WILSON -- Minora V. Sharpe was called home on Tuesday, March 2, 2010.

Minora was born on July 14th, 1965, to Jimmie D and Delois Parker Sharpe. Minora attended Wilson County Schools, graduating from R L Fike High School in 1983.

Ms. Sharpe graduated Magna Cum Laude from North Carolina Central University in May, 1989 with a BA degree in Public Administration. After graduate study in Policy Analysis, Minora moved into non-profit work, working nine months in Lagos, Nigeria. Back in the states, Minora found her passion working and volunteering with organizations providing services to those with HIV and AIDS.

In a career switch to align her work with her undergraduate studies, Minora joined Durham County Government in October, 2001, where she initially worked for the Department of Social Services until October, 2005. After which she took a position as a budget analyst in the Budget and Management Services Department.

In May, 2006, Minora was diagnosed with Stage IV colon cancer. She immediately turned to her faith in God, embracing the attitude of 'it's going to be alright.' Minora learned everything she could about colon cancer and its treatment. She developed a strong, working relationship with her medical oncologist, Dr. Michael Morse. Even when the disease offered no medical, chemical, or surgical options, Minora was determined to do all she could to maintain her health, resting on the belief that God's will be done in her life.

Minora leaves to celebrate her life, her partner, Dr. Nadine J. Barrett of Raleigh; her parents, Jimmie D., Delois Parker Sharpe; and three brothers. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, cousins including Laverne Sharpe (Durham) and a number of special friends including Liz Locus, Renee Knight, Olinda Bullock-Folkes, Aleah Marzug, Donna Fulcher, Caroline Gay Fejoku and Kelly McMillion.

Minora also gave special acknowledgement to her Durham County Government family and her colleagues in the Budget and Management Services Dept., Pamela A. Meyer, S. Keith Lane, Kim Connally, and Gene Hodges.

Services were held at 3 p.m. Saturday, March 6, 2010 at Wilson Chapel Free Will Baptist Church, 513 Barnes St. E, Wilson.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in her honor to The GI Pancreatic Support Group, Duke Cancer Support Program, P.O Box DUMC 3139, Durham, NC 27710 or Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center, GI Research Fund/Dr. Michael Morse, DUMC P.O Box 3828, Durham, NC 27710.