Nannie Lee Beaty Gunning, 105, formerly of 903 W. 25th Street, quietly and peacefully departed this life on Wednesday, February 20, 2013 at The Oakes Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.

She was born October 16, 1907 in York, SC. Nannie was one of seven children born to John Russell and Anna Stanton Beaty. She attended the York County Public Schools. Upon graduation she pursued studies in the Nursing Program at Howard University and later transferred to Friendship College in Rock Hill, SC, where she completed her undergraduate studies. Later she taught for several years in the York County School District. In 1933, she married Norville Gunning, who died in 1936. Nannie moved to Winston-Salem, NC in 1937. She is a retiree of RJ Reynolds Tobacco Co. and also had been employed by the Winston Leaf Co.

Nannie was an active member of St. John CME Church since joining shortly after moving to the city. She always had an interest in the teaching and training of children. For over 40 years, she was a Sunday school teacher in the primary dept., instructing toddlers and preschoolers. The majority of young people growing up in St. John remember getting their start in Mrs. Gunning's class. Her other church activities include being a founding member of the Nurses Board, an involved Missionary and active member of the Senior Citizen's Club. She has been recognized by the church with numerous citations and awards for many years of dedicated service and outreach.

As a neighbor, she extended her care to the community through participation in neighborhood associations and activities. She was a founding member of the 25th Street Flower and Condolence Club. Nannie did not have children, but considered her many nieces, nephews, and children of the community as hers. She always had a watchful eye, protecting, guiding, and offering words of wisdom and encouragement.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and caring siblings, George, William, Sr., and Robert Beaty, Bessie Beaty, and Annie Mae Jones.

Nannie is survived by a loving sister, Teretha B. Millner of W-S, NC; devoted niece and nephews, Mable L. Millner of Worcester, MA, Al Beaty and John T. (Frankie) Beaty both of W-S, NC, beloved nieces and nephews, Thelma B. Reed of Washington, DC, William R. (Phyllis) Beaty, Jr. of New Haven, CT, James P. (Hazel) Beaty of Atlanta, GA, Janice (Gregory) Hamilton of Silver Springs, MD, Paul B. Beaty of Washington, DC, Marsha (Mark) Hopkins of Charlotte, NC, Morris (Eulaya) Beaty of Chattanooga, TN, and Lois (Buzz) Wynn of Knoxville, TN; special friends, Elsie Lowe, Edith George, Gennette Wingate, and Julia Johnson; and an additional host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends to cherish her memories.

Nannie Gunning lived her life to the fullest. She could always be counted on for an upbeat attitude, a good laugh, and a funny story. She enjoyed family, friends, her church, working in her yard, game shows, reading, and helping others. Nannie's presence, spirit, and grit will be missed by all who were touched by her life.

Funeral services will be held at 1pm Saturday, February 23, 2013 at St. John CME Church with Rev. Peris J. Lester I officiating. Interment will follow in Piedmont Memorial Gardens. The family visitation will be held from 12:30pm until 1pm on Saturday at the Church.

The family requests that in lieu of floral arrangements, donations be given to Meals on Wheels. Sincere appreciation is extended to the staff of The Oakes of Forsyth.