Virginia Eloise Hill Sidelinger, Jan. 21, 2016

March 9, 1929-Jan. 21, 2016

Contributed

Virginia Eloise Hill Sidelinger, Tempy Ann Branch, wife of Wayne Elwin Sidelinger; mother of Steven Lee Sidelinger and wife Charla; Michael Wayne Sidelinger and wife Adrianna; Lyndon Earl Sidelinger and wife Jennifer; and Nancy Eloise Sidelinger Herring and husband Jamie; died at 86 on Jan. 21, 2016, in Wilson, North Carolina. She was born March 9, 1929. She is the daughter of the late Millard and Zilphia Stancil Hill, sister of the late Vernon "Jim" Fletcher Hill, Mavis Cassandra Hill Godwin, Hazel Hill Crocker Wright, Beatrice LaRue Hill Renfrow and grandmother of the late Sara Elizabeth Sidelinger. She is the grandmother of Richard Lee Sidelinger, Rebecca Michelle Sidelinger, Lauren Melissa Sidelinger, Sarah Catherine Sidelinger, Emilie Elizabeth Sidelinger, Carolyn Grace Sidelinger, Victoria Hope Herring and Troy Alexander Herring. Eloise and Wayne ran The Antique Barn in Wilson for years.

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Donell Franklin Stancil, Feb. 15, 2016

July 3, 1932-Feb. 15, 2016

Contributed

Donell Franklin Stancil, Alvin Branch, husband of Lou, father of Vann, grandfather of Andrew and Rebecca, died at 83 on Feb.15, 2016. He was the last living grandchild of John Thomas and Delanie Sasser Stancil. He was born July 3, 1932. He is the son of the late Alvin and Esther Narron Stancil, the brother of the late Beulah Lindolph Stancil Mercer, husband Flave; Pluma Esther Stancil Sullivan, husband Clement; Virginia Penny Stancil Fulghum, husband James; Vernard Alvin Stancil, wife Magdalene; and Glenn Warren Stancil, wife Erma Lee. Donell grew up on a farm in the Glendale Community of Johnston County and was a farmer his entire life. Donell and Glenn cared for the Stancil Cemetery for over 50 years before handing it over to Glenn’s son, Wayne Stancil, Cecil’s son, Rodney Stancil and Wayne’s son-in-law, Marshall McCall. Donell spearheaded efforts to make the cemetery as maintenance free as possible. Donations and Donell’s knowledge and supervision made this a lasting tribute to the Stancil Family. Donell was a great supporter of the annual Stancil Reunion. Throughout his life, he only missed two reunions. In 2011, Donell was recognized by the Stancil Reunion with a plaque for 50 years of service and dedication. Throughout the years he served as treasurer. He is buried in the Center Ridge Presbyterian Church Cemetery.

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Arnold Thomas Stancil, Feb. 16, 2016

March 2, 1943-Feb. 16, 2016

Contributed

Arnold “Arnie” Thomas Stancil, Henry Branch, father of Ramona Lynn Stancil Decker and husband Dan; and Steven Arnold Stancil and wife Sara; brother of George Lee Stancil and wife Marilyn; and Phillip Justin Stancil and wife Grace, died at 72 on February 16, 2016, at the Munson Hospice House in Traverse City, Michigan, following a heart attack. He was born March 2, 1942, in Grayling, Michigan. He is the son of the late Tommy and Georgianna Olson Stancil; brother of the late Anemari Stancil. He is the grandfather of Michael Freese, Kristen Freese, Joshua Freese, Parker Stancil, Payton Stancil and Sydney Stancil.

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Gerald Johnson, Feb. 22, 2016

Dec. 26, 1951-Feb. 22, 2016

Contributed

Robert Gerald Johnson, Henry Branch, husband of Ann, father of Amy, grandfather of Carly and Chloe and the oldest son of the late William Robert and Mary Frances Pope Johnson, died at 64 on Monday, Feb. 22, 2016, in the SECU (State Employees' Credit Union) Hospice House of Smithfield, N.C.

Burial was in the church cemetery at Carter’s Chapel Church..

