February 23, 2024, 82, Goldsboro —

Earlene Howell Worrell, 82, passed away on Friday, February 23, 2024. Earlene was born in Wayne County to the late Talmadge and Irene Howell on February 8, 1942. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Doyce Howell.

Earlene and Jack maintained a relationship of love and support through good times and bad for over 60 years. From the first time they met in the early 1960s, the two walked hand-in-hand together, facing life head-on with a determined faith and strong will. No matter the situation, they showed their love for each other and their family every minute of every day.

One of the many ways Earlene shared her love was through cooking. A home-cooked supper was on the table at home every night. She enjoyed sharing treats at church and family functions, and friends and neighbors were often recipients of her generosity without need for a special occasion.

Expectations for beautiful flowers and a colorful yard were renewed every Spring. For many years, Earlene worked in her yard herself, and her lovely flowers were admired by many in the community.

Earlene devoted her life to the care of her family. She tried her best to maintain connections with all of them, taking an interest in their lives and showing her constant support. Earlene looked forward to every opportunity to gather her family around the kitchen table to share in food and conversation. She especially enjoyed reminiscing about family antics from her childhood.

Known for her demeanor that exemplified the life of a true Christian, Earlene was sweet, loving, and kind. Whether in the company of friends and family or even strangers, those around her experienced her love through her generous spirit and beautiful smile. Never one to meet a stranger, Earlene could strike up a conversation with anyone and make them feel instantly at ease. Earlene was a faithful servant of God, attending New Hope Friends Church any time the doors were open.

A service to celebrate Earlene’s life will be held on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. in the sanctuary of New Hope Friends Church with Pastor Andrew Hise and Bill Garner officiating. The family will greet friends following this service in the family life center at the church. Interment will be on Monday, March 4, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. in Wayne Memorial Park.

Earlene is survived by her husband of 61 years, Marvin “Jack” Worrell, Jr.; son, Marvin “Trey” Worrell, III, and wife, Leigh; grandchildren, Madalyn Parker Worrell and John Morgan Worrell; sister, Frances Moore and husband, Howard; and brother, Rudolph Howell and wife, Cheryl.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be given in her memory to

Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.