Aileen Grant Waugh joined her beloved husband Gene in heaven on the morning of April 20, 2024, with her younger daughter by her side.

Aileen was born in Statesville, N.C., September 5, 1928, to Louis Hill Grant and Annie Mae Adams Grant. She graduated from Scotts High — twice. In 1944 she graduated from the 11th grade as salutatorian. The 12th grade was added the following year and she decided to stay and take additional classes and graduated in 1945, again as salutatorian. At least that’s the story she told. Others think it may have to do with the fact that her boyfriend, Gene Waugh, was a year behind her, and she wanted another year of school with him.

She worked as a secretary at a number of places, including Statesville Chair; Farmers Mutual Insurance; Land, Sowers, & Avery law firm; and Race Street UMC. She retired from Tri County Mental Health. She was a charter member of Monticello Methodist Church and held several positions over the years in the UMW, including Administrative Board, Sunday School teacher and the quilter guild. She was also active in Women’s Aglow.

She is survived by her daughters, Beverly Barnes (Sanders) of Savannah, Tenn., and LaVonne James (Jim) Reidsville. Additional survivors are her grandchildren Wayne Watt (Amy Chillag) of Atlanta, Jennifer Ridgway (Jerry) of Nolensville, Tenn., and Todd James (Sarah Thompson) of Greensboro. She is also survived by her great grandsons, Hudson James (Katie Klinefelter) and Holland James, both of Greensboro. Also surviving are her sisters, Shirley Jasper and Jeanene McColl (Buddy); sister-in-law Jane Waugh; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Going before her, in addition to her parents and husband of 65 years, was her sister, Nancy Wilson (Bennie).

Mama’s life centered around her church, family and friends. She instilled a love of reading in her girls and spent many a Saturday night playing Rook with friends. Although she always worked at least part time, she was a traditional homemaker, sewing, canning and freezing and being a “grade mother.” The house had to be cleaned from top to bottom every spring and, ever practical, she said it was LaVonne’s job to do the baseboards “because you’re already down there.” Mama was very organized and straight-talking with a dry sense of humor and a sly smile.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, April 24, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Monticello Methodist Church on Island Ford Road, with a service following at 11 a.m. with Rev. Jill Rhinehart officiating. At other times, the family will be at Jeanene’s home at 189 Jamie Drive, Statesville.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Monticello Methodist Church or Hospice of Iredell. 

Troutman Funeral Home is serving the family.