Efrem Pernell Gaither, 63, of Salisbury, NC, passed away on Monday, June 1, 2026, at Novant Health Rowan.

Efrem was born on December 10, 1963, in Statesville, NC, to the late Lillian Harlow Gaither. A true jack of all trades, he discovered his artistic talents early in his teens, using his drawing skills to help paint the mural at Davie High School. Over the years, he continued painting for various businesses. Efrem also had a passion for working on cars and motorcycles.

Efrem was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. In his later years, he enjoyed giving back to charity and cherished spending time with his grandchildren.

In addition to his mother, Efrem was preceded in death by his sister, Cynthia Denise Parks, and his brother, Christopher Demond Gaither.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sarah Perkins Gaither of Salisbury; daughters, Tekaira Chanelle Gaither of Georgia, Marissa Perkins of Mocksville, NC, and Abbey Gaither of Winston-Salem, NC; sons, Christopher Perkins of Richmond, VA, Theodore Welch of Mocksville, NC, Efrem Gaither, Jr. of Salisbury, and Alex Gaither of Winston-Salem, NC; brothers, Thomas Gaither, Sr. (Darlene) of Cleveland, NC, Ricky Gaither of Cleveland, NC, and Gregory Gaither of Statesville, NC; and sisters, Carla Gaither Hairston and Lisa Gaither, both of Salisbury, NC.

Carolina Cremation is honored to serve the Gaither family. Online condolences may be made at www.carolinacremation.com