They Left Us Too Soon...
Tamara Shenell Blue, age 48 of Four Oaks, NC, transitioned from labor to reward on Tuesday March 31, 2026, at UNC Johnston Health in Smithfield surrounded by the love of her family. Tamara was the daughter of James H. Robinson Sr., and Georgia M. Blue-Robinson. Tamara attended Richard B. Harrison in Selma, NC. In high school she was the captain of the cheerleading squad. Tam enjoyed dancing, going places in the car, and listening to gospel music. Tamara was preceded in death by her father James H Robinson Sr., and sister Nikita D. Blue. She leaves to cherish her memories her mother, Georgia M. Blue-Robinson, two brothers: Eric L. Blue, James H. Robinson Jr., two sisters: Naomi R. Robinson, and Mary E. Robinson and a host of uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces, cousins and other friends. Viewing & Funeral Arrangements: Viewing Friday April 10, 2026, at the Walter Sanders Funeral & Cremations Chapel 302 S. Bright Leaf Blvd., Smithfield, NC 27577 from 2:00 pm until 5:00 pm. Funeral will be held at Juniper Grove Disciples Church 5350 US 301 Four Oaks, NC 27524 on Saturday April 11, 2026, at 2:00 pm. Click on the Add Comments Line Below to leave a message for the Blue-Robinson Family. Guest Book Family or Deceased Name: Tamara Robinson Your Name: Margaret Henry Email: mbhenry05@yahoo.com Message: Sending condolences to the Robinson/Blue family . Have so many great memories of Tamara at the Four Oaks COGOP. My children remember her smile. Our prayers are with you. Heaven gained another angel🙏❤️ Date: 9109851363
Ishmael Aviv Santiago 35, son of Licette Santiago and Eddie (Terrina) Snead transitioned from this life on Saturday, March 28,2026 at Wake Medical Hospital, Raleigh North Carolina. Ishmael, a beloved son, brother, nephew and friend was born on January 24, 1991. Ishmael was a man who, when faced with obstacles, remained deeply loving and connected to those around him. As a son, brother, relative, and friend, he showed up with sincerity, warmth, and care. His infectious smile and colorful humor left lasting impressions. Ishmael was always ready to share both laughter and meaningful conversations. In addition to his parents, he leaves to cherish his memory his siblings, Terrence Stephens Jr., Aurelia Barfield, Keshonna Snead, Martice Snead, Dedrick Snead, and Tarvis Snead and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews and friends. Funeral Service Saturday April 4, 2026, at Walter Sanders Funeral & Cremation Services Chapel 302 S. Bright Leaf Blvd., Smithfield, NC 27577 Viewing 3:30 pm and Funeral at 4:00 pm. Click on the Add Comments Line Below to leave comments for the Santiago family. Guest Book Family or Deceased Name: Santiago Your Name: Nene Sasser Email: nene.sasser@yahoo.com Message: Licette I am truly sorry for your loss. I am praying for you and your family. I love you and Aurelia so much. Date: 04032026 Family or Deceased Name: Santiago Your Name: Brenda Royal Email: motherroyal55@gmail.com Message: Praying for the family and for their healing thru this time of grief. Earth has no sorrow that Heaven can not Heal. Date: 4-3-26 Family or Deceased Name: Santiago Your Name: Brenda Royal Email: motherroyal55@gmail.com Message: Praying for the family and for their healing thru this time of grief. Earth has no sorrow that Heaven can not Heal. Date: 4-3-26 Family or Deceased Name: Ishmael Santiago Your Name: Brian E Stewart Email: biggstew74@yahoo.com Message: To my nephew I enjoyed the times we had and will miss u much can never forget you and wish we had more time together Date: 9194649763 Family or Deceased Name: Santiago Your Name: Denise Williams Email: gdenisewms@gmail.com Message: Licette, I am sorry to hear of you and your family's loss. You all are in my thoughts and prayers. Date: 3302026
