December 17, 2025, 89, Kenly – Lena Grey Durham Pope, 89, passed away at her home on Wednesday, December 17, 2025 surrounded by her family. Born on June 9, 1936, she was the daughter of the late Richard Jasper Durham and Laura Crocker Durham.
In addition to her parents, Lena Grey was preceded in death by her daughter, Susie Oldham; and siblings Harold Durham, Ralph Durham, Carol Durham, Wallace Durham, Grace Wall, Jean Ann Hooks, and Jack Durham.
Lena Grey is survived by her loving husband of 71 years, Bobby Pope; son, Brent Pope; grandchildren, Matthew Oldham and wife, Hannah, Laura Caroline Oldham, and Enzo Marques; siblings, Bill Durham and Dorothy Hinnant; and son-in-law, Jimmy Oldham. Lena Grey is also survived by many nieces and nephews that she loved dearly.
She was a devoted Sunday school teacher and faithful lifetime member of Kenly Original Free Will Baptist Church, where her faith guided her daily life and her kindness touched many. She held various offices of the ladies auxiliary and previously served as church treasurer.
After graduating as a salutatorian at Kenly High School, Lena dedicated more than 40 years working at Kenly Savings and Loan, later known as KS Bank. Her strong work ethic, dependability, and willingness to help wherever needed earned her the respect and appreciation of coworkers and customers alike.
Outside of work, Lena found joy in gardening and shopping, taking pleasure in the simple things that brought beauty and happiness to her days. However, nothing mattered more to her than her family. She loved them deeply and showed that love through her care, her presence, and especially through her cooking. Lena took great pride in preparing meals for her family and looking after them, always putting their needs before her own.
Lena Grey will be remembered as a woman of faith, dedication, and love—a devoted church member, a loyal employee, and, most of all, a caring and selfless family woman. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those she loved and served so faithfully.
A service to celebrate Lena Grey’s life will be held on Sunday, December 21, 2025 at Kenly Funeral Service at 2 p.m. The family will receive friends and loved ones prior to the service, from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. Lena Grey will be laid to rest in the Kenly Cemetery immediately following the service.
Flowers are welcomed or memorial contributions may be sent to Kenly Original Free Will Baptist Church at 107 E Edgerton St, Kenly, NC 27542 in memory of Lena Grey.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Kenly Funeral Service.