Gerald is survived by his wife of 45 years, Sara Ann Bass Johnson, daughter Denise Amy Johnson Peedin, husband Shannon, granddaughters: Carly Sara Peedin and Chloe Elizabeth Peedin. Sisters: Connie Johnson Moore, husband Ray; Marsha Johnson Barfield; Renee Johnson Futch, husband Chris Brother: Joseph Raymond Johnson;. Nieces: Dodie Moore Headley, husband Cole, children: Grayson and Lanie; Lydia Futch. Nephews: Brandon Johnson, wife Jamie, children Colby and Caylee; Kevin Hartley, wife Brenda, children: Kassi, Trinity, and Kendal. Aunts: Betty Lou Hare Pope. Carol A. Pope. Uncle: Marshall Barnes Pope, wife Jean.

Gerald was preceded in death by brother-in-law: Aubrey Kent Barfield. Uncles: Raymond Eugene 'Gene' Pope, and wife Grace, Charles Ray Pope, Henry 'Speck' Claiborne Pope, and wife Carol Ann. First cousin: Randy Nelson 'Newt' Pope.

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Theodore Rudolph Kalikookala Stancil, June 30, 2016

March 31, 1935-June 30, 2016

Contributed

Theodore Rudolph Kalikookala Stancil, Henry Branch, father of Guy Shane Kekaa Stancil and wife Marion; Mark Wayne Kalikookala Stancil and wife Cathy; Scott Blane Kalani Stancil and wife Roseann; Charmaine Kekahaualani Stancil Lime and husband Angel Michael; Michael Dane Kenui Stancil and wife Deena, Danielle Stancil Flavin, Tammy-Lynn Uilani Stancil; and brother of Douglas "Doogie" Randolph Mahealani Stancil Sr. and Kathleen Muliwai Yvonne Stancil Akau; died at 81 on June 30, 2016, in Kailua, Hawaii. Ted was born March 31, 1935, in Honolulu, Hawaii. Ted is the oldest son of the late Frances Kanahola DeMella Stancil Peoples and George Guy Stancil. He is the grandfather of Guy Shane Kekaa Stancil Jr., Malia Stancil, Kealohikehau Shalen Jorelle Stancil, Kellen Kyle Kalikookala Stancil, Kean Cavell Kamana Stancil, Kolby Stancil, Stephanie Stancil, Salisa Lehuanani Stancil Lime Cajuro and husband David, Nani Renee Kekahaualani Lime, Michael Angel Keliiahiopuni Lime, John Blane Kenui Stancil, Cody Dane Kalikooala Stancil, Ulana Flavin, Keoniana Flavin and Zachary Kealiipiikalani Stancil. In 1957, Ted was a specialty worker Hon Construction and Draying. Theodore was also an employee of Peoples 11th Frame Cocktail Lounge. His ashes were scattered at the Stancil Cemetery in Kenly, North Carolina.

Susan Stancil Plyler, Aug. 15, 2016

Feb. 8, 1954-Aug. 15, 2016

Contributed

Susan Stancil Plyler, Samuel Branch, wife of Brent Plyler; daughter of Muriel and Ray Stancil; sister of Sharon Stancil Howard, husband Brad; and Melissa "Missy" Stancil Pflaeging, died at 62 on Aug. 15, 2016, in Scotland Memorial Hospital, Laurinburg, North Carolina. Susan was born February 8, 1954, in Wilson, NC. She is buried in Spring Hill Cemetery in Wagram, N.C. Over the years Susan worked in real estate, was a paralegal and spent over 20 years in the title insurance industry. Susan was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010.

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James Roger “J.R.” Viverette, Aug. 27, 2016

May 16, 1935-Aug. 27, 2016

James Viverette Contributed

James Roger “J.R.” Viverette, Harvey Branch, husband of Anne Pittman Viverette, died Aug. 27, 2016, in Wilson, NC, at 81.

James’ death was unexpected and a shock to family and friends. He had a heart attack while driving. Attempts to save him failed.

His funeral services were held at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Joyner's Funeral Home, 4100 Raleigh Road Parkway, Wilson, NC. Immediately following the service the family received family and friends until 9 p.m.

