Birth Date: 04/04/1928
Deceased Date: 06/14/2024
Smithfield – Verlia Gray Stephenson Hocutt died peacefully on Friday June 14, 2024 at the Landing in Wilson, NC, surrounded by family. A longtime resident of Smithfield, NC, she moved to the Landing retirement center in 2012. She was born in Johnston County on April 4, 1928 to the late John Herman Stephenson and Melissa Wellons Stephenson. In addition to her father and mother, she is also preceded in death by her husband, Costa W. Hocutt and a brother, Herman Stephenson, (Lillie Mae).
She is survived by a son, David A. Creech Jr. (Darlene) of Clayton; a daughter, Ava Carol Thompson (Tommy) of Clayton; five grandchildren and six great grandchildren.
She attended Hardbarger’s Business College in Raleigh, NC earning a degree in Keypunch and computers in 1960. She retired from the state, having worked in the NC State Retirement System.
Verlia was a longtime member of Centenary United Methodist Church in Smithfield, NC where she served on the Altar Guild and in various capacities with the United Methodist Women. Additionally, she was active with the Smithfield Woman’s Club, Johnston County area ministries, Keep Johnston County Beautiful, and Johnston County Extension Homemakers Association.
She was active in the Order of the Eastern Star for many years, serving in various local and state capacities including two terms as Worthy Matron. She was an avid doll collector and traveled many years exhibiting and participating in doll shows throughout the state.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be sent to the United Methodist Women of Centenary United Methodist Church in Smithfield, NC.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family at Parrishfh.com
