Leora Johnson Bizzell

Leora Johnson Bizzell, 81, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, October 13, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born in Johnston County on March 1, 1944, she was the daughter of the late Joseph Grover Johnson and Ora Garner Johnson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 57 years, George David "Dave" Bizzell; sisters, Margie Lee Kornegay and Velma Ann Trexler; brother, Grover Edward Johnson; and brother-in-law, Larry Rhodes.
Leora dedicated more than 23 years to a successful career in the insurance industry, where she was licensed in property, auto, and homeowner's insurance. Yet her true calling was in ministry and service to others. A devoted member of The Bridge – Princeton Campus since 1993, she faithfully served in numerous capacities, including as women's prayer leader, a board member of the Golden Chosen Senior Ministry, and a member of the Shekinah Host Women's Ministry.
Before her time at The Bridge, Leora spent many years in ministry at The Assembly of Praise in Columbia, North Carolina, where she led the Women's Ministry for 13 years, directed Christmas dramas, and often filled in for her pastor-sharing messages filled with wisdom, grace, and truth. Her church family was her second home, and her deep faith guided every step of her life.
Leora was a woman whose heart was big enough to embrace everyone she met. Kind and loving, she was always quick to forgive and even quicker to pray for those in need. A true prayer warrior, she spent countless hours lifting up her family, church, and community before the Lord.
She was strong-willed and courageous, never afraid to speak the truth in love. Her strength came from her unwavering faith and the many lessons life taught her along the way. To know Leora was to know unconditional love, compassion, and an unshakable faith in God.
Leora was a devoted wife to her husband, Dave-a partnership that stood as a testament to faithfulness and enduring love. She was a proud and loving mother to three children, who were the light of her life, and she adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, cherishing every moment spent together.
Christmas was her favorite time of year-her joy in giving, baking, decorating, and bringing her family together made the season magical for all who knew her. She also loved to travel, especially on road trips with her husband, discovering new places and creating memories that will forever live in the hearts of her loved ones.
Leora leaves behind not only precious memories but also a legacy of faith, love, and perseverance-reminding all who knew her how to love deeply, forgive freely, and walk faithfully.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, October 16, 2025, from 6:00–7:00 p.m. at The Bridge – Princeton Campus, followed by a service of celebration at 7:00 p.m. in the sanctuary with Pastor Andy Stovall officiating. Interment will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at the Eastern Carolina State Veterans Cemetery.
Leora is survived by her children, Jim Gillikin and wife, Trish; Pam Burnett and husband, Neil; and David Bizzell and wife, Adrienne; six grandchildren, Jamie Cooper and husband, Ashley, Jessica Nietschmann and husband, Adam, Kelly Lancaster and husband, Justin, Danielle Kennedy and husband, Joseph, Joshua Gandy (Valerie), and Devin Elliott; and 14 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sisters, Jean Bryant and husband, Jimmy, and Betty Rhodes.
Leora also had a loyal special friend, Peggy Ballance, that was a constant support and companion during her illness. She spent many hours providing love, care and support not only to her but her family.
Flowers are welcome, or memorials may be made in her memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.