Memorials in "J.R."'s honor may be sent to the American Heart Association, c/o Phyllis Babb, 1108 Windemere Drive, Wilson, North Carolina 27896 or to WilMed Hospice, 1705 Tarboro Street S, Wilson, North Carolina 27893.

James is survived by his wife of 39 years, Anne Pittman Viverette, sister: Betty Viverette Pollard, husband Wayne, daughter: Patricia Ann Viverette Phillips, sons: Roger Allen Viverette, wife, Debbie, Ronnie Glen Viverette, wife, Connie; step-daughters, Vicky H. Bradley, husband, Ernie and Marsha H. Farrell, husband, Greg; granddaughters, Angela P. Webb, husband, Greg, Kelly V. Gary, husband, Mike, Kristin N. Viverette, fiancé, Shayne Stanley; step-grandson, Les Bass, wife, Beth; step-granddaughter, Abby Nicole Farrell; great-grandchildren, Katherine Elizabeth Webb, Nicolas Matthew Webb, Hayden James Gary, Jordan Michael Gary, Shyanne Nicole Stanley, and Aubree Jane Stanley. Sister-in-law; Irene Pittman Wallace, brother-in-law: Billy Royce Pittman; Aunt Doris Narron Stancil, plus many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by an infant daughter; brothers; Robert Earl Viverette, Franklin Roosevelt Viverette, Jimmy Viverette, and sister, Nancy Viverette Strickland.

James “J.R.” Roger Viverette, was born on May 16, 1935, to Estell “Stella” Vick and Jimmie Melton Viverette, in Nash County, NC. He grew up in Rocky Mount, N.C. His father, Jimmie was a hard working farm laborer. In 1940, he worked 60 hours per week.

James was the grandson of Sidney Thomas, a farmer & Bessie Lee Narron Viverette and Essie Mae & J. Henry Vick.

James got his first paying job at 15 and he worked steadily until early 2016.

In 1953, he enlisted in the U.S. Army while the Korean War was raging. After 2 years of active duty, he joined the Army Reserves for 8 years and then received an honorable discharge.

James was a proud veteran and honored his years in the Army by flying the American Flag every day.

He moved to Wilson in 1964. Initially he worked as an auto mechanic. Then he was hired by the engineering department at Wilson Medical Center. While there, his life changed dramatically.

Charlotte Anne Pittman Farrell, daughter of Gertrude Stancil and Fletcher Pittman, had been a single mother for 6 years with two daughters, Vicky and Marsha. She worked at the Wilson Medical Center and had a second job at the Wilson Country Club. In 1975, the girls in the office where she worked, thought she needed a man in her life, even though she was not looking for a relationship. They convinced her to go on a blind date. They arranged it with James Viverette, who also worked at the Medical Center. On the day of the date, the Wilson Country Club called her into work, so Anne canceled their date. Later James called her and she invited him to her home for dinner with her and Marsha.

This was the beginning of many fun dates.

James also proved to be a-jack-of-all-trades and both Vicky and Marsha liked him.

They dated over 15 months and during this time James met her mother, Gertrude, siblings, in-laws, nieces, nephews and cousins. All of them liked James. James was friendly with a magnetic personality that attracted forever friends. He was smart, a problem solver, with many skills and possessed a work ethic that made him a favorite of every boss.

James and Anne’s attraction and love grew. They were married in the Lighthouse Holiness Church, Wilson, NC, on Nov. 20, 1976.

Over the nearly 40 years of marriage, James developed a close and loving relationship with, Vicky Marsha and a special bond with Les and Abby.

James loved Christmas and shared his joy by decorating with lights. In 1978, he began putting up over 10,000 lights annually. Planning, hanging lights in the front, back yards, on fences and buildings started in November. His magical creations were featured annually in the newspaper and hundreds of people drove or walked by to enjoy his lights.

James was a planner and liked to organize each day. He also was generous and kept a Coke box full of 6oz. or 8 oz. Coke bottles. He insisted every guest who came to their house, enjoy one of his Cokes with ice in them. He was a real Coke man! An eighteen wheeler came each month to James and Anne’s house to deliver cases of coke.

