PET OF THE WEEK: Miss Moneypenny Powered by Jackson & Sons

PET OF THE WEEK: Miss Moneypenny
Powered by Jackson & Sons

December 10, 2025 Shaun Johnson

Meet Miss Moneypenny — A Rare Beauty Ready to Steal Your Heart

Goldsboro, NC — This week’s WGBR Pet of the Week powered by Jackson & Sons spotlight shines on Miss Moneypenny, a stunning and spirited 2-year-old feline who has been charming the staff at the Wayne County Animal Shelter since her arrival in early October.

Executive Director Graham Price describes Miss Moneypenny as a “unique, gorgeous cat” with striking coloring unlike many others. She’s a dark tabby with a warm, penny-copper sheen in her fur — the inspiration behind her sophisticated name.

“She’s full of personality — in a good way,” Price added with a smile. “I don’t know why she’s still here. She’s naturally gorgeous, and the name alone makes her unforgettable.”

Miss Moneypenny is friendly, curious, and always ready to soak up attention. Whether she’s posing like a movie star or seeking a cozy lap, she’s ready to bring charm and companionship to a lucky adopter.

The shelter recently celebrated a big win — last week’s featured pet, Kravitz, was adopted into a wonderful home. Staff are hopeful Miss Moneypenny will be next to find her fur-ever family.

Visit the Wayne County Animal Shelter to meet Miss Moneypenny today!

Wayne County Animal Shelter
1600 Clingman Street, Goldsboro, NC
Phone: 919-731-1439

Hours of Operation
Weekdays: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Saturdays: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

MORE WCAS INFO
ALL PETS AVAILABLE
WCAS ON FACEBOOK
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Wayne County Community Foundation Awards Grant to Communities Supporting Schools of Wayne County 

Wayne County Community Foundation Awards Grant to Communities Supporting Schools of Wayne County 

December 9, 2025 Amy Roux

Wayne County, NC – The Wayne County Community Foundation, a North Carolina Community Foundation affiliate, has awarded a $2,310 grant to Communities Supporting Schools of Wayne County (Wayne CSS). 

The grant will support Wayne CSS in their mission to provide opportunities for students to stay in school, graduate and be successful in life. Founded in 1992, Wayne CSS provides critical wraparound services for students in the county.  

“We are pleased to invest in our community’s youth through Communities Supporting Schools of Wayne County,” said Robert B. Logan, advisory board president of the Wayne County Community Foundation.  

Funds for the 2025 grant came from WCCF’s community grantmaking fund. Each year, WCCF’s advisory board uses dollars from its endowment fund to make grants to eligible local organizations, including nonprofits, local governments, schools and churches.  

Visit nccommunityfoundation.org/Wayne to learn more about WCCF and its work or to make a tax-deductible donation.   

A&S Worrell Foundation, Inc. Launches with a Mission to Empower Youth and Transform Futures

A&S Worrell Foundation, Inc. Launches with a Mission to Empower Youth and Transform Futures

December 9, 2025 Amy Roux

Goldsboro, NC — What began as a vision in the hearts of founders Adrian and Selena Worrell has grown into a mission-driven movement dedicated to transforming young lives. The A&S Worrell Foundation, Inc., officially established in August 2025 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was created with one purpose: to serve, uplift, and empower youth—particularly those in underserved communities.

The foundation focuses on supporting middle and high school students by providing the opportunities,
experiences, and tools they need to thrive in today’s global world. Through immersive field trips, hands-on
learning initiatives, financial literacy workshops, career exploration programs, and meaningful cultural
exposure, the A&S Worrell Foundation opens doors to experiences many students might otherwise never have.

“At A&S Worrell Foundation, we believe every child deserves access to knowledge, opportunity, and hope,”
said Adrian Worrell, Co-Founder. “Our programs are designed to inspire students to dream bigger, explore
the world around them, and build confidence in their future.”

