April 27, 2023, 88, Goldsboro –
Linwood Earl “Jack” Boyette, 88, exchanged the embraces of his family for the embrace of his loving Lord in the early hours of Thursday, April 27, 2023. Jack was born in Wayne County to the late Ralph and Mabel Strickland Boyette on April 26, 1935. No doubt the receiving line in heaven was lengthy, led first by his Savior and followed immediately by the many family members and friends that preceded him in death.
Working a full career as a Paint and Wallpaper Contractor specializing in his wallpaper skills, Jack retired recently after a period of declining health. His love of Goldsboro and heart for people came together for a very successful career. The community knew of Jack’s strong work ethic and his eye for detail. He had a way of bringing things to life like no other and he made sure to treat every job as his own. At his retirement, Jack was still using his father’s wallpaper table and tools. When he was nearing death, he still wanted to know about the tools. These were prized treasures and he was a good steward of what he had been given. As an auctioneer for over 50 years with Clark Auction, Jack was one all could count on. He could be seen not only at the auctions but at church bazaars and community charity events.
Marrying his high school sweetheart on July 5, 1957, the love story between Jack and Dorothy was unparalleled. Jack was truly her knight in shining armor, and there was nothing he wouldn’t do for her. Raising three children together, they were committed to having a happy family, a quality that Jack prayed for daily. Responsible, loving, and kind, Jack was an excellent provider for his family and valued Dorothy’s role as a mother.
The values and beliefs which Jack held were indeed traits he strived to pass on to his children. Firm in his faith, he raised his family to know and show the love of Jesus. He believed in daily prayer, reading scripture, and giving tithes to the church. He taught them the value of a dollar and made sure they were constantly occupied with a job as soon as they were able. He taught them how to take care of themselves, though as a father, he was always concerned for their safety. His children developed tremendous respect for Jack. If you wanted to see Jack really light up, just mention his grandchildren, Elizabeth and Windsor. They brought so much joy to his life on a daily basis.
Jack took his role as the patriarch of his family seriously. The sun never set before Jack bowed his head to pray for each of his family members by name. As a peacemaker, he was always concerned about others. He possessed a forgiving heart full of love and was constantly ready to welcome his family with open arms.
With love and devotion to his Lord, Jack faithfully worshiped at The First Pentecostal Holiness Church. As a member for nearly 70 years, he served as a board member and as Missions Director. He also taught Sunday School for 67 years. While his teaching was most important, Jack enjoyed his role of keeping folks laughing. Laughter was an essential part of his life. In service, Jack made sure all looked pristine at the Lord’s house. He painted the church for many years and even stained the current wood beams that hold up the church today. Saved in 1955, Jack began his acts of service to the Lord right away. He began taking care of the facilities for Oak Street and continued at The First Church for a total of 65 years. He was the first to arrive and the last to leave. He wanted to make sure all was just as it should be.
Jack touched more lives than he could ever count. He had a heart for sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with those around him. He was instrumental in the bus ministry, prison ministry, Judgement House, and many other areas of ministry. He believed there was always something to be done for the Lord. He was an example of letting the Lord’s light shine in all things. No one was too far gone and forgiveness was just around the corner. Jack was a friend to everyone, from the pastor to the less fortunate who God placed in his path. He held a special place in his heart for his lifelong friend, Graham Clark. Since his passing, something has been missing from Jack’s life. He is now able to see his dear friend once again.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, April 30, 2023, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. at The First Pentecostal Holiness Church, 1100 The First Church Road, Goldsboro. A service to celebrate Jack’s Christian example will follow the time of visitation at 6:00 p.m. in the sanctuary with Pastor Bill Rose, Pastor John Howard, Bishop Jim Whitfield, and Rev. Morris Smith officiating. Interment will be on Monday, May 1, 2023, at 3:00 p.m. in Providence United Methodist Church Cemetery.
Jack is survived by his wife of 66 years, Dorothy Jackson Boyette; daughters, Terry Boyette of Goldsboro and Lisa B. Willoughby and husband, David of Goldsboro; son, Scott Boyette, and wife, Shelly of Raleigh; granddaughters, Elizabeth Grace Boyette and Windsor Hope Boyette; brothers, Heyward Boyette and wife, Kathy of Goldsboro and Ray Boyette and wife, Doris of Goldsboro; and several nieces and nephews he loved very much. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Deane Jackson, Billy and Ila Mae Jackson, and James and Barbara Jackson; special niece, Bonnie Edgerton and husband, Larry; and special family friends, Betsy Clark, Greg and Renae Clark, Pam and Crutch Crutchfield, and Chad Clark.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Vennie Lee Moore, Mabel Louise “Bootsie” Smith and Evelyn Holland; and brother-in-law, Bobby Jackson.
The family would like to express their appreciation for the compassionate care provided by the nursing staff at UNC Wayne as well as his doctor, Dr. Dalton Dove. Love and heartfelt thanks are also expressed to the many caregivers and friends that made such a difference in his life during his declining health. A special thank you to his Son-In-Love, David, who has been Jack’s support allowing him to spend his final months at home. The love and selflessness shown by David during Jack’s final days have truly been a blessing to the family.
Flowers are welcome or memorials may be given in Jack’s memory to
Missions at The First Pentecostal Holiness Church
1100 The First Church Road
Goldsboro, NC 27534
Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.