James and Anne both enjoyed fixing things and got along great. They completed many remodeling projects including adding a front porch and sun room.

James enjoyed swimming several times a day and decided to convert an above ground pool into an in-ground pool. James and Anne dug a large hole with pick axes and shovels. James enjoyed this pool for years. Then in 1990, he had a new pool installed.

He was an expert woodworker. Gilda Grey Renfrow Six, of the George Branch, asked James to custom make the large folding glass frame for the Four Generation Stancil Family Tree, she made in 1976. It is displayed at each Reunion.

James had a long work career and overcame many obstacles to continue working. James had a heart attack and retired after 15 years with the Engineering Department at Wilson Medical Center.

James and Anne attended many Stancil Reunions.

James recovered from his heart problems and was eager to work again. He was hired by Computer Central. After 7 years, he retired again for health reasons. Then he had successful heart by-pass surgery. It wasn’t long before he recovered and was ready to join the work force. ECP (Eastern Carolina Pathology) Lab, hired him as their courier supervisor and put him in charge of fire and safety training for employees. James also scheduled the Couriers who traveled all over eastern Carolina picking up specimens for the lab.

For years James and Anne looked forward to attending the North Carolina State Fair with Anne’s sister Irene and husband Ed Wallace, who lived in Virginia. James and Ed had a close relationship and called each other “Brother.” One year they dressed in bib overall for the fair and had a photo taken.

This started a fun tradition.

In 2011, Anne fell in the garden and broke both of her arms. She had surgery and spent weeks at WilMed Nursing Center Rehab Center recovering. James was a wonderful and loving caregiver. Anne recovered and was able to continue most of her usual activities.

James was always busy and productive. It really worried him when he was not able to do so much and had to retire in 2016, because of his health. He had worked 9 years at ECP.

After James’ death, Anne found a letter he had written in 2009. Anne was shocked. It detailed funeral arrangements, including his obituary that he wrote. He wrote down how he wanted his service conducted, songs he wanted sung, “One Day at a Time” and “I’ll Fly Away,” and also specified his service was only to last 15-20 minutes. He felt anything longer would be too long.

Anne appreciated James’ planning and organizing skills. Once again he was looking after her, even in death.

In thinking about James, Anne remarked, “I feel sure he is now Heaven’s Handyman!”

Jacqueline ”Jackie” Underwood Pittman, Sept. 3, 2016

April 24, 1931-Sept. 3, 2016

Jackie Pittman Contributed

Jacqueline ”Jackie” Underwood Pittman, Harvey Branch, wife of Bill, mother of Gail and Tim, grandmother of Alexander Elise Pittman and Jordan, died at 85.

Jackie spent the last few years in Gabriel Manor, an assisted living facility in Clayton.

Bill was very devoted to Jackie. He visited her daily. She died in the arms of her family on Saturday, September 3, 2016. Bryan-Hill Funeral Home was in charge of her service.

Family and friends gathered in her home church, the First Baptist Church, Garner, North Carolina, for her visitation from 11 a.m.- 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2016. Her funeral was at the First Baptist Church, Garner, North Carolina. Burial was at Montlawn Memorial Park, Wilmington St., Raleigh, N.C. In lieu of flowers, the family suggest memorial contributions to Transitions Hospice, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh NC 27690.

Jackie is survived by her husband of 65 years, Billy Royce Pittman; Daughter Barbara Gail Pittman; Son Timothy “Tim” Wayne Pittman; Sisters, Doris Trabant and Marcia Vail (George); Grandchildren, Alexandra Elise Pittman and Capt. Jordan Lee Pittman, U.S. Army; Sister-in–laws Irene Pittman Wallace, Anne Pittman Viverette; Debbie Pittman, the widow of George MacArthur Pittman; Nieces Lisa Buchanan Hovator, Holly Langston Nation, Angela Pittman, Vicky Howard Bradley, Marsha Howard Farrell, Nephews Larry Buchanan, Steve Buchanan, Billy Wallace, Bobby Wallace, Jim Langston; Aunt Doris Stancil. Jackie was preceded in death by sisters; Joevelyn Underwood McClenny, Merle Ometa Underwood Thornton, Maria Hooks Underwood, Doris Alleen Underwood. Brothers; Vonza Jackson Underwood Jr., Billy Underwood, Marvin Jackson Underwood. Frances Jacqueline Underwood is the daughter of Minnie Frances Beasley and Vonza Jackson Underwood. Her maternal grandparents are Betsy and Joshua Beasley. Paternal grandparents are Winifred and Henry Underwood. Jackie was born on April 24, 1931, in Smithfield, Johnston County, North Carolina. Her father had been a funeral director in Harnett County in 1930.