The organization’s work is anchored in its core values—equity, empowerment, education, community,
integrity, and compassion. These principles guide every initiative developed and every student served. By
creating enriching pathways and nurturing environments, the foundation aims to change the trajectory of young
people’s futures and strengthen the communities they call home.

Board of Directors Announced

The A&S Worrell Foundation is proud to announce the appointment of its inaugural Board of Directors, a
diverse group of leaders committed to advancing the foundation’s mission:

  • Selena Worrell, Chair
  • Adrian Worrell, Vice Chair
  • Deborah Sykes, Secretary
  • Sarah Gaylor, Treasurer
  • Roderica Worrell, Public Relations
  • Ingrid Cox
  • Winston Cox
  • Bilma Iniguez
  • Jack Kannan
  • Duane Lewis
  • Dr. Earl Moore

We’re planting seeds that will grow for generations,” said Selena Worrell, Co-Founder and Board Chair.
“Our mission is not just to support students today, but to help shape leaders for tomorrow.”

The A&S Worrell Foundation invites community partners, educators, sponsors, and supporters to join in its
mission to uplift youth and expand opportunities across the region.

For more information, to volunteer, or to support the mission, please contact us at:
[email protected].

WCC’s Academic Skills Center Earns National Tutoring Awards

WCC’s Academic Skills Center Earns National Tutoring Awards

December 9, 2025 Amy Roux

GOLDSBORO, N.C. – Wayne Community College’s Academic Skills Center (ASC) and its staff were named recipients of multiple awards at the annual virtual conference of the National Tutoring Association (NTA).

ASC Coordinator Samantha Harlow earned the NTA’s 2025 Community College Tutor of the Year Award in recognition of her creativity, innovation, and leadership.

Professional Tutor Scarlett Joyner received this year’s Tutor Profile in Courage Award. Joyner was honored for her compassion, resilience, and unwavering dedication to students and peers.

Additionally, the ASC was named the NTA’s 2025 Tutoring Program of the Year for two-year colleges. The ASC was recognized for its highly trained NTA-certified tutors and leaders and its culture of support, mentorship, and belonging.

“These awards are a reflection of the Academic Skills Center’s unwavering commitment to supporting WCC students and helping them thrive,” said Dr. Brandy Daingerfield, ASC director. “Our tutors, coordinators, and staff show up every day with heart, purpose, and a deep belief in our students’ potential. I am incredibly proud of their dedication, their professionalism, and the compassion they bring to every interaction.”

The ASC is an educational support service providing in-person and virtual assistance from professional staff and peer tutors. It offers supplementary instruction through group study, one-on-one instruction, subject-specific open labs, and course-related worksheets. All services provided are free of charge.

Deshawn Jeffrey Ashford

Deshawn Jeffrey Ashford

December 9, 2025 Shaun Johnson

December 5, 2025, 25, Clinton — In humble submission to the will of God, we, the management and staff of Williams & Ashford Funeral Directors join with the Ashford and connected families to announce the earthly transition of Mr. Deshawn Jeffrey Ashford, 25, of Clinton, NC.

Arrangements are forthcoming at this time.

Services of Love & Compassionate Care have been entrusted to Williams & Ashford Funeral Directors and Cremations, LLC.

Charles Pawvluk

Charles Pawvluk

December 9, 2025 Shaun Johnson

December 7, 2025, 95, Dudley — Charles Pawvluk, age 95, passed away on Sunday, December 7, 2025 at his residence. Born in Lilly, PA, he was the son of the late  Marco Pawvluk and Katherine Pawvluk. Charles was a proud retired Veteran of the US Air Force and a member of the American Legion Post 11. A member of The Lord’s Table Church, which loved dearly, he was loved by everyone, never met a stranger and would do anything for those that were in need. 

A service to celebrate Charles’ life will be held Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at 2:00 pm at The Lord’s Table with Pastor Ken Jefferson, Jr. officiating. The family will receive friends following the service at the church. A graveside service with military honors will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2025 at 11:00 am at Wayne Memorial Park.

