Joretta Nance McNeill

Joretta Nance McNeill passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her family, and entered eternal rest on October 27, 2026.

Born February 24, 1938, in Asheboro, North Carolina, Joretta was the daughter of Frazier and Faye Nance. She attended Asheboro High School and earned nursing degrees from Randolph Community College and Guilford Technical Community College. She devoted many years of service to Randolph Hospital before continuing her career in home healthcare, where she found great joy in caring for others. Through her compassion and dedication, she formed lasting relationships with her patients and touched the lives of many.

A courageous 30-year breast cancer survivor, Joretta actively participated in Relay for Life, walking countless laps and supporting the fight against cancer. She was also a lifelong member of First Baptist Church in Asheboro and a member in the Mary Martha Sunday School class, where her faith was a cherished part of her life.

In addition to her parents, Joretta was preceded in death by her beloved son, Thomas (Tommy) Richard McNeill, Jr.; her infant daughter, Kathy Lee Robbins; and her very special cousin, Peggy Tufts.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 60 years, Thomas “Richard” McNeill, who lovingly cared for her at home as her health declined; daughters Donna Robbins Burgess of Greensboro, Teresa Robbins Timmons (Milton) of Greensboro, and Kimberly Robbins Matthews (Michael) of Greensboro; daughter-in-law Sandra McNeill; sister Emily Nance; grandchildren Tyrone Matthews (Ullanda), Travis Matthews (Kourtney), Keesha Timmons Lee (Mario), Terrell Timmons (Tia), Kelli Burgess Collins (Kyle), Allison Burgess Pryce (Tajae), and Forrest McNeill; 13 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law Clarice Hurley, Jean Smith and Shirley McNeill; and special friend Becky Cline.

The family will receive friends on Friday, October 30, 2026 from 1:00pm – 1:45pm at First Baptist Church, 133 N. Church St., Asheboro. The funeral service will follow at 2:00pm with Dr. John Rogers, Rev. Stephen Owen, and Pastor Boyd Byerly officiating. Burial will follow the service at Oaklawn Cemetery, Asheboro.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Gentiva Hospice and First Baptist Church for the loving care and support provided to Joretta and her family.

Memorials may be made in Joretta’s honor to First Baptist Church, 133 N. Church St., Asheboro, NC 27203, Ash/Rand EMS, 805 S. Cox St., Asheboro, NC 27203, or Gentiva Hospice, 533 S. Fayetteville, St., Asheboro, NC 27203.

You may watch the live stream of Joretta's service by clicking here. Please note, if signal strength is not strong enough to stream live, the service will be uploaded shortly afterwards.