The family moved to Johnston County and he farmed. Jackie grew up loving music and her parents encouraged her. She took piano lessons in Smithfield.

Jackie lived across the street from B & R Wilson Ford in Smithfield. She noticed a new handsome young man there. It was Billy Royce Pittman. He graduated from Glendale high school in 1948 and was hired by B & R Wilson Ford. He worked in the parts department. Pretty raven haired Jackie caught Billy’s eye and it wasn’t long before they met and started seeing each other. Billy was the son of Fletcher and Gertrude Stancil Pittman. He grew up on a farm in the Glendale Community of Johnston County. Jackie graduated from Smithfield high school in 1949. She was hired by First Citizen’s Bank.

This bank, started in 1898 in Smithfield. It went through a few mergers and name changes before 1929, when the name became First Citizen’s Bank & Trust Company.

In March 1948, the U. S. draft included men 19 to 26. The required service time was 12 months.

When Billy turned 19 in May 1949, he registered for the draft. The Korean conflict was escalating. Billy knew his draft number would be coming up soon. By 1950 the term of serve was extended to 2 years.

Billy enlisted in the Air Force on January 1951. He rode a train directly from Raleigh to Lackland Air Force in San Antonio, Texas, for 6 weeks of Basic Training. Next he was sent to Tyndall Air Force Base, Panama City, Florida,

He was made a Sergeant for the 3 days of travel on the train so he could be in charge of the 40 troops. They just sewed a stripe on his uniform. It was removed when they arrived at Tyndale. Training for the Air Force Police was 3 months. Years later the name was changed from Air Force Police to Air Force Security Police. He and Jackie corresponded. Billy had almost no money. He wrote his mama telling her his financial situations. Gertrude wrote him back understanding his situation. She sent him all she had, $1.00. Billy still has that $1.00 bill.

Following this additional training, Billy had a month long furlough and $50.00 in his pocket.

He rode the train to Smithfield.

Billy and Jackie married at 5 p.m. on April 20, 1951, in the foyer of First Baptist Church in Smithfield. Billy wore his uniform. Their parents, Fletcher & Gertrude Pittman and Vonza & Minnie Underwood attended. Rev. James C. Carmichael, a Baptist Minister, married them.

Billy’s brother, Thomas Rex, was a witness.

Following the marriage, Billy and Jackie traveled to Newport News, Virginia, for a visit with Billy’s sisters, Gertie, Irene and husbands.

In May, Billy left for Roswell, New Mexico, Walker Air Force Base. He was assigned to the 509th Bombardment Wing. The 393rd Bomb Squadron was in this combat unit. It dropped the atomic bombs. At this time Walker was the largest Strategic Air Command Base of the Air Force.

Billy was stationed there for 3½ years. His job was security in the Orderly Room. Among his duties was assigning personnel to barracks.

Billy rented an apartment and Jackie’s dad, put her on a Trailways Bus in Raleigh for Dallas, asking the driver to look after her. This was her first trip away from home, In Dallas she changed buses and rode an old bus to Roswell.

Billy and a large dust storm greeted her when she got off the bus!

Jackie’s banking experience paid off, First National Bank of New Mexico hired her immediately. When Billy’s enlistment was up, he was a Staff Sergeant and received an honorable discharge. Their footlockers were shipped Back to Smithfield by the Air Force. Jackie and

Billy drove their 4 door, 1953 light green Plymouth.

Jackie and Billy moved to Raleigh.