Mr. Pawvluk is survived by his wife of 66 years, Bronwyn Mary Pawvluk; a son, Mark Pawvluk; a daughter, Katrina Pawvluk; and two grandchildren, Jacob Pawvluk and Ariadne Pawvluk.

Shumate-Faulk Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Pawvluk family and online condolences may be sent via www.shumate-faulk.com

Dominique Marie Lovelace Sullivan

Dominique Marie Lovelace Sullivan

December 9, 2025 Shaun Johnson

December 6, 2025, 74, Dudley — Dominique Marie Lovelace Sullivan, a woman of unwavering faith, boundless compassion, and quiet strength, completed her earthly journey on December 6, 2025, at the age of 74. Surrounded by the family she cherished, she peacefully answered the Master’s call to her heavenly home.

Born in Leon, France, to the late James Alfred Lovelace and Jeanne Marie Gerbe, Dominique carried a dedicated work ethic throughout her life. This was exemplified by her 33-year career at Cooper Bussman, where she retired as a respected Floor Supervisor.

Dominique’s life was defined by her devotion to her family and her deep commitment to the church. For 23 years, she stood alongside her beloved husband, the Reverend Wade Allison Sullivan, serving faithfully as a minister’s wife at Jerusalem Methodist Church in Snow Hill, North Carolina. Dominique was a true servant leader, active in the Methodist Women, where she tirelessly oversaw all missionary projects and personally led the annual Samaritan’s Purse Shoebox Ministry, touching lives both locally and globally. Her nurturing spirit also extended to her many years volunteering with the Brogden Church Boy Scout Troop #92.

She leaves behind a legacy of love carried on by her husband, Reverend Wade A. Sullivan; her daughter, Christy Sullivan Culbreth, and her husband, Anthony, her son, Wade Allison Sullivan II, and his wife, Allison. She was the proud matriarch to five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren: Jennifer Culbreth Strickland and husband Nick, Jacob Matthew Culbreth and fiancée, Hannah McIntyre, Wade Allison Sullivan III, Grey Edward Sullivan, Lexi Grace Sullivan, Carsyn Marie Rose and Lainey Paul Strickland. She is also survived by her brothers, Eddie Lovelace and Jimmy Lovelace.

While her physical presence will be missed, the love she shared and the good work she accomplished will continue to inspire her family and community.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Monday, December 8, 2025, at 3:00 PM at Jerusalem Methodist Church, 3568 US 13 S, Snow Hill, NC, with Reverend Walter Gaskins officiating. The family will greet friends and family following the service at the church, other times they will be at her home, 102 Fox Court, Dudley, NC. Graveside Services will follow on Tuesday, December 9, at 1:00 PM at Wayne Memorial Park in Dudley.

Flowers are welcomed. For those wishing to honor Dominique’s dedication to missions, memorial contributions may be directed to the Mission Fund at Jerusalem Methodist Church, 3568 US 13 S, Snow Hill, NC.

 Shumate-Faulk Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to be caring for the Sullivan family and online condolences may be directed to www.shumate-Faulk.com.

Marguerite Pennington

Marguerite Pennington

December 9, 2025 Shaun Johnson

December 6, 2025, 98, Goldsboro — Marguerite Pennington, born September 13, 1927, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2025. It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of her passing.

Marguerite dedicated her life to education, curiosity, and compassion. After earning her PhD in microbiology, she built a distinguished academic career, holding faculty positions at both Duke University and the University of North Carolina. She later continued her vocation at Dalton State College in Georgia, where she ran a laboratory and taught for more than 18 years, inspiring countless students with her knowledge, patience, and love of science.

A longtime member and supporter of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, Goldsboro NC., Marguerite was deeply rooted in her community. She was always a pleasure to speak with—engaging warmly across a wide range of topics and offering thoughtful conversation to all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Vivian and Walter Eugene Pennington, and her sisters, Anna Lee Pennington Schwender and Peggy Eugene Pennington.