Vasal “Tiny” Vernon Joyner passed away peacefully on March 22, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born in Beulah Town (Kenly), North Carolina, Tiny was a proud member of the Johnston County community, where he was raised and educated in the local school system. Known for his strong work ethic and independent spirit, he built a life rooted in dedication and perseverance. Tiny began his career working in hospitality for Squib, a pharmaceutical company before later becoming self-employed, embracing the freedom and responsibility of entrepreneurship. He was never one to shy away from hard work—he found pride and joy in using his hands and putting in an honest day’s labor. He will be fondly remembered by many as a familiar face around town, often seen riding his tractor, a simple image that captured his dedication to hard work Funeral Services: Saturday April 4, 2026, at Southern Grove Missionary Baptist Church 1058 Old Stancil Rd., Kenly, NC 27542. Viewing 11:00 am until 12:00 noon. Click on the Add Comments Line Below to leave a message for the Joyner family. Guest Book Family or Deceased Name: Vasal Tiny Joyner Your Name: Nina Blossom Email: senora1868@aol.com Message: My sincere and deepest condolences to the family. May the memories of his life bring peace and solace to all who knew and loved him. I’m so grateful for his unselfish act of kindness he has given to my family in our time of need. Be heavenly blessed Tiny your memories will live on.🙏🏽 Date: 04042026 Family or Deceased Name: Vasal “Tiny” Joyner Your Name: Rev Rickey L Simms Email: simmsrevrickey@gmail.com Message: Blue Ford Galaxie, a ride to Homecoming ($5.00), Cleaners pickup and dropoff, big smile, soft spoken, hustler are words none of us who knew him can deny. RIP Cuz Date: 9195794885 Family or Deceased Name: Tiny Joyner Your Name: Betty Pearce Email: bettypearce020@gmail.com Message: Tiny u will be truly missed we are kin and I will never forget you Date: 9842525337 Family or Deceased Name: Uncle Tiny Joyner Your Name: Eula Teen and Bobby Holden Email: eulatholden@yahoo.com Message: Will miss Uncle Tiny, known him 60 years after marrying into the family, thoughts and prayers are with his family. Date: 032826 Family or Deceased Name: Tiny Joyner Your Name: Wells & Barnes Family Email: bwellsbarnes@gmail.com Message: We send you our deepest condolences. God will see you through. Date: 2522522522 Family or Deceased Name: Vasal Joyner Your Name: Sher Pierce Email: sherpierce5@gmail.com Message: Rest in Peace Date: 3473574894 Family or Deceased Name: Vasal (Tiny) Joyner Your Name: Helene Price & Matthew Allen Email: hprice143@embarqmail.com Message: Our sincere prayers and deepest sympathy is with the family and friends of Mr. Vasal Joyner. Rest in peace Mr. Joyner you will be missed by many. Date: 9192842392 Family or Deceased Name: Vasal (Tiny) Joyner Your Name: Larry & Truevina Revell Email: firstgears1@aol.com Message: Uncle Tiny we will surely miss you. You are the last Uncle, but I know Aunt Nite will be happy to see you. Rest in God's arm. Date: 410-493-0184 Family or Deceased Name: Tiny Joyner Your Name: Pebbles Whitley Email: msdiamond41@gmail.com Message: My condolences to family and love ones Date: 32626 Family or Deceased Name: Tiny Joyner Your Name: Bobby Holden Email: james6180@hotmail.com Message: Uncle Tiny is the last Uncle I had living. I have known him all my life and will truly miss him. Date: 03-25-2026 Family or Deceased Name: Vasal Joyner Your Name: Anthony & Poochie Email: ruffintherisa@gmail.com Message: We extend our deepest condolences. We are praying for the entire family Date: 03252026 Family or Deceased Name: Tiny Joyner Your Name: Kelly Lampkin Email: kountrysyde@gmail.com Message: Tiny Joyner will be missed by all that knew him. He was known for "grinding" at all times. He was not afraid of work, and I admired him for it. Tiny is now with The Joyner Ancestors, and we all know that is a noisy reunion, because there is no better place to be. See ya when I get there Cousin Tiny. Date: 9104740816 Family or Deceased Name: Vasal "Tiny" Joyner Your Name: Marilyn Rice Email: mrice3@roadrunner.com Message: May you find comfort in the love and support of those around you. My deepest condolences. Date: 9192843926 Family or Deceased Name: Vasal Vernon Joyner aka Tiny Joyner Your Name: Tynell Williams Email: williamstynell2@gmail.com Message: Rest in heaven granddaddy Tiny. You are in the Masters' hands now. You are united with our family in heaven. Definitely praying for the family. Sincerely your granddaughters Nell and Candy.. Date: 3-24-26