By 1954, Jackie was working as a bookkeeper for Security National Bank in Raleigh. She supported the family when Billy enrolled in Hardbarger’s Business School in Raleigh about 1954. He studied accounting and worked part time at Pritchard Glass and Paint Company.

Billy graduated in 18 months. Pritchard Glass and Paint did not want to lose this valuable employee and offered him a full time position.

He began as a salesman in 1956. In 1958 he became department manager. He worked at Pritchard for 38 years.

While Jackie worked for the bank, she took piano classes on Saturdays and sometimes during the week, at Meredith College in Raleigh. Meredith is a well-known women’s liberal arts college.

After completing her studies she, was employed as the pianist for Fellowship Baptist Church in Garner, North Carolina. Jackie also taught piano lessons. This became Jackie and Billy’s church for years. Later they moved their membership to the First Baptist Church of Garner, North Carolina.

Jackie changed banks after a few years and became a teller at First National Bank. Jackie worked at the First National Bank for 10 years.

She left banking to work for the North Carolina General Assembly. She worked for several state representatives, including well regarded, Dr. John R. “Doc” Gamble from Lincoln County. Doc was a MASH surgeon in Korea and Japan. His influence was critical when a medical school was considered for East Carolina University. It became was a reality in 1974.

Jackie loved her position as administrative assistant with the General Assembly. She made countless friends over the years. When Billy needed open heart surgery in 1992, Jackie immediately retired to be by his side. Her expertise and dedication in the N.C. General Assembly was missed.

Jackie loved her family and was a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother. Her son, Timothy Wayne and daughter, Barbara Gail were born in Raleigh. Her grandchildren are Capt. Jordan Lee Pittman, U.S. Army and Alexandria Elise Pittman. She had a close and loving relationship with all of them.

Jackie was active in church her entire life. As a baby her parents took her to Smithfield Baptist Church. She shared her faith with family and friends. Billy remembered her faith and shared, “Jackie’s greatest desire was to live a life that honored her Savior, Jesus Christ. She shared the love, peace, and joy that Christ put in her heart with as many people as she could.” “In your life you touched so many. In your death many lives were changed.” Melinda Jones

Jackie and Billy attended many Gertrude Stancil Pittman Reunions.

They attended Stancil Family Reunions too.

When Jackie was unable to attend reunions, Billy visited her before the reunion.

Some of Jackie’s happiest times were spent at their beach house in Wilmington, North Carolina, with her family. She loved the beauty and tranquility. Jackie and Billy made a cross country trip to Walker Air Force Base in Roswell, New Mexico. This visit to the1967 deactivated Air Force Base, brought back many special memories of their life and struggles as newlyweds. Jackie blessed us with many precious memories and lived her life reflecting God’s love. “In your life you touched so many. In your death many lives were changed.” Melinda Jones

Johnnie Jean Pittman, Sept. 25, 2016

Dec. 16, 1938-Sept. 25, 2016

Johnnie Jean Pittman Contributed

Johnnie Jean Hooks Pittman, Harvey Branch, mother of Kandy, grandmother of John Zachary and Matthew, widow of H. A. Pittman, died on Sept. 25, 2016, at 77.

Johnnie Jean was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in April. Her family shared that “Her grace, beauty and love never wavered during her fight with cancer.”

Johnny Jean and H.A. felt right at home in Liberty Baptist Church, Hampton, Virginia. This was a welcoming congregation with Bible based teachings. They were devoted and active members for many years.

Her family received family and friends on Wednesday, September 28, 2016 at Weymouth Funeral Home, Newport News, Virginia. Her Funeral Services were conducted on Thursday, September 29, 2016, at 2pm, at Weymouth Funeral Home by Rev. Joe Hunt.

Johnnie Jean was interned beside her beloved H. A., at Peninsula Memorial Park. They had been married 44 years.

