Kenneth Earl Core

Kenneth Earl Core, affectionately known as “Kent,” was born on August 6, 1953, as the youngest child of the late Jessie James and Elnora Walls Core in Wayne County, NC. On Friday, April 4, 2025, Kent peacefully transitioned from this life at UNC Health Wayne. Following the untimely passing of his mother, Kent was raised by his grandfather, Jessie Core, and his wife, Lester Strickland Core, who provided him with the love, discipline, and guidance that helped shape the quiet strength and steady heart he carried throughout his life.

Kent received his education in the Wayne County Public School System and attended Norwayne High School. He later found employment at J.J. Haines, where he worked with dedication until health challenges required him to step away and eventually apply for disability benefits.

Kent spoke volumes through his actions. His calm demeanor, gentle spirit, and unwavering love for his family made a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Kent was the father of Andrawri Core (Christine) of Roxboro, NC, and Kendra Core King (Nicholas) of Durham, NC. Later in life, he was united in marriage to Maebell Core. Through this union, he gained bonus daughters, Joewand of Dudley, NC, and Felicia (Marcellus) of Spring Lake, NC.

Kent was the proud grandfather of eleven grandchildren and a great-grandfather of seven. His greatest joys came from watching his family grow and thrive.

He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and siblings: Edna, Bettie Jean, James Ray, Herman, Thomas Junior, Edith, and Swindell.

Kent leaves to cherish his memory: his children and grandchildren; his great-grandchildren; his brothers, Joseph Core (Carolyn) of Pikeville, NC, and Douglas Core of Goldsboro, NC; his sisters, Betty Coley Williams (Curtis) and Sarah B. Lane, both of Goldsboro, NC; his bonus daughters; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends.

Kent’s love was deep and enduring. His steady presence, quiet strength, and loyalty to those he cared for will remain with us always.

"To live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die."
— Thomas Campbell

May his memory bring us peace, his legacy give us strength, and his love continue to guide us through the days ahead.

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