Juna Gail Lupton

Juna Gail Lupton, 83, of Florence, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at home on May 21, 2026, surrounded by her family and beloved pets.

Born in Florence on December 19, 1942, to Bert and Verdie Whorton, Gail grew up on her parents’ farm and graduated from Pamlico County High School in 1961. After raising her three sons, she attended Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas, earning a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education on December 16, 1989. She was certified as an elementary teacher by the state of Texas and taught for Sabine Pass Independent School District, where she also served as cheerleader sponsor.

In 1962, Gail married Michael Lupton. They shared 64 years of marriage and raised three sons together. A lifelong member of Concord Christian Church in Florence, Gail served as a Sunday school teacher and enjoyed singing hymns of praise. Gail will be remembered for her deep love of God, her generous spirit, and her devotion to her family.

She is survived by her husband, Michael Lupton; sons, Randy Lupton of Nederland, Texas, Joey Lupton of Florence, North Carolina, and Bert (Laura) Lupton of Pascagoula, Mississippi; grandsons, Michael (Ajanta) Tworzydlo of Austin, Texas, Heath (Brittany) Guess and Chase Guess of Pascagoula, Mississippi; great-grandsons, Gabriel and Brady of Pascagoula, Mississippi. Niece, Angela (Sam) Spencer of Florence, NC and great-niece, Kelly Spencer also of Florence, NC.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bert and Verdie Whorton; and her brothers, S.G. (Wilma) Whorton and Herbert (Ann) Whorton, all of Florence.

A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Concord Christian Church in Florence, North Carolina. Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the church fellowship hall prior to the service. A private burial service will be conducted at a later date.