January 11, 2025, 76, La Grange –

August 17, 1948 – January 11, 2025

Sally Faye Vinson Herring peacefully passed away while surrounded by her family on Saturday evening, January 11, 2025. She was born in Wayne County to the late Herman H. “Snooks” and Hazel P. Vinson. Sally Faye was preceded in death by her sister, Marie Smith and brother-in-law, Bob Ivey Smith.

For Sally Faye, her family was the most important thing in her life. This love of family began while growing up in a large, farm family and carried forward throughout her entire life. Watching her children grow brought so much joy to her. Sally Faye and her husband Elvin built a home based on love and respect for one another. Their two children, Stacy and Sherry, always knew they were valued and that they had a place to call home. This was evident because neither of them moved very far from home, choosing to make their own homes near their parents. As a mother, Sally Faye made sure to spend quality time with them, even if it was just shooting hoops in the backyard. The only thing better for Sally Faye was the arrival of her grandchildren. She was their biggest fan, greatest cheerleader, and best friend. For her, nothing beat the time spent with them. She was lucky enough to be able to see her grandchildren almost daily, living next door and down the road from them. Even as her grandchildren became adults, they still stopped in regularly to spend time with her.

Sally Faye worked at Wachovia for 13 years in La Grange. She then began a 30 year career working alongside her sister, Marie at NC Salvage. Sally Faye and Marie spent many hours working side-by-side, taking care of one another. Sally Faye was a woman of great faith and this grew in her service to the Lord at Garris Chapel Church. She served as the Treasurer of the church for many years. She also served as a Sunday School teacher, leader of the Harvest Sale, and many other capacities where she saw a need. Her love was expressed in a delicious way through her homemade chocolate pies.

Through her health struggles, Sally Faye was constantly reminded of the abiding love Elvin, her children and grandchildren had for her. The love she poured into them all of her life was reflected back to her in the time of her greatest need. Sally Faye was a kind, beautiful person who emanated a “quiet strength” that inspired others to persevere. She brought joy through her smile and gentle touch. Words cannot do her justice. She is already missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Garris Chapel Church on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 4:00 pm. Visitation will follow the service.

Sally Faye is survived by her husband, Elvin Herring; children, Stacy Herring (Dayna) and Sherry Smith (Beecher); grandchildren, Jessica (William), Cayce (Trinity), Allyson (Cole) and Alex; siblings, Lou Ann Price (Jake), Jimmy Vinson (Linda), Mary Cruse (William Earl), Sheila Suggs, and Donna Smith; brother-in-law, Buddy Smith; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family would like to thank Angela, Kelly and all of the Gentiva Hospice staff for the love and compassion shown to Sally Faye.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Sally Faye’s memory be made to Garris Chapel Church, 823 Piney Grove Church Rd, La Grange, NC 28551 or Gentiva Hospice, 2309 Wayne Memorial Drive, Goldsboro, NC 27534.