Carolyn Bennett Sturgess

Carolyn Bennett Sturgess, of Chapel Hill, passed away on June 20, 2024, in Pittsboro, North Carolina, at the age of 86. Born on March 21, 1938, to Harvey and Louise Bennett in Durham, North Carolina, Carolyn was a cherished figure in her community and among her loved ones. She was known for her outgoing and friendly nature, a passion for travel, and her deep love for cats. 

Carolyn was a proud alumna of Chapel Hill High School, class of 1956, and attended the Women’s College of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She began her career in accounting at the University if North Carolina in 1963 and rose to become the Director of Financial Services, retiring in 2006 after a distinguished career marked by a strong work ethic and significant contributions to the university’s growth.

A dedicated mother and caregiver, Carolyn raised two sons, Dan Lee of Chapel Hill and Jim Lee (Nicole) of South Carolina, and looked after her aging parents. She is survived by her sister, Rebecca Sowers (Ron) of Virginia, her sons, three grandchildren, Nicholas Clark of Bunn, NC, Hunter Lee (Britton), and Savannah Lee of South Carolina, a great grandson, Ezra Lee, along with several nieces and nephews. Carolyn was predeceased by her parents and her husband, Harris Sturgess, Jr.

Carolyn was a lifelong supporter of the University of North Carolina’s basketball and football teams. Her hobbies included cooking and gardening, particularly growing flowers and vegetables. She was a member of University Baptist Church in Chapel Hill and more recently, Mt. Carmel Baptist Church.

A visitation with the family is scheduled for June 30th from 1-2 PM at Hall-Wynne Funeral Home in Durham, North Carolina. This will be followed by a memorial service in the funeral home chapel and a graveside service at Chapel Hill Memorial Cemetery on Legion Road in Chapel Hill. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of Carolyn. Her legacy of kindness, community involvement, and devotion to her family and friends will be dearly missed and forever cherished. 

Arrangements for the family are under the care of Hall-Wynne Funeral Service. Online condolences wwww.hallwynne.com