased her artistic and creative talents, along with her love of flowers.

Frieda retired as head of the Reserve Dept. at NC State Library, but her favorite job was her antique business. Her love of auctions and things of the past (particularly Christmas antiques which she frequently showcased in seasonal Open Houses) was only surpassed by her love of gardening. The pinnacle of that passion was their yard on Spruce Dr. where she spent countless hours and garnered Yard of the Month awards. Frieda's boundless energy also kept her busy indoors with quilting for which she won awards at the NC State Fair.

Frieda was a tireless worker always willing to lend a helping hand to family, friends, and neighbors. She spent long days helping her children rehabilitate and build houses and plant their own gardens which will reflect her joy for life for many years to come. Of her it can truly be said, " Well done thy good and faithful servant."

Frieda was predeceased by her husband, Roy L. Stamper and son, Gregory A. Stamper; her parents, Annis and Harvey Harrington; her three sisters: Gray, Lola, and Rena; and her seven brothers: Carl, Archie, Ray, Gene, Warren, Bill and Paul. She is survived by her daughter, Deborah S. Thomassen (Thom); her son, Peyton H. Stamper (Bonnie); her grandsons, Austin Stamper (Sayaka) and Matthew S. Thomassen; and many wonderful nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all who cared for Frieda over the last seven years, especially Amy Campbell.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to Ephesus Baptist Church, 6767 Hillsborough St. Raleigh, NC 27606.

The Celebration of Frieda's life was held on Thursday, August 22, 2024 at Mitchell Funeral Home, 7209 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27612.

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