Louise Talton Sauls

Louise Talton Sauls, age 82, of Selma, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Johnston UNC Health in Smithfield. Born July 1, 1943, in Johnston County, she was the daughter of the late Jonathan Samuel Talton and Vannie Davis Talton. Louise lived a life marked by warmth, generosity, and grace, leaving a gentle but lasting impact on all who knew her. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 43 years, Richard F. Sauls, and her brothers Frank, Bill, George, and Sam “Junior” Talton.

Louise is survived by her two beloved daughters, Jennifer Sauls Moore and her husband James “Jay” Henry Moore III of Smithfield, and Deborah Louise Sauls of Mebane; and her treasured grandchildren, Rachel Moore Israel and her husband Tyler, James Henry Moore IV, and Sarah Ruth Jackson, whose lives and accomplishments filled her heart with joy and pride.

A lifelong resident of Johnston County, Louise worked for many local attorneys, where her professionalism was matched by her compassion for clients and coworkers alike. She was a member of the Johnston County Legal Secretary Association and was honored as Legal Secretary of the Year in 1970. Through her work, she built lifelong friendships, offering kindness, patience, and encouragement to those she served and worked alongside, including staff at the Clerk’s Office and Farmers Home Administration.

Louise’s caring nature extended into every part of her life. She enjoyed staying active and connected, whether through morning walks with neighbors, friendly card games, or water therapy classes at the HealthQuest pool. Thoughtful and attentive, she was known for brightening days with handwritten notes and cards for all occasions. She was a loyal supporter of the Town of Selma and deeply valued her community.

Above all, Louise will be remembered for her unwavering faith and servant’s heart. A faithful member of the United Methodist Church for more than sixty years, she regularly attended Edgerton UMC, where she served on numerous committees, participated in the Glenda Norton Circle, and lovingly gave her time as a Meals on Wheels coordinator. Her faith guided her actions, and she lived as a quiet but steadfast example of Christ’s love.

Louise had a gift for making people feel welcome and cherished. She delighted in visits with family and friends, always ready with a story, a laugh, and a warm cup of coffee or iced sweet tea. Her happiest moments were spent gathered around the table celebrating life’s milestones, often with one of her famous Hershey Bar or coconut cakes at the center. Through her cooking and baking, she expressed love, bringing people together with grace and generosity.

She was especially devoted to her grandchildren, supporting them with constant encouragement and heartfelt prayers. Louise’s legacy is one of compassion, kindness, faith, and unconditional love—a legacy that will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched.

The family will receive friends and loved ones at Parrish Funeral Home in Selma for a visitation on Thursday, January 8, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, January 9, 2026, at Parrish Funeral Home, with Pastor Kristina Yeatts officiating. Burial will follow in Princeton Cemetery.

Flowers are acceptable, or memorial contributions may be sent to Edgerton Memorial UMC at, P.O. Box 487, Selma, NC, 27576, or to the Methodist Home for Children at, 1041 Washington Street, Raleigh, NC 27605-1259.

Online condolences may be left for the family www.parrishfh.com