Gracie Lee (Guions) Whitted

Gracie Lee Whitted, affectionately known as “Aunt Bunchie,”peacefully transitioned from this life on February 26, 2026, at the age of 78. She was born on October 3, 1ß47, in Bladen County, North Carolina, to the late Herbert Mack Guions and Lelar Mae Burns-Guions.

At an early age, Gracie accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, and she faithfully served in her church through the Kitchen Ministry and Usher Ministry. She lived out her faith daily not only in church, but in her home, in her caregiving, and in her love for others.

Gracie graduated from Bladen Central High School in 1ß68. She later earned her Certified Nursing Assistant I & II credentials and dedicated her professional life to caring for others in their homes and in long-term care facilities until her retirement. Caregiving was not just her career it was her calling.

Known for her exceptional cooking, Gracie expressed her love through every meal she prepared. Her home was a refuge ,a warm sanctuary filled with comfort, laughter, wisdom, and unconditional love. It was a gathering place where family and friends found nourishment not only for their bodies, but also for their hearts. She was especially known for her delicious homemade dressings, chocolate cake, biscuits, and countless other meals prepared with skill and love. She truly could cook and she cooked very well.

To many, she was more than an aunt she was “Big Mama.” She lovingly helped raise and care for her nieces and nephews and supported her siblings during childhood and well into adulthood. Her nurturing spirit, strength, and steady presence made her the heart of the family.

In addition to her parents, Gracie was preceded in death by her oldest brother, Reverend Herbert Mack Guions (Ollie Mae Guions, deceased), and her oldest sister, Louise Guions-Washington.

Gracie leaves to cherish her loving memory her children: Marie Brown (Richard Brown, deceased), Shikk Whitted, Teresa Whitted, and Tonga Ray (Columbus Steve Ray). Gracie is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Tenecia, Lela, Jeremiah, Ciearra, Jaylen, and Columbus, Jr.; great-grandchildren: Seniah, Leilani, Elias, Ayla, and Apharri; and great-great-grandchildren: Silas and Braxton. Gracie is further survived by her sisters, Mary Whitted (William) and Ernestine Guions; her brother, Milton Guions (Marie Ann); along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Gracie Lee Whitted truly fought a good fight, finished her course, and kept the faith. Gracie legacy of love, service, strength, and unwavering devotion to family will live on for generations to come. Though she will be deeply missed, her love will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.