Johnny Jean is survived by Daughter Kandy Jean Pittman; Grandsons, John Zachary Axsom and Matthew John Buchanan; sisters-in-law Irene Pittman Wallace, Anne Pittman Viverette, Debbie Pittman, the widow of George MacArthur Pittman; brothers-in-law Billy Pittman; Nieces Lisa Buchanan Hovator, Holly Langston Nation, Gail Pittman Walton, Angela Pittman, Vicky Howard Bradley, Marsha Howard Farrell; nephews Larry Buchanan, Steve Buchanan, Billy Wallace, Bobby Wallace, Jim Langston, Timothy Pittman; Aunt Doris Stancil.

Johnny Jean was preceded in death by husband H.A.; sisters-in-law Gertie Mae Pittman Buchanan, husband Buck, Ruth Elder Pittman Langston, husband James, Jacqueline “Jackie” Underwood Pittman, Jennifer Kaye Pittman Collins; brothers-in-law Arnold Webster Pittman, Thomas Rex Pittman, wife Carolyn, James Viverette, George 'Mac' McArthur; niece Sandra Annette Pittman Christian; nephew Stephen Hinnant; aunts Mavis Stancil, Patsy Stancil Hare, Vessie Joyner, Eula Stancil Smith; uncles Clyde Stancil, Garland Stancil, Carl Stancil.

Johnnie Jean was born on Dec. 16, 1938, in Wayne County, NC, the daughter of John Henry Hooks and Beatrice Lorena Holland. Grandparents were Murray M. Holland & Mattie Holland, and John C. Hooks & Cornelia Daubiney.

She grew up on a farm in the Great Swamp Community of Wayne County, North Carolina.

Johnnie Jean met H.A. at the Corner Grill in Kenly, a popular teen hangout. She attended Kenly High School. They began dating. H.A. attended Glendale High School in rural Johnston County. They attended school events at both schools.

Johnnie was active in school. As a junior, she was class treasurer. She was a member of the Beta Club and Future Homemakers of America. She was voted most likely to succeed by her senior class.

H.A. was also active in school. He played basketball, baseball, was in the class play, member of 4-H, F.F.A and voted a senior superlative. He wrote on his graduation page,

“I can resist everything but temptation!” He graduated in 1955.

H.A. needed a good paying job. He moved to Newport News, Virginia and lived with Anne and her husband Billy Ray Howard. He was hired by the Newport News Shipyard.

Johnnie Jean had two more years at Kenly High School She stayed in touch with H.A. They were in love and planned to marry when she graduated in 1957.

She and H.A. married on May 25, 1957, in the Presbyterian Church, Kenly, N.C. Those attending included Anne and Billy Ray.

Johnnie worked in Raleigh for the State of North Carolina until H.A. found them an apartment in Newport News, Daughter Kandy Jean arrived several years later.

Johnnie and H.A. visited Kenly to see family and friends. H.A., an avid deer hunter, joined the Kenly Hunting Club, along with brother Mac, brother-in-law Buck Buchanan and James Langston. They enjoyed many weekends of conversation and hunting.

Their church home was Liberty Baptist Church. In addition to Sunday services, Johnnie attended Wednesday night services and formed many friendships over the years.

About 1963, Johnnie began working for the Noland Company, located in 11 states. This Newport News Company, established in 1919, is one of the largest distributors of well drilling equipment, plumbing, ventilation, HVAC, electrical, refrigeration, industrial and water systems supplies. Johnnie, was smart, dedicated, dependable and hard-working employee. She was in the data recording department when she retired. Her expertise was missed.

Johnnie’s first Stancil Reunion was in 1970 with H.A. and Kandy. Other Harvey Branch members attending were: Les Bass, Vicky Howard Bass, Katie Stancil Dale, Donald L. Dale, Jr., Marsha Howard, Vessie Stancil Joyner, Gertrude Stancil Pittman, Angela Pittman, Carolyn Pittman, Anne Pittman Viverette, Tom Pittman, H.A. Pittman, Johnnie Jean Hooks Pittman, Grey Stancil Smith, Ann Demko Stancil, Doris Stancil, Garland Stancil, G. W. Stancil, Pam Stancil, Bob Thome, Carrie Thome, Christopher Thome, Janet Stancil Thome, Anne Pittman Viverette, James Viverette. Grandsons John and Matt were blessings to Johnny and H. A.