Leonia Fay Shell Greene age 74, of Freeman Lane, Spruce Pine, NC was called to her heavenly home by her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Friday, January 1, 2021.Leonia was the matriarch of her large family. Born on October 3,1946 to the late Leon D. Shell and the late Nell G. Shell of Shell Creek, Roan Mountain Tennessee. She was the eldest of 4 sisters: Sylvia Bowers, Penny Tolley, Audrey Smith and Barbara Gardner; three brothers, Carol Shell, Roger Shell and Sandy Shell.
Leonia is survived by her loving husband of 57 years Chester W. Greene of the Roaring Creek Community, children: Janie Ogle and husband Mike, Spruce Pine, NC, Eric Greene and wife Michelle, Myrtle Beach SC, and Angela Woody and husband Rodney, Conover, NC. eight grand-children: Elizabeth Silvers, Kelsey Byrd and husband Tyller, Aaliyah Greene, Makya Greene, Avianah Greene, Andrew Greene, Brandon Estelle, and Ryan Estelle. Three Great-Grandchildren: Abagale Silvers, Hannah Silvers and Joshua Silvers.
Leonia loved serving Jesus and had a servants heart. She was always giving of her time according to his commandments helping the sick, poor, and brokenhearted. She attended church at Mt. Calvary Freewill Baptist Church, Avery County Airport Road. She and her husband Chester were founding members of Crossroads Church of Mine Creek NC.
Leonia and her family opened Laurel Creek Child Development Center in Spruce Pine, NC. Her love of children and their well-being shined for 15 years until she retired in 2012
Leonia loved the outdoors, Roan Mountain was her favorite outdoor spot with many picnics, walks and family outings taking place. She loved gardening, cooking, shopping and holiday family get-togethers.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, January 5th, 2021 at Mt. Calvary Freewill Baptist Church on Airport Road, Avery County, NC. Pastor Jim Shoupe and Pastor Wesley Ward will officiate. Visitation will be from 1:00-2:00 PM prio to the service at the church. Graveside services will follow at the Hughes cemetery on Roaring Creek.
All her family and friends would like to thank those who offered support during her illness, and a special thank you to Blue Ridge Hospice and Palliative
Leonia’s family and friends will always love her and miss her each day until they meet again. She is forever in our Hearts.