Helen Gayle Christian

She was born in Nakina, North Carolina to the late Willie and Edith Ward. She is preceded in death by her brother, Elbridge Ward and sister, Hilda Henry, and her beloved husband, Douglas “Pete” Christian. She is survived by her brother, Horace Ward and his wife, Becky, of Rocky Mount; son, Micah Christian; son, Douglas Christian III; daughter, Tamara Christian, all of Raleigh, and her grandchildren, Hannah Christian of Garner; Stefen Christian and his wife, Joy, of Cary; Danielle Christian and John Christian, both of Garner.

Gayle grew up in Rocky Mount , NC, where she graduated from Rocky Mount High School, studied music at the Rocky Mount Conservatory, graduated from John Robert Powers’ modeling school, started her first job at the movie theater and met her husband, Pete. They were married at Arlington Street Baptist Church and began their life together in Raleigh, NC.

While raising their three children, Gayle graduated from Hardbargers business College and began her career in government at the Wake County commissioner’s office. She was involved in her children’s activities in scouts, school, music and the Raleigh Little Theater. In 1971, she began her career at the NC General Assembly as an Administrative Assistant and Committee Clerk until her retirement. She gave back to her community and was active in local, state and national politics throughout her life. She was a member of the Women’s Club of Raleigh, Altrusa International, Democratic Women of Wake County, the Pine Needles Network and many other organizations. She worked for the Division of Aging and the Wake County Board of Elections. She held many leading roles and received many acknowledgements. She served as President of the Democratic Women, received the Mable Claire Maddrey Award and ran a tight ship as registrar for Precinct 38, in Brentwood, to name a few.

Gayle loved the Lord, her family, her friends and her community. She was a strong lady who overcame many obstacles and trials with grace and poise. She was loved by her husband, her children and the many lives she touched. She is now at peace but, will be missed by those of us that are still here with her memories.

A memorial service will be held at Brown-Wynne Funeral Home, 1701 East Millbrook Rd, Raleigh, on Sunday, October 30 at 2:00. The family will receive visitors immediately following the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Lung Association.