Nancy Mae King

Nancy Mae King, 74, of Penrose, North Carolina, passed away on May 15, 2025, at Pardee Hospital after a long illness. Born in Jacksonville, Florida, Nancy was one of four children of the late Myles Leonard “Bud” King and Ethel Wall King. Her longtime partner, Jack Tooley, grandson Riley Hall, and her older siblings, Glenn King and Phyllis King, preceded her in death.

She is survived by her brother, Ronnie King (Faye); her three sons, Benjamin Strayer, Joseph Strayer (Terri), and Ian Hall; her “bonus” children, Dixie Yates and Deke Tooley; and her beloved grandchildren, Delana Hall, Regina Desrochers (Josh), Zach Desrochers (Brittany), Matthew Desrochers (Caroline), and Taylor Dunn, as well as two great-grandchildren, Aeralynnn and Lyla. Nancy also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, whose families she cherished deeply.

A devoted animal lover, Nancy never met a creature she didn’t want to help—or adopt. Her home was always shared with animals in need. Before retiring, Nancy was a business owner, a longtime employee of DuPont in Cedar Mountain, North Carolina, and a certified nursing assistant at several assisted living facilities. Known for her generous spirit, she never met a stranger and was a “bonus mom” to many. Her warmth, kindness, and friendship touched countless lives.

The family will hold a private memorial at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Nancy’s memory may be made to your local animal shelter.