Jacquelyn Kirby Flowers

Jacquelyn Kirby Flowers, 85, exchanged the embraces of her family for the joy of Heaven on Sunday, August 4, 2024. She was born in Johnston County, the baby of six daughters, to the late Luther and Mattie Phillips Kirby on May 28, 1939. Jackie was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Henry Franklin Flowers; and her sisters, Annie Mae Medlin, Marcedes Oliver, Merle Kirby, and Edith Hansley.
Jackie graduated from Kenly High School in 1957. She attended Pineland College and graduated from Miller-Motte Business College. After she married Frank in December of 1957, they moved to Wilmington, North Carolina. They later relocated to Goldsboro after Frank accepted another job in 1961. In Goldsboro, Jackie worked multiple jobs but the longest being on the tobacco market. She retired from Goldleaf Tobacco Warehouse as a bookkeeper after 20 years.
After the birth of their daughter, Leigh, Frank and Jackie opened Southern Communications and Electronics in March of 1968. They owned and operated that business with the help of many dedicated employees until 1999 when they sold the business.
Every year, Jackie looked forward to the week of the Wayne County Agricultural Fair. For 45 years, she served as the coordinator of the pie baking contest at the fair.
Jackie and Frank were members of Stoney Creek Original Free Will Baptist Church for many years. It was there that the Lord called Frank into the ministry in 1971. Jackie served along with Frank at many different churches in the Free Will Baptist Denomination and the longest being Little Creek in Scuffleton for 27 years. It was at Little Creek that Jackie was presented the Life Membership Award by her church auxiliary. Jackie was active in Women's Auxiliary work for many years and held many positions on the local, district, and state levels.
After retirement, Jackie and Frank worshiped with the congregation at Pleasant Grove O.F.W.B. Church. Together they faithfully served in ministry with the Original Free Will Baptist Denomination for over 46 years.
With a personality large enough to fill any space, Jackie could easily strike up a conversation with anyone. Never one to meet a stranger, she'd often take time to stop and speak a kind word to those she met.
Jackie's circle of friends was deeply treasured. While many of them had been friends for many years, she made sure to stay in touch with each one and maintain the ties they held. Some of those friends were made during time spent at Kennel's Beach which was always enjoyed by Jackie and her family.
For Jackie, there was no greater blessing than that of her family. The love she had for Frank knew no bounds, and she is no doubt relishing in their reunion. Her daughter was cherished, and her husband received the same affection. Each grandchild held a special place in her life, and she loved each one uniquely.
Always dressed to the nines, Jackie wouldn't dare leave the house without looking her best. Every outfit was complete with matching shoes, jewelry, and purse.
Throughout the years, Jackie offered help and encouragement to many. Jackie was a beautiful lady both inside and out and will be greatly missed by her family and friends.
The Flowers family will receive friends on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Seymour Funeral Home. Due to inclement weather conditions,services for Jacquelyn Flowers will be held in the chapel of Kenly Funeral Service 103 E Second St Kenly, NC 27542, tomorrow, August 7 at 11 a.m.
Jackie is survived by her daughter, Leigh Sanders and husband James; grandchildren, Tan Sanders and girlfriend, Rosa Tovar and Kelsey Sanders Speight and husband, Ian; sister, Bobbie Holland; and several nieces and nephews she loved very much.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be given to the Free Will Baptist Children's Home, P.O. Box 249, Middlesex, NC 27557.
Services are entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.seymourfuneralhome.com.