Marguerite leaves behind beloved and faithful friends Judy Carpenter and Martie Saylor; nephew Stephen Chene (Jane Chene); nephew James Schwender (Rebecca Weber); niece Georgia Schwender (James Simone); great-nephews Dane Schwender, Nicholas Simone, Eric Schwender; and great-nieces, Cortney Chene and Michaela Simone.

She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

To honor her memory, donations may be directed to St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church

Giving

or to the American Cancer Society https://donate.cancer.org/?campaign=honormemorialbutton&lang=en

Shumate-Faulk Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to be serving the family and online condolences may be directed to www.shumate-faulk.com

Hilda Leonora Lewin Lynch Johnson

Hilda Leonora Lewin Lynch Johnson

December 9, 2025 Shaun Johnson

December 2, 2025, 77, Goldsboro — Hilda Leonora Lewin Lynch Johnson, 77, entered into rest on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at her home surrounded by her loving family. Born on February 20, 1948 in the Republic of Panama, she was daughter to the late Arthur Lewin and Amy Lynch Lewin.

Hilda was survived by her son, Furman Johnson, Jr. and wife, Heather Beth; her grandchildren, Natalia Johnson, Furman Johnson III, Jacob West and Lydia Johnson; her sisters, Panama E. Aguilar and Mariela McCoy; her brothers, Emilio Lewin and Sambo Lynch; and several beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to her parents, Hilda was preceded in death by her husband, Furman Johnson, Sr.; her sisters, Melvina Green, Vilma Johnson and Lana E. Chambers; and her brothers, Caswell Lewin and Sergio Lewin; and a dear friend, Anthony “Pee Wee” Woodard.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Mark Myer, the staff of Wayne UNC Health Care, Mo and Felicia and the other workers with Gentiva Hospice, and close friends, Ronda, Maurice and Michael.

The family will receive friends for a time of visitation on Friday, December 19, 2025 from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home. A service to honor Hilda’s life will be held in the chapel at 3:00 p.m.

Services have been entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Inc.

Sharon Denise Summerlin Hardison

Sharon Denise Summerlin Hardison

December 9, 2025 Shaun Johnson

October 8, 2025, 52, Goldsboro — Sharon Denise Summerlin Hardison, 52, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at her home. Born in Wayne County on July 10, 1973, she was the beloved daughter of Laverne Sutton Summerlin Barwick and the late George Marshall Summerlin.

A woman of quiet strength and unwavering compassion, Sharon lived her life with purpose and heart. She graduated with honors from East Carolina University, earning a degree in Speech Therapy—a reflection of her deep desire to help others find their voice. Her career began with Martin County Social Services and later continued with the Children’s Developmental Services Agency (CDSA), where she devoted herself to helping children with developmental delays reach their fullest potential. Her kindness, patience, and gentle spirit left a lasting impact on every life she touched.

Sharon’s journey was not without challenges. Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at the age of eight, she faced numerous health battles throughout her life with remarkable courage and faith. Despite her struggles, Sharon’s love for others never dimmed. In her final act of generosity, she chose to donate her body to the Duke University School of Medicine, continuing her lifelong commitment to helping others through education and research.

A celebration of Sharon’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at First United Methodist Church in Williamston.  A time of visitation will follow the service on Saturday in the fellowship hall.

Sharon is survived by her loving husband, Thomas Jackson “Tommy” Hardison; her cherished daughter, Lauren Brooke Hardison; her mother, Laverne Barwick and stepfather, whom she called dad, Willard Franklin Barwick; her brother, Steven Matthew Summerlin; and her step-sister, Tracy Lynn Delgado.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Sharon’s memory to the American Diabetes Association or to the Anatomical Gift Program at Duke University.

The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to Seymour Funeral Home for their assistance in facilitating Sharon’s gift to the Duke University School of Medicine and to Biggs Funeral Home in Williamston for their help in ensuring her safe transport to Duke.

Sharon will be remembered for her grace, perseverance, and the deep love she shared with her family and all who were blessed to know her.

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