J.C. Womble

Spring Hope - 

Joseph Charles “J.C.” Womble, of Spring Hope, passed away in the early morning of Sunday, May 3rd, 2026. He was born in Nash County on August 5, 1934, to Cicero and Beulah Wester Womble.

J.C. graduated from Spring Hope High School, where he played football, baseball, and basketball. After high school, he proudly served in the U.S. Army for two years, with his most memorable assignment being at The Presidio of San Francisco, near the Golden Gate Bridge. While completing MP training, J.C. married his high school sweetheart, Jean Arden Heflin, on April 18, 1954 - a wonderful union that would last over 66 years.

J.C. and Jean shared a love for travel, exploring much of the United States together, often with close friends. They enjoyed many bus trips and became fondly known among their circle as the “Royal Rear-Enders.” After their time in San Francisco, the couple returned home to Spring Hope, where J.C. completed barber school and began his career. He first worked as a barber in Rocky Mount before becoming the city barber in Spring Hope, a role he proudly held for 51 years.

In 1968, J.C. and Jean adopted their daughter, Amy, completing their family. J.C. was a devoted member of Spring Hope Baptist Church for more than sixty years, serving in many capacities.

He was an avid fan of Southern Nash Firebird football, Duke basketball, and the Atlanta Braves. J.C. also had a lifelong love for animals, especially his many dogs and a special cat who kept him company in later years. A true jokester at heart, he had a gift for making people laugh and never knew a stranger.

In addition to his parents, J.C. was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jean. He is survived by his daughter, Amy Parker, and her husband, Stuart; grandchildren, Tori Whitley (Clay) and Kendall Parker (Whitney); and great-grandchildren Emmett, Doc, Wesley, and Cana.

J.C.’s proudest accomplishment was being “Papa” to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, filling their lives with joy, humor, and unconditional love. His legacy of service, humor, and devotion to his family and his community will live on through all who knew him.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 - 8:00pm on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at First Baptist Church Spring Hope, 111 N Walnut St. Spring Hope, NC 27882. A graveside service will be held at 1:00pm on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 at Oakdale Cemetery, Spring Hope. 

Memorials may be made to: FBC Memorial Fund, PO Box 177, Spring Hope, NC  27882.

The family wishes to extend their sincerest thanks to the Cottage staff at Spring Arbor of Wilson for making J.C.'s final season of life a wonderful experience.