July 28, 2023, 70, Goldsboro —

Mary Jo Batten Brock, who’s loving and caring spirit touched everyone around her, joined her Heavenly Father on Friday, July 28 after 70 years in her Earthly body.

Born Mary Jo Batten on September 3, 1952, in Goldsboro to William H. Batten and Mary Jeanette Batten, she was a graduate of Goldsboro High School and later received an Associate of Arts degree from Wayne Community College. The latter paved the way to a 30-year career as an administrative assistant at Country Pines, Inc., whose staff, owners, and residents she considered part of her family.

Ms. Batten Brock loved the ocean and made regular visits to Topsail Island, North Carolina to soak up the sun and put her “toes in the sand.” She had a green thumb as evidenced by the many plants and flowers decorating her home, and was well known (at least to her brother) for making the best potato salad in the South.

But Ms. Batten Brock’s passion was her family, especially her sons – Matthew Kyle Brock and Joel Amador-Batten – and grandchildren Ben and William Amador-Batten.

Ms. Batten Brock is survived by her two sons Matthew of Fremont, N.C., and Joel from LaGrange, N.C., grandsons Ben and William of LaGrange son-in-law Henry Amador-Batten of LaGrange, daughter-in-law Madison Brock of Fremont, brother Sammy Batten from Fayetteville and her beloved puppy Shai.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.