Shirley A. Gough Memorial Endowment is a lasting tribute
Following the passing of his wife, Shirley, in 1988, Jerrell Gough began considering a meaningful way to honor her life and legacy. Shirley had been a devoted wife, a loving mother to their two daughters, and cared about her community.
After learning about the North Carolina Community Foundation, Gough decided to establish the Shirley A. Gough Memorial Endowment as a lasting tribute to her memory. He contributed almost $20,000 to create the fund.
NCCF invested Gough’s gift, allowing the funds to grow over time and increasing the impact the endowment can make. As a result, the fund has granted over $21,000 to nonprofits and will continue to grow, building a legacy of giving that will last for generations.
Gough’s support is currently focused on three organizations.
- The student needs fund at West Yadkin Elementary School, where Shirley spent the last 18 years of her life working as a teacher’s assistant. Her dedication to the students and school community made supporting West Yadkin Elementary a natural choice for him.
- Yadkin Christian Ministries, where Gough volunteered with the Meals on Wheels program for 30 years. The ministry is another important part of the family’s commitment to serving others.
- Hands of Hope Medical Clinic, which provides medical assistance and support to women in need. After learning about the clinic’s mission, Gough felt it was an important cause to include among the endowment’s charitable beneficiaries.
As part of ensuring the endowment’s future, Gough plans to pass responsibility for advising the endowment to his daughter, Karen G. Marshall, continuing the family’s commitment to community support.