Therese Barnica Gathings

Therese Barnica Gathings, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away on January 6, 2026, at FirstHealth Hospice House in West End, North Carolina. She was born on August 23, 1959, in San Francisco, California. Therese had a spirit that was as vibrant as her favorite garden blooms, exuding love and kindness that touched everyone she met.

For many years, Therese dedicated herself to her career at Wendy's, where she loved serving her customers, always ensuring that each interaction was filled with warmth and care. Her joyful personality made her not just an employee but a cherished community member who brightened the days of those around her.

Beyond her professional life, Therese was known as the best cook, taking great pleasure in preparing everyone’s favorite dishes. Her family will forever remember the comfort of her home-cooked meals and the continual laughter shared around the dining table. Her legacy of love extended beyond the dinner plate; she cultivated relationships with the same devotion she bestowed upon her garden, where she spent countless hours tending to her flowers with an extraordinary green thumb. She loved cats, with her most recent being Smokey.

Therese's passions for fishing alongside her husband, Jackie, and spending precious moments with her children and grandchildren formed the tapestry of her life. Together they created lasting memories, whether out in nature or simply enjoying time at home. Her grandchildren—Joseph, Charlie, Ryan, Noah, Mason, Levi, Shawn, Allyson and Blair—were the true joys of her life, and her heart swelled with pride as she watched them grow.

Therese is survived by her loving husband Jackie Gathings; her cherished daughters, Crystal Klahn (Vern) and Melinda Faulk (Chip); her beloved son, William Gathings; and her dear sister, Joanie Babcock (Sarah). She rejoices now with her beloved parents, William Barnica and Jeanne Hunter Lampley, who welcomed her with open arms.

Surrounded by family in her final moments, Therese left this mortal plane enveloped in the love she so freely shared throughout her life. She will be deeply missed by all whose lives she touched, a radiant soul whose legacy will continue to flourish in the hearts she has left behind.

The family will receive friends on Sunday January 11, 2026 at Carter Funeral Home in Rockingham from 1:45 pm to 2:45 pm, followed by a Celebration of Life at 3 pm. 

In lieu of flowers the family ask memorial donations to be made to the Richmond County Animal Shelter at 529 W US 74 HWY Rockingham, NC 28379 or the American Heart Association at heart.org.