Mrs. Annie Louise Sanders Williams, age 89, of Smithfield, transitioned on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, surrounded by family at her residence. Mrs. Williams was born November 27, 1936, in Smithfield, North Carolina. She was the daughter of Willis and Fannie Sanders. She attended Johnston County Training School in Smithfield. She later received her nursing certificate from Johnston Community College. She worked at Marlboro House and Colonial Rest Home until her retirement. Annie was a devoted member of several churches, including Wesley Chapel Church, Evans Chapel AME Church, Burning Bush Holiness Church, and New Life Deliverance Ministries. She faithfully served as a Church Mother until her health began to decline. Annie was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Williams; her parents, Willis and Fannie Sanders; her children, Kenneth Williams and Aloysius Williams; and her siblings, Doris Hines, Janette Clinton, and Weston Sanders Jr. She leaves to cherish her memories three daughters: Mynra Williams of New York, Cynthia Williams, and Brookie Glaspie, of Smithfield; two sisters, Peggie Taylor of New Jersey and Ethel Sanders of New Jersey; two sisters-in-law, Thelma Williams and Martha Williams of North Carolina; and one aunt, Dottie Sanders of Smithfield. She also leaves four grandchildren: Jeffrey Williams, Jasmine Douglas Kenan (Kendrick) of Smithfield, Alliyah Williams of New York, and Maynard Glaspie of Durham; eight great-grandchildren: Juelz Hinnant, Ivyonna Hinnant, Zyon Williams, Skylar Hinnant, Kendrick Kenan Jr., Kentrell Kenan, Kendrell “Exodus” Kenan, and Djedefre Williams; along with a host of other relatives and friends. Viewing : Thursday March 26, 2026, at Walter Sanders Funeral & Cremations Chapel 302 S. Bright Leaf Blvd., Smithfield, NC from 2:00 pm until 5:00 pm. Funeral Services: Friday March 27, 2026, New Generation Christian Church 4423 Wilsons Mills Rd, Wilsons Mills, NC. Viewing 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm with funeral services beginning at 2:00 pm. Interment: Sunset Memorial Park Smithfield, NC. Click on the Add Comments Line Below to leave a message for the family of Annie L. Williams. Guest Book Family or Deceased Name: Annie Louise Sanders Williams Your Name: Elder Phyllis Hood Davis Email: phillisdavis1020@gmail.com Message: Mother Ann, I already miss you, but I know God don't make mistakes. He knows what's best for us. My Condolences to the family. Rest In Peace Mother Ann! Date: 03-20-2026 Family or Deceased Name: Annie Williams Your Name: Kenya Barrington Email: kenyat73@icloud.com Message: Aunt Ann you will truly be missed. Your guidance and prayers will continue to be with me forever. Praying for our family. Date: 03192026
Mr. William Wade Crocker, age 80, of Four Oaks, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026, at UNC Health Johnston in Smithfield, North Carolina, with his family by his side. William was born on May 8, 1945, in Smithfield, North Carolina, to Nancy Ruth Massengill and William Wade Crocker. Raised by his grandparents, he attended school in Four Oaks. He later began his career as a mechanic at Bobby Murray Chevrolet, where he honed his skills before eventually opening his own shop. He worked faithfully until his retirement. William had a deep love for boats, fishing, and mudslinging race pulls. He especially cherished time spent at his junkyard, where he enjoyed “piddling” and sharing laughs with friends. In his later years, he found joy in trips to the beach, riding his golf cart, watching hummingbirds, and working on small engines and equipment. Above all, he treasured time with his great-grandson, Myles, and his dear friend, Sheila Crocker. He was preceded in death by his mother, Nancy Massengill; his father, William Wade Crocker; his wife, Georgia Crocker; and his son, Phillip Stanley Crocker and baby brother John Phillip Elam. He leaves to cherish his memory his brothers, Brad Crocker, John Crocker, and Bob Crocker; his children, Henry Crocker of Four Oaks, Welton Earl Worsham (Kelly Worsham) of Four Oaks, Lisa Crocker Massengill (John Massengill) of Selma, Nancy Crocker Lee of Four Oaks, and Tammy Maness (Mike Maness) of Bear Creek; his grandchildren, Misty Lee, Emily Lee, Caitlin Crocker, Amber Lee Otto, Brittany Norris Broeker, Robbie Lee, Tristan Lee, Patrick Crocker, Nixon Crocker, Tyler Crocker, Caleb Norris, Jordan Norris, Macy Humphries, and Conner Worsham; and 10 great-grandchildren. William was a devoted son, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He loved helping others in any way he could, and his heart was as big as the world. He will be remembered for his strength, kindness, humor, and unique spirit. Truly, he was one of a kind. A Celebration of Life will be held at Faith OFWB Church 560 Webb Mill Road, Four Oaks, NC, Saturday February 28, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend and honor his life. Click On The Add Comments Line Below to leave a message for the family. Guest Book
