Lora Lee Gerres

By Submitted Story on September 3, 2026

Lora Lee Gerres, age 44, of Moyock, North Carolina, passed away unexpectedly at her Moyock, NC home on August 28, 2026.

Born in Norfolk, Virginia, Lora was raised in Moyock, North Carolina, where she built a life centered around the people she loved most. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and Mimi whose greatest joy and accomplishment was her family.

At just 16 years old, Lora became a homemaker and spent the years that followed pouring her heart and soul into raising her five children. Her family was her world. She gave endlessly of herself, always putting the needs of those she loved before her own. She was the kind of mother who could do it all, and somehow always found a way to be there when someone needed her.

Lora’s love and influence reached far beyond her own family. She made a lasting impact on countless children throughout the county and was affectionately known by many as “Coach Mom.” Whether she was cheering from the sidelines, lending a helping hand, or simply being there for a child who needed someone, Lora had a way of making people feel supported, loved, and believed in.

Lora also dedicated much of her time and energy to the business she and her husband owned. She worked hard alongside her family, but whenever she had spare time, she wanted nothing more than to spend it with the people she loved. Her family was where she felt happiest.  She had a deep love for animals- especially her beloved cat, Fatboy, who held a very special place in her heart.

Lora was courageous, brave, and strong. She faced life with a determination that made her seem almost invincible. To her children, she was their protector. To her family, she was their strength. To so many others, she was the person they could count on. She was, in every sense of the word, a superhero—not because she wore a cape, but because she spent her life loving, protecting, encouraging, and fighting for the people who mattered to her. Lora leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue through the lives she touched.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 25 years, Shane Gerres, of the Moyock home; her five children, Sean Gerres, Jordan Gerres, Trinity Gerres, Damon Gerres, and Devin Gerres; her three grandchildren, Roman Gwaltney, Everly Gerres, and Isla Parker;  her parents, Johnny Harper (Cathy), and Lori Chappelle; and her brother, Joshua Harper as well as a host of extended family members and loyal friends.

Though Lora was taken from her family far too soon, the love she gave so freely will never leave them. She will live on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, husband, family, friends, and the countless children whose lives she touched. Her laughter, strength, love, and fierce devotion to her family will be remembered forever.

A memorial service will be held at 2pm, Saturday, September 12, 2026 at Moyock Baptist Church in Moyock. Pastor Vic Ramsey will officiate. Please share a message of comfort with the family at gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.

“She was our superhero in life, and she will forever be our angel in heaven.”