November 30, 2023, 74, Mount Olive —

Leona Byrd Brock, 74, passed away suddenly at her home on Thursday, November 30th, 2023. Leona was born on February 19, 1949, the daughter of the late Lola Potts Byrd and Alton Ray Byrd. She was a lifelong resident of Mount Olive, a community she loved dearly.

Leona is survived by her daughter Leslie Brock Paszek (Matt) of Rocky Mount; son Brandon Douglas Brock (Kelly) of Mount Olive; five grandchildren (Elizabeth Paszek, Maggie Paszek, Matthew Paszek, Braydon Brock, and Mattie Grace Brock); sister Ann Byrd Williamson of Mount Olive; brother David William Byrd of Mount Olive; sister-in-law Janet Roberts Byrd of Andrews, SC; and many loved nieces and nephews that were essential pieces of her family life. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister Gloria Byrd; brother James Ray “Jimmy” Byrd; and her brother-in-law Ralph Williamson.

At an early age, Leona was known for her energy and constant motion. Her father affectionately gave her the nickname “Jitterbug” as a child, which was shortened to “Bug” by her family and closest friends throughout the remainder of her life. She graduated from Southern Wayne High School in 1968, where she was a majorette with the marching band.

Leona was a long-time member of First Baptist Church where she was active in many roles over the years. She served her community in many ways, including the Mount Olive Jaycees in her early adult life, where she made many lifelong friends. Leona retired from a career in banking that began at American Savings and Loan of Goldsboro and concluded as the Area Operations Manager/VP with Southern Bank and Trust in Mount Olive.

Leona was known for her big heart. She was a caregiver and “go-to” for family and friends over the years. She did this not from obligation, but from the selflessness and love that was at her core. Her gifts were countless and her talent for preparing delicious Southern food was renowned. She had a passion for her cooking, but the sharing of it with family and friends brought her the greatest satisfaction.

Leona loved her role as mom and cherished and thrived as a Granny to her five grandchildren. Always with a good seat at ball games and performances, her priority was to be there when her family was in action to share in their accomplishments.

While sad that she has passed, the family requests that she be remembered for the caring woman she was, the selfless life she lived, and her relentless commitment to bringing joy to her friends and family. Our earthly loss is truly Heaven’s gain.

Funeral services will be held Monday, December 4, at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Mount Olive and will be officiated by Dr. Dennis Atwood and the Rev. Jeff Dail. Burial will follow the service in Maplewood Cemetery. The family will receive friends and family before the service at 12:30 pm in the Christian Life Center of First Baptist Church, and at other times at the Brock residence.

While flowers are welcomed, memorial gifts may be made to
First Baptist Church
PO Box 203
Mount Olive, NC 28365