Tamara Shenell Blue, age 48 of Four Oaks, NC, transitioned from labor to reward on Tuesday March 31, 2026, at UNC Johnston Health in Smithfield surrounded by the love of her family. Tamara was the daughter of James H. Robinson Sr., and Georgia M. Blue-Robinson. Tamara attended Richard B. Harrison in Selma, NC. In high school she was the captain of the cheerleading squad. Tam enjoyed dancing, going places in the car, and listening to gospel music. Tamara was preceded in death by her father James H Robinson Sr., and sister Nikita D. Blue. She leaves to cherish her memories her mother, Georgia M. Blue-Robinson, two brothers: Eric L. Blue, James H. Robinson Jr., two sisters: Naomi R. Robinson, and Mary E. Robinson and a host of uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces, cousins and other friends. Viewing & Funeral Arrangements: Viewing Friday April 10, 2026, at the Walter Sanders Funeral & Cremations Chapel 302 S. Bright Leaf Blvd., Smithfield, NC 27577 from 2:00 pm until 5:00 pm. Funeral will be held at Juniper Grove Disciples Church 5350 US 301 Four Oaks, NC 27524 on Saturday April 11, 2026, at 2:00 pm. Click on the Add Comments Line Below to leave a message for the Blue-Robinson Family. Guest Book Family or Deceased Name: Tamara Robinson Your Name: Margaret Henry Email: mbhenry05@yahoo.com Message: Sending condolences to the Robinson/Blue family . Have so many great memories of Tamara at the Four Oaks COGOP. My children remember her smile. Our prayers are with you. Heaven gained another angel🙏❤️ Date: 9109851363
Ishmael Aviv Santiago 35, son of Licette Santiago and Eddie (Terrina) Snead transitioned from this life on Saturday, March 28,2026 at Wake Medical Hospital, Raleigh North Carolina. Ishmael, a beloved son, brother, nephew and friend was born on January 24, 1991. Ishmael was a man who, when faced with obstacles, remained deeply loving and connected to those around him. As a son, brother, relative, and friend, he showed up with sincerity, warmth, and care. His infectious smile and colorful humor left lasting impressions. Ishmael was always ready to share both laughter and meaningful conversations. In addition to his parents, he leaves to cherish his memory his siblings, Terrence Stephens Jr., Aurelia Barfield, Keshonna Snead, Martice Snead, Dedrick Snead, and Tarvis Snead and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews and friends. Funeral Service Saturday April 4, 2026, at Walter Sanders Funeral & Cremation Services Chapel 302 S. Bright Leaf Blvd., Smithfield, NC 27577 Viewing 3:30 pm and Funeral at 4:00 pm. Click on the Add Comments Line Below to leave comments for the Santiago family. Guest Book Family or Deceased Name: Santiago Your Name: Nene Sasser Email: nene.sasser@yahoo.com Message: Licette I am truly sorry for your loss. I am praying for you and your family. I love you and Aurelia so much. Date: 04032026 Family or Deceased Name: Santiago Your Name: Brenda Royal Email: motherroyal55@gmail.com Message: Praying for the family and for their healing thru this time of grief. Earth has no sorrow that Heaven can not Heal. Date: 4-3-26 Family or Deceased Name: Santiago Your Name: Brenda Royal Email: motherroyal55@gmail.com Message: Praying for the family and for their healing thru this time of grief. Earth has no sorrow that Heaven can not Heal. Date: 4-3-26 Family or Deceased Name: Ishmael Santiago Your Name: Brian E Stewart Email: biggstew74@yahoo.com Message: To my nephew I enjoyed the times we had and will miss u much can never forget you and wish we had more time together Date: 9194649763 Family or Deceased Name: Santiago Your Name: Denise Williams Email: gdenisewms@gmail.com Message: Licette, I am sorry to hear of you and your family's loss. You all are in my thoughts and prayers. Date: 3302026
