Eleanor Pardue

Eleanor Gough Pardue passed away in her home on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at the age of 78. Born on November 18, 1947, in Elkin, North Carolina, she was the third daughter of the late Charles William and Margaret Bell Gough. Eleanor was raised in Hamptonville, North Carolina, and eventually found her way back to the homeplace she had always loved, and which brought back so many wonderful memories of her parents and sisters. Those early years, as a devoted daddy’s girl, were among the happiest of her life and included countless fond memories with her favorite horse, Sandy. 

As a proud mother of four children, Eleanor devoted her life to caring for and encouraging her family. Her unconditional love extended beyond her immediate family and she became a comfort to friends who were drawn to her warmth, honesty, and fierce loyalty. Eleanor was never afraid to stand up for what mattered to her, and her passion, rooted in love, defined so much of who she was. For many years, Eleanor dedicated herself to raising her children. When the time was right, she stepped outside the home in the workforce, most recently working in retail in cosmetics, sharing her gift for helping women feel confident and beautiful. Those who knew Eleanor best will remember her love of music, especially Elvis and Tina Turner, and her deep affection for the beach, where she created memories with family and friends in Cherry Grove. She enjoyed many spirited political discussions, passionately embracing her identity as a lifelong Democrat. Eleanor had a love for animals, and in her later years, her faithful dog Hank was her constant companion, bringing her countless hours of comfort. 

Eleanor is survived by her children, Christy (Rayford) Dobson, Jason (Sherri) Pardue, Adam (Mickey Dobson) Pardue, and Russ Pardue; grandchildren, Rachel Dobson, Dillon (Lakan) Dobson, Maggie Pardue, Wade Pardue, Alli Pardue, Adam Jonah (“AJ”) Pardue, and Easton Pardue; and great granddaughters Ember Dobson, Isla Dobson, and Opal Dobson. Eleanor is also survived by her sisters, Cynthia Gough Nance and Amanda Gough Allred, many wonderful nieces, nephews, and friends, and a special cousin, Dawn Gough. 

We will honor Eleanor’s life at a funeral Tuesday, February 3rd at 5:00 p.m. at Flat Rock Baptist Church, Hamptonville, with visitation beginning at 4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Dress for Success, Winston Salem (winstonsalem.dressforsuccess.org) to help brighten the lives of women in Eleanor’s community.