Shelba Jean Jones

LOUISBURG, NC -- Surrounded by family, Shelba Jean Jones, age 85, of Louisburg, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, October 1, 2026 following a period of declining health related to Vascular Dementia. She was lovingly cared for by those who meant the most to her -- her children and their spouses, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Shelba was born in Franklin County on September 16, 1941, to Edison and Ella Jones. She grew up on a beautiful farm in the Red Bud community where she learned the importance of faith, family, generosity and dedication to work.

Shelba was a member of White Level Baptist Church, where she cherished worshiping her Savior by singing hymns, fellowshipping, and most importantly opening her heart and Bible and to receive God's Word through good preaching. Her faith was reflected in her gentle and generous spirit. She had a quiet, giving heart, often preparing meals for others or offering kindness and encouragement without seeking recognition. Her home was filled with warmth and love, where everyone was welcomed and often enjoyed a slice of her homemade chocolate cake. Many of life's triumphs and troubles were discussed around her kitchen table with a focus always on God being in control. Her Bible is a testament to the faith she placed in her Savior. Highlighted and underlined scriptures, prayer requests, quotes from sermons, special dates and numerous personal notes were penned.

Known as Nannie by most people, she always had "time" for her family and friends.

She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend who found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Spending time with family and friends, preparing meals, gardening and relaxing at the beach with family were among her many joys in life.

She's survived by her four children, Angela L. Harris (William), Eva L. Aycock (Pete Jones), Teresa L. Edwards (Mike), and Sammy Leonard (Kim); stepdaughter, Judy Lewis; grandchildren: Brad Harris (Lerin), Kristen Wheless (Brandon), Daniel Aycock, Anthony Aycock (Teri), Rebecca Gilliam, Zack Leonard, Caleb Leonard (Jennifer), Brooke Cooke (Matt), Taylor Allen, Jason Edwards (Brandi), Jamie Wilson (Paul) all of Louisburg and Chris Peoples (Jodi). Shelba's great-grandchildren: Jeremy "Tate" Gilliam, Kenna Gilliam, Henry Edison Wheless, Camdyn Gilliam, Audrey Harris, Annie Harris, Claire Leonard, Marley Kidwell, Paislee Thaxton, Ivey Cooke, Natalie Edwards, Will Edwards, Abigail Wilson, Nicholas Peoples, Landon Peoples and Emma Peoples. She is also survived by her first husband, Sam Leonard of Louisburg; sisters, Lou McCormick (Winfred) of Ringgold, Georgia and Minnie Adams (Bobby) of Sanford, North Carolina along with many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Shelba was preceded in death by her parents, Edison and Ella Jones; her brother, John Edison Jones, and his wife, Rose Jones, of Knoxville, Tennessee; her late husband, Sid Champion; her son-in-law, Michael Aycock; and her former daughter-in-law, Pamela Leonard, all of Louisburg.

Her family is deeply grateful for the many years of compassionate care provided by Dr. Lavinia T. Reyes and Dr. Andrew Kronenberg. A special thank you is extended to Gentiva Hospice of Henderson, North Carolina for the compassionate care, kindness, and loving support shown to Shelba and her family during her final days.

A private graveside service was held at The Leonard Family Cemetery, White Level Road, Louisburg, North Carolina with Reverend Dale Eatmon officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations are made to the White Level Baptist Church Children's Fund, 2400 White Level Road, Louisburg, North Carolina 27549.

Paid obituary