Vasal “Tiny” Vernon Joyner passed away peacefully on March 22, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born in Beulah Town (Kenly), North Carolina, Tiny was a proud member of the Johnston County community, where he was raised and educated in the local school system. Known for his strong work ethic and independent spirit, he built a life rooted in dedication and perseverance. Tiny began his career working in hospitality for Squib, a pharmaceutical company before later becoming self-employed, embracing the freedom and responsibility of entrepreneurship. He was never one to shy away from hard work—he found pride and joy in using his hands and putting in an honest day’s labor. He will be fondly remembered by many as a familiar face around town, often seen riding his tractor, a simple image that captured his dedication to hard work Funeral Services: Saturday April 4, 2026, at Southern Grove Missionary Baptist Church 1058 Old Stancil Rd., Kenly, NC 27542. Viewing 11:00 am until 12:00 noon. Click on the Add Comments Line Below to leave a message for the Joyner family. Guest Book Family or Deceased Name: Vasal Tiny Joyner Your Name: Nina Blossom Email: senora1868@aol.com Message: My sincere and deepest condolences to the family. May the memories of his life bring peace and solace to all who knew and loved him. I’m so grateful for his unselfish act of kindness he has given to my family in our time of need. Be heavenly blessed Tiny your memories will live on.🙏🏽 Date: 04042026 Family or Deceased Name: Vasal “Tiny” Joyner Your Name: Rev Rickey L Simms Email: simmsrevrickey@gmail.com Message: Blue Ford Galaxie, a ride to Homecoming ($5.00), Cleaners pickup and dropoff, big smile, soft spoken, hustler are words none of us who knew him can deny. RIP Cuz Date: 9195794885 Family or Deceased Name: Tiny Joyner Your Name: Betty Pearce Email: bettypearce020@gmail.com Message: Tiny u will be truly missed we are kin and I will never forget you Date: 9842525337 Family or Deceased Name: Uncle Tiny Joyner Your Name: Eula Teen and Bobby Holden Email: eulatholden@yahoo.com Message: Will miss Uncle Tiny, known him 60 years after marrying into the family, thoughts and prayers are with his family. Date: 032826 Family or Deceased Name: Tiny Joyner Your Name: Wells & Barnes Family Email: bwellsbarnes@gmail.com Message: We send you our deepest condolences. God will see you through. Date: 2522522522 Family or Deceased Name: Vasal Joyner Your Name: Sher Pierce Email: sherpierce5@gmail.com Message: Rest in Peace Date: 3473574894 Family or Deceased Name: Vasal (Tiny) Joyner Your Name: Helene Price & Matthew Allen Email: hprice143@embarqmail.com Message: Our sincere prayers and deepest sympathy is with the family and friends of Mr. Vasal Joyner. Rest in peace Mr. Joyner you will be missed by many. Date: 9192842392 Family or Deceased Name: Vasal (Tiny) Joyner Your Name: Larry & Truevina Revell Email: firstgears1@aol.com Message: Uncle Tiny we will surely miss you. You are the last Uncle, but I know Aunt Nite will be happy to see you. Rest in God's arm. Date: 410-493-0184 Family or Deceased Name: Tiny Joyner Your Name: Pebbles Whitley Email: msdiamond41@gmail.com Message: My condolences to family and love ones Date: 32626 Family or Deceased Name: Tiny Joyner Your Name: Bobby Holden Email: james6180@hotmail.com Message: Uncle Tiny is the last Uncle I had living. I have known him all my life and will truly miss him. Date: 03-25-2026 Family or Deceased Name: Vasal Joyner Your Name: Anthony & Poochie Email: ruffintherisa@gmail.com Message: We extend our deepest condolences. We are praying for the entire family Date: 03252026 Family or Deceased Name: Tiny Joyner Your Name: Kelly Lampkin Email: kountrysyde@gmail.com Message: Tiny Joyner will be missed by all that knew him. He was known for "grinding" at all times. He was not afraid of work, and I admired him for it. Tiny is now with The Joyner Ancestors, and we all know that is a noisy reunion, because there is no better place to be. See ya when I get there Cousin Tiny. Date: 9104740816 Family or Deceased Name: Vasal "Tiny" Joyner Your Name: Marilyn Rice Email: mrice3@roadrunner.com Message: May you find comfort in the love and support of those around you. My deepest condolences. Date: 9192843926 Family or Deceased Name: Vasal Vernon Joyner aka Tiny Joyner Your Name: Tynell Williams Email: williamstynell2@gmail.com Message: Rest in heaven granddaddy Tiny. You are in the Masters' hands now. You are united with our family in heaven. Definitely praying for the family. Sincerely your granddaughters Nell and Candy.. Date: 3-24-26
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