All Obituaries

Ronald Lee Bailey, Sr., a beloved family man and respected member of the Sims, NC community, passed away peacefully on November 6, 2023. Born on May 7, 1955, in Wilson, NC, Ronald's life was marked by his unwavering faith, love for his family, and a dedicated work ethic that saw him contribute significantly to his community. Ronald was predeceased by his parents, Ransom Bailey and Aileen Lamm, as well as his brothers, Jerry Bailey and Robert Bailey. He is survived by his son, Ronald...

Stephen Albert Bacskay October 29, 1946 ~ October 6, 2023 Steve grew up on the New Jersey shore with a great love of boating and the sea.  After being honorably discharged from the US Army in 1969, he went on to a successful career as a mechanical engineer. He retired to a small farm in North Carolina in 2014. Survived by his wife, Patricia and three daughters, Danielle, Sarah and Stephanie, Sister-in-law; Paula, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and his niece Michelle. May...

Chad Allen Bundy, a beloved son, brother, and father, passed away peacefully in his hometown of Wilson, NC on September 9, 2023. Born on August 1, 1976, to Lela Gail Etheridge, Chad was a pillar of strength and a beacon of warmth in the lives of his family and friends. Chad was a vivacious soul, known for his selfless nature, friendly demeanor, and spirited personality. He was a dedicated sports enthusiast, a fervent follower of NASCAR and a passionate fan of Dale Earnhardt Jr. He also...

Theresa L. Swain, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away at home in Wilson, NC, on Saturday, July 29, 2023. Born on August 13, 1959, in Wilson, NC, Theresa was a pillar of her community, known for her creativity, love, and passion. Theresa graduated from Atlantic Christian College with a degree in business and also from Ft. Lauderdale Art Institute with a degree in graphic design. Her creativity found an outlet in her work, first with the City of Wilson Print...

Lloyd Jasper Smith, Jr., affectionately known as Junior, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2023, in Goldsboro, NC, at the age of 74. Born on July 19, 1948, in Greene County, NC, Junior was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend to many. Junior is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Wanda Smith, of Saratoga, NC, and their two children: daughter Rhonda Creel and her husband Micky of Stantonsburg, NC, and son James Smith and his wife Heather of...

Sarah Horne Propes, 84, passed through heaven’s pearly gates on Friday, May 5, 2023, at Wilson Medical Center-Duke LifePoint Hospital. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 10, 2023, from 11:30 am - 1:30 pm at Carolina Funeral & Cremation Center, 5505 Monroe Rd, Charlotte, NC. Graveside service will follow at 2:00 pm at Sharon Memorial Park, 5716 Monroe Rd.  A visitation will be held at Wave Church, 5334 Lamm Rd, Wilson on Saturday, May 13, 2023, from 2 - 4 pm. Sarah...

Tilghman Alan Jones, 68, of Wilson, NC died peacefully at his residence on Tuesday, April 11, 2023. Tilghman was born in Wilson, NC June 1, 1954, a son of the late Tillman Herring Jones and Christen Owens Jones. He was a devout Christian and was a member of Gospel Assembly Church for over 20 years. Mr. Jones had a passion for writing especially poems. Tilghman was an Over the Road Trucker for over 30 years. He enjoyed people and never met a stranger. Tilghman proudly served his country...

Esmeralda “Esme” Baza Renteria, 19, passed away at her home on Saturday, February 18, 2023. She was born on April 27, 2003 in Wilson, NC, a daughter of Sergia Baza, and Agustin Renteria Gonzales.   A native of Wilson. She was known to be an outgoing person who was always happy and enjoying life.  She loved to visit the beach, listen to music and spend time with her family and friends. Her smile was contagious and could brighten up anyone’s day. Esmeralda will be...

Erik “Mikey” Rodriguez Martinez, 26, passed away on Thursday, February 9, 2023, at his residence. He was born on February 11, 1996, in Wilson, NC a son of Juan and Edith Rodriguez.   Erik was a loving person who treated everyone with kindness and respect. He took pride in looking sharp and being presentable while enjoying pizza and wings. He was goal oriented and aimed for higher accomplishments. Erik had a love for music, basketball, animals, especially pit bulls, and most...

Maria DeJesus Raya, 44, of Elm City, NC passed away Sunday, January 29, 2023, at Wythe Co. Community Hospital in Wytheville, VA.   Ms. Raya was born on June 6, 1978 in George Town, TX a daughter to Manuel Raya Sr. and Consuelo Salazar. Maria was a loving mother who put her children and family first. She loved listing to 80s music and spending time with family and friends. She enjoyed visiting the beach feeling the ocean breeze on her face and the sand beneath her feet. Maria was a...