August 17, 2024, 65, Bucklesberry —
June 19, 1959 – August 17, 2024
Art Jones Herring, 65, of Bucklesberry, passed away peacefully at ECU Health surrounded by his loved ones on Saturday, August 17, 2024. Born in Lenoir County on June 19, 1959, Art was the son of the late Dan “Peter” and Melba Jones Herring. He was also preceded in death by his beloved son, Anthony “Porkchop” Herring, and his son-in-law, Kevin Lane.
Art was a dedicated and hardworking man who spent most of his career with DuPont and later with Barnett. His commitment to providing for his family was unwavering. He approached every task with meticulous care and precision. Whether it was cutting the grass or mapping out the best route on a trip, Art believed in doing things the right way—his way.
Upon retiring, Art could often be found tinkering in his barn, where everything had its place, or enjoying his favorite Westerns on television. Although a man of few words, Art’s love for his family was clear in his actions. He cherished family gatherings, especially the 4th of July, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, when everyone was together. Despite his strong-willed nature, Art found unique ways to connect with each of his family members.
Art’s love for his wife, Miss Vickie, was profound. She was one of the few who could persuade him to bend, often saying, “Do whatever Miss Vickie says.” Knowing his favorite treats, she kept the house stocked with cheese doodles, Pepsi, and chocolate chip cookies. In his last days, she lovingly prepared his favorite homemade chicken salad, along with Ken’s Grill barbecue and slaw.
His oldest daughter Marsha and her husband Andy’s willingness to host family gatherings brought him joy, and he often joked that Marsha was such a good salesperson she could sell the same thing twice. He often referred to Marsha as his “lawyer” of the family and Rebecca as his “peacekeeper.” He loved talking to the local farmers about his son-in-law Andy’s passion for buying tobacco. Ashley has his nature, being unafraid to step out of her comfort zone. Along with her husband Mario, the two stepped out on the adventure of running a restaurant, where Art and Miss Vickie loved eating. His son Anthony shared his love of fixing things and cooking pigs with him which made him proud. It was no secret that his youngest daughter Rebecca was special to him, they shared a unique bond and he was very proud of her. He also took his late son-in-law Kevin Lane under his wing, knowing he was a good partner for Rebecca, teaching him many things. In his final days, one of the most recent memories, Art even ventured on a jet ski ride from Beaufort to Morehead, with his grandson Riley with the help of Rebecca’s boyfriend, Perry—a testament to his adventurous spirit.
Art found great joy in spending time with his grandchildren. He was proud to be promoted to “Papa Art”. With his oldest granddaughter Courtney, he was proud of her medical knowledge and trusted her advice when it came to health. When Courtney married Bradney, he was proud to know that Bradney had a job working with his hands. Connor, who followed in his footsteps by working in the electrical industry became a lineman, this made him immensely proud. Carter is the grandchild who shares his Papa’s strong will and determination. One of Art’s favorite activities was working on a 1963 Chevy truck with his grandson Riley. He and Rachel Sue shared a special bond over ice cream, cheese doodles, and trips to McDonalds. The visits from Madison and Mackenzie, Anthony’s daughters, always brightened his day and he liked seeing their dance and cheering pictures. He admired Landon for his book smarts. He admired Willow’s mothering nature. Sayyid was his “curly-haired” boy, and he was delighted to meet Ashley’s newest arrival, Nadiyah Grayce. He treasured the time spent with his grandchildren.
Recently, Art had the honor of meeting his first great-grandson, Stetson Lee Tart, a moment that filled him with pride. He shared the joy and love of his first great-grandchild with many people in the community.
A service celebrating Art’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at Rouse Funeral Home with Pastor Bob Smith officiating. The family will receive friends an hour before the service. Following the service, Art will be laid to rest at Fairview Cemetery in La Grange. The family will be accepting visitors at the home of Rebecca Lane at all other times.
Art is survived by his devoted wife, Vickie Allio Herring; his children, Marsha House (Andy), Ashley Eltelbanty (Mario), Rebecca Lane (Perry McCormick), and Melissa Herring; his cherished grandchildren, Courtney Tart (Bradney), Connor House, Carter House, Riley Samuel Herring, Rachel Sue Lane, Madison Herring, Mackenzie Herring, Landon Whaley, Willow DuCharme, Sayyid Elhadad, and Nadiyah Elhadad; his great-grandson, Stetson Lee Tart; his brothers, Gene Herring and Danny Herring; and his sisters, Nelda Johnson (Bryce) and Mary Grace Williams (David); along with numerous nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Art’s name to White Oak Grove Original Free Will Baptist Church, c/o Janet Brown, 1794 Jenny Lind Road, La Grange, NC 28551.
Online condolences may be shared at www.rousefh.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.
