Mary Jo Batts Heath

Macclesfield - 

Mary Jo Batts Heath, age 72, passed peacefully in her sleep on Monday, April 6, 2026, surrounded by her devoted family. She was born in Edgecombe County on July 2, 1953, to Walter and Annie Hardy Batts.

She wore her heart on her sleeve and loved deeply, especially her beloved grandbabies, who brought her endless pride and happiness. Mary Jo was also known for giving the very best hugs when she wrapped her arms around you, you could truly feel her love. She had a rare and beautiful way of making everyone feel special, and no matter who you were, she had a way of becoming your favorite and you knew you were loved by her. Her love, laughter, and gentle spirit will live on in all who knew her.

Mary Jo was a woman who loved with her whole heart. She found joy in the simple, beautiful things in life, time spent at the beach, being outdoors, and tending to her flowers and garden. Her home, like her spirit, was always warm and welcoming. Whether through her laughter, her kindness, or the meals she lovingly prepared, she had a special way of making everyone feel right at home. If you visited, you could always count on being fed and leaving with a full heart.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Buddy Heath; brother, Jimmy Batts and brother-in-law, Larry Moore, all of whom she loved dearly and is now reunited with in eternal peace. 

She is survived by her daughter, Dina Brown of Pinetops; her siblings, Walter Lee Batts, Jr., Albert Ray Batts (Diane), Ann Audrey Moore, all of Pinetops, Gloria "Vonne" Taylor (Jerry) of Cape Carteret, and Terry Elaine Norman of Macclesfield; her cherished grandchildren, Rylee Joe McMullen, Jamison Patrick McMullen, and Jaylee Morgan McMullen; her beloved granddog, Tatum; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will forever hold her memory close.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of Wilson, as well as Di’ana Worrells and Tiffany Casper, for their compassionate care and unwavering support—you became so much more than caregivers to us, becoming a meaningful part of our family’s journey and truly part of our family.

Mary Jo will be deeply missed and never forgotten. Her love and light will continue to shine in the lives of those she touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Jo’s honor to Hospice of Wilson, the Tarboro Animal Shelter, or to an animal or children’s